About Kottayam

Kottayam, fondly called "Akshara Nagari" (City of Letters), is where Kerala's literary, educational, and social reform movements took root. Home to India's first Malayalam printing press, CMS College (Kerala's first college), and the Rubber Board, it blends heritage with nature. Nestled between the Western Ghats and Vembanad Lake, Kottayam serves as the gateway to Kumarakom's backwaters, Malarikkal's water lilies, and hill retreats like Vagamon. Rich in multi-faith culture, historic mosques, ancient churches, and temples, Kottayam offers travellers a truly timeless Kerala experience.

Why Should Travellers Visit Kottayam?

Kottayam is an appealing destination for travellers seeking a blend of scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and peaceful escapes. Its proximity to the Kumarakom backwaters offers memorable houseboat cruises, birdwatching, and lakeside experiences. Nature lovers can explore the misty hills of Vagamon, Illikkal Kallu, and Ilaveezhapoonchira. Known as Akshara Nagari (City of Letters), Kottayam also invites visitors to discover Kerala’s literary legacy, historic churches, ancient temples, and traditional markets. From relaxing weekend getaways and family holidays to nature-filled adventures, Kottayam offers a refreshing way to experience Kerala.

Major Attractions in Kottayam:

Some of the best places to visit in Kottayam and its surrounding region include:

• Kumarakom: A world-famous backwater destination offering houseboat cruises, birdwatching, and tranquil village life tours.
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A 14-acre sanctuary on the banks of Vembanad Lake that attracts numerous resident and migratory birds.
• Bay Island Driftwood Museum: A unique specialty museum in Kumarakom displaying a vast collection of root sculptures and driftwood art.
• Malarikkal Village: Famous for its seasonal pink water lilies that bloom across flooded fields, drawing nature and photography lovers.
• Naalumanikkattu: A popular evening hangout spot on the Manarkadu-Thiruvanchoor road known for local street food and a relaxed canal-side atmosphere.
• Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple: An ancient and prominent Shiva temple, one of Kerala's 108 sacred Shiva temples, famous for its classical architecture, rich mythology, historical art treasures, and Ezharaponnana procession.
• Bharananganam St. Mary's Forane Church: A major global Christian pilgrimage site on the Meenachil River, housing the tomb of St. Alphonsa, the first canonised woman saint of Indian origin.
• Illikkal Kallu: A majestic rock formation perched at over 4,000 feet in the Western Ghats, offering dramatic panoramic views.
• Ilaveezhapoonchira: A scenic hill station and valley known for trekking, green meadows, and sweeping sunset views.
• Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls: A picturesque five-step waterfall surrounded by rubber plantations and green foliage.
• Marmala Waterfalls & Kattikkayam Waterfalls: Hidden waterfall spots popular for light hiking and monsoon-time getaways.
• Thazhathangady Juma Masjid: One of India's oldest mosques, featuring intricate 1,000-year-old Kerala wood carvings, massive timber pillars, and an ancient courtyard sundial.
• Poonjar Palace: A 600-year-old royal residence showcasing antique furniture, traditional woodcraft, and a historical collection of artefacts.
• Thirunakkara Sree Mahadeva Temple: A prominent 16th-century Shiva temple in the heart of Kottayam town known for its traditional Kerala architecture.
• Vimalagiri Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral: A striking Roman Catholic Church featuring soaring Gothic-style architecture and a tall bell tower.
• Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: One of Kerala’s oldest and most revered Shiva temples, Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Vaikathappan, and is popularly known as the “Kashi of the South”.
• Panachikkadu Saraswati Temple: Popularly known as the Dakshina Mookambika Temple, this revered shrine is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and is famous for its annual Vidyarambham ceremony, where children are initiated into reading and writing.

Famous Festivals in Kottayam:

Kottayam’s festivals offer a vibrant glimpse into Kerala’s religious traditions, temple rituals, and cultural heritage. The Ettumanoor Ezharaponnana Festival is famous for the ceremonial display of seven-and-a-half golden elephants. The Thirunakkara Arattu Festival features grand elephant processions, traditional percussion, Kathakali, and other cultural performances. Vaikathashtami, celebrated at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, draws devotees for its rituals and festive programmes. During Navaratri, Panachikkadu Saraswati Temple attracts families for Vidyarambham, the traditional initiation of children into learning. Erumeli Pettathullal sees pilgrims performing ritual dances at the Vavar Mosque and Sridharma Sastha Temple, symbolising Hindu-Muslim unity. Together, these celebrations showcase Kottayam’s rich cultural spirit.

Best Time to Visit Kottayam:

The best time to visit Kottayam is from October to February, when pleasant weather is ideal for sightseeing, backwater cruises, and exploring hill destinations. November to February is excellent for birdwatching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The monsoon brings lush greenery and Malarikkal water lily bloom, while summers are hot and humid yet offer quieter, less crowded explorations.

Climatic Conditions Kottayam: Winter: 22°C–33°C | Summer: 22°C–39°C | Monsoon: 24°C–31°C

Things to Buy in Kottayam:

Shopping in Kottayam offers a wonderful mix of Kerala’s traditional crafts, textiles, and local flavours. Browse shops for elegant Kasavu sarees, silk garments, and traditional Mundu. Brass oil lamps, temple bells, coir mats, screw-pine baskets, and miniature snake boats make memorable souvenirs. Visitors can also purchase aromatic spices such as cardamom, black pepper, and cloves to take home a taste of Kerala.

How to Reach Kottayam:

• By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK), about 90 Km away, is the nearest airport. From there, take a taxi or cab to reach Kottayam, or head to nearby railway stations like Aluva or Angamaly to catch a train. Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), around 160 Km away, is another option.
• By Train: Kottayam has its own major railway station (KTYM), directly connected to major cities across India.
• By Road: Kottayam enjoys a well-maintained network of state and national highways. KSRTC and private operators run regular buses linking the town to Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Bangalore, Chennai, and Coimbatore.