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ALAPPUZHA HSVA 3

Alappuzha, Kerala, is renowned for its backwaters, houseboats, and vibrant culture, playing a crucial role in the state's tourism and economy. The district features a tropical climate with distinct seasons, unique geographical features like paddy fields and Vembanad Lake, and traditional architecture adapted to local conditions. Cultural practices include various festivals, folk arts, and a strong coir industry, reflecting the diverse religious communities and rich heritage of the area.

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11 views16 pages

ALAPPUZHA HSVA 3

Alappuzha, Kerala, is renowned for its backwaters, houseboats, and vibrant culture, playing a crucial role in the state's tourism and economy. The district features a tropical climate with distinct seasons, unique geographical features like paddy fields and Vembanad Lake, and traditional architecture adapted to local conditions. Cultural practices include various festivals, folk arts, and a strong coir industry, reflecting the diverse religious communities and rich heritage of the area.

Uploaded by

srinidhaynalla
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Human Settlements

and Vernacular
Architecture

Contents:
1. Climate
2. Geography

ALAPPUZHA KERELA
3. Architecture
4. Religion
5. Food
6. Attire
7. Community &
Culture

Group:
Avaneesh
Hisham
Malik
Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a district in the state of Kerala, India. It is famous for its picturesque backwaters, Diva
houseboats, and coastal charm. The district plays a significant role in the culture, tourism, and economy of Kerala, Evynta
especially due to its waterways and lush landscapes. Nidhay
Climate

• Summer (March to May):


Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Humidity levels remain high,
making it feel hotter.

• Monsoon (June to September):


The Southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the district, with frequent showers and occasional
flooding. Alappuzha receives an average annual rainfall of about 2763 mm.

• Winter (November to February):


Cooler and more pleasant, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. This is the best time for
tourists to visit.
GEOGRAPHY
Paddy Fields: Vast stretches of paddy fields in the Kuttanad region,
Backwaters: A network of lagoons, lakes, and interconnected canals, making the
known as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala," are located below sea level, one of
region a hub for houseboats and water-based tourism.
the few places in the world with such a geographical feature.

Beaches: The district has a long coastline along the Arabian Sea, with Alappuzha
Beach being a popular attraction.

Vembanad Lake: The longest lake in India and one of the largest in
Kerala, which plays a key role in Alappuzha's ecosystem.
ARCHITECTURE
Verandas and Sit-outs
Purpose: Verandas (locally called Thinnail are a prominent feature
that provides shade and reduces the amount of direct sunlight
entering the main rooms

Design: These shaded, semi-open spaces are often located at the


front of the house and are slightly raised to avoid flooding

Material: Often made of locally sourced wood and stone, blending


with the natural environment.

Nadumuttam (Central Courtyard)


Purpose: An open-to-sky courtyard acts as a natural air conditioner
by creating a cooler microclimate and facilitating air circulation
through the house.

Design: Positioned at the heart of the home, it allows warm air to


rise and escape, enhancing ventilation. This space often includes
plants or a small water feature to add to the cooling effect

Material: Typically lined with polished stones or tiles for durability


and easy maintenance
3. Sloping Roof with Clay Tiles
Purpose: The steeply pitched roof allows rainwater to flow off
quickly, protecting the house structure and reducing leaks during
monsoons.

Design: The roof overhangs significantly to provide extra shading


and keep rain out of open spaces like verandas.

Material: Clay tiles are commonly used for roofing as they are
locally available, have good insulating properties, and are resistant
to humidity

4. Jaalis (Perforated Screens)


Purpose: Jaalis, or latticed screens, allow air to flow freely while
providing shade and privacy.

Design: These screens are often used in windows and along


verandas, featuring intricate patterns that create interesting light
effects while blocking harsh sunlight.

Material: Traditionally crafted from wood or stone, they reflect


regional craftsmanship and are highly effective in humid climates.
5. Raised Plinths and Flood-resistant
Foundations
• Purpose: Due to the high water table and frequent
flooding, homes are built on raised plinths or stilts to
protect against water damage.
• Design: Foundations are often reinforced to handle soft,
marshy soil conditions
• Material: Locally sourced stones and concrete are used to
ensure a strong base that resists moisture and settling
6. Large Windows and Cross-Ventilation
• Purpose: To cool the interiors naturally, homes are
designed with large windows that facilitate cross-
ventilation, reducing the need for artificial cooling.
• Design: Windows are often placed opposite each other to
allow air to flow through easily, and many include
wooden shutters to control airflow and light
• Material: Windows are typically wooden, sometimes with
added mesh to keep out insects, ensuring air quality and
comfort.
7. Laterite Walls
• Purpose: Laterite stone has natural insulating properties, keeping
interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
• Design: The walls are often thick, providing durability and protection
from harsh weather.
• Material: Laterite, sourced locally, is known for its ability to withstand
the humid climate and for its earthy aesthetic that blends with the
natural surroundings
Attire
Usually wear a Mundu (a The traditional attire for
white or colored piece of women is the Sari,
cloth wrapped around the especially during
waist), sometimes paired festivals and ceremonies.
with a shirt. During festivals For everyday wear,
or formal occasions, men women often wear Settu
may also wear a silk or Mundu (a two-piece
kasavu (gold-bordered) garment) or modern
mundu. dresses like churidars
and salwar kameez.

WOMEN
MEN
FOOD

1. Karimeen (Pearl Spot Fish)


2. Puttu and Kadala Curry
3. Appam and Stew
4. Palada Payasam
5. Toddy (Kallu)
Religion
Hindus (majority):
The district has many Hindu temples, some of which are
centuries old, like the Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple.

Christians (significant minority):


There are numerous churches, including the St. Mary’s Forane
Church in Champakulam and other Roman Catholic,
Orthodox, and Protestant churches.

Muslims:
The Muslim population is also significant, and several
mosques, such as the Alappuzha Mosque, are part of the
cultural landscape.
Community and Culture
•Boat Races: The Nehru Trophy Boat Race on the Punnamada Lake is a major annual
event. Snake boats (chundan vallam) race during the Onam festival, drawing large
crowds.

•Festivals: Onam, Vishu, and Temple festivals like Mullakkal Chirappu are widely
celebrated. Christian and Muslim festivals such as Christmas, Eid, and others are also
important in the district.

•Folk Arts: Traditional art forms like Kathakali (classical dance-drama), Mohiniyattam
(classical dance),and Ottamthullal (dance and poetry) are performed during festivals.

•Coir Industry: Alappuzha is known as the "Venice of the East" for its coir production.
Coir-making, a process where coconut fibers are spun into ropes and mats, is an
important part of the local economy.
നന്ദി !

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