Kottayam

Kottayam, situated in the southern state of Kerala, India, is a beautiful city known for its scenic beauty, cultural richness, and diverse heritage.

Kottayam - City Guide

Nestled between the evergreen Western Ghats on the east and the picturesque Vembanad Lake with the expansive paddy fields of Kuttanad to the west, Kottayam captivates with its scenic beauty, featuring rubber plantations, lush green paddy fields, and peaceful hill stations. It's no surprise that acclaimed author Arundhati Roy extolled the ethereal beauty of Kottayam in her renowned work, "The God of Small Things." A harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural vitality, Kottayam invites exploration with its unique range of experiences.

Kottayam is known as "The City of Letters" aka ‘Akshara Nagari’ due to its significant contributions to literature as well as the birthplace and headquarters of several pioneering Malayalam daily newspapers such as Deepika, Malayala Manorama, and Mangalam, along with hosting numerous publishing houses.

Whether you are a nature enthusiast, cultural connoisseur, spiritual seeker, holidaymaker, honeymooner, or adventure enthusiast, Kottayam unfolds a myriad of surprises for everyone. Roam the lively streets of Kottayam town, discovering local markets, shops, and eateries. Indulge in a leisurely houseboat cruise to relish the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary to encounter diverse avian species, and delve into the spiritual ambiance of Kottayam by visiting revered temples and churches. The captivating hill stations and enchanting waterfalls offer a tranquil retreat amidst the unspoiled beauty of Mother Nature.

The city's cuisine is a delightful journey through Kerala's flavors, featuring dishes like Kottayam fish curry, extremely delicious meen pollichethu with the fresh Kumarakam pearl spot, appam with stew and many other lip-smacking delicacies.

Major Attractions:

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
• Pathiramanal Island
• Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
• Elaveezha Poonchira
• Kottathavalam
• St. Mary’s Orthodox Church (Cheriyapalli)
• Puthupally St. George Church
• St. Mary's Jacobite Syrian Church in Manarkadu
• Bharananganam St. Mary's Forane Church
• Juma Masjid
• Bay Island Driftwood Museum
• Monroe Lighthouse
• Marmala Waterfalls
• Vaikom
• Nadukani
• Poonjar Palace
• Mozart Art Gallery.

Climatic Condition:

The summer season in Kottayam spans from March to June, characterized by uncomfortably hot temperatures ranging between 22 to 39 degrees Celsius. It is advisable to avoid visiting the city during this period. Kottayam's winter season, occurring from October to February, offers warm days and pleasant evenings, making it an ideal time to explore the city. Monsoon season, from July to September, brings abundant rainfall to this beautiful destination.

Best Time to Visit:

September to February

How to Reach:

By Air:The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located approximately 87 Km away from Kottayam. From the airport, Kottayam is easily accessible by road.

By Rail:Kottayam has a well-developed railway station, situated in the heart of the city which is connected to all major cities of the country. Regular trains run to and from Kottayam, making it a convenient mode of transportation.

By Road:Kottayam is well-connected by road, and you can opt for private and public transport to travel across the district. National Highway 183 passes through the city, providing good road connectivity.

FAQ

1.What is Kottayam famous for?

Kottayam is renowned for its picturesque backwaters, religious diversity, vibrant cultural festivals, literary heritage, Ayurveda wellness experiences, delectable cuisine, and esteemed educational institutions.

2.Are there opportunities for Ayurveda treatments in Kottayam?

Yes, Kottayam has numerous Ayurveda wellness centers and spas, where visitors can indulge in traditional Ayurveda treatments and therapies.

3.What are some of the must-try dishes in Kottayam?

Some must-try dishes in Kottayam include the flavorful Kottayam fish curry, flavoursome kappa biriyani, the traditional appam with stew, the spicy Kottayam beef curry, the delectable Kerala porotta with chicken curry, and the crispy banana chips, showcasing the diverse and delicious flavors of the region.