Kottayam Sightseeing, Quick Facts, History, Packages, Tours & Excursions

Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple in the heart of the town was built in the early 16^th century by the Raja of Thekkumkur. The interior murals depict themes from Hindu epics. Thazhathangady Juma Masjid by the Meenachil river is one of the oldest mosques of India and famous for its wooden carvings and architecture. Some beautiful Syrian Christian churches dominate the city. Of them, St. Mary's Orthodox Church, Cheriapally has old murals which date back to 1600s.

Around Kottayam:

Vembanad Lake, 14 km from Kottayam is the base for backwater cruises, boating and angling. On the banks of the lake is Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to migratory and local birds. Periyar Tiger Reserve, 43 Km away is a famous wildlife spot of Kerala.

Activities:

Backwater cruises in traditional houseboats on Lake Vembanad are one of the highlights. Visits to the sprawling rubber, tea and coffee plantations of Pala and Kanjirappally, make an interesting outdoor trip. You can shop for fine Kottayam saris and coir or coconut items in the town.

Tourism Info:

Department of Tourism

Kottayam

Telephone: 0481-584303

A combination of mountains, lakes, plantations and paddy fields, Kottayam epitomizes Kerala's scenic beauty. The small city is also the headquarters of the district by the same name, which is often called the 'land of letters, latex and lakes'. It has the highest literacy rate in India and is the intellectual hub of Kerala; it is a rubber centre with extensive rubber plantations, and the region is replete with lakes. Situated 76 Km from Kochi, Kottayam was once a part of the erstwhile Central Travencore. Besides being an important trade centre for rubber and coffee, the city is also known for its publishing industry.