2026 Alappuzha Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

When talking about India, the first images that come to mind are usually the Taj Mahal, bustling big cities, or vibrant cultural colors. But in the southern part of the country, there is a state that is completely different. Kerala is a greener, more peaceful, and more relaxing version of India than many could ever imagine. It is filled with natural canals, mountain tea plantations, national parks, and beaches along the Arabian Sea, earning it the nickname "God’s Own Country." 🌴 Alleppey Backwaters One of the highlights that made Kerala world-famous is its natural canal system stretching for hundreds of kilometers. Cruising on a houseboat past small riverside villages is an experience vastly different from the typical Indian trip many are used to. Along the way, you'll get a glimpse of local life, canal-side houses, fishing boats, and coconut groves lining both sides of the water. The atmosphere is so tranquil that sometimes you completely forget you are in the world's most populous country. Many consider this to be one of the most relaxing places in India. ⛰️ Munnar If not told beforehand, many might not believe this is India. Munnar is a hill town renowned for its endless green tea plantations, cool year-round weather, and morning seas of mist. The views here look more like a painting than a real place. Winding roads through rolling hills, tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see, and fresh air make Munnar a top destination for those wanting to experience Kerala's nature. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or just looking to unwind, this is a place where you can spend the whole day without ever getting bored. 🐘 Periyar National Park Kerala doesn't just offer beautiful nature; it also boasts abundant wildlife. Periyar National Park is one of the most famous national parks in India. The highlight here is taking a scenic boat ride on the lake right in the middle of the forest. If you're lucky, you might spot wild elephants, deer, otters, or other wild animals foraging along the banks. The feeling of being truly immersed in nature makes this place vastly different from your typical tourist attraction. 🏖️ Varkala Beach Another corner of Kerala that many people adore is Varkala. A beautiful beach nestled beneath the cliffs along the Arabian Sea. The vibe here is super laid-back, complete with cafes, restaurants, and one of the most beautiful sunset viewpoints in India. The real magic is sitting there watching the waves crash against the cliffs as the golden sun slowly dips below the horizon. It's a sight so breathtaking that many decide to stay an extra day just to watch the sunset all over again. ✨ Why should Kerala be on your bucket list? Because Kerala proves that India has so much more to offer than many people think. Here, you'll find nature, culture, local cuisine, and a simple, slow-paced way of life. With fewer tourists than the typical hotspots, traveling here feels far more relaxing. And what impresses people the most is its sheer diversity. In a single trip, you can sleep on a boat in the middle of a canal, wake up to mountain tea plantations, spot wild elephants in a national park, and cap off the day with a seaside sunset. If you've never thought about Kerala before, try adding this state to your list. Because sometimes, the most unforgettable places aren't always the most famous ones. 🇮🇳🌴✨ :::

Alleppey Backwaters – The Venice of the East 🌴🚤 Imagine gliding through tranquil waterways surrounded by swaying coconut palms, lush green paddy fields, and charming village life. Welcome to Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala's most famous backwater destination and one of India's most breathtaking travel experiences. Known as the "Venice of the East," Alleppey offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxing houseboat cruises. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, family vacation, or peaceful escape into nature, Alleppey promises unforgettable memories. Top Attractions in Alleppey 🚤 Alleppey Backwaters Experience the iconic houseboat cruise through Kerala's serene backwaters. Watch village life unfold along the canals while enjoying authentic Kerala cuisine onboard. 🏖️ Marari Beach A peaceful and less crowded beach known for golden sands, stunning sunsets, and relaxing coastal vibes. 🌊 Vembanad Lake The largest lake in Kerala and a paradise for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and photographers. 🏛️ Krishnapuram Palace Explore Kerala's royal heritage and admire traditional architecture and historic murals. 🌴 Alleppey Canals Take a canoe ride through narrow waterways and discover local life, fishing villages, and beautiful landscapes. How to Reach ✈️ By Air Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) – 85 km 🚆 By Train Alleppey Railway Station (ALPY) is well connected to Kochi, Trivandrum, Chennai, Bangalore, and major Indian cities. 🚌 By Bus Regular KSRTC and private buses connect Alleppey with Kochi, Munnar, Trivandrum, Kumarakom, and other destinations. 🚗 By Road A scenic drive through Kerala's villages, coconut groves, and paddy fields makes the journey equally enjoyable. Budget Guide (Per Person) 💰 Budget Traveler: ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 per day 🏨 Mid-Range Traveler: ₹3,500 – ₹5,500 per day ✨ Luxury Traveler: ₹6,500 – ₹12,000+ per day Best Time to Visit 🌤️ October to March – Pleasant weather and ideal for houseboat cruises. 🌧️ June to September – Beautiful monsoon scenery and lush greenery. ☀️ April to May – Warm weather with fewer crowds. Travel Tip ✅ Book your houseboat in advance during peak season (October–February) for the best prices and availability. Alleppey isn't just a destination—it's an experience of slow travel, peaceful waters, breathtaking sunsets, and authentic Kerala hospitality. Sit back, relax, and let the magic of the backwaters create memories that last a lifetime. 🌴 Relax. Unwind. Cruise Through Paradise. 🚤 Experience the Magic of Alleppey Backwaters! #travel2026 #travel #alleppey #alappuzha #alleppeybackwaters #keralatourism #godsowncountry

Alappuzha, Kerala, is a feast for the senses—gliding along tranquil backwaters on a traditional houseboat, surrounded by endless green paddy fields and swaying coconut palms. Along the way, you can savor Kerala’s rich local cuisine, from freshly caught seafood to spicy, aromatic curries, all served with warmth and hospitality. The friendly atmosphere of the villages, the serene waterways, and the lush landscape create a perfect harmony of nature, culture, and relaxation, making every moment here truly unforgettable. From Cochin Airport, the easiest and most comfortable way to reach Alappuzha (Alleppey) is to hire a taxi, which takes around 2–3 hours along scenic Kerala roads. Once in Alappuzha, you can easily book a houseboat—either online in advance or directly at the backwater jetty, where prices are very reasonable. Houseboats range from simple cozy boats to larger ones with 1–3 bedrooms and traditional Kerala meals included. Cruising the serene Kuttanad backwaters, surrounded by lush paddy fields, coconut palms, and quaint villages, is an unforgettable experience, especially at sunset. Everything in Kerala, from taxis to houseboats to local food, is surprisingly affordable, making it perfect for a relaxed, budget-friendly getaway.

🇮🇳 Kochi, Kerala, India 🌅 Kerala Backwaters I am currently traveling in Kochi, Kerala, India. Watching the sunset at the Kerala Backwaters, which flow through the city of Kochi, was an unforgettable experience. The Kochi Backwaters are formed by seven rivers converging into the Arabian Sea. There are boat docks located 20-30 minutes by car from Kochi city center where you can board a boat to explore the backwaters. Simply search for 'Kochi Backwaters' on Google Maps to find the location. A two-hour boat ride costs $40 per boat. While you can share the boat with other passengers if there are enough people, I had to rent the boat alone as there were no other visitors at the time. Although June marks the monsoon season in Kochi, I was fortunate to have excellent weather during my visit. Riding the boat while enjoying the cool river breeze and stunning scenery made me incredibly happy. I timed my visit to coincide with sunset, allowing me to fully appreciate the breathtaking Kochi sunset. During the ride, I spotted rare birds like eagles and kingfishers. I also stopped by a small café along the way to enjoy a refreshing coconut drink. If you ever travel to Kerala in South India, make sure to take a boat ride at Kochi Backwaters and witness the sunset. 🇮🇳💚

spent a month in Kerala and the beauty is admirable. the lush vegetation, beautiful backwaters and boat houses, and friendly people! saw some elephants they use at the temples for festivals and saw the sunset over beaches in Cochin.

#awesomepic The Backwaters of Kerala are essentially a group of 5 lagoons that are linked by natural and manmade canals. These waterways were mainly used for trade during the older times and are known for their scenic beauty and a rich variety of flora, fauna, avi-fauna and marine life. #awesomepic

If you could visit only one city in Kerala, which one would you choose, historic Kochi or cultural Trivandrum? Before visiting Kerala, I thought choosing between these two cities would be easy. But after looking deeper, I realized they offer completely different travel experiences. One feels artistic, historic and cosmopolitan. The other feels calmer, more traditional and deeply connected to Kerala’s cultural heritage. So, Kochi vs Trivandrum, which one is better for a foreign traveler? · -- 🌊 Kochi — Kerala’s Artistic & Historic Gateway For a first visit to Kerala, Kochi would be my choice. The biggest reason is Fort Kochi. Walking through the narrow streets of Fort Kochi, you can see layers of Portuguese, Dutch and British history mixed with modern cafés, galleries, boutique hotels and small local shops. The famous Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace and Jew Town give the city a unique character. What I especially like about Kochi is that you don't always need a strict itinerary. You can simply walk around, stop at an art café, watch the sunset near the waterfront, explore historic streets and enjoy Kerala food. For travelers interested in culture, Kochi also offers opportunities to experience Kathakali performances and Kalaripayattu, Kerala's traditional martial art. And Kochi works well as a starting point for a wider Kerala journey, with popular destinations such as Munnar and Alappuzha relatively convenient to reach from here. · -- 🏛️ Trivandrum — Kerala’s Cultural & Heritage Side Thiruvananthapuram, commonly called Trivandrum, feels different. As Kerala's capital, it has a stronger administrative and cultural identity. The city's biggest attraction for many visitors is the magnificent Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, while the Napier Museum and surrounding heritage areas offer another glimpse into Kerala's history. But the real advantage of choosing Trivandrum is its access to the coast. Kovalam Beach, Varkala and Poovar make this part of Kerala particularly attractive for travelers looking for beaches, relaxation and a slower pace. · -- If your idea of a Kerala holiday is: 🌴 Beach 🧘 Relaxation 🏛️ Heritage 🌿 Ayurveda ☀️ Slow travel …then Trivandrum may actually suit you better than Kochi. · -- ⚖️ Kochi vs Trivandrum — My Verdict Choose Kochi if you want: · Colonial history and architecture · Art cafés and creative spaces · A lively international atmosphere · Walkable historic neighborhoods · Food and cultural experiences · A convenient starting point for exploring Kerala Choose Trivandrum if you want: · Beaches and coastal relaxation · Temples and traditional heritage · Ayurveda and wellness experiences · A quieter atmosphere · Kovalam, Varkala and Poovar · -- ⭐ My Choice: Kochi If this were my first trip to Kerala and I had only 2–3 days, I would choose Kochi. Not because Trivandrum is less interesting, it isn't. It's simply because Kochi gives a first-time visitor a fascinating combination of history, culture, food, art and modern Kerala life in one destination. And that's what makes Kochi special to me. But if I had more time, I wouldn't choose between them. I'd visit both. Kochi for the stories of Kerala's past. Trivandrum for its culture, beaches and slower rhythm. And perhaps that's the beauty of Kerala, there isn't just one way to experience it. · -- 📌 Suggested Trip 2–3 Days: Kochi → Fort Kochi → Mattancherry → Jew Town → Chinese Fishing Nets Then continue: Munnar → Alappuzha Backwaters Alternative route: Trivandrum → Padmanabhaswamy Temple → Kovalam → Varkala → Poovar · -- #kerala #kochi #trivandrum #indiatravel #keralatravel #fortkochi #kovalam #varkala #munnar #alappuzha #indiatourism #travelguide #traveltips #tripcom

The Kerala Backwaters aren't just a single destination, but an intricate network of canals, lagoons, and lakes in southern India, where the water serves as roads, streets, and an essential part of everyday life. 📜 A Little About the Place The Backwaters are a blend of natural and man-made systems: · canals connect the villages · water flows lazily through lush, green landscapes · life here revolves entirely around the water It’s not just a tourist attraction—it’s a way of life 🚤 First Impressions You step onto a boat… and instantly, everything changes: · the noise fades away · the motion becomes incredibly smooth · the pace of life slows right down People don't rush here—they simply drift 🌿 What’s Around You As you cruise through the canals: · palm trees bow gracefully over the water · tiny houses sit right on the riverbanks · boats take the place of cars It’s like a bustling town, just without the roads 🌅 The Best Moment The most magical time is sunset: · the water mirrors the sky · everything is bathed in a golden glow · the boat glides almost soundlessly It’s practically a meditative experience 🍃 Local Life Up Close You'll spot: · locals washing their clothes by the water's edge · kids playing along the canals · fishermen going about their day ⚠️ Good to Know · renting a boat or a houseboat is the way to go · expect high humidity · watch out for mosquitoes in the evenings 👉 The Bottom Line: The Kerala Backwaters are a place where you don't just sightsee; you tune into the rhythm of the water. Everything here flows at a slow, peaceful, and entirely natural pace.

Gliding through narrow canals lined with coconut trees and dense mangroves feels almost unreal. The kayaking here is quiet, intimate, and deeply calming—you pass through natural green tunnels, with nothing but the sound of water and birds around you. It’s less of an activity and more of an experience. Sunrise is pure magic, with mist rising over still waters and soft golden light washing over the palms. Sunset is equally beautiful, painting the sky in warm hues and reflecting perfectly on the backwaters. The food is simple but authentic—fresh fish, home-cooked Kerala meals, and flavours that feel local and honest. Just about 4 hours from cochin airport , Kerala ,it’s easy to reach by taxi and surprisingly affordable, making it perfect for a peaceful escape. Munroe Island doesn’t try to impress—it simply lets you slow down and feel the beauty of nature. #kerala #travel2026 #naturalwonders #thingstodo #familytravel #nature #kayak #mangroves

Looking for the best kayaking in Alappuzha? At Amphibianz Kayaking Club Alleppey, enjoy a calm and scenic backwater kayaking experience through Alleppey’s hidden canals. Yes, we capture beautiful photos for our guests, and you can also meet friendly local villagers along the route. It’s a truly relaxing kayaking trip in Alleppey, perfect for nature lovers seeking peace, adventure, and authentic Kerala backwater experiences.

Sweetest spot in Alleppey!" If you're near Alappuzha Beach, take a detour to the Gujarati Street. It’s an old commercial hub turned foodie heaven. The Jalebis here are legendary and the variety of North Indian sweets is unmatched in South Kerala.

📅 Itinerary Day 1: · Backwater Houseboat Cruise · Kathakali Cultural Show Day 2: · Fort Kochi Sightseeing · Chinese Fishing Nets (Sunset) · Spice Market Shopping Day 3: · Mattancherry Palace · Jew Town & Synagogue Visit · Café hopping in Fort Kochi 🏨 Accommodation · Heritage Boutique Homestay (Fort Kochi area recommended) 🍴 Food Recommendations · Fresh Kerala Seafood · Kerala Sadhya · Appam & Stew · Prawn Roast · Fish Moilee 📌 Tips ✅ Dress modestly while visiting heritage spots ✅ Stay hydrated (it’s humid!) ✅ Try local tuk-tuks / ferries ✅ Best time for photos: early morning & sunset ✅ Carry cash for small shops #travel2026 #kerala #kochi -#winterescape #backwaters#india #travel #familytravel #staycation

📅 Itinerary Day1: Day2: Day3: 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

#beach #alappuzha #sunset

Alleppey Boathouse in Kerala is often overrated as a must-visit destination. The experience of just a 2-hour boat ride might be enjoyable, but anything more than that, especially overnight stays, tend to be disappointing. Many travellers find these boat rides to be a scam, with inflated prices and exaggerated promises. The scenery can become monotonous, and the amenities are often subpar, making the whole experience not worth the hype. It's essentially a tourist trap that capitalises on its popularity, but in reality, it doesn't live up to the expectations. If you're looking for authentic Kerala backwaters, there are better, more genuine options without falling for the hype surrounding Alleppey Boathouse. Totally Overrated was very disappointing.

✨ Content เที่ยว Alappuzha: เวนิสแห่งตะวันออก 📍 จุดเช็คอินห้ามพลาด · 🛶 Alleppey Backwaters – ล่องเรือบ้านกลางลำน้ำ ชมวิถีชีวิตชาวบ้านและธรรมชาติอันเขียวชอุ่ม · 🏖️ Alappuzha Beach – เดินเล่นริมชายหาด ดูพระอาทิตย์ตกสุดโรแมนติก · 🕉️ Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple – วัดเก่าแก่ที่มีสถาปัตยกรรมงดงามและประวัติศาสตร์ลึกซึ้ง · 🐍 Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple – วัดพญานาคที่มีความศักดิ์สิทธิ์และลึกลับ · 🏛️ Revi Karunakaran Museum – พิพิธภัณฑ์ศิลปะที่จัดแสดงของสะสมหายาก · -- 📸 แคปชั่นแนะนำ > “ล่องเรือกลาง Backwaters ชมชีวิตเรียบง่ายใน Alappuzha 🌿 ความสงบที่หาไม่ได้จากเมืองใหญ่” > “พระอาทิตย์ตกที่ Alappuzha Beach คือบทกวีของธรรมชาติ 🌅 #SunsetVibes” > “วัด Ambalapuzha คือความงามเหนือกาลเวลา 🕉️ สัมผัสจิตวิญญาณแห่ง Kerala” · -- 🔖 Hashtag แนะนำสำหรับ Trip.com · #AlappuzhaDiaries · #VeniceOfTheEast · #BackwaterBliss · #KeralaVibes · #TempleTales · #BeachEscape · #IndiaUnplugged · #TripMoments · #WanderWithTrip · #HiddenGemsIndia

this is gods own country, its one of greenery province in india🇮🇳 called KERALA its alappy district we calling ifs little Venice (kuttanad) like this scenery will get on monsoon season, visitng time june to August you can enjoying the rainy season in there also there have somany south indian resturent and get delicious food 📍Address:alappuzha, Kerala 🛬kochi airport by taxi need two hour also can use public transport from kochi bus hub to kuttanad 🏖️BAmbiance/Facilities: somany foreigners visitng these season #localguides #india #keralatourism

Kainakary, nestled in the heart of Alappuzha, is truly a gem of Kerala’s backwaters. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene canals, it beautifully reflects the charm of the Kuttanad region — the 'Rice Bowl of Kerala'. It is a perfect spot for peaceful houseboat experiences and nature lovers!#travel

Alappuzha is a city on the Laccadive Sea in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It's best known for houseboat cruises along the rustic Kerala backwaters, a network of tranquil canals and lagoons.

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi – Explore the Heritage · Arrive in Kochi (Cochin) · Visit: Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Jew Town · Enjoy a Kathakali dance performance in the evening · Overnight stay in Kochi ……………………………………………………. Day 2: Kochi to Munnar (Approx. 4–5 hours drive) · Scenic drive through hills, waterfalls, and tea plantations · En route: Visit Cheeyappara & Valara waterfalls · Reach Munnar and relax · Overnight stay in Munnar ………………………………………………………. Day 3: Munnar Sightseeing · Visit: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Tea Museum · Optional: Tea plantation walk or jeep safari · Overnight stay in Munnar ………………………………………………….. Day 4: Munnar to Thekkady (Approx. 3–4 hours drive) · Drive through spice plantations and mountain roads · Visit: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (boat ride on Periyar Lake) · Optional: Kalaripayattu (martial art) show or spice garden visit · Overnight stay in Thekkady ………………………………………………………… Day 5: Thekkady to Alleppey (Approx. 4–5 hours drive) · Travel to Alleppey for backwater experience · Check-in to a private houseboat · Cruise through palm-lined canals, villages, and paddy fields · Enjoy traditional Kerala meals onboard · Overnight stay on the houseboat …………………………………………………. Day 6: Alleppey to Kochi (Approx. 1.5–2 hours drive) – Departure · Morning check-out from houseboat · Return to Kochi for departure · Optional: Last-minute shopping at Lulu Mall or local markets TIPS: 💊 Carry Basic Medicines · Bring meds for motion sickness, altitude issues, fever 🚗 Be Cautious on Roads · Hill roads have sharp turns. Hire experienced drivers. · Avoid late-night travel due to fog or low visibility. #backwatersofalleppey #travel #naturalwonders #familytravel #myitinerary #afternoonteatime #vacation #Kochikerala

Float into a dream where time slows down and nature takes the lead. Kerala’s backwaters are a magical maze of shimmering canals, lush greenery, and peaceful villages tucked along the water’s edge. 💞Reasons to Recommend: Kerala’s backwaters offer a one-of-a-kind escape from the noise of everyday life. Unlike crowded tourist spots, the backwaters give you a peaceful and intimate experience with nature. #travellerswonderland #thingstodo #travel #thingstodo #buffets #beachlife #staycation #keralatourism #couplestrip #naturalwonders #backwatersofalleppey

Beautiful Kerala and its backwaters with lively nature 🍃 Definitely worth a visit and a hidden gem 💎

I'd like to introduce you to a wonderful backwater cruise that you can experience in Kochi, India 🛶 · In the southern Indian state of Kerala, there are backwaters, a complex water town with rivers. The area around Alleppey is particularly famous, with over 100 canals. A popular activity is cruising the backwaters in a rowboat 🚣♀️ Time passes slowly, so I'm glad I went ❤️ · · 1-day trip details Drive from Fort Kochi to the waterside area (departs at 8:00, 1 hour 15 minute drive) ↓ Get on the first boat at Murinjapuzha and cruise the larger canal 🚣 ↓ Stop by a village to see how coconut shells are processed into ropes 🥥 ↓ Lunch: Banana leaf curry meal 🍛 ↓ Change to a slightly smaller boat and cruise the narrower waterway 🛶 ↓ Tea time 🫖 ↓ Drive back to Fort Kochi (arrived after 4pm) ※We went to Murinjapuzha, which is closer to Kochi, not Alleppey. If you go from Kochi, it's recommended because the travel time is short ☺️ #Introducing amazing views overseas #keralabackwater #Backwater trip #kochi #Kochi #Indian girls trip #Indian trip #South India

Kuttanad kerala India, land of Paddy

#getgoing2025 Kerala Backwaters: Network of Waterways: The Kerala Backwaters, a network of interconnected lagoons, lakes, and canals, offer a unique and tranquil experience. Houseboat Cruises: Cruising on a traditional houseboat (kettuvallam) is a popular way to explore the backwaters. Scenic Beauty: The lush greenery, coconut groves, and villages along the waterways create a picturesque landscape. Relaxation and Tranquility: The backwaters offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

✨ Exploring Suchindram Temple was like stepping into a timeless world of intricate architecture, spirituality, and culture. The towering gopurams (gateway towers) covered in detailed carvings, the peaceful temple pond, and the mystical energy made it unforgettable. Here’s what I learned along the way to make your visit as magical as possible: 1. Embrace Early Mornings 🌅 Getting to the temple early means you beat the crowd, catch the first light illuminating the temple, and get a peaceful moment to soak in the vibe. Plus, the temperature is cooler! 2. Dress Respectfully 🕉️ Like many temples in India, Suchindram requires modest attire. It’s part of the tradition and helps you blend into the local culture. A lightweight shawl can work wonders. 3. Dive into the Legends 📜 Each corner of the temple has a story—from the deity lore to the unique architecture. Local guides often know the juiciest tales! Don’t be shy to ask about the “musical pillars” and their origins. 4. Photography Tips 📸 Photography inside the temple might be restricted, so make the most of shots outside. The temple’s detailed stone carvings and lush surroundings make for stunning photos. Capture those golden-hour shots! 5. Stay Hydrated and Snack Savvy 💧🍌 Indian temple towns can get pretty warm. Carry a water bottle, stay hydrated, and enjoy fresh coconut water from vendors outside. It’s refreshing and local! 6. Go Beyond the Temple 🗺️ Nearby places like Kanyakumari and Padmanabhapuram Palace make great day trips. They offer more glimpses into Tamil Nadu’s vibrant culture and history. And for some fun hashtags to help your post reach more travel lovers: #TempleTales #SuchindramSecrets #WanderWithWonder #SpiritualEscapes #IndiaBeyondTheGuidebooks #HiddenGemsOfIndia #CultureQuest #TravelIndia2024 #JourneyIntoHistory #SacredSpots #TempleTravels#trip #spiritual #100waysoftravel #voyagevibes

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