Kottayam Travel

The busy commercial center of Kottayam is located at the distance of 75 km south of Kochi and 153 km north west of Thiruvananthapuram. The natural beauty of its seductive backwaters to the west, and the spice, tea and rubber plantations, forests and mountains of the western ghats to the east is what attracts the tourists from far and wide to come here. It is renowned for being the Kerala's major center of the rubber and spice trade. Kottayam's long history of Syrian Christian is reflected through the age old churches in the region. The best time to visit Kottayam lies between October to February.

Tourists Attractions in Kottayam :

Kottayam Backwater Cruises :

Spending several days in the houseboats called kettuvallam, could be one of the most expensive experience one could have on the tour to the Kottayam Backwaters. Drifting through the quiet canals lined with the coconut palms, savoring the authentic Keralan cuisine, meeting the local villagers and sleeping on the water under a galaxy of stars is what makes you backwater tour truly special. House boats cater for groups (with up to eight bunks) and for couples (one or two double beds). Food is generally included in the quoted cost. He house boats can be chartered through the DTPC ort through the private operators.

Chandagiri Cruises :

The Chandagiri crises on the country raft are very popular here. The cruise starts from the Chandagiri Bridge that takes to the nearby islands and Tourists can also take the boat ride to the nearby islands and Chandagiri fort built in the 17th century by the Sivappa Naik of Bedanore.

Ayurvedic Message :

Get yourself a new life. Surrender yourself to the magical figures of soft Ayurveda masseurs. There are many hotels and resorts in Kottayam that offers Ayurvedic Massage and treatment. Yoga and meditation centers are also plenty in Kovalam. There are some theaters that perform Kerala art form, Kathakali and ethnic martial art, Kalarippayattu.

Sightseeing Destination :

Erumeli at Kottayam :

Erumeli is one place which is sacred to both Hindus and Muslims. It is because the place houses both for its Sastha Temple and Vavar Mosque. The mosque here is dedicated to Vavar, a companion of Lord Ayyappa. The ceremony of Petta Thullal is the unique feature of this place. Pilgrims consider it as their duty to offer dakshina to the representative of Vavar mosque.

St. Mary Knanya Church :

Another most important sightseeing destination at Kottayam is St' Mary Knanaya Church, built in 1550 AD by the descendants of Syrian Knanaya Christians who migrated to India in 345 AD, on land gifted by a Hindu chieftain. Check out the persian crosses, each carved out of a single slab of stone dating back to 4 and 7 AD.