Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Kottayam’s central location makes it a perfect base for day trips to some of Kerala’s most enchanting destinations. From peaceful hill stations and lush backwaters to historic temples and eco-retreats, you can easily explore a variety of experiences within a 1–2 hour drive.

Here’s a curated list of the best nearby destinations and day trips from Kottayam:

 1. Kumarakom Backwaters

 ~15 km | 30 minutes

 Why Visit?

• Cruise the serene Vembanad Lake on a houseboat or shikara
• Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
• Enjoy Ayurveda spas, village walks, and lakefront resorts

 Tip: Ideal for relaxation, birdwatching, and photography. Try a sunset cruise.

 2. Vagamon Hill Station

 ~65 km | 2–2.5 hours

 Why Visit?

• Misty hills, pine forests, meadows, and tea estates
• Activities: paragliding, hiking, boating, and camping
• Pleasant weather and beautiful landscapes year-round

 Tip: Great for a cool escape from the plains; carry a jacket during winter.

 3. Ilaveezha Poonchira

 ~55 km | 2 hours

 Why Visit?

• A scenic valley surrounded by hills with no tree cover—ideal for sunrise/sunset
• Perfect for picnics, trekking, and stargazing
• The name means “valley where leaves never fall”

 Tip: Visit during or after monsoon for lush green views and full water reservoirs.

 4. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

 ~12 km | 30 minutes

 Why Visit?

• Ancient Shiva temple famous for its mural of Nataraja and golden elephants
• Significant spiritual site and a center of Kerala temple art

 Tip: Visit during the Ezhara Ponnana festival (Feb–Mar) for a cultural treat.

 5. Marari Beach (via Alappuzha)

 ~60 km | 1.5–2 hours

 Why Visit?

• A clean, quiet, and uncrowded beach near Alappuzha
• Ideal for a relaxed seaside afternoon after exploring the backwaters
• Great for sunsets, seafood, and Ayurveda massages

 Tip: Pair it with a visit to Alappuzha or Pathiramanal Island.

 6. Vaikom Temple & Heritage Village

 ~30 km | 1 hour

 Why Visit?

• One of Kerala’s oldest Shiva temples, with a rich history and peaceful atmosphere
• Historic center of the Vaikom Satyagraha, a major social reform movement
• Enjoy rural life, river views, and temple surroundings

Tip: Try a canoe ride through the surrounding canals.

 7. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls

~18 km | 45 minutes

 Why Visit?

• Beautiful multi-level waterfalls hidden among rubber plantations
• A great spot for picnics, trekking, and photography
• Best visited during monsoon or just after

 Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid slippery trails.

 8. Bharananganam & Pala Churches

 ~30–35 km |1 hour

 Why Visit?

• St. Alphonsa Shrine, a major Christian pilgrimage site
• Peaceful atmosphere, beautiful church architecture, and well-maintained surroundings
• Rich Syrian Christian heritage

 Tip: Combine with a rubber estate visit in Pala for a cultural and rural experience.

 9. Pathiramanal Island (via Kumarakom or Alappuzha)

 ~1 hour (including boat ride)

 Why Visit?

• A lush, uninhabited island on Vembanad Lake
• Great for birdwatching, boating, and picnicking
• Rich in flora, migratory birds, and serene views

 Tip: Take a ferry or private boat from Kumarakom Jetty.

 10. Alappuzha (Alleppey)

 ~50 km |  1.5 hours

 Why Visit?

• Known as the “Venice of the East” for its vast backwater network
• Enjoy houseboat rides, seafood, and beachside cafés
• Visit Alleppey Lighthouse and local coir factories

Tip: Great for a day trip or to connect your journey from Kottayam to Kochi.

✅ Nearby Destinations Summary

From misty hills and sacred temples to peaceful lakes and coastal charm, Kottayam places you in the heart of Kerala's diversity. These day trips let you experience the soul of the state in just a short journey, making your stay truly enriching.

With every road from Kottayam, a new story begins—quiet, colorful, and unforgettable.