Reffered to as the Venice of East by travelers from across the world, Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty, Caressed by the Arabian Sea in the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and freshwater rivers criss crossing it, this backwater country shelters some unique animal and bird life. By virtue of its prximity to the Sea, the town has always enjoyed an exclusive place in the mantime history of Kerala. Famous for its Boat races, beaches, marine, products and coir industry, the signularity of this land is the region called Kuttanad – a land of lush paddy fields reffered to as the “Rise Bowl of Kerala” and one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level. This is one time prosperous trading and fishing centre is today a world renowned backwater tourist destination
Ashtamudi Backwaters
So called because of its 8 arms or channels, Ashtamudi Lake is the gateway to the backwaters. Located in Kollam District the lake 16 km. long and the second larget in Kerala, finds its way into the sea through the Needakara estuary. The Kollam Boat Club provides boat rides on the lake as well as houseboat cruises.
Kuttanad
Kuttanad, Called the “Rice Bowl of Kerala” because of its wealth of paddy crops, is at the very heart of the backwater. The scenic countryside of Kuttanad with its shimmering waterways also has a rich crop of banana, cassava and yam. This is perhaps the only region in the world where farming done 1.5 to 2m 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 Spot in Alappuzha. The pier here, which extends into the Sea, is over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park add to the attraction of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse which is greatly fascinating to visitors
Pathiramanal
11/2 hrs, by motor boat/30 mins by speedboat Alappuzha) According to mythology a young Brahmindived into the Vembanad Lake to perform his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to land to rise from below, thus creating the enchanting island of Pathiramanal (Sands of midnight)
Krishnapuram Palace
(47km from Alapuzzha) Built by MarthandaVarma, this palace at Karthikapally in Kayamkulam is famous for its there-metrehigh mural depicting the story of Gajendramoksham. Dating back to the 18th century, this exquisite piece of art is one the largest murals in Kerala. The palace which is a painting and bronze artifacts.
KarumadiKuttan
(3km east of Ambalapuzha) Many fascinating legends are associated with this 11th centuary statue of Lord Budha, protected by the State Archaeological Department. The locals credited with many healing powers.