Alappuzha - the Town in Brief:
Alappuzha or Alleppey is one of the most thrilling backwater sites in the southern state of Kerala. Flanking the Arabian Sea, intertwined by countless canals and bridges, this little marketplace is also eminent for its Nehru Trophy boat race held annually. It is not only the natural beauty of Alappuzha that attracts tourists but also its excellent local coir produce.

Alappuzha - Physiography:
Segregated from the former districts of Kottayam and Quilon, Alappuzha, one of the finest destinations in Kerala, is composed of seven taluks occupying an area of approximately 1414 sq km. It is surrounded by Kochi and Kanayannur taluks to its north; Kottayam, Vaikom, Kozhencherry, Changanassery Thiruvalla, and Adoor taluks ton its east; Kannathur and Karunagappally taluks to its south and the beautiful Lakshadweep of the Arabian Sea to its west.
Alappuzha - Time to take that Trip:
The climate of the tiny town of Alappuzha is moderate and humid in general and comparatively more pleasant during the winter. The temperature varies from 22 to 35�C in summer and hovers around 20 to 32�C during winters. It is best to visit Alappuzha is during the months from August to September and February to March when the weather is very pleasant. The backwater cruises in the lovely houseboats, which serve delicacies from authentic Keralite cuisine, are memorable experiences. The Nehru Trophy boat race which is slated during Onam festival in the month of August in the Punnamada Lake is a key tourist attraction of this place. You are suggested to attend the festivities of the Mullakal temple during the month of December as some of India�s excellent temple musicians display their art in the main hall during this event. Besides these, the local products made coir and the carpets made of coconut fibers are interesting buys during your visit to this place.

Alappuzha - History:
The Portuguese were the earliest rulers of this place and they reigned till the Dutch took over. Afterward Maharaja Marthandavarma ascended the throne and gave tremendous emphasis on the developmental works of the place. Gradually it turned into a busy commercial center drawing the interests of merchants from all over the world. This triggered the establishment of several coir factories manufacturing coir-related goods. The first coir factory was set up by an English sea captain and soon after others followed suit. In 1816 the first Anglican Church was erected by the Christian missionaries whose headquarter was in Alappuzha.

Log on to www.touristplacesinindia.com which gives online information on the Alappuzha on your tour to India.