Alappuzha is a tiny place located on a thin strip of land between the Arabian Sea and the Punnamada Backwaters. The place is fondly referred to as the Venice of East because of its striking similarity between the two (Alappuzha and Venice) with regards to intricate maze of backwaters, canals and bridges. In the east the canals open to the Punnamada Backwaters while on the west they end close to the pier of Alappuzha beach. Alappuzha was once a thriving port and also a gateway to enter Kerala. The port was built by Raja Kesava Das, the Deewan of Travancore in the 18th century and facilitated the passage of goods to and from the region.
Today, Alappuzha and its beach are a huge attraction for tourists who are in search of some different experience. The waters of the sea rush towards you as you approach it and seems more than willing to reveal the earthly story of this quaint little town. The Alappuzha beach, also known by the name of Alleppey is not popular amongst tourists without reason. From relaxing in solitude to indulging in exciting water sports - you can do whatever you wish to, the choice is yours.
Unravel the History
The 1000 feet pier at the Alappuzha beach that extends into the sea dates back to 1862. It was constructed by Captain Huge Crawford and served as a platform that provided access and protection to ships and boats. Today, though very little of the pier is left, yet it has an undeniable charm that will definitely attract you. The lighthouse, that once showed way to boats and ferries in the midst of pervading darkness of night, today allows very restricted entry. Together, the pier and the lighthouse recreate the era when boats sailed in large number to the ports of Alappuzha. They actually lead you back into time.
Get Set Go
Alappuzha beach beckons you to leave all inhibitions behind and indulge in a variety of water sports like surfing and parasailing. You can also swim a round or two if you so wish in the clear blue water of the sea. Alappuzha provides some of the best of aqua-sport equipment such as water-scooters and high-speed boats in the entire state so there is absolutely no stopping to you fun. Alternatively, you can also play a game of volleyball on the beach.
Leisure
Alappuzha, with its scenic beauty, is a perfect place if you want to unwind and give yourself a break. Lie down and let the gentle breeze caress your hair, build a castle out of the sand and even slot a room for yourself in it. You can also roam around and ponder over the various things that have huge relevance in your life but are mostly neglected due to a hectic schedule.
Vijay Beach Park
This park is located on the beach itself and allows you to enjoy yourself in variety of ways. The park is run by District Promotion Council and pretty nice place for children to have fun.
Ambalapuzha (Pilgrim Centre)The Sri Krishna Temple at Ambalapuzha, 14 km from Alleppey is among Kerala`s more famous ones boasting of the typical temple architectrual style of the State. It is equally famed for its palpayasam -a sweet milk porridge offered to the diety. The temple`s main festival occurs in March/April. It was in this temple that the 16th century poet Kunjan Nambiar staged his first Ottan Thullal, a solo dance performance with high social content.
Pathiramanal (An Island)This is a small beautiful island in the Vembanad Lake and is accessible only by boat from Kumarakom and Muhamma