Alappuzha
Alappuzha was formed as Alleppey District on August 17, 1957. The name of the district was officially changed to Alappuzha in 1990. The district is a widely known tourist destination, and is well-known for its coir factories. Most of Kerala's coir industries are situated in and around Alappuzha. The district is also known for its communist traditions. It is home to the Punnapra Vayalar strikes against the British and also the revolt against feudal raj. Alappuzha is strongly connected by waterways to various other parts of Kerala, including the famous tourist destination, Kumarakam.
Places of Interest
Pathiramanal
According to mythology a young Brahmin dived into the Vembanadu lake to
perform his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below, thus creating the enchanting island of (sands of midnight) Pathiramanal . This little island on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundred of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world. The island lies between Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom, and is accessable only by boat.
R-Block
These regions are wonders of the indigenous agricultural engineering kow-how of Kerala and remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland. Extensive areas of Land have been reclaimed from the backwaters and are protected by dikes built all around . Here cultivation and habitation are made possible four to ten feet below Sea Level. A leisurely cruise along the Canals that surround these Kayals is a memorable experience.
Karumadikuttan
A remanant of Buddhist culture, “Karumadikuttan,” the sitting Buddha statue dating back to 11th century B.C, today exists on the banks of Punnamada lake at the backwaters. This idol is one amongst the different stupas and ramnants of Buddhist heritage in this part of the country. It recalls the glorious past of Buddhism, persistently. A lasting influence of Buddhism is instantly visible in the culture and daily social life of Kerala, even today. Kerala, southern most state of the Indian subcontinent, still preserves its past glory in full ambience.Buddhism came to Kerala in the 3rd century B.C. The “Ay” kings of Kerala patronised Buddhism, even though it did not bloom to its full potential here. Reniassance in the 8th century B.C. saw the decline of Buddhism. However, Buddhism left its mark which can be seen in its influence on the regional language.
Kumarakodi
20 km south of Alappuzha, Mahakavi Kumaranasan, one of the greatest poets of modern Kerala is laid to rest here. He was the P.D Shelly of Malayalam Literature. As an brought great changes in literature and could give the clarions call for changing the society also.
Saradha Mandiram
Mavelikkara-A.R Rajaraja Varma was a great poet and grammerian, The Malayalam literature is much indebted to Sri. A.R Thampuran. Saradha Mandiram was built by him as his residence. Now it is bought by the State Govt. & kept as his memorial.
Krishnapuram Palace
Built by Marthandavarma, this place at karthikappally in Kayamkulam is famous for its mural depicting the story of Gajendramoksham. Dating back to the 18th century, this exquisite piece of art is one of the largest murals in Kerala. This palace museum houses antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes.
Alappuzha Beach
This is one of the most popular picnic spots in Alappuzha. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park add to the attractions of the beach. There is also an old light house which is greatly fascinating to visitors.
