Kottayam is bordered by the lofty and mighty Western Ghats on the east and the Vembanad Lake and paddy fields of Kuttanad on the west, Kottayam is a land of unique characteristics.
Panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands, hills and hillocks, extensive rubber plantations, places associated with many legends and a totally literate people have given Kottayam District the enviable title: The land of letters, legends, latex and lakes. Kottayam Town is the first town in India to have achieved 100% literacy (a remarkable feat achieved as early as in 1989).
The Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom (16 km from Kottayam town):
Also called a land of lakes, Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals which empty into great expanse of water called the Vembanad lake. The lake, an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sight seeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. The Kumarakom Tourist Village offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (16 km from Kottayam town):
Located on the banks of the
Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an ornithologist's paradise and a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. A cruise along the Vembanad lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary.
Pala and Kanjirapally :
Pala and Kanjirapally nourished by the Meenachil and Manimala rivers respectively, these two towns are centres of rubber plantations.
Siva Temple,Vaikom (40 km north of Kottayam):
Associated with the legendary Parasurama, this temple is a typical example of Kerala Temple Architecture.
Thirunakkara Mahadevar Temple:
in the heart of Kottayam town.
Thalikotta Temple:
The ancient temple was the place of worship of the Thekkumkoor royal family. The Kudamaloor Temple is equally famous. The Thazhathangadi Mosque built on the Meenachil river is one of the oldest in India. The C.S.I. Cathedral Church built over 175 years ago is a monument from the British Era. The Old Seminary, Marthoma Seminary and Vadavathoor Seminary proclaim Syrian and Roman traditions. The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church has its headquarters at Devalokam, Kottayam. The mortal remains of the Blessed Father Chavara are entombed at the St.Joseph's Monastery Church at Mannanam. Thousands gather at this holy shrine during festivals.
Mahadevar Temple, Ettumanoor (12 km north of Kottayam town):
Mahadevar Temple is famous for murals and ezharaponnana (the 71/2 elephants finished in gold) Festival: Ezharaponnana utsavam (February/March)
