Kerala known as God’s own country prides itself on some of the exotic backwaters and plush green locations that lingers in your mind forever. India’s tourism sector thrives chiefly on the beauty of this small south Indian state. Kerala's 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. Among the highly literate states in india Kerala also boasts of clean and tranquil tourist destinations. Lets dig deep into some of the coolest spots in the state.

Alappuzha

Alappuzha, popularly known as the Venice of the East, has grown in significance as a backwater tourist centre, attracting several thousands of foreign tourists each year. Famous for its boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry it is one of the major centers for backwater boat trips. A host of boat races are held here during the harvest season ( between July and September ). Major attraction of this land is the region called Kuttanad. The land of lush paddy fields, Kuttanad is called the rice bowl of Kerala and is one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level.

Kuttanad is a land of lush paddy fields and sandwiched between the sea and the hills. It is here that most of the snake boat races are conducted and a majority of the rice boat & houseboat cruises are scheduled. Situated in Kuttanad popularly known as QST & R Block Kayals (backwaters) induces the vision of the famous dikes of Holland.

Alappuzha also has a number of tourist attractions that are worth visiting and the ones that merit a mention are: the Krishnapuram Temple, Punnamada Kayal, St. Andrews Church, Mullackal Temple, Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Devi Temple, Ambalapuzha Temple and Kottamkulangara Mahavishnu Temple.

Other hot spots in Alappuzha

Mararikkulam:
Located at a distance of 12 Km from Alleppey, Mararikkulam is famous for its palm fringed golden sand beach. The beach is ideal for indulging in swimming and other water-sports..

Alleppey Beach:
The beach, frequented by both local and international tourists, is famous for its natural beauty. The 137 year old pier that extends out into the sea is a remnant of Aleppey’s glorious past when it was a major port city. Dense palm grooves, a beautiful garden on the sea shore, an ancient light house all these further accentuate the beauty of this scenic beach. There are facilities for relaxing and unwinding at the nearby Vijay Sea Park and Sea View Park.

Arthunkal Church:
This famous shrine dedicated to St. Sebastian was built by the Portuguese friars. The church is located at a distance of 22 km to the north of Alleppey near Cherthala. Christians and people from different faiths converge here during the annual feast of St. Sebastian held during the month of January.

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