bigtravelbuzzKottayam is a town located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its beautiful backwaters, historic churches, and temples, as well as its thriving rubber industry. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Kottayam:
Kumarakom Backwaters: The backwaters of Kumarakom are a must-visit attraction in Kottayam. You can take a boat ride through the tranquil waters and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Vembanad Lake: Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala and is a popular spot for boating and fishing. You can also take a houseboat ride on the lake and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings.
St. Mary’s Church: St. Mary’s Church is an ancient church located in Kottayam and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its stunning mural paintings and exquisite architecture.
Poonjar Palace: Poonjar Palace is a beautiful palace located near Kottayam and is known for its exquisite wood carvings and beautiful architecture.
Rubber Plantations: Kottayam is known for its thriving rubber industry, and you can visit one of the many rubber plantations in the area to learn about the cultivation and production of rubber.
Ayurvedic Spa: Kottayam is home to several Ayurvedic spas, where you can relax and rejuvenate with traditional Ayurvedic treatments.
Kottayam is a beautiful town with plenty of attractions and things to do. Whether you want to explore the backwaters, visit ancient temples, or relax at an Ayurvedic spa, there is something for everyone in Kottayam.
Places to Visit in Kottayam
Kottayam is a beautiful town in Kerala, India, with plenty of attractions and places to visit. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kottayam:
Kumarakom Backwaters: The backwaters of Kumarakom are a must-visit attraction in Kottayam. You can take a boat ride through the tranquil waters and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Vembanad Lake: Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala and is a popular spot for boating and fishing. You can also take a houseboat ride on the lake and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings.
St. Mary’s Church: St. Mary’s Church is an ancient church located in Kottayam and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its stunning mural paintings and exquisite architecture.
Poonjar Palace: Poonjar Palace is a beautiful palace located near Kottayam and is known for its exquisite wood carvings and beautiful architecture.
Bay Island Driftwood Museum: The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is a unique museum that showcases the art of driftwood sculptures. The museum has an impressive collection of sculptures made from driftwood, including a life-size wooden sculpture of a snakeboat.
Illikkal Kallu: Illikkal Kallu is a popular trekking destination near Kottayam, known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Ayurvedic Spa: Kottayam is home to several Ayurvedic spas, where you can relax and rejuvenate with traditional Ayurvedic treatments.
These are just a few of the many attractions and places to visit in Kottayam. Whether you want to explore the backwaters, visit ancient temples, or enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountains, there is something for everyone in Kottayam.
Best Time To Visit Kottayam
The best time to visit Kottayam is between October and March. During this time, the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C, making it an ideal time to explore the town and its surrounding areas. Additionally, the backwaters are at their best during this time, and you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the tranquil waters.
The monsoon season in Kottayam lasts from June to September, and the town receives heavy rainfall during this time. While the rains do bring about lush greenery, it may not be the best time for outdoor activities, and some tourist attractions may be closed.
The summer months in Kottayam, from April to May, can be hot and humid, with temperatures soaring up to 35°C. While it may not be the best time for sightseeing, it is a great time for Ayurvedic treatments, as the heat and humidity help to open up pores and improve the efficacy of treatments.
Overall, the best time to visit Kottayam is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant, and the backwaters are at their best.
Things to Do in Kottayam
Kottayam is a beautiful town in Kerala, India, with plenty of activities and things to do. Here are some of the top things to do in Kottayam:
Explore the backwaters: Kottayam is known for its beautiful backwaters, and exploring them on a boat ride is a must-do activity. You can take a leisurely ride through the tranquil waters and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Visit the ancient temples: Kottayam is home to several ancient temples, including Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple and Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. These temples are known for their stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
Trek to Illikkal Kallu: Illikkal Kallu is a popular trekking destination near Kottayam, known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek is moderately difficult and takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
Enjoy Ayurvedic treatments: Kottayam is known for its Ayurvedic treatments, and there are several spas and wellness centers where you can relax and rejuvenate with traditional Ayurvedic treatments.
Visit the Bay Island Driftwood Museum: The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is a unique museum that showcases the art of driftwood sculptures. The museum has an impressive collection of sculptures made from driftwood, including a life-size wooden sculpture of a snakeboat.
Take a houseboat ride on Vembanad Lake: Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala, and taking a houseboat ride on the lake is a must-do activity. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and indulge in delicious Kerala cuisine while on the houseboat.
Visit Poonjar Palace: Poonjar Palace is a beautiful palace located near Kottayam and is known for its exquisite wood carvings and beautiful architecture.
Explore the town on a bicycle: Kottayam is a small town that can easily be explored on a bicycle. You can rent a bicycle and explore the town at your own pace.
These are just a few of the many activities and things to do in Kottayam. Whether you want to explore the backwaters, visit ancient temples, or enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountains, there is something for everyone in Kottayam.
How to get around in Kottayam
Kottayam is a small town in Kerala, India, and getting around is easy and convenient. Here are some of the ways to get around in Kottayam:
Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Kottayam. They are easily available and can be hailed from anywhere in the town. You can negotiate the fare before getting into the auto-rickshaw.
Taxis: Taxis are another popular mode of transportation in Kottayam. You can book a taxi through a taxi aggregator app or hire one from a taxi stand in the town.
Buses: Kottayam has a well-connected bus network, and buses are a convenient mode of transportation to travel within the town or to nearby destinations. You can check the timings and routes of the buses at the Kottayam bus stand.
Motorbikes/Scooters: Renting a motorbike or a scooter is a popular option for travelers who want to explore Kottayam at their own pace. You can rent a motorbike or a scooter from several rental shops in the town.
Bicycle: Kottayam is a small town that can easily be explored on a bicycle. You can rent a bicycle and explore the town at your own pace.
Overall, getting around in Kottayam is easy and convenient, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer auto-rickshaws, taxis, buses, or bicycles, you can explore the town and its surrounding areas without any hassle.
where to eat in Kottayam
Kottayam is a small town in Kerala, India, and is known for its delicious cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Kottayam:
Hotel Annapoorna: Hotel Annapoorna is a popular vegetarian restaurant in Kottayam, known for its delicious South Indian dishes like dosas, idlis, and vadas.
Curry Square: Curry Square is a multi-cuisine restaurant in Kottayam, known for its delicious Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and is perfect for a casual dining experience.
Hotel Aariyas: Hotel Aariyas is a popular non-vegetarian restaurant in Kottayam, known for its delicious Kerala-style biryanis and seafood dishes.
The Bakers Lounge: The Bakers Lounge is a popular bakery and cafe in Kottayam, known for its delicious pastries, cakes, and sandwiches. The cafe has a cozy ambiance and is perfect for a quick snack or a cup of coffee.
Paragon Restaurant: Paragon Restaurant is a popular chain of restaurants in Kerala, known for its delicious North Indian and Chinese dishes. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and is perfect for a family dining experience.
Zam Zam Restaurant: Zam Zam Restaurant is a popular restaurant in Kottayam, known for its delicious Arabian dishes like shawarmas, falafels, and hummus.
Indian Coffee House: Indian Coffee House is a popular chain of cafes in Kerala, known for its delicious South Indian snacks and filter coffee. The cafe has a retro ambiance and is perfect for a casual dining experience.
These are just a few of the many places to eat in Kottayam. Whether you prefer vegetarian or non-vegetarian food, there are plenty of options to choose from in Kottayam.
famous street stalls in Kottayam
Kottayam is a small town in Kerala, India, and is known for its delicious street food. Here are some of the most famous street stalls in Kottayam:
Churuttu: Churuttu is a popular street food in Kottayam, which is a cylindrical-shaped snack made of rice flour and coconut, and stuffed with a spicy mixture of onion, green chilli, and grated coconut.
Kozhi Porichathu: Kozhi Porichathu is a popular street food in Kottayam, which is a deep-fried chicken snack marinated in spices and herbs.
Pazhampori: Pazhampori is a popular street food in Kottayam, which is a deep-fried banana fritter, made of ripe banana and a batter of rice flour and jaggery.
Vada Pav: Vada Pav is a popular street food in Kottayam, which is a spicy potato fritter sandwiched between two slices of pav (bread).
Pani Puri: Pani Puri is a popular street food in Kottayam, which is a crispy hollow puri filled with spiced mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and tamarind chutney.
Thattukada: Thattukada is a popular street food in Kottayam, which is a mobile food stall that serves a variety of snacks like samosas, parathas, dosas, and vadas.
These are just a few of the many street stalls in Kottayam that serve delicious and affordable food. Whether you are a local or a tourist, exploring the street food scene in Kottayam is a must-do activity.
where to stay in Kottayam
luxury accomodation
Kottayam offers a range of luxury accommodation options for travelers. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Kottayam:
The Zuri Kumarakom: The Zuri Kumarakom is a luxury hotel located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, offering stunning views of the backwaters. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and multiple dining options.
Kumarakom Lake Resort: Kumarakom Lake Resort is a luxury resort located in the heart of Kumarakom, offering luxurious villas and suites with private pools, stunning views of the backwaters, and a range of recreational facilities like a swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere: Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere is a luxury resort located in Vayalar, Kottayam, offering breathtaking views of the Vembanad Lake and the surrounding lush greenery. The resort features a swimming pool, a spa, and multiple dining options.
Aveda Resorts and Spa: Aveda Resorts and Spa is a luxurious eco-friendly resort located in Kumarakom, Kottayam, offering a serene and tranquil environment. The resort features private cottages, an outdoor pool, a spa, and multiple dining options.
Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort: Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort is a luxury resort located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, offering breathtaking views of the backwaters. The resort features an outdoor pool, a spa, and multiple dining options.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodation options in Kottayam. Whether you are looking for a luxurious resort or a high-end hotel, Kottayam has something for everyone.
where to stay in Kottayam
budget accomodation
Kottayam offers several budget accommodation options for travelers. Here are some of the best budget hotels and guesthouses in Kottayam:
Hotel Aida: Hotel Aida is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Kottayam, offering clean and comfortable rooms at affordable rates.
Chrysoberyl Hotel & Convention Center: Chrysoberyl Hotel & Convention Center is a budget hotel located on MC Road, Kottayam. The hotel offers spacious rooms with basic amenities, a restaurant, and a banquet hall.
Hotel Anjali Park: Hotel Anjali Park is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Kottayam, offering clean and comfortable rooms at affordable rates.
The Windsor Castle: The Windsor Castle is a budget-friendly hotel located in Kottayam, offering comfortable rooms with basic amenities, a restaurant, and a banquet hall.
Hotel Indraprastha: Hotel Indraprastha is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Kottayam, offering clean and comfortable rooms at affordable rates.
These are just a few of the many budget accommodation options available in Kottayam. Whether you are looking for a budget hotel or a guesthouse, Kottayam has something for everyone.
Travel Tips Kottayam
Here are some travel tips for visiting Kottayam:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Kottayam is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and cool.
Getting around: The most convenient way to get around Kottayam is by hiring a taxi or an autorickshaw. You can also use public transportation like buses or rent a bike.
Local cuisine: Kottayam is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes seafood, coconut-based curries, and traditional South Indian dishes like dosas and idlis. Don’t miss trying the local delicacies like appam, puttu, and kappa.
Shopping: Kottayam is famous for its handicrafts, especially handloom products like sarees and dhotis. You can also shop for spices, tea, and coffee.
Sightseeing: Kottayam has several tourist attractions, including the backwaters of Kumarakom, the ancient Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, and the Vagamon hill station. Make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly.
Respect local customs and traditions: Kottayam is a culturally rich city, and it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly while visiting religious places and be mindful of local customs and practices.
Stay hydrated: Kottayam can get quite humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you at all times and drink plenty of fluids.
Be aware of mosquitoes: Kottayam is a region with a high prevalence of mosquitoes. Use mosquito repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use mosquito nets while sleeping to avoid mosquito bites.
By keeping these travel tips in mind, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kottayam.