Top Activities & Experiences

Top Activities & Experiences

Kottayam is not just a destination—it’s an experience wrapped in backwaters, rubber trees, spirituality, and culture. Whether you’re a slow traveler, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to reconnect with Kerala’s roots, Kottayam offers meaningful and memorable things to do.

Here’s a curated list of top activities and authentic experiences to enjoy in Kottayam:

 1. Houseboat Cruise in Kumarakom Backwaters

 Kumarakom (~15 km from town)

 Why Do It?

• Glide through serene canals, paddy fields, and coconut groves
• Choose from day trips, sunset cruises, or overnight houseboat stays
• Enjoy local Kerala meals cooked fresh on board

 Tip: Book a sunset or early morning cruise for golden views and bird sightings.

 2. Birdwatching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

 On the banks of Vembanad Lake

 Why Do It?

• Spot Siberian cranes, egrets, kingfishers, and herons in a quiet natural setting
• Walk peaceful trails under thick green canopies
• Best during Nov–Feb when migratory birds arrive

 Tip: Carry binoculars and visit early morning for best sightings.

 3. Visit a Rubber Plantation

 Outskirts of Kottayam – Pala, Manarcad, or Changanassery

 Why Do It?

• Learn how latex is tapped from trees and processed into rubber sheets
• Walk through green estates and interact with farmers
• Ideal for eco-tourists and culture lovers

 Tip: Ask your hotel or homestay to arrange a guided visit.

 4. Explore the Literary Legacy

 Kottayam town

 Why Do It?

• Visit the headquarters of Malayala Manorama and DC Books
• Discover why Kottayam is called “The Land of Letters”
• Buy local literature, Malayalam novels, or translated classics

 Tip: Visit Sahitya Akademi stalls or local bookshops for rare finds.

 5. Temple & Church Trail

 In and around Kottayam

 Why Do It?

• Visit Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, and historic churches like Valiyapally & Cheriapally
• Witness Kerala’s wooden architecture, murals, and rituals
• Soak in spiritual calm in ancient shrines

 Tip: Dress modestly and go during non-peak hours for a peaceful visit.

 6. Trekking to Illikkal Kallu

 ~55 km from Kottayam

 Why Do It?

• Hike up a giant rocky peak with stunning views of the valleys below
• Feel the thrill of standing on a rock shaped like a half-cut mushroom!
• Great for nature lovers, photographers, and couples

 Tip: Start early morning for cooler weather and sunrise photography.

 7. Ayurveda Massage & Wellness Retreat

 Kumarakom, Arpookara, or near backwaters

 Why Do It?

• Rejuvenate with traditional Kerala Ayurvedic massages and herbal treatments
• Available at certified wellness resorts and heritage homestays
• Ideal for relaxation, stress relief, and body balance

 Tip: Try Pizhichil (oil bath therapy) or Shirodhara (forehead oil drip) for a deep calm.

 8. Local Shopping at Town & Village Markets

 Kottayam town, Puthuppally, and nearby villages

Why Do It?

• Buy fresh spices, rubber products, banana chips, wooden crafts, and books
• Support local artisans and small businesses
• Great for unique souvenirs and edible gifts

 Tip: Early mornings are best for fresh produce and less crowd.

 9. Traditional Kerala Cooking Class

 Homestays or boutique resorts in Kumarakom or Kottayam suburbs

 Why Do It?

• Learn to cook authentic dishes like meen curry (fish curry), avial, thoran, and appam
• Understand the use of coconut, curry leaves, mustard seeds, and spices in everyday cooking
• Fun hands-on experience with warm local hosts

 Tip: You can request veg or non-veg classes depending on your preference.

 10. Day Trip to Vagamon Hills

 ~65 km from Kottayam

 Why Do It?

• Enjoy cool breeze, pine forests, tea estates, and rolling meadows
• Paragliding, hiking, and boating available
• Less crowded than Munnar—ideal for a relaxing hill escape

 Tip: Combine with a picnic or overnight tent stay if you want a break from city life.

✅ At a Glance: Top Activities in Kottayam

Kottayam is more than a place to visit—it’s a way of living slowly, meaningfully, and deeply. Whether you’re drifting through the backwaters or reading poetry in a café, this town offers moments of joy and reflection in equal measure.

In Kottayam, every experience flows like a river—calm, real, and unforgettable.