Alappuzha

State: Kerala

Main language: Malayalam

 

History:

 

Alappuzha is also known as Alleppey. It is a beautiful town in the Alappuzha District of Kerala. This town is the majestic potpourri of canals, beaches, backwaters and also lagoons. The town had been called 'Venice' by Lord Curzon due to its picturesque natural beauty. The history of this town is as beautiful as the sceneries found here. The present town had been founded by Diwan Raja Kesavadas in the second half of 18th century. But the district of Alappuzha was mentioned in classical Literature. It was referred to as Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala and was also known in the early periods of the Sangam age. There are historical records of Alappuzha having trade relations with ancient Greece and Rome in the Middle Ages. There are also references to trade with other parts of India. 

 

Demography:

 

As per the 2001 census, the town had a population of 177,079. The average literacy rate was 84% which was way above the national literacy rate. The males were about 48% of the population while the females constituted about 52%. 

 

Climate:

 

The climate of Alappuzha is temperate and humid. It is more pleasant in the winter season. The temperatures range from 22 to 35°C in summer and 20 to 32°C in the winters.

 

Tourism:

 

There town of Alappuzha is one of the most beautiful places in India. There is endless scenic magnificence to be witnessed here. It is the hub of backwater tourism in Kerela. There are boats called 'Kettuvallam' which are provided for hiring. There boats have 2 bedrooms with attached baths. There are options for cooked food on board also. Cruising along the backwaters presents one of the most breathtaking views to tourists. It is a heaven for honeymooners and those who seek solitude in nature. Amongst the popular tourist attractions are the church situated on the outskirts of the city. Snake boat race is a popular event and attracts tourists from all over the world. They are held between August and October. Krishnapuram Temple, Ambalapuzha Temple, Punnamada Kayal and Mullackal Temple are popular tourist attractions. 

 

Education:

 

Alappuzha has a proud educational history. There are ten colleges in the districts which includes Arts and Science Colleges, One Medical College, Engineering colleges and Polytechnics. The regular schools contribute to the high literacy rate here. The Kerela State Library Council was founded here.

 

Culture:

 

Alappuzha is the source of cultural activities in the area. There are regular socio-cultural programs held in the town. There are also various pilgrimage centres here which draw crowds from on festival days.

 

Economy:

The main source of economy and finance in this town is tourism but there are also famous coir and carpet industries which contribute to the same. Apart from this agriculture and coconut trade flourishes here. 

 

Transportation:

 

Alappuzha can be reached by Air. There are flights to Thiruvananthapuram which is 150 kilometers away or Kochi, which is 85 kilometers away. The town is well connected through various roads also. There are trains to major cities around Alappuzha also. Apart from these there are regular boat services to the backwaters through Cochin, Quilon, Changanacherry, etc.