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Ensconced in the South west corner of India, Kerala enjoys all the blessing of nature – a long sparkling Sandy coastline, rigged mountains, serpentine rivers, sparkling waterfalls, dens forests serene backwaters with coconut palms in the shore, lush Plains with green blanket, a copious monsoons and plenty of sunshine. Thus Kerala has attracted people from all over the worlds leads ‘the land of never ending seasons’
The fundamental facts about Kerala is the openness to external influence, these have been many and varied. Arabs, Roman, Chinese, British and for that matter Christian, Islamist and Marxist influences have gone in to the making of Keralites. The Christians of Kerala belong to the oldest Christian community in the world outside the Middle East, converted by Jesus disciple Saint Thomas, One of the 12 apostles, who came to the state in 52 AD.
A hundred percent literate people, world class health care system, lowest infant mortality rate and highest life expectancy rates. Besides Kerala was the first place on earth to democratically elect a communist government. For administrative purpose, the state of Kerala is divided in to fourteen districts. All of these offer you unique experiences and whats more; every one of the charming destinations is only a two hour drives from other. a singular advantage no other destination offers.
“Kerala – One of the 10 paradises of the world”
“National Geographic Channel” |
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Alleppey (Alappuzha - Venice of the East) |
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Place to Visit
Kuttanad:- Called
the rice bowl of Kerala, Kuttanad is perhaps the only region in the
world where farming is done 1.5 to 2 m below sea level. Inland waterways
which flow above land level are an amazing feature of this region.
Alappuzha
Backwaters:- The hub of
backwater cruising, this is also the venue for the annual Nehru Trophy
Boat Race. Travel in a mobile home – the fabled houseboats of Kerala-
and enjoy the trip of a lifetime..
Alappuzha Beach:- A 137 – year – old pier
which extends into the sea & an old light house add to the attractions
of the beach. Here is children’s park also (Vijaya Park).
Pathiramanal Island:- (1½ hrs by motor boat, 30 min by
speedboat from Alappuzha) the enchanting island on the backwaters is a
favorite haunt of Hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts
of the world.
Karumadikuttan:- (3 km east of Ambalappuzha) Many fascinating legends are associated with
this 11th century statue of Lord Buddha, protected by the State
Archaeological Department.
Chambakulam Church:- The St. Mary’s Church one of the oldest church in Kerala is said to be
built by St. Thomas.
Chambakulam Local
Market:- near to the
Chambakulam Church, there is a handicraft making centre, cloths & some
shops. It is village town ship.
QST & R Block Kayal:- These regions are famous for farming over reclaimed land from the
backwaters.
Nehru Trophy Boat
Race:- the popular boat
race is held on the second Saturday of August every year at the Vembanad
Lake & is the most important tourist event of Alleppey . Boats are
sponsored by the different villages compete fiercely in the competition.
The highlight of this prestigious event is “Chunden Vallem”, the 130
feet long snake boats, with over 100 rowers, 4 helmsmen & 25 cheer
leaders decorated with colourful silk umbrellas. Thousands of spectators
from all over the world watch avidly from the banks.
Kumarakom:- (15 km west of Kottayam)
Mangrove forests, paddy fields, coconut groves and enchanting waterways
adorn the picturesque village of Kumarakom. Sandwiched between the vast
Vembanad Lake & the criss – crossing waterways, this is an idyllic
backwater destination. For an incredible journey along this scenic
world, leisure cruises on Houseboat.
The Vembanad Lake,
Kumarakom: - (16 km from
Kottayam) this lake provides boating, fishing & sightseeing experience
that are truly exhilarating. The serene lake comes alive during the
festival of Onam with spectacular snake boat race.
Kumarakom
Birds Sanctuary:- (
16 km from Kottayam , Opened 0600 – 1800 hrs ) located on the banks of
the Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Birds Sanctuary is favorite haunt of
migratory birds like Siberian stork, cormorants, darter, white ibis,
egret, heron & teal.
Accessing Alleppey
By Air - Nearest airport at Kochi, is one and a half hours drive or 3 hours from Trivandrum International Airport.
By Rail- Alleppey is well connected by train.
By Road- The place is well connected to all the south Indian towns. There are frequent bus services to Alleppey. One can use buses, tourist taxis, autorickshaws, and cycle rickshaws. |
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