The word Alappuzha is derived from two words, Ala means `broad` and Puzha means `river`. Alappuzha has immense potential for the ever-expanding tourism industry in Kerala, which is located in South India. Alappuzha, flanked by the Arabian Sea on one side is one of the most important backwater destinations in Kerala.
In earlier days this place was known as Alleppey, and during that time in the first decade of the 20th century the then Viceroy of the Indian Empire, Lord Curzon visited the state. Seeing the exhilarant beauty of the place he was mesmerized and named the place as "Venice of the East". In the world tourism map this place is known by this name also. This place is very much famous for its houseboat holidays, coir industry, picturesque lagoons, rich and profuse marine life, etc which has aided in developing the tourism industry of Alappuzha.
With the recent development of the tourism industry of Alappuzha, the place has become the tourist`s haven laced with its picturesque surroundings. The tourists can go on sailing on a houseboat that is on kettuvallam or catch a glimpse of the countrified lifestyle of the people. The view of the countryside is at its best with the vibrant villages that will fall on the way. Get greeted the place by flocks of ducks. Any one can watch the entire process of coir making in this land that is full of coconut canopies and be enthralled by the magic of the rich greenery all over the place. The presence of a port and a dock, crisscrossed roads and numerous bridges across them, a long and unbroken seacoast helps in enhancing the tourism industry in leaps and bounce. According to history Alapuzha had trade relations with ancient Greece and Rome in B.C and in the Middle Ages. For example, Purakkad an ancient port near Alappuzha was Barace for them. From past onwards people from different religions such as Gujratis, Parsur, Mamens and Anglo Indians came at this place and built churches, mosques and temples respectively all of which has architectural magnificence. Such sites are worth beholding. Tourism in Alappuzha is therefore a flourishing industry with a number of resorts all over the place, which cater to the needs of the growing tourism sector.
The following are the name of some of the places of interested:
Pathiramanal: This little island which is popularly known as `sands of midnight` on the backwaters is a favorite visit of hundred of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world. The island lies between Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom, and is accessible only by boat. There is one mythological story behind the naming of the place. This can be said as once upon a time a young Brahmin plunged into the Vembanadu lake to perform his evening washings and the water made way for land to rise from below, thus creating the attracting island of Pathiramanal.
R-Block:This is mainly described as broad areas of Land have been altered from the backwaters and are protected by dams built all around. Here cultivation and habitation are made possible four to ten feet below Sea Level.
These regions stand as the insignia of the wonderful agricultural engineering of Kerela while reminding the tourists of the legendary "dikes of Holland".
Karumadikuttan:
This is an 11th century statue of Lord Buddha. Many fascinating legends are associated with this statue that attracts a lot of tourists from across the world.
Kumarakodi:
It is a place situated at 20 km south of Alappuzha where Mahakavi Kumaranasan, who was said to be P.B Shelly of Malayalam Literature is buried. He brought great changes in literature and tried in changing the society also.
Krishnapuram Palace:
Dating back to the 18th century this place was built by Marthandavarma, which is famous for its mural or wall painting depicting the story of Gajendramoksham. It is situated at karthikappally in Kayamkulam. This exquisite piece of art is one of the largest murals in Kerala. There are many antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes present in this palace.Saradha Mandiram, Mavelikkara:
A.R Rajaraja Varma WHO was a great poet and grammarian built Saradha Mandiram as his residence. This place is now bought by the State Govt and is kept as his remembrance.
Alappuzha Beach:
This beach is one of the most popular picnic spots in Alappuzha. The dock is over 137 years old and extends into the sea. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park add to the attractions of the beach. Another attraction for the tourists is the old lighthouse, which is greatly fascinating to them.Sea View park:
This park is a famous place of the district and offers boating facilities and a swimming pool.
The boats are available here for rent. The rate of which is given below:
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