History: The Town was founded by Divan of Travanacore - Raja Keshawadasan in 1762. Owing to its propinquity to the sea, the town of Alappuzha previously called Alleppey, has enjoyed a significant position in the nautical history of Kerala. Alappuzha also had a gory past when the Communist activists fought with police in 1946.
In the recent days, it has developed as a major backwater tourist centre and is renowned for its pristine beaches, exciting boat races, romantic houseboat holidays and coir industry.
Places of Interest
Kuttanad, also known as the rice bowl of Kerala is located at the centre of the backwaters and encompasses a large cultivated region of crops.
Champakulam Church: It is one of the ancient churches in Kerala and is believed to have established by St. Thomas. The annual banquet at this church falls on the 3rd Sunday of October and the feast of St. Joseph is observed on March 19th.
Light House: This lighthouse was built in 1862 and was the first lighthouse raised on the western coast.
Alappuzha Beach: This beach offers ideal ambience for picnics and provides great entertainment opportunities in its beach park known as Vijaya beach park.This park has a swimming pool and offers boating facilities. This beach also houses the dock that is about 137 years old.
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple: This temple is located near Harippad ,32 km south of Alappuzha. This age old shrine that is dedicated to serpent God Nagaraja is renowned throughout the world.
Karumadikuttan: Karumadikuttan situated 3km east of Ambalapuzha is the feted 11th century statue of Lord Buddha to which interesting legends are associated.
Houseboat Cruises: One of the chief attractions of Alappuzha is the houseboat cruises. You can glide through the azure backwaters and enjoy the dreamy, reposeful setting.
Connectivity- The intricate network of canals and backwaters connect the city to the districts or cities of Kottayam and Kochi.
Air: You can reach Alappuzha by air. The closest airport is at Cochin, 64 km. The Thiruvananthapuram Airport is 159 km away.
Rail: There are railways connected to Cochin and Thiruvananthapuram.
Road: NH 47 passes through Alappuzha. Alappuzha is linked to MC Road by the Changanassery Road.
Water: Boat services to Cochin 5.30 hrs, Kollam 8 hrs, Changanasserry 3 hrs and Kottayam 2.30 hrs.
