Top places to visit

Top Places to Visit

Kottayam is a charming district in Kerala that offers a serene mix of spiritual landmarks, nature escapes, and cultural gems. Whether you’re seeking peaceful backwaters, historic churches, rubber estates, or hill retreats, Kottayam has something special to offer every kind of traveler.

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.

 At a Glance: Must-Visit Places in Kottayam

Kottayam is a destination where faith, nature, and knowledge meet. From the spiritual energy of temples and churches, to the peace of its lakes and hills, to the intellectual charm of its bookshops, Kottayam promises a journey that soothes the heart and stimulates the mind.

Kottayam – Where every corner reads like a story and flows like a stream.