Kuttanad: it is called the rice bowl of Kerala because of its wealth of paddy crops. It lies at the very heart of the backwaters. The scenic countryside of Kuttanad with its shimmering waterways also has a rich crop of banana, cassava and yam. This perhaps the only region in the worked where farming is done 1.5 to 2 ms. below sea level. Inland waterways which flow above land level are an amazing feature of this region.
Alappuzha Beach: This is one of the most popular picnic spots in Alappuzha. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya beach park add to the attractions of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse which is greatly fascination to visitors.
Vijaya Beach Park: Picnic spot with children's park & boating facilities (Open 15.00-20.00 hrs). Entrance fee Rs. 2 per person; Free entrance for children below 5 years. Boating charge: Rs.10 for 10 minutes. Other facilities for children: Toy train, bicycles.
Chavara Bhavan (6 kms. from Alappuzha, accessible only by boat): it is the ancestral home of the blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara. It is now a holy shrine and spiritual resort where thousands of devotees gather for prayer, receive favours and feel amply gratified. Here, a 250 year old historically important beacon of light is preserved intact in its original and primitive form.
Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple: 15 kms. south of Alappuzha, built in the typical Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all over India for the Palapayasam, the daily offering of deliciously sweet milk porridge. It is also in this temple that Palipana is performed by Velans (sorceres) once every twelve years. Paintings of the Dasavatharam (the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu) are on display on the inner walls of the Chuttambalam. Ottan thullal, a satiric art form originated by the poet Kunchan Nambiar, was first performed on the premises of this temple.
Karumadi: Close to the Ambalappuzha. the village of Karumadi is famous for its Karumadi Kuttan, a black granite figure of Buddha said to belong to the 9th or 10th century.
Pathiramanal (An Island): This is a small beautiful island in the Vembanad Lake and is accessible only by boat from Kumarakom and Muhamma.
Krishnapuram Palace: The Krishnapuram palace is located at a distance of 47 km at Kayamkulam. The double storied palace contains one of the greatest Mural panels in Kerala. The 18th century Krishnapuram Palace is a typical example of Kerala Architecture. |
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