Chandanakudam is celebrated at the Kidangam-Parampu Temple during December every year. Kottamkulangara Temple in Alappuzha has two festive seasons in February and March, because of the two deities with separate flag masts in the same compound wall. The Kandamangalam Rajarajeshwari Temple is located in Kadakkarappally, Cherthala 1 km west of Thankey junction on NH 47. The annual festival comes in March–April. Chikkara, offering of children to the mother goddess during the festival, is the major attraction. The Chamanju Valathu of children starts on the 2nd day of the festival and lasts until the 8th day. Procession named Thalappoli start on the flag-hoisting day itself. The holy bath (Aarattu) of the goddess is held in a pool within the temple compound on the 10th day of festival. Elephant processions, fireworks, stage shows, etc. are major events that attract thousands of devotees and others. The churches here celebrate grand annual feasts. The 'Arthunkal Perunnal' feast is celebrated at the Arthunkal Church. and Also, the big major Christian festivals are the festivals at Edathwa Church and Thumpoli Church. The regatta forms part of many festivals here in many places. The annual Vallam Kali (Nehru Trophy Boat Race) is held in the backwaters in the month of September associated with the Onam festival. The main attraction is the Chundan Vallam (Snake Boat) race, in which a number of contestants are in the running for the Prime Minister's trophy. Another celebration in Alappuzha is the "Beach Festival", held from 30 December to 2 January. The annual festival conducted in Champakulam "Valiya Palli" is another big festival. Education Colleges Medical colleges Government T D Medical College, Alappuzha Paramedical Colleges KVM Institute of Paramedical Science, Cherthala. Nursing Colleges Government College of Nursing,Vandanam. KVM College of Nursing,Cherthala. Arts and Science colleges Engineering colleges Schools Notable people Photo gallery Towns and villages Cherthala North Kurattikkadu Mazhukeer Padanilam Pathiyankara Poomala Chaal See also Administration of Alappuzha district Kottayam district Chengannur References Further reading External links Official website of Alappuzha District Alappuzha Hotels & Resorts Shappil House - Ancient Family in Mavelikara Populated places established in 1957 Districts of Kerala 1957 establishments in Kerala