Alappuzha - Backwater Retreat Haven Of Kerala

By Author: Rashmiranjan Patil
Total Articles: 261
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Situated in the state of Kerala, Alappuzha is today one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the country. A quiet backwater retreat, Alappuzha rose in prominence following the popularity of the exotic houseboat cruises in the serene backwaters that are the lifeline of this town.

Alappuzha is today synonymous with backwater tourism and attracts not just national but even international tourists from far and beyond. This unique experience of spending some tranquil time on a large houseboat in the middle of one of the most picture perfect backwaters is what brought this sleepy town to the centre of India’s tourism map.

Alappuzha Packages offers one with a wide variety of tourist attractions among which the beach here is very popular. This gorgeous beach beautiful gardens, colonial structures and an ancient pier adorning its shore is visited by tourists from all over. A dense crop of palm groves on one end and an ancient towering lighthouse on the other are prominent features of this beach. Tourists can also indulge in various activities on the beach such as beach volleyball and football or just chill ...
... out on the beach as you sip on the sweet nectar of tender coconuts.

The houseboats or 'Kettuvallam' here offer various cruises that can be availed via Alappuzha Packages that are on offer. These cruises commence in the canals of Alappuzha where one can witness life unfolding on the banks. Vembanad Lake and Kayamkulam Lake are the most prominent lakes here. A famous cruise here is an overnight cruise from Alappuzha via the Punnamada Lake and ending the next morning to Alappuzha after spending a night in the popular Vattakayal. One of the highlights of this cruise apart from the scenic beauty is the food served on board comprising of authentic Kerala specialities accompanied by the day’s freshly caught fish cooked in a spicy fried recipe.

Alappuzha is also the site of many historic boat races like the Aranmula Snake Boat Race and the Nehru Trophy Boat race at the Punnamada Lake. Of these, the Nehru trophy race is the most competitive and Alappuzha serves as the access point to it.

Another popular attraction in Alappuzha is the Krishnapuram Palace built by king Marthanda Varma, and is a fine example of typical Kerala architecture with its signature gabled roof, dormer windows and narrow corridors. Alappuzha Packages also include a trip to Kuttanad that is famous all over the world for being the only region where farming is done below sea level. Other important attractions here part of Alappuzha Packages are Mullakkal Rajeswari Temple, Ambalapuzha Temple, Arthunkal Church, Champakulam Church, Chavara Bhavan, Edathua Church, Mannarsala and the quiet beach and scenic fishing village of Mararikulam.