Top places to visit

Here’s a list of the must-visit attractions in and around Kottayam:

1. Kumarakom Backwaters

 ~15 km from Kottayam Town
 Best time: Morning or late afternoon

 Why Visit?

• A tranquil village on the banks of Vembanad Lake
• Famous for houseboat cruises, birdwatching, and Ayurvedic resorts
• Great for honeymooners, bird lovers, and slow travelers

 Tip: Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary nearby for a nature-filled experience.

 2. St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, Kottayam (Valiyapally)

 Near Kottayam town center
 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

 Why Visit?

• One of the oldest and most historic churches in Kerala, built in 1579
• Marvel at Syriac inscriptions and ancient stone crosses
• Important spiritual and architectural site for Orthodox Christians

 Tip: Quiet atmosphere, especially in the mornings—ideal for peaceful reflection.

 3. Illikkal Kallu (Illikkal Rock)

 ~55 km from Kottayam
 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM

 Why Visit?

• A stunning monolithic rock formation at 3,500 feet elevation
• Offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and a thrilling edge-walk experience
• Great for trekking, photography, and catching sunrise/sunset

 Tip: Wear good hiking shoes and visit early in the day to avoid clouds.

 4. Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple

 Kottayam town center
 4:00 AM – 11:00 AM & 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

 Why Visit?

• A 16th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
• Beautiful Kerala-style architecture, wooden carvings, and murals
• Hosts the famous Thirunakkara Arattu Festival with elephants and processions

 Tip: Dress modestly and remove footwear before entering.

 5. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

 Near Kumarakom village
 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM
 Entry: ₹50

 Why Visit?

• A peaceful sanctuary on the shores of Vembanad Lake
• Spot egrets, herons, darters, kingfishers, and migratory birds like Siberian cranes
• Ideal for birdwatchers and morning walkers

 Tip: Best visited between November and February when migratory birds arrive.

 6. Vagamon Hill Station (Day Trip)

 ~65 km from Kottayam
 Full-day excursion

 Why Visit?

• Misty hills, pine forests, tea gardens, and lakes
• Cool weather, adventure activities, and scenic views
• Less crowded than Munnar—perfect for nature lovers and couples

 Tip: Visit Mottakunnu, Kurishumala, and Vagamon Meadows.

 7. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

 ~12 km from Kottayam
 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

 Why Visit?

• Renowned Shiva temple known for its mural of Nataraja and golden flag mast
• A major pilgrimage center with rich cultural history
• Hosts the Ezhara Ponnana (Seven and a Half Golden Elephants) festival in Feb–March

 Tip: Great spiritual spot just a short drive from the town.

 8. Vaikom & Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

 ~30 km from Kottayam

 Why Visit?

• Ancient temple believed to be over 1,500 years old, one of the oldest in Kerala
• Located near the Vembanad Lake, surrounded by coconut groves and quiet backwaters
• Site of Vaikom Satyagraha, a major social reform movement

 Tip: Combine with a canoe ride through the nearby canals for a local experience.

 9. DC Books & Malayala Manorama Headquarters

 Kottayam town

 Why Visit?

• Kottayam is known as the literary capital of Kerala
• Visit the original home of DC Books and browse Malayalam and English publications
• Ideal for readers, writers, and culture enthusiasts

 Tip: Pick up local literature or souvenirs like illustrated Malayalam classics.

 10. Elaveezha Poonchira

 ~55 km from Kottayam

 Why Visit?

• A valley of flowers surrounded by three hillocks
• Popular for sunset viewpoints, tent camping, and trekking
• The name means “valley where leaves never fall”

 Tip: Ideal for offbeat travelers and nature photographers.