Alleppey – the city of beautiful backwaters, canals, and lagoons
The beautiful city of Alleppey is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, attracting large waves of tourists every year. Home to the pristine backwaters, beaches, lagoons, canals, old bungalows, and churches, the city simply bewitches one to visit it. Visit the city during the next vacation for a fun and relaxing vacation and pick from the best hotels in Alleppey.
Popular as the Venetian Capital of Kerala, Alleppey is a significant city in the state. It is a beautiful place set on the Malabar Coast of Western Indian Coastline and most popular for its picturesque backwaters, canals, lagoons, and beaches. Also known as Alappuzha, the city is a district headquarter and a major commercial city in the state. Its apt location on the international sea trade route makes it a major port city. The city has been in trade with the international countries since the Middle Ages, continuing to remain a major trade centre in the present era. Besides, the place is also popular for its old Victorian architectures which today tell the stories about the city when it was under the reign of the Europeans.
Kuttanad, a locality of Alleppey which is popular as the “Rice bowl of Kerala”, belongs to the Sangam Age, a time period spanning from 3rd century B.C. to 4th century A.D. However, the foundation of the present city was laid in 1762 when Raja Kesavadas, the Dewan of Travancore, built a palace in the region. The present Alappuzha district was carved out of the original Kottayam and Quilon districts. The region was highly influenced by Christianity and European culture that European travellers and merchants brought along. Even in the 1st century A.D., Christianity was a prime religion in the region. There exists a church at Kokkamangalam built by one of the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ.
Later during the Portuguese reign, they began to spread Catholicism over the region and started converting the people who are already Christian into Catholics. The famous and one of the oldest churches, St. Andrew’s Basilica was built by them during their era. However, the 17th century saw the fall of the Portuguese power and rise of Dutch dominance. It is under their rule and that of the Portuguese, the city also flourished into a major commerce centre. The British also held their sway over the region during British Raj, ruling and controlling the region till India’s independence. Today, the city is marked with a number of old monuments including churches, bungalows, temples, palaces, etc. that give the place a uniquely old outlook. If one is a history enthusiast, visiting Alleppey during next vacation is the thing to do.
Good thing is that climate here remains pleasant almost throughout the year, except during the peak summer days. Hotels in Alleppey come in a wide range of options. There are hotels in every budget and star category. The houseboats are quite popular amongst the tourists. They are the best modes of exploring the pristine backwaters, canals, and lagoons of the place.
Alleppey is one of the places that are most blessed by the nature. The place is filled with infinite allures and attractions. To name some of the most significant places to visit in Alleppey include: Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, Krishnapuram Palace, Alappuzha Beach, Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Mullakkal Rajeshwari Temple, Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Edakkal caves, St. Andrew’s church, Karumadi, Edathua Church, Chavaran Bhawan, Champakulam Church, St. Sebastian’s Church, and Pandavan Rock.
