10 Best Places to Visit in Kottayam

10 Best Places to Visit in Kottayam with your family or friends or for couples. From backwaters to rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, spiritual centers, and charming villages – Kottayam is a tourists must visit district in Kerala. Kottayam also known as the “City of Letters” due to its rich history in education and publishing making it a center of learning in Kerala. The city is most famous for its stunning backwaters at Kumarakom and the green landscapes that surround Vembanad Lake. With historic temples, churches, and natural attractions like Illikkal Kallu, Kottayam offers a mix of cultural heritage and scenic beauty for visitors.

1. Kumarakom

Kumarakom village is a harmonious assembly of small islands, which is a part of the scenic Kuttanad region. A beautiful backwater destination known for its houseboat cruises, bird sanctuary, and lush landscapes along the Vembanad Lake. In the bird bird sanctuary you will see the presence of Egrets,
Darters, Herons, Teals, Waterfowls, Cuckoo, Wild Duck, and majestic migratory birds such as the Siberian Stork.

2. Vembanad Lake

The largest lake in Kerala, offering serene boat rides and opportunities to experience the tranquil beauty of Kerala’s backwater. Renowned for its vibrant biodiversity, the Vembanad Lake acts as a focal point for a diverse range of aquatic activities. It is home to 20,000 waterfowls, and a nurturing habitat for shrimps and clams. The Vembanad lake stretches across several districts in Kerala.

3. Illikkal Kallu

Located at about 3,500 feet above sea level, this rock formation feels like a dream that unfolds against the backdrop of a green landscape. A stunning hilltop viewpoint that provides panoramic views of the Western Ghats, perfect for trekking and photography. Illikkal Kallu and its surrounding region is hosting a variety of plant and animal species. Continuous exposure to all weathers has moulded the hills into unique shapes, inspiring people to give them names like ’Kuda Kallu’ (umbrella-shaped rock).

4. Elaveezhapoonchira

A scenic hill station that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and is a great spot for trekking and picnics, famous for its scenic beauty, the place is encircled by three captivating hillocks – Mankunnu, Kodayathoormala and Thonippara. The name ‘Ilaveezhapoonchira’, translates
to the pond of flowers where leaves do not fall.

5. Thazhathangady Juma Masjid

One of the oldest mosques in India, known for its traditional wooden architecture and historical importance. Located on the banks of the Meenachil houses that whisper tales of the past. Thazhathangadi region laid the groundwork for its trade legacy in the 17th and 18th centuries. Thazhathangadi’s narrow streets were once vibrant with the exchange of goods from Central Asia, Egypt and China.

6. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

One of the most significant Shiva temples in Kerala, with a rich history and a popular annual festival attracting thousands of devotees. The Vaikom Ashtami festival and holds the distinction of being one of the oldest in the region. Here, Lord Shiva is fondly called Vaikkathappan, translating to the Lord of Vaikom. The architecture of the temple boasts an eight-acre courtyard where the grounds covered with river sand are enclosed by compound walls featuring four entrance towers or gopurams, one on each side. The Vaikathashtami festival is held from November to December on the day of Krishna Ashtami in the Malayalam month of Vrischikam.

7. St Mary’s Forane Church

St Mary’s Forane Church in Bharananganam on the Meenachil riverbanks, symbolising a commitment to the welfare of the people. Also, known as the Anakallu Palli, the church attracts devotees of all castes and religions. The ‘Feast of Saint Alphonsa’, commemorated on 28 July every year is the major festival celebrated in the church as people come together to honour the death anniversary of Saint Alphonsa. The Franciscan Clarist Convent, where ttained spiritual significance of the Forane church. The space where she lived and took her last breath remains untouched, serving as a perpetual homage to her enduring legacy. Adjacent to the shrine, a museum unveils her preserved belongings, tenderly cared for through the years

8. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls

If you are planning to visit Kottayam and you love waterfalls then Aruvikkuzhi waterfall is a must-visit destination, located near Pampady, it captivate visitors with its scenic beauty. Tucked away amidst rubber plantations, this location perfect for trekking enthusiasts as well as the waterfall is a popular picnic spot for families. There are small shops and stalls nearby where visitors can purchase snacks and refreshments.

9. Maravanthuruthu Island

Kayak through the waterways of Maravanthuruthu Island, where the green surroundings and the village life captivating scene. Here, you have the opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine, and have close interactions with the villagers. Situated on the banks of the Muvattupuzha the first Water STREET (Sustainable, Tangible, Responsible, Experiential, Ethnic Tourism) project in Kerala, helping to establish the foundation for Responsible Tourism. Kayaking tour package is about three-hour duration, commencing at 05:30 am and concluding at 06:30 pm.