Alleppy: Venice of the east

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Overview: I had an opportunity to visit the beautiful coastal town of Alleppy or Allapuzha, known for the meandering waterways, old temples and churches. We stayed at the Kayaloram resort, located on the banks of Lake Vembanad, the longest freshwater lake in India. Starting with the resort, the facilities are great, with lake facing cottages, and a swimming pool facing serene waters. The food served is also good, taking inputs from the guests.
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The vast lake covers 3 districts of Allapuzha, Kottayam and Ernakulam. The cruise on the river also takes us to Kuttanad, where farming is carried out below the sea level. An advantage of this cultivation is that the place is called the Rice Bowl of Kerala.
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Coming to Alleppy town, one of the main attractions here are Mullakkal Rajajrajeshwari Temple, built over 500 years ago during King Devanarayana of Chembagasery. Another popular temple in Alleppy is Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, built in 15th – 17th AD by the local ruler Chembakasserry Pooradam Thirunal. The temple is built in the typical Chera architecture, with some carvings on the walls and a beautiful pond in the complex. Also popular in Alleppy is the Mount Carmel Cathedral, established in 1952. The beach, waterways and the lighthouse are some of the pretty sights in Alleppy.
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How to reach: Alleppy is connected with all major cities in Kerala by road, and is also lies on the Konkan railway. The National Highway runs through Alleppy connecting Mumbai and Kanyakumari.
Food/Accommodation: Alleppy is popular for its Malabar cuisine and seafood.
Map:

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