About Kottayam
Acclaimed as the land of letters, latex and lakes, Kottayam has the distinction of being the first-ever fully literate municipal town in India. This land also boasts of the first English educational centre in South India as well as the first Malayalam printing press which was established by Benjamin Bailey, a Christian missionary, in 1820 AD. Today, it is the forerunner in publishing with about 80 per cent of the books published in the State coming from the district. The nerve centre of Kerala's newspaper industry, a total of five dailies is published from here. Panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands and extensive rubber plantations characterize this picturesque land which attracts hordes of tourists. The majestic Vembanad Lake and the stunning backwaters of Kumarakom are its prime attractions.
Telephone Access Code: +91 481
Altitude: Sea level
Area: 2203 sq. km
Population: 1,953,646 (2011 census)
major tourism attractions
Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom
Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals which empty into the great expanse of water called the Vembanad Lake. Vembanad is the second largest fresh water lake in South Asia and the larges in India. In this small water world, you'll come across plenty of traditional county crafts, boats and canoes that will take you into the heart of this scenic lake
Kumarakom Bird Sancturay
Located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, the kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds. June to August is the breeding Season of resident wetland birds like Siberian stork, cormorants, darter, white ibis, egret, heron and teal. Between November and May is the season of migratory birds
Aymanam
Arundhati Roy's novel 'The God of small things' is set in this beautiful village. It is a typical water based village with scenic backwaters and a vivid green network of rivers and canals and vast stretches of green paddy fields and coconut farms. Migratory birds come seeking this verdant landscape every summer and frolic in its natural splendour. Country boat rides through the interior canals
Cheepumkal
The Public Water Transport Jetty and the House Boat Terminal are located here. Motor boat trips to Maniaparambu, Mannanam and Parippu are a memorable experience. Vast stretches of paddy fields, coconut farms, plantain farms and the village life of the local people can be seen here. Country boat rides through the interior canals is a great way to relax and enjoy nature's bounties.
Ilaveezhapoonchira
Skirting Kattayam District are the beautiful valleys of lIaveezhapoonchira, spread over thousands of acres. This delightful picnic spot located in the midst of beautiful hillocks near kanjar , is also ideal for trekking.
Poonjar Palace
The Poonjar Palace is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a bygone era. Within the palace walls is an extraordinary royal collection of antiques and exquisite furniture including a palanquin a droni carved out of a single piece of wood
Kannadipara
Kannadipara, as the name suggests is the valley of rocky mountain that reflects the morning sun with a mirror like perfection. Located in Kottayam district, this is also the highest point in Ilaveezhepoonchira, a hill station in Kottayam
Vazhikkadavu
On the outskirts of the district is this hill station of rocky terrains sought after for its pristine nature. On one side of the main rock are extremely tall and steep rocks and on the other is a valley of fearful depth.Silver lace is the Meenachil River.
Daivathinte Munamb
Daivathinte Munamb [God's island], is an enchanting picnic spot which provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences. Walking along the banks of the lake is a memorable experience.
Ayyampara Hill
According to legends, The five Pandava brothers - epic heroes of the Mohabharatha - staged near this rock, 2,000 ft above sea level and Spread over 20 acres. The sunset is beautiful from here.
Nadukani
Nadukani in Kottayam is a picturesque location at the top of a hill with endless stretches of meadows girded by huge rocks. A bird's eye view of the low lying places can be enjoyed from here.
Anchuvilakku
This stone lamp post, a typical example of Kerala architecture, was built near the Changanacherry boat jetty by the renowned freedom fighter Veluthampi Dalawa.The five lamps on this post are lit using kerosene
Mortal remains of Saint Alphonsa, Bharananganam
The mortal remains of the St. Alphonsa are entombed at this church which is now a famous pilgrim centre. Thousands gather at this holy shrine during the annual festival
Vaikom Siva Temple
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is located around 31 km from Kottayam in Kerala and is closely associated with the legendary Parasurama. This temple is a typical example of the Kerala style of temple architecture.
Juma Masjid at Thazhathangadi
Juma Masjid at Thazhathangadi is ancient mosque on the banks of the Meenachil River in Kottayam and is believed to be 1000 years old. It is one of the oldest in India. The mosque has a square inner courtyard, Only men are allowed here.
Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church
The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, also known as Catholicate of the East is situated at Devalokam in Kottayam. Believed to have built by St. Thomas, the is theologically and traditionally