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Pathiramanal
According to mythology young Brahmin dived into the Vembanad lake to perform his evening ablutions and water made way for land, which rose from below, creating the enchanting island of the Pathiramanal (midnight sands). This little island on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world.
Mullakkal Rejeswari Temple
This temple, located in the heart of Alleppey town, celebrates two festivals, highlighted by colourful processions, participated by nine elephants on the last two auspicious days. There are cultural programmes including Ottanthullal. Another festival celebrated is the one-day Thaipooyakavadi in which about fifteen Kavadis take part in a spectacular procession.
Alapuzha Beach
This is one of the most popular tourist spots in alleppey. A 1000 ft long pier was built at the alleppey beach by Captain Hugh Crawford in 1862. The beach is clean and there is a park for children on its southern side. On the northern side, the 'sea view park' has boating facilities for tourists. The alleppey beach is long and has thick palm groves. An old lighthouse continues to attract visitors to this beach.
Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple
The famous Sri Krishna temple here is known for its traditional Kerala architecture as well as it's delicious pal payasam. About 3 kms from Ambalapuzha is 'Karumadikuttan' statue, which is a black granite statue of Buddha belonging to the 10th century.
Arthunkal Church
This is a popular center of pilgrimage for the Christians of Kerala. The ancient St.Sebastian Church erected by the Portuguese is situated in this place, 22 kms north of alleppey.
Karumadikuttan - Buddha Statue
Buddhism did not bloom to its full potential here in Kerala, but destroyed or neglected Buddha statues and idols were recovered in the coastal districts of Kerala, especially Alappuzha. Karumadikuttan is an imposing stately statue of Lord Buddha located on the banks of "Punnamada" lake at the backwaters.
Kuttanad
Kuttanad, is called the rice bowl of Kerala because of its wealth of paddy crops. It lies at the very heart of the backwaters. The scenic countryside of Kuttanad with its shimmering waterways also has a rich crop of banana, cassava and yam. This perhaps the only region in the worked where farming is done 1.5 to 2 ms. below sea level. Inland waterways which flow above land level are an amazing feature of this region.
Kuttanad has become synonymous with the word backwaters, and so is a must visit spot when one plans a holiday to Kerala- the land that is much known for its marvelous backwaters. Along the coast of the vast expanse of lakes, canals, rivers that cover most of Kuttanad, one can observe nuances of rural Kerala life styles.
The acres of well maintained paddy field in Kuttanad, a place several feet below sea level, adds more greenery to the perfect picture the place showcases.
Sea View Park
Sea View Park is situated near the Vijaya Beach Park in Alappuzha District of Kerala.
The park offers boating facilities in 4-seated round boat, and 2-seated and 4-seated pedal boats. A swimming pool add its charm. The Alppuzha beach and an old lighthouse located adjacent to the park are also popular relaxation spots.
Vijaya Beach Park
Vijaya Beach Park is famous as a picnic spot. Toy train and bicycles are available for children. The young and old alike visit this park and the Alappuzha beach for entertainment purpose. The park is situated near the spectacular Alappuzha beach with dense coconut grooves. The beach is a famous tourist attraction and hence the Vijaya park also gets its share of visitors everyday. There are variety programmes available at the park and hence a large number of tourist regularly visit the Vijaya Park every evening from 3.00pm to 8.00pm . The children's park and the boating facilities are open daily for the visitors. In-fact the Vijaya Beach Park add to the attraction of the Alappuzha beach itself with facilities for visiting families. It is a favorite destination of families due to the excellent boating facilities as well as the facilities made available for children such as a park dedicated to children, the toy train and bicycle riding.
Harippad
This place is famous for the temple at Champakulam. Still better known is the fantastic celebration at the temple every year. An interesting procession of elegant water floats and boats decked with colourful parasols carrying idols of the deity moves about the water surface. People also render performances on these boats. Boat races are also held in connection with the celebration. Most famous is the Champakulam Moolam Boat Race- the oldest snake boat race in Kerala. The annual boat race is held in June-July.
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple
32 kms. south of Alappuzha situated near Harippad, this is a serpent shrine under the patronage of a 'Brahman' family, headed by a priestess. The ancient shrine is an internationally renowned pilgrim centre dedicated to the Serpent God Nagaraja. Sarpa Yakshi and Naga Yakshi are the beloved consorts of Nagaraja. It is believed that Nagaraja as the installed deity is endowed with the form of Hari (Lord Vishnu) and the spirit of Lord Shiva. Legend has it that the first priestess of Mannarasala gave birth to a five-headed snake, which is believed to reside in the ancestral house to safeguard the family. At Mannarasala barren women are believed to be blessed with children and a special turmeric paste available at the shrine is credited with powers to cure even leprosy.
Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple
The Kettukazhcha festival at this temple draws large crowds of devotees. Processions of all decorated structures on chariots, brightly decorated effigies of horses and bullocks and cultural performances make a spectacular pageant. The months of February and March mark the festival time of this temple.
Krishnapuram Palace
Krishnapuram Palace was Built by Marthanda Varma in 18th Centaury, is located at Karthikaplly 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 larges murals in Kerala. The palace museum houses antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes. The double storied palace contains one of the greatest Mural panels in Kerala. The gabled roofs, dormer windows, and narrow corridors, represents the traditional Architecture of Kerala.
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