30 Places To Visit In Kottayam

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Temple (9)
Hills & Valleys (3)
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1. Illikkal Kallu

37 km from city center

Landmark

Located at a height of 6000 ft above the sea level in the Western Ghats of Kottayam, Kerala, Illikkal Kallu is a major tourist attraction and one of the most pristine spots in all of India. Situated in Moonnilavu Village, Meenachil taluk, the nearest city to the summit is Teekoy. Besides several other factors which make this peak unique, the most prominent feature is that half the boulder of the m (Read More)ajestic rock has fallen apart.

Popular among Locals 4.7 /5

1 km from city center

Temple

Thirunakkara Sree Mahadeva Temple, located in the heart of Kottayam town, is a centuries-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in the traditional Kerala architectural style, the temple is renowned for its intricate murals depicting mythological stories. It is a major cultural hub, hosting the annual Phalguni Utsavam, a vibrant festival featuring traditional art forms and rituals.

4.5 /5

38 km from city center

Waterfall

Located at a distance of few kms from Erattupetta in Kottayam inside a private rubber estate, Marmala Waterfalls are popularly known as the ‘enchantress of the jungle’. Plummeting from a height of 200 feet, the unblemished clear waters create an aura of mist around them. The tantalising waterfalls splash into a 12 feet pond and run down to join the river Teekoy.

Top Attraction 4.7 /5

26 km from city center

Tombs & Mausoleums

Located east of Pala in Bharananganam, Kottayam, St. Mary’s Church holds the mortal remains of St. Alphonsa (1910- 1946). Born as Anna Muttathupadathu, St. Alphonsa was an Indian religious sister and educator. She was the first Indian woman to be canonised as a Saint by the Catholic Church and also the first canonised saint in Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, an Eastern Catholic Church in India.

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5. Thazhathangady Juma Masjid

4.1 /5

2 km from city center

Mosque

Thazhathangady Juma Masjid or Taj Juma Masjid as it is popularly known as is a beautiful structure situated on the banks of River Meenachil. The shrine is said to have been established by the members of Jama-Athe 1959 and was completed in year 1964. The mosque building is famous for its charming wood carvings and structure.

Popular among Locals 4.8 /5

4 km from city center

Temple

Located in Kumaranalloor, Kumaranalloor Devi Temple enshrines Bhagwathi- the mother Goddess. The shrine is said to be 2400 years old as per historical, mythical and scientific sources. Sprawling over a vast area of 15000 square metres, the temple has a notable architectural pattern with a unique structure of nalambalam and sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum), both of which are rarely found in generic te (Read More)mple architecture.

7. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

4.8 /5

10 km from city center

Temple

Located at a distance of about 10 kms from Kottayam city centre, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a revered holy place of the Hindus. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the shrine is popular for its spectacular murals, beautiful frescos and excellent wood carvings made in the 16th century, which are borrowed from the classic epics of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranas.

Top Attraction 4.6 /5

23 km from city center

Temple

Highlights: Annual Vaikom Ashtami Festival, Three Forms o (Read More)f Lord Shiva, Sacred Pond

The Vaikom Shri Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Vaikom in Kerala that is dedicated to the God Shiva. Located in the Kottayam district of the south Indian state of Kerala, this temple is one of the main pilgrim centers of the south. The shiva lingam in this temple is believed to be from the Treta Yuga (the third age of Hinduism).

Day Trip 4.5 /5

37 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Ilaveezhapoonchira, located in the Kottayam district of Kerala, is a scenic hill station nestled among the Munnar, Thodupuzha, and Melukavu villages. Known for its panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, it is a popular spot for trekking and nature photography. The name translates to "valley where leaves don't fall," as the area lacks trees and is instead covered by expansive grassla (Read More)nds.

Fun For Kids 4.0 /5

18 km from city center

Amusement & Theme Park

Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park, located in Kaduthuruthy, Kottayam, is a unique eco-tourism destination spread across 30 acres of lush greenery. It is recognized as one of the world's first agricultural theme parks, blending traditional farming practices with modern recreational facilities.

Discs & Machines - Sunny's Gramophone Museum and Records Archive

Fun For Kids 4.7 /5

28 km from city center

Museum

Located at an hour’s drive from Kottayam, Sunny’s Gramophone Museum also known as Discs & Machines, is a unique private venture which is one of its kind in the country. Opened to public on the 25th of January, 2015, the two floored depository is a storehouse of over 1 lac rare records and about 260 gramophones, phonographs and record players.

Instagram Worthy 4.2 /5

24 km from city center

Art Gallery

Clay Art Cafe is a quaint art gallery cum cafetaria situated on the K. K. Road in Kottayam. The building has been made of mud and old style bamboo thatch roofing. On demand you can also witness live clay modelling. Popular for its delicious milkshakes and coffees, the cafe also sells local art works and paintings.

13. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Great For Family Outing 4.1 /5

12 km from city center

Bird Sanctuary

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, also popularly known as the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, is a breathtaking and beautiful bird sanctuary that is located at Kumarakom in the Kottayam district in the Indian state of Kerala. Situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in the Kerala Backwaters, this bird sanctuary is a favourite destination for many native as well as migratory birds.

Instagram Worthy 4.6 /5

40 km from city center

Cave

Kottathavalam Waterfalls Viewpoint, located near Kurisumala in Kottayam, Kerala, is a serene spot offering breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and lush green landscapes. Nestled in the Western Ghats, it is a popular destination for nature lovers and trekkers exploring the nearby hills. The viewpoint is easily accessible and provides a tranquil setting to enjoy the natural beauty of the regi (Read More)on.

Top Attraction 4.8 /5

7 km from city center

Temple

Panachikkadu Dakshina Mookambika Temple, located in Panachikkadu village near Kottayam, is a revered temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati. Often referred to as the "Dakshina Mookambika" (Mookambika of the South), it is renowned for its serene ambiance and lush surroundings. The temple is unique as it is situated amidst a natural grove, with a perennial stream flowing nearby.

Temporarily Closed 4.1 /5

11 km from city center

Museum

Bay Island Driftwood Museum situated 14 km from Kottayam is home to some of the most amusing collection of driftwood sculptures. Showcasing the variety of modern artifacts and root carvings crafted in various shapes and sizes, the museum is established by the proprietor and curator Raji Punnoose and an award receiver of Limca Book of Rerecords 2001.

4.7 /5

16 km from city center

Temple

Sree Malliyoor Maha Ganapathy Temple, located in Malliyoor village near Kottayam, is a renowned shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple is celebrated for its unique idol of Lord Ganesha depicted with the divine child Krishna seated on his lap. It is also known for its 8-day-long Thiruvutsavam celebration, marked by various offerings and grand processions, attracting devotees in large numbers. (Read More)

4.5 /5

3 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

The Catholicate Palace, located in Devalokam near Kottayam, serves as the headquarters of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, also known as the Indian Orthodox Church. Established as the administrative and spiritual center of the church, it is home to the Catholicos of the East, the supreme head of the denomination.

Day Trip

44 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Nadukani, located in the high ranges of Kottayam district, is a picturesque hill station offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Situated at an altitude of 3,000 feet, it is a popular spot for nature lovers and trekkers seeking tranquility and scenic beauty. The area is characterized by lush greenery, winding trails, and cool weather, making it ideal for a peaceful getaw (Read More)ay.

Day Trip 4.2 /5

15 km from city center

Island

Pathiramanal is a beautiful island in Alappuzha which was once the property of the Thaimattatil family until 1979. The island is covered with dense natural vegetation and offers a perfect climatic condition for regional flora and fauna to thrive. The attraction is also famous as a bird watcher's paradise and a favourite amongst nature lovers.

31 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

Poonjar Palace, located in Meenachil Taluka of Kottayam district, is a 600-year-old majestic structure surrounded by massive boundary walls. This historic site, once the seat of the Poonjar royal dynasty, showcases traditional Kerala-style architecture and houses an extensive collection of antique furniture and artifacts. Visitors can admire grand chandeliers, jewelry boxes, grain measurers, weapo (Read More)ns, and palm-leaf manuscripts.

Day Trip 4.1 /5

22 km from city center

Lake

Highlights: Vaikom Shri Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam

Vaikom is a town located in the district of Kottayam in Kerala. It was also a destination of Satyagraha during the Indian Independence Movement. It is the oldest city in Kottayam and lies very close to the famous tourist spot of Kumarakom. Vaikom Temple lies at the heart of the town and becomes very prominent during its Vaikom Ashtami celebrations during the month of November.

Top Things To Do 4.0 /5

6 km from city center

Landmark

Nattakom and Panachikad, located near Kottayam town, are serene destinations known for their tranquil backwaters and boating experiences. These locations offer visitors an opportunity to explore picturesque waterways surrounded by lush greenery and traditional village landscapes. Boating facilities here provide a peaceful escape, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters up clos (Read More)e.

4.3 /5

5 km from city center

Temple

Arpookara Sri Subramanya Swami Temple, located near Kottayam in Kerala, is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya. Known for its serene setting and traditional Kerala-style architecture, the temple attracts devotees seeking blessings for success and prosperity. It is also famous for its annual festival, which features vibrant rituals and cultural performances.

St. Mary's Orthodox Church (Kottayam Cheriapally)

4.5 /5

6 km from city center

Church & Cathedral

A significant center of Syrian Christians of Kerala, St. Mary's Orthodox Church was originally a Malankara Orthodox Church. Located about 6 km from the Kottayam in Cheriyapalli, the structure was established by king of Tekkemur in 1579. The church is built in Portuguese style of architecture; however one can clearly see the influence of traditional Hindu architectural style.

Top Things To Do 4.2 /5

3 km from city center

Boating & Cruises

Thazhathangady Boat Race, held in the historic Thazhathangady area of Kottayam, is a vibrant event celebrated during the Onam festival, typically in the months of July, August, and September. Nearly 50 types of traditional boats, including elaborately decorated snake boats of varying sizes, participate in this thrilling rowing competition along the Meenachil River.

Popular among Locals 4.1 /5

1 km from city center

Temple

Sree Pallipurathukavu Devi Temple, located in Kottayam district, is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. Renowned for its traditional Kerala-style architecture, the temple is especially vibrant during the annual Kumbhaka Mahotsav, celebrated on the 10th day of Pathamudayya. This grand festival attracts numerous devotees who come to seek the blessings of the goddess.

5 km from city center

Temple

Thiruvarppu Sree Krishna Temple, located in the town of Thiruvarppu near Kottayam, is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Known for its traditional Kerala-style architecture and intricate carvings, the temple holds significant cultural and spiritual importance. It is particularly famous for its annual 10-day festival, Vilakkeduppu, held in April, which draws large numbers of devotees.

Day Trip

0 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Thangalpara, located near Vagamon in Kottayam district, is a serene hilltop known for its religious and scenic significance. It is home to a large sacred rock and the resting place of Sheikh Fariduddin, a revered Sufi saint, making it an important pilgrimage site for devotees. The area offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys, attracting nature lovers and trekkers.

Mozart Art Gallery (Art Castell Art Gallery)

4.5 /5

4 km from city center

Art Gallery

Located in the residential apartments of a Mr. M. Somu, in the Ayemenem village of Kottayam, Mozart Art Gallery is a haven for art enthusiasts and lovers. With an objective to popularize fine arts, this private venture provides a platform to artists across countries to view the methodology and technique behind painting, sketching and other fine arts.

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Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

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FAQs on Kottayam

What are the top sightseeing places in Kottayam?

The top sightseeing places in Kottayam are Kottathavalam, Nadukani, Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Island of Pathiramanal, Illikkal Kallu.

How can I commute within Kottayam?

Kottayam operates all kinds of transportation services starting with the local bus service. It is the cheapest way of commuting, however remember that buses are quite crowded during the rush hours. Auto rickshaws in the town are also quite inexpensive but make sure you bargain a good deal out of them. Local taxis are however the best option if you want to explore in and around the town. Car rental companies are also available in the area if you are in mood to self drive. But walking is the best and healthy way to explore this small town. Make sure you plan your trip during winters to enjoy the town to its best.
Read More

Can you suggest an itinerary for Kottayam?

Kottayam can be explored in one day, but you'll have to rush, or you will miss out on some places. It is better if you stay for two full days.

Day 1: You can start your 1st day by visiting the Kumarakom bird sanctuary early in the morning. It is 13 km from the city, and you can opt for an early morning safari. From there you can come back to the city and watch the numerous temples that the town is dotted with, like the Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple and Vaikom Mahadev Temple. You can visit Elaveezhalpoonchira in the evening to experience a sunset that will remain with you forever. You can shop in the local markets for some beautiful sarees in the evening and also don't forget to try to local Kerala cuisine.

Day 2: On the next day, you can go for a backwater cruise in the morning and follow it up with a visit to the Marmala Waterfalls and Vembanad Lake. In the evening you can visit the Parel Syro Church and the Thazhathangady Juma Masjid.

Places To Visit In Kottayam

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30 Places To Visit In Kottayam

1. Illikkal Kallu

2. Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple

3. Marmala Waterfalls

4. St. Alphonsa's Tomb

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5. Thazhathangady Juma Masjid

6. Sri Kumaranalloor Devi Temple

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7. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

8. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

9. Ilaveezhapoonchira

10. Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park

11. Discs & Machines - Sunny's Gramophone Museum and Records Archive

12. Clay Art Cafe

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Kottayam

13. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

14. Kottathavalam Waterfalls Viewpoint

15. Panachikkadu Dakshina Mookambika Temple

16. Bay Island Driftwood Museum

17. Sree Malliyoor Maha Ganapathy Temple

18. Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church

19. Nadukani

20. Pathiramanal Island

21. Poonjar Palace

22. Vaikom

23. Nattakom and Panachikad Boating

24. Arpookara Sri Subramanya Swami Temple

25. St. Mary's Orthodox Church (Kottayam Cheriapally)

26. Thazhathangadi Boat Race

27. Sree Pallipurathukavu Devi Temple

28. Thirnvarppu Sree Krishna Temple

29. Thangalpara

30. Mozart Art Gallery (Art Castell Art Gallery)

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Can you suggest an itinerary for Kottayam?

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