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The small village near Ambalapuzha is known for the black granite statue of Lord Buddha known as Karumadikuttan. The statue dates back to 10th century. Karumadikuttan is located in Karumadi, a small village near Ambalapuzha. Karumadikuttan statue is located 3 kms. East of Ambalappuzha, in Alapuzha district.
When you travel 15 Km from Alappuzha enroute NH 47 between Kollam and Alappuzha, you can reach the Karumadikuttan statue. Buddhism came to Kerala in the 3rd century B.C. Renaissance in the 8th century B.C. saw the decline of Buddhism. Buddhism did not flourish to its full potential here in Kerala, but destroyed or neglected Buddha statues and idols were recovered in the coastal districts of Kerala, especially Alappuzha. Buddhist stupas and statues were unearthed in many places and Karumadikuttan is one of such prehistoric Buddhist image in Kerala. It is a statue of Lord Gautham Budhha in a sitting position. The statue is believed to be old as far as 9th to 14th century.
The Karumadikuttan is a black stonework statue of Lord gautam buddha. This massive and impressive stately statue of Lord Buddha is positioned on the banks of “Punnamada” lake at the backwaters. Karumadi village is the arrogant holder of the Karumadikuttan which is the major mark of Buddhism in Kerala. This inspiring Buddhist statue can be said as the only Buddhist temple in Kerala. It also symbolizes the bits and pieces of an ancient civilization with a rich religious heritage still preserve its past splendor in full ambience. It is said to be built by Buddhist monks who visited Kerala with the message of love and non-violence through Alappuzha port. Many houseboat cruises through this region. The major route is to sail through the backwaters of Alleppey – Kumarakom – Varkala– Alumkadavu – Karumadikuttan – Kochi. More or less all backwater and boat tours through this route cover up the Karumadikuttan Buddha statue, at Karumadi.