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ALAPPUZHA (ALAPPEY)
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Alappuzha is a veritable maze of bridges and canals, the presence of which has given it the appellation the "Venice of the East". Alappuzha district stands foremost among the districts of Kerala in regard to the density of population. It also stands first among other districts of Kerala in respect of its literacy rate. The entire area of the district lies in the low land and the midland divisions, and is the only district in Kerala having no area under the high lands. Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala is in Alappuzha district. The total production of rice here is almost ten percent of the total production of the State. Alappuzha is the most important centre in the State for coir industry. Almost 80 per cent of the coir factories in the State are in this district.
A BRIEF HISTORY
Alappuzha, came into being as a district, in the political map of Kerala on the 27th of August, 1957. Before the formation of the district, a major part of this area was of Kollam district and the rest, of Kottayam district. Though Alappuzha, with its past glory has a historic tradition of its own, with its abundant trade activity. Alappuzha is famous for the first labour upsurge against autocratic regime which is known as Punnapra-Vayalar agitation.
Alappuzha town has earned for itself the fame of being styled as the Venice of the East. The port at this place owes its origin to the ingenuity and imagination of a great administrator of the erstwhile Travancore, Raja Kesavadas, the Dewan of His Highness the Maharaja Rama Varma. He constructed the two main canals, running parallel to each other through the heart of the town, linking the backwaters with the seashore. He brought here the Gujaratis, Kutchimemons and Parsis to start trade in hill-produce, copra and coconut oil. The port was open for foreign trade in 1792 and it remained the commercial metropolis of Travancore for over a century. The lighthouse in the western coast was put up in 1862 under the supervision of a European engineer, Mr.Crawford. Alappuzha market was once the solitary supplier of coir yarn, mats and matting, coconuts, coconut oil, pepper, ginger, tea, rubber, cashew and cardamom to the world markets before the establishment of the Cochin Port. The development of C ochin harbour during the second quarter of the century marks the beginning of the decline of Alappuzha market and port. The business community found better prospects in Kochi and a large number of them moved to Kochi.
Alappuzha District consists of two revenue divisions, six taluks and 91 revenue villages. There are 71 panchayats in the district.
Topology and Climate
Bounded on the northeast by Ernakulam and Kottayam districts, on the east by Pathanamthitta, on the southeast by Kollam on district and on the west by the Arabian Sea, this district lies between north latitude 90° 05' and 90° 52' east longitude 76° 17' and 76° 48'.
The climate is moist and hot in the coast, and it is slightly cooler and drier in the interior of the district. The average monthly temperature of this district is approximately 18° C. As in the case of other parts of the State, this district also gets the benefit of two outstanding monsoons.
The soil of this district may be classified as sandy, peaty, alluvial and laterite. Sandy soil covers the western portion of Cherthala, Ambalappuzha and Karthikappally taluks. Coconut is mostly grown in this area. Peaty and kari soil occur as a small belt on the eastern regions of Cherthala and Ambalappuzha and on the western portions of Kuttanad. This soil is of poor fertility and of low yields. To the east of the peaty soil lies the belt of the alluvial soil which covers the residuary portions of Kuttanad, northern portions of Karthikappally, Chengannur and the northwestern sector of Mavelikkara. The alluvial soil is heavy in texture, consists mostly of fine silt and is generally well supplied with organic matter, nitrogen and potash. Major portions of Chengannur and Mavelikkara taluks are covered by laterite soil which is formed by weathering mainly of acidic rocks under alternate wet and dry tropical conditions.
The climate is moist and hot in the coast, and it is slightly cooler and drier in the interior of the district. The average monthly temperature of this district is approximately 18° C. As in the case of other parts of the State, this district also gets the benefit of two outstanding monsoons.
The soil of this district may be classified as sandy, peaty, alluvial and laterite. Sandy soil covers the western portion of Cherthala, Ambalappuzha and Karthikappally taluks. Coconut is mostly grown in this area. Peaty and kari soil occur as a small belt on the eastern regions of Cherthala and Ambalappuzha and on the western portions of Kuttanad. This soil is of poor fertility and of low yields. To the east of the peaty soil lies the belt of the alluvial soil which covers the residuary portions of Kuttanad, northern portions of Karthikappally, Chengannur and the northwestern sector of Mavelikkara. The alluvial soil is heavy in texture, consists mostly of fine silt and is generally well supplied with organic matter, nitrogen and potash. Major portions of Chengannur and Mavelikkara taluks are covered by laterite soil which is formed by weathering mainly of acidic rocks under alternate wet and dry tropical conditions.
Rivers
The following three important rivers flow through this district.
Manimala River
The villages of Manimala, Mallappally, Kaviyoor, Kalloppara, Thalavadi, Kozhimukku and Champakulam lies in the course of the river Manimala, which has a length of 91.73 kms. and drainage area of 802.90 sq. kms.
Pamba River
The river Pamba, which has its origin at Peerumedu, after traversing a distance of 177.08 kms. itself in the Vembanad lake. The catchment area of this river is 1987.17 sq. kms. And has a marginal length of 74.02 kms.
Achancovil River
The Achancovil river on entering this district at about three miles from the west of Kaipattoor adopts a westerly course till it reaches Chennithala. After that it takes a southwesterly course and joins Pamba at Veeyapuram. The catchment area of this river is 1155.14 sq.kms. And has a marginal length of 32.19 kms.
Lakes
Vembanad Lake
The Vembanad lake stretching from Alappuzha to Cochin borders Cherthala, Ambalapuzha and Kuttanad taluks of this district.
Kayamkulam Lake
Kayamkulam lake lies in both Alappuzha and Kollam districts. The lakes are used for inland water transport of passengers and cargo
Population
According to 2001 census (bifurcated) Alappuzha district has got a population of 2,105,349. During the1981-91 decade this district showed the lowest growth rate. But as far as density of population is concerned, Alappuzha district stands 1489 persons per sq. km. while that of the State is only 819. The sex ratio recorded in this district is 1079 females to 1000 males.
Socio-Economic Conditions
Alappuzha is a backward district in terms of the standard of living of the people. The majority of population of the district comprises, agricultural labourers and coir workers. Most of these people live in huts which, by any standard, are not worth living. Though literacy rate in Alleppey district is in the second rank as compared to other districts, employment rate is not proportionate to the literacy rate. The awareness of democratic equality and the land reform measures offered a feeling to the individual that each is equal to anybody else. The high literacy level coupled with the achievements of the labour class has speeded up the breakdown of the coterie of casteism and landlordism in the district.
Art and Culture
The art, culture and customs of the people of Alappuzha district are mostly the same as those of the people in other districts of central Kerala. The folk songs in the fields during sowing and harvesting, the awakening songs by the Panans, and a few other dance forms of the traditional style associated with festivals like Onam can still be seen. A large number of art forms including folk dances, dramas, folk-songs, etc., have gone into oblivion. We find the reasons for this decline in the society's march towards social transition brought about by the spread of communism and a social consciousness of the downtrodden and the labour class who constitute the majority. It is believed that Thullal propounded by Kunchan Nambiar had found its stage in the famous Ambalapuzha temple.
The customs, behaviour and practice of the people of different parts of the district are almost the same. Alappuzha has only a small number of tribal population. Their way of life and attire are far from the same of those of their counterparts in Manantoddy, Nilambur etc., of Wynad and Malappuram districts. The small number of Ulladas settled in the district to not maintain their traditional tribal way of life, but they have become one with the rest of the society.
Alappuzha has contributed its might to the development of Malayalam language and literature. Two stalwarts of Malayalam literature namely Sahitya Panchananan P.K.Narayana Pillai and Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai hailed from this district. The great linguist and grammarian, I.C. Chacko, was also born and brought up in this district. It is also worth mentioning that the first cinema studio in Kerala was started in Alappuzha district.
Alappuzha district can be proud of being the centre of snake boat races. All the important boat races, namely the Nehru Trophy Boat Race at Punnamada, the Payippad boat race at Payippad near Harippad, the Thiruvandoor, Neerettupuram, Karuvatta and Thaikkoottam boat races are held on or around the Onam holidays at different parts of the district. Thousands of people from all parts of the world come and witness these races.
The customs, behaviour and practice of the people of different parts of the district are almost the same. Alappuzha has only a small number of tribal population. Their way of life and attire are far from the same of those of their counterparts in Manantoddy, Nilambur etc., of Wynad and Malappuram districts. The small number of Ulladas settled in the district to not maintain their traditional tribal way of life, but they have become one with the rest of the society.
Alappuzha has contributed its might to the development of Malayalam language and literature. Two stalwarts of Malayalam literature namely Sahitya Panchananan P.K.Narayana Pillai and Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai hailed from this district. The great linguist and grammarian, I.C. Chacko, was also born and brought up in this district. It is also worth mentioning that the first cinema studio in Kerala was started in Alappuzha district.
Alappuzha district can be proud of being the centre of snake boat races. All the important boat races, namely the Nehru Trophy Boat Race at Punnamada, the Payippad boat race at Payippad near Harippad, the Thiruvandoor, Neerettupuram, Karuvatta and Thaikkoottam boat races are held on or around the Onam holidays at different parts of the district. Thousands of people from all parts of the world come and witness these races.
Trade and Industry
Though very much declined in importance because of various reasons, Alappuzha still remains a central market in Kerala for copra, coconut oil, oil cakes and coir. The trade in copra was started in 1875 in Alappuzha. The centre of activity is Chungom. There are at present more than 62 oil mills in the municipal area. The number of workers engaged in coconut oil milling industry is about 1200. The total production of coconut oil in this area is approximately 3500 tonnes.
Alappuzha is the major production centre of coir and coir products in the State. There are about four thousand production units including a few big factories for coir in the district. There are at present 15 mechanised looms too. Attempts are being made for the revival and revitalisation of the industry through co-operative societies. There are 41 cooperative societies in the coir sector. There is a central coir marketing society for the export of the produce of primary societies. The Hindustan Coir Ltd., a centrally sponsored factory, has introduced on an experimental basis, production of coir mats and matting using powerlooms.
Alappuzha is the major production centre of coir and coir products in the State. There are about four thousand production units including a few big factories for coir in the district. There are at present 15 mechanised looms too. Attempts are being made for the revival and revitalisation of the industry through co-operative societies. There are 41 cooperative societies in the coir sector. There is a central coir marketing society for the export of the produce of primary societies. The Hindustan Coir Ltd., a centrally sponsored factory, has introduced on an experimental basis, production of coir mats and matting using powerlooms.
Fisheries
Alappuzha district occupies a very important position in the fisheries map of Kerala. Its western boundary is the Arabian sea having rich marine resources. More than 20 per cent of the total area of the district is water-logged, and the 20,000 acres of kari lands and 42,736 acres of paddy fields in Kuttanad are suitable for pisciculture.
The total population of fishermen in the district is 136,300. The sea farming fisherman population is 87,027 and the inland fishermen population is 49,273. Of these not less than 40 per cent are active fishermen and of the remaining more than 60 per cent are either directly or indirectly engaged in fishing operation. The fishing season in the marine sector is from October to May and in the inland sector it is throughout the year.
The Fisheries Department has established a fishermen colony of 20 houses at Thevarvattom in Thycattussery panchayat. Feeder roads from sea coast to main roads are constructed to help fishing industry. The department also started two dispensaries at Thottappally and Pallithode. Another one is under construction at Pallana. The department has established an estuarine fish farm at Ayiramthengu, the southern most boundary of the district. Local varieties of fish are reared in this farm and sold to public at reasonable rates.
There is a Regional Fisheries Technical High School in Arthunkal. 'Chakara' is a rare marine phenomenon found in this district. It happens usually in the early days of June and May last upto the end of August.
The total population of fishermen in the district is 136,300. The sea farming fisherman population is 87,027 and the inland fishermen population is 49,273. Of these not less than 40 per cent are active fishermen and of the remaining more than 60 per cent are either directly or indirectly engaged in fishing operation. The fishing season in the marine sector is from October to May and in the inland sector it is throughout the year.
The Fisheries Department has established a fishermen colony of 20 houses at Thevarvattom in Thycattussery panchayat. Feeder roads from sea coast to main roads are constructed to help fishing industry. The department also started two dispensaries at Thottappally and Pallithode. Another one is under construction at Pallana. The department has established an estuarine fish farm at Ayiramthengu, the southern most boundary of the district. Local varieties of fish are reared in this farm and sold to public at reasonable rates.
There is a Regional Fisheries Technical High School in Arthunkal. 'Chakara' is a rare marine phenomenon found in this district. It happens usually in the early days of June and May last upto the end of August.
Communication
Though there are no important newspapers published from Alappuzha district, the various media of mass communication including newspapers, radio, film, etc., are playing a very important role in the cultural and educational development of the people of this district.
There are two evening dailies published from Alappuzha town, namely, the Munnani and Keralasree. There is also one morning newspaper called Theepandam. As far as periodicals are concerned, still Alappuzha lags behind. The relay station of the All India Radio near Alappuzha is the most powerful station in the State.
There is a film studio in Alappuzha namely, the Udaya Studio. There is a large number of cinema exhibition houses also in the district. A notable incident in this fields is the inauguration of the Chitranjali, the second theatre owned by the Kerala Film Development Corporation at Cherthalla.
As regards exhibition of films in the rural areas, four Government film exhibition units including the field publicity unit of the Government of India, are functioning in this district.
All the important publishing houses in this district function in the private sector.
There are two evening dailies published from Alappuzha town, namely, the Munnani and Keralasree. There is also one morning newspaper called Theepandam. As far as periodicals are concerned, still Alappuzha lags behind. The relay station of the All India Radio near Alappuzha is the most powerful station in the State.
There is a film studio in Alappuzha namely, the Udaya Studio. There is a large number of cinema exhibition houses also in the district. A notable incident in this fields is the inauguration of the Chitranjali, the second theatre owned by the Kerala Film Development Corporation at Cherthalla.
As regards exhibition of films in the rural areas, four Government film exhibition units including the field publicity unit of the Government of India, are functioning in this district.
All the important publishing houses in this district function in the private sector.
Transport
Roads
The credit for development of roads in this district goes back to the period of Ramayyan Dalawa, the Dewan of Travancore, who opened several roads chiefly for the convenience of militia and for traffic. With the appointment of Mr.Bartom as the Chief Engineer during the time of Dewan Madhava Rao, remarkable progress in the expansion of roads has been achieved. With the opening of the Alappuzha-Changanacherry road in 1958 this district has a net work of good motorable roads.
Water Transport
The commercial canals connecting the nook and corner of this district are its life line. Canals, rivers and backwaters afford an easy and cheap mode of transport of goods and men which was one of the main reasons for the importance of Alappuzha town as the major commercial centre of older times.
BACKWATERS
Pathiramanal
Location: 1 1/2 hours drive by motor boat or 30 minutes by speed boat from Alappuzha,Alappuzha district,south Kerala.
Pathiramanal, a small island on the backwaters of Alappuzha, is a haven for hundreds of rare birds migrating from different parts of the world.Surrounded by the Vembanad Lake, stretching from Alappuzha to Kochi and the Kayamkulam lake, Pathiramanal is accessible only by boat. The green island thus forms an ideal place for a break in the journey while on a backwater cruise. The mainland Alappuzha has a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers criss crossing it and is a district of immense natural beauty.
Getting there:
Nearest railway station : Alappuzha
Nearest airports : Cochin International Airport, about 85 km north of Alappuzha
Thiruvananthapuram,about 150 km towards the south.
Q S T and R Block Kayal, Kuttanad
Situated in Kuttanad popularly known as the rice bowl of Kerala, QST & R Block Kayals (backwaters) remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland. A striking example of the indigenous agricultural engineering know-how, here cultivation and habitation are made possible at four to ten feet below the sea level. For this purpose extensive land has been reclaimed from the backwaters and is protected by dikes built around it. A leisurely cruise along the canals here is a memorable experience.
Kuttanad is the most beautiful backwaters region of Kerala. It is here that most of the snake boat races are conducted and a majority of the rice boat & houseboat cruises are scheduled. Keralas network of navigable backwaters stretches to over 900km. These serene waterways are fringed by palm grove and paddy fields and offer a striking spectacle of the rustic life.
Getting there: QST & R Block Kayals are accessible by boat from Alappuzha ( 1.30 hrs by motor boat and 30 minutes by speedboat.)
Nearest railway station : Alappuzha
Nearest airport : Cochin
Kuttanad is the most beautiful backwaters region of Kerala. It is here that most of the snake boat races are conducted and a majority of the rice boat & houseboat cruises are scheduled. Keralas network of navigable backwaters stretches to over 900km. These serene waterways are fringed by palm grove and paddy fields and offer a striking spectacle of the rustic life.
Getting there: QST & R Block Kayals are accessible by boat from Alappuzha ( 1.30 hrs by motor boat and 30 minutes by speedboat.)
Nearest railway station : Alappuzha
Nearest airport : Cochin
BEACHES
Alappuzha Beach
Location: Alappuzha beach, near Alappuzha town, south Kerala. Referred to as the Venice of the East, Alappuzha has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today, it is famous for its boat races, backwater holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry. Alappuzha beach is a popular picnic spot. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park add to the attraction of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse nearby which is greatly fascinating to visitors.
Facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park: Boating, a children's park with toy train and bicycles.Timings: Open from 1500 - 2000 hours. Entrance fee: Rs. 2 per person; Free entrance for children below 5 years. Boating charge: Rs. 10 for ten minutes. Video permit: Rs. 25; Camera permit: Rs. 5.
Getting there:
Nearest railway station : Alappuzha, about 5 km from the beach.
Nearest airport : Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha town.
Facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park: Boating, a children's park with toy train and bicycles.Timings: Open from 1500 - 2000 hours. Entrance fee: Rs. 2 per person; Free entrance for children below 5 years. Boating charge: Rs. 10 for ten minutes. Video permit: Rs. 25; Camera permit: Rs. 5.
Getting there:
Nearest railway station : Alappuzha, about 5 km from the beach.
Nearest airport : Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha town.
MONUMENTS
Krishnapuram Palace, Kayamkulam
Location :Kayamkulam, 47 km from Alappuzha. Visiting hours : 9.00 am to 5.00 pm on all days except Mondays.
The Krishnapuram Palace is a rare specimen of the Kerala style of architecture - complete with gabled roofs, narrow corridors and dormer windows. Residence of the rulers of Kayamkulam kingdom, the age of the palace is unknown. Renovated some time in the 18th century, the palace is today a protected monument under the Archaeology department. Recently it has been again renovated according to the scientific techniques prescribed for the protection of heritage buildings.
Today the palace is an archaeological museum, and the most fascinating exhibit here is the 49 sq.m - Gajendra Moksham - the largest single band of mural painting so far discovered in Kerala. Literally, the salvation ( Moksha) of the elephant king ( Gajendra), the theme of the mural is mythological and depicts an elephant saluting Lord Vishnu in devotion while the other gods, goddesses and saints look on. It is said that Lord Vishnu was the family deity of the Kayamkulam rajas. This mural was placed at the entrance to the palace from the pond to enable the rajas to worship the deity after their bath. Other attractions here are the beautifully landscaped garden in the palace compound where you have a variety of flora typical of Kerala, and a newly erected Buddha mandapam, where a recently recovered statue of the Buddha is housed. Other collections at the museum include rare antique bronze sculptures and paintings.
Getting there:
Nearest railway station : Kollam about 39 km.
Nearest airports : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 103 km; Cochin International Airport, about 132 km
PILGRIM CENTRES
Ambalapuzha - Sree Krishna Temple
This is 14 kms. Away from Alappuzha and has been built in the typical Kerala architectural style. This temple is famous all over India, for Palapayasam, sweet milk porridge, offered daily in the temple. The main festival of this temple is held in March/ April.
Arthunkal- St. Sebastian's church
Built by Portuguese missionaries, this church is an important Christian pilgrim centre, which is near Sherthallai, 22kms North of Alappuza. The feast of St. Sebastian is celebrated here with great honour in January.
Champakulam - St. Mary`s Church
This is one of the oldest churches in Kerala, and according to people belief, it is one of the seven churches established by St. Thomas. The feast is celebrated on the 3rd Sunday of October.
Chavara Bhavan - Holy Shrine
6kms. From Alappuzha, accessible only by boast that is the ancestral home of blessed Kuriakose alias Chavara, which is a spiritual resort and holy shrine for thousands of Devotees, who gather for prayer and beacon of light is preserved here in it's original and primitive forum.
Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple
There is a festival celebrated here during February or March, called Kettukazha, which is very famous for its processions of tall-decorated structures in chariots where images of horses and bullocks are displayed.
Edathuva Church
This church was built in honour of St. George in 1810, is believed that prayers offered in this church help to heal all mental disorders and other ailments. It is 24kms. From Alappuzha, and pilgrims from all parts of south India, irrespective of caste and creed, visit this church and seek blessings from the saint during the 3 days feast held on 5th, 6th and 7th of may.
Karumandi- Buddhist Centre
A village situated in the east of Ambalapuzha, is famous for a black granite figure of Buddha, called Karumandi Kuttan, which is centuries old, and have many interesting legends connected to it.
Manmarasala- Sree Nagaraja Temple
This beautiful temple situated 32 kms. Away from Alappuzha near Harippad is dedicated to the king of serpents, Nagaraja. It is an international pilgrim centre and is believed that childless couples, who pray with devotion at this temple, are blessed with children. Also a special turmeric paste available at the Serpent shrine has the power to cure leprosy.
Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple
It situated in the heart of Alleppey town, dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeswari. The nine days Navarathri festival is celebrated with great devotion and importance. The last two days are most auspicious. Colourful processions participated by nine elephants are held in the evening. Also many cultural programmes are held in honour of this festival for thousands of devotees who come there.
PLACES TO INTERESTS
Kuttanad - The Rice Bowl of Kerala
Kuttanad, called the rice bowl of Kerala because of her wealth of paddy crops,is 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 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.
The Vijaya Beach Park
Picnic spot with children's park & boating facilities (Open 1500 - 2000 hrs). Entrance fee: Rs. 2 per person; Free entrance for children below 5 years. Boating charge: Rs. 10 for 10 minutes. Other facilities for children: Toy train, bicycles. Video permit: Rs. 25, Camera permit: Rs. 5 respectively Ph: 2242960 Sea View ParkThe park offers boating facilities and a swimming pool. Boat rentals for 10 minutes: Roundboat (4 seater): Rs. 10 Pedalboat (2 seater): Rs. 15 Pedalboat (4 seater): Rs. 25. Video permit: Rs. 15, Camera permit: Rs. 100 respectively.
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple
(32 km south of Alappuzha)Situated near Harippad, this is a serpent shrine under the patronage of a brahmin 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 diety 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.
Chavara Bhavan
6 km from Alappuzha. Accessible only by boat): Chavara Bhavan is the ancestral home of the blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara. It is now a holy shrine and spiritual resort where thousands of devotees gather for prayer, receive favours and feel amply gratified. Here, a 250 year old historically important beacon of light is preserved intact in its original and primitive form. Karumadikuttan (3km east of Ambalapuzha): Many fascinating legends are associated with this 11th century statue of Lord Buddha.
Edathua Church
(24 km from Alappuzha, on the Alappuzha - Thiruvalla Road)Established in 1810, the church is dedicated to St. George. It is believed that prayers and offerings at this church help to heal all mental disorders and other ailments. During the annual feast (5th, 6th and 7th of May) pilgrims from all parts of South India, irrespective of caste and creed, visit the church and seek the blessings of the saint. Arthunkal (22 km north of Alappuzha)The St. Sebastian's Church here is an important Christian pilgrim centre. Annual festival: Arthunkal Perunnal - the feast of the patron saint (January)
Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Mavelikkara
The Kettukazhcha festival at this temple draws large crowds of devotees. Processions of tall decorated structures on chariots, brightly decorated effigies of horses and bullocks and cultural performances make a spectacular pageant. (Festival - February/March)
Alappuzha - Aquatourism
With the Arabian sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers criss crossing it, Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty. Referred to as the Venice of the East by travellers from across the world, this backwater country is also home to diverse animal and bird life. By virtue of its proximity to the sea, the town has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today Alappuzha has grown in importance as a backwater tourist centre, attracting several thousands of foreign tourists each year. Alappuzha is also famous for its boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry. A singular characteristic of this land is the region called Kuttanad. The rice bowl of Kerala, Kuttanad is perhaps the only place in the world where farming is done below sea level. Pathiramanal (Backwater) This little island on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of th e world. The island is accessible only by boat. Boat races Alappuzha Nehru Trophy Boat Race at Punnamada (2nd Saturday of August) Alappuzha Tourism Boat Race (9th January) Pulinkunnu Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race (last Saturday of August) Champakulam Moolam Boat Race (Moolam day of Midhunam - July) Payippad Jalotsavam (4th Onam day - August/September) Neerettupuram Boat Race (Onam - August/September).
Champakulam Church
One of the oldest churches in Kerala, the St. Mary's Church is believed to be one of the seven established by St. Thomas. The annual feast at this church falls on the 3rd Sunday of October every year. The feast of St. Joseph is celebrated on March 19th.
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