Alappuzha

Alappuzha is also known by the sobriquet 'The Venice of the East' not without a reason. Flaunted as one of the most picture-perfect tourist destinations in Kerala with canals, lagoons and backwaters this is a world-famous tourist spot. The house bout cruises on the backwaters of Alappuzha attracts tourists worldwide. The 'Nehru Trophy Boat Race' conducted on the Punnamada Lake is a major event in tourist circuits.

Alappuzha is one of the earliest planned towns in Kerala. Kuttanad, known as the rice bowl of Kerala is in Alappuzha. It is surrounded by wetlands where you can spot migratory birds like common teal, duck and cormorants.

AMBALAPUZHA SRI KRISHNA TEMPLE

This famous temple is estimated to be built during the 15-17th century AD. The idol is of Lord Krishna in 'Parthasarathy' form and is seen with a whip in the right hand and the sacred Shankhu in the left hand.

The most important event in the Ambalappuzha temple s the annual temple festival in the memory of the first Krishna Idol installed. 'Ampalapuzha Pal Payasam' (the sweet pudding made using Rice and Milk) is very famous. Ambalappuzha is now one of the temple tourism hot spot.

CHAMPAKULAM

Champakulam is famous for not just one reason but many. Champakulam Boat race is the most famous reason. The boat's upraised, pointed prows helped to earn the name 'Snake Boats'. The snake boat race is the oldest boat race in Kerala and a thrilling spectacle to watch. The 100 feet long boats race through the backwaters in the backdrop of silver water droplets scattering with the rowers pushing their oars in tandem and in sync with the beats of the high energy 'vanchipattu' is a breathtaking scene.

Other major attractions are the pristine backwater canals, lush green paddy fields and coconut groves. The water-bound land has influenced the culture and way of living of people here and preserved it. For example, the best mode of transportation is indigenous water transport in Alappuzha.

The lists of tourist attractions are endless. The St. Mary's Forane Church in Champakulam, is constructed in the fourth century and one of the oldest churches in India.

ALLAPUZHA BEACH

One of the most popular picnic spots in Kerala for the tourists, the sunset from the beach is the spectacular sight to see. Beach has an old peer which is 150 years old, which jets out to the sea. The major festivals are Alappuzha beach festival and Sand art festival. The beach is one of the places to experience the local culture as in the evening the beach gets to light up by localities flocking here.

MARAI, ALAPPUZHA

Well connected by both railway and NH 47 Marari is famous for its pristine beach in Alappuzha. The beach is rated as the top five Hammock beach by National Geographic. The beach looks way different from the usual Indian beaches and welcomes you with the pure white sands. You can relax on the endless stretch of land on the background of palms and lush greenery. In the evening you can enjoy the beautiful sunset and even enjoy fish directly from the sea if you are lucky.

KUMARAKOM

Kumarakom is a tranquil village set in the backdrop of Vembanad Lake the longest freshwater lake in Kerala. This village is the gateway to the famous backwaters of Alappuzha and is a world-famous tourist spot. Marine delicacies like freshwater fish, shrimp and 'Karimeen' (Pearl Spot) can be freshly caught and severed. The most important attraction is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

KUMARAKOM BIRD SANCTUARY

Spread across 14 sq. km the bird sanctuary is on the banks of the Kavanar River Alappuzha. It is home to species of migratory birds such as Siberian Crane, teal, Parrot, flycatcher etc. in their respective migratory seasons. Nemours species of birds found locally like Cuckoo, egret, waterfowl, moorhen, darter, cormorant, Brahmini Kite, and owl throughout the year. There is an interpretation centre run by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation in the bird sanctuary.

The bird sanctuary was a rubber plantation known as Baker's Estate. Baker the erstwhile owner developed it to a safe nest for local and migratory birds alike. During sunrise, these birds come out of their forest homes and fly over the lake. This is considered to be the best time for bird watching.