Discover Kottayam

Where Letters, Lakes and Green Hills Come Together

Kottayam is one of Kerala's most distinctive destinations, beautifully positioned between the Western Ghats and the backwaters of Vembanad Lake. Often known as the Land of Letters, Legends, Latex and Lakes, Kottayam is celebrated for its literary and publishing heritage, rubber plantations, religious landmarks, peaceful waterways and lush landscapes.

The city and its surrounding region offer a wonderful mix of experiences. Travellers can cruise through the backwaters of Kumarakom, explore historic temples and churches, discover traditional villages, visit scenic waterfalls and hill destinations, or simply enjoy the greenery and relaxed pace of central Kerala.

History

The name Kottayam is generally associated with the Malayalam words Kotta, meaning fort, and Akam, meaning inside. The area was historically associated with the rulers of Munjanad and Thekkumkur, whose headquarters were at Thazhathangadi in present-day Kottayam.

Marthanda Varma of Travancore attacked Thekkumkur and destroyed its palace and the Thaliyil fort. Remnants of these historical structures can still be found in the region.

Kottayam was formerly part of the princely state of Travancore. In 1868, Kottayam became one of the revenue divisions of Travancore. Following the integration of Travancore and Cochin in 1949, these revenue divisions were reorganised as districts, leading to the formation of Kottayam district in July 1949.

Kottayam later became one of the most important centres of education, printing and publishing in Kerala. The CMS Press, established in 1821 by Rev. Benjamin Bailey, was the first printing press in Kerala. The CMS College, established in 1840, was also the first college in the state.

The city played an important role in the development of Malayalam literature and journalism. The publishing houses, newspapers, writers and educational institutions of Kottayam helped establish its reputation as the Akshara Nagari, or City of Letters.

Geography

Kottayam is located in central Kerala. The district stretches from the foothills of the Western Ghats in the east to the Vembanad Lake and lowland regions in the west.

The landscape can broadly be divided into highland, midland and lowland areas. The region includes hills, hillocks, rivers, paddy fields, rubber plantations, forests and backwaters.

The Meenachil River is one of the important rivers of Kottayam. Other major rivers include the Muvattupuzha and Manimala rivers. Several waterways eventually connect with the Vembanad Lake.

Kottayam has no coastline of its own, but its western landscape is strongly influenced by the vast Vembanad backwater system. This combination of highlands, plantations and waterways gives the district a remarkable variety of scenery.

Culture and Traditions

Kottayam occupies an important position in Kerala's cultural and literary history. Its contribution to education, printing, journalism, literature and publishing has earned it the title Akshara Nagari.

Literary Heritage

Kottayam became a major centre of Malayalam literary activity during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Writers, poets, publishers and journalists contributed significantly to the development of Malayalam literature and mass communication.

Printing and Publishing

The city has a remarkable printing heritage. Institutions such as the CMS Press, Malayala Manorama, Deepika, Bhashaposhini and various publishing houses played an important role in shaping Kerala's reading culture.

Margamkali

Margamkali is a traditional folk art associated particularly with Kerala's Syrian Christian community. It combines group dance and traditional songs, with themes connected to the life and traditions of St. Thomas.

Arjuna Nritham

Arjuna Nritham is a traditional dance form associated with the Bhagavathy temples of central Kerala. The performance is characterised by rhythmic movements and traditional costumes.

Religious Harmony

Kottayam is known for its diverse religious heritage. Ancient temples, churches and mosques exist across the region, reflecting centuries of interaction between different communities.

Architecture

Kottayam's architecture reflects its royal, religious, colonial and traditional Kerala heritage. Visitors can see old wooden structures, traditional Kerala-style temples, historic churches and distinctive mosque architecture.

Thazhathangadi Juma Masjid

Situated beside the Meenachil River, Thazhathangadi Juma Masjid is one of the oldest mosques in India and is renowned for its traditional Kerala-style architecture, intricate woodwork and historic importance.

Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple

Located in the heart of Kottayam town, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple is an old Shiva temple known for its traditional architecture, murals and sculptures.

St. Mary's Church, Manarcad

St. Mary's Church at Manarcad is an important pilgrimage centre of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christian tradition. Its architecture and annual religious celebrations attract large numbers of devotees.

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a celebrated ancient temple known for its traditional Kerala architecture, murals and religious traditions. The temple's famous golden elephant figures are displayed during its annual festival.

Famous Places

Kumarakom

Kumarakom is one of Kottayam's most famous tourism destinations. Located beside Vembanad Lake, it is known for backwaters, houseboat cruises, village landscapes, resorts and the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

Vembanad Lake

Vembanad Lake is one of Kerala's most iconic backwater landscapes. Its extensive waterways, coconut-lined shores, fishing communities and traditional houseboats provide one of the most memorable experiences in Kottayam.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located beside Vembanad Lake and is a popular destination for birdwatchers. The wetland environment attracts both resident and migratory birds.

Thazhathangadi

Thazhathangadi is an important heritage area near Kottayam town. Its historic mosque, riverfront setting and connection with the old Thekkumkur kingdom make it an interesting destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Vaikom

Vaikom is an important pilgrimage and heritage destination known for the historic Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, backwaters and its connection with the famous Vaikom Satyagraha.

Ettumanoor

Ettumanoor is best known for the ancient Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. The town becomes especially vibrant during the temple's annual festival.

Ilaveezhapoonchira

Ilaveezhapoonchira is a scenic hill destination near Melukavu. Surrounded by rolling hills and open landscapes, it is particularly attractive for trekking, photography and sunrise or sunset views.

Illikkal Kallu

Illikkal Kallu is a dramatic hill destination formed by three large hills rising high above the surrounding landscape. Its rocky formations and panoramic views make it a favourite among nature and adventure travellers.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls is a scenic waterfall surrounded by greenery and rubber plantations. The cascading water and peaceful setting make it a popular picnic and photography destination.

Malarikkal

Malarikkal near Thiruvarppu is known for its picturesque seasonal landscapes and village setting. During the blooming season, the area becomes especially attractive for photographers and nature lovers.

Vagamon

Vagamon lies in the Western Ghats and is known for rolling meadows, pine forests, cool weather and scenic viewpoints. It is an excellent choice for travellers looking for a hill-station experience.

Famous Dishes

Appam and Karimeen Mappas

Appam with Karimeen Mappas is one of the dishes specifically highlighted by the Kottayam district administration. Soft rice-based appam pairs particularly well with freshwater pearl spot cooked in a rich, mildly spiced gravy.

Kappa and Meen Curry

Kappa, or boiled tapioca, served with spicy fish curry is a classic Kerala combination. The earthy texture of tapioca works especially well with the tangy and spicy fish curry.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Puttu is a popular steamed rice-and-coconut breakfast dish usually served with kadala curry made from black chickpeas. It is one of Kerala's most familiar traditional meals.

Pathiri and Chicken Curry

Pathiri is a soft rice-based flatbread associated with Kerala's Muslim culinary tradition. It is commonly served with chicken or other meat curries, especially during special occasions.

Kerala Sadhya

Sadhya is a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. It usually includes rice, several vegetable preparations, pickles, pappadam, banana, buttermilk and payasam. It is especially associated with festivals, weddings and celebrations.

Karimeen Pollichathu

Karimeen Pollichathu is another popular preparation of pearl spot fish, usually marinated with spices and cooked with banana leaf wrapping. It is particularly suited to the backwater food culture of central Kerala.

Payasam

Payasam is a traditional Kerala dessert prepared using ingredients such as rice, milk, coconut milk or jaggery. It is commonly served during festivals and special meals.

Famous Personalities

K. R. Narayanan

K. R. Narayanan, India's former President, was born in Uzhavoor in Kottayam district. His journey from a modest background to becoming the President of India is an important part of the region's modern history.

Vaikom Muhammad Basheer

Vaikom Muhammad Basheer was one of the most celebrated Malayalam writers of the 20th century. His simple, humorous and deeply human writing made him one of the most influential literary figures associated with Kerala.

Kottarathil Sankunni

Kottarathil Sankunni was a renowned Malayalam writer and scholar best known for Aithihyamala, a celebrated collection of legends and stories from Kerala.

K. C. Mammen Mappillai

K. C. Mammen Mappillai was an important journalist and publishing figure associated with Kottayam's development as a centre of newspapers, printing and public communication.

Arundhati Roy

Booker Prize-winning author Arundhati Roy hails from Kottayam district. Her literary work has gained international recognition and added to the district's strong literary identity.

Mammootty

Malayalam cinema's celebrated actor Mammootty is also associated with Kottayam district. His long and influential film career has made him one of the best-known personalities from the region.

Festivals

Vaikathashtami

Vaikathashtami is one of Kottayam's most important temple festivals. Held at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, the celebrations extend over several days and culminate in the important Ashtami observance.

Ettumanoor Ezhara Ponnana

The Ettumanoor festival is famous for the ceremonial display of the Ezhara Ponnana, or seven-and-a-half golden elephants. The figures are traditionally brought out for devotees during the annual festival.

Attuvela Mahotsavam

Attuvela Mahotsavam is a distinctive water carnival held at the Elamkavu Bhagavathy Temple at Vadayar. Decorated structures are carried along the water as part of the colourful celebration.

Manarcad Perunnal

The annual feast at St. Mary's Church, Manarcad, is an important Christian pilgrimage event. The eight-day fasting and prayer tradition attracts devotees from different places.

Onam

Onam is celebrated throughout Kottayam with traditional food, cultural activities, flower decorations and boat-related festivities. The backwater regions add a special atmosphere to the celebrations.

Christmas

Christmas is celebrated widely across Kottayam, reflecting the district's strong Christian heritage. Churches, homes and towns are decorated during the festive season.

Things to Do

• Take a relaxing houseboat cruise through Vembanad Lake.
• Explore the backwaters and birdlife around Kumarakom.
• Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
• Explore the historic streets and architecture of Thazhathangadi.
• Visit Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam town.
• Explore the heritage and spiritual traditions of Vaikom.
• Visit Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple.
• Enjoy trekking and panoramic views at Illikkal Kallu.
• Watch the sunrise or sunset from Ilaveezhapoonchira.
• Visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls and enjoy the surrounding greenery.
• Explore village life around Kumarakom, Vaikom and other backwater areas.
• Try authentic Kottayam-style food, especially Appam and Karimeen Mappas.
• Explore the region's literary and publishing heritage.

Where to Eat, Shop, and Stay

Where to Eat

Kottayam town has a wide selection of restaurants serving traditional Kerala cuisine, South Indian food and other Indian dishes. For a more authentic experience, travellers can also explore local eateries and homestyle restaurants around Kumarakom, Vaikom and the surrounding villages.

Visitors should look for local specialities such as Appam and Karimeen Mappas, Kappa and Meen Curry, Puttu and Kadala Curry, Pathiri and Chicken Curry and traditional Sadhya.

Where to Shop

Kottayam is particularly interesting for shoppers looking for books, Malayalam publications, spices, rubber-related products, traditional handicrafts, Kerala snacks and locally produced goods.

The city's strong publishing heritage also makes it a good destination for visitors interested in Malayalam literature and books.

Where to Stay

Kottayam town is a convenient base for travellers who want access to transport, restaurants and city facilities. Kumarakom is ideal for travellers looking for luxury resorts and backwater experiences, while areas around Vaikom and the hill regions are better suited to visitors seeking village experiences, nature and quieter surroundings.

What is Kottayam Famous For?

Kottayam is famous for its literary and publishing heritage, Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom backwaters, rubber plantations, religious landmarks, traditional cuisine and scenic hill destinations.

The city is particularly known as the Akshara Nagari, or City of Letters, because of its historic contribution to Malayalam literature, journalism, printing and publishing.

Kottayam is also an important gateway to destinations such as Kumarakom, Vaikom, Vagamon, Thekkady and several pilgrimage centres.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kottayam is generally from October to March, when the weather is comfortable for sightseeing, backwater cruises, nature trips and outdoor activities.

The monsoon months from June to September bring heavy rainfall but also transform the countryside into a lush green landscape. Waterfalls and backwaters can look particularly beautiful during and after the rains, although travellers should check local weather and access conditions before visiting hill or waterfall destinations.

The festival season can be especially rewarding for visitors interested in local culture. Vaikathashtami, Ettumanoor festivals, Attuvela Mahotsavam, Onam and church festivals provide opportunities to experience Kottayam's rich traditions.

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest major airport is Cochin International Airport, located approximately 90 km from Kottayam according to the Kottayam district administration. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is another option, at approximately 160 km.

By Train

Kottayam has an important railway station with regular train services connecting the city to major destinations across Kerala and other parts of India. Kottayam Railway Station is convenient for travellers arriving by train.

By Road

Kottayam is well connected by road with Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Idukki and other parts of Kerala. KSRTC services connect Kottayam with several towns and pilgrimage destinations.

By Water

The backwater network around Kumarakom, Vembanad Lake and Vaikom provides opportunities for boat travel and cruises. Water-based travel is especially attractive for visitors who want to experience Kerala's traditional waterways.

Nearby Places

Kumarakom

Kumarakom is one of the closest and most popular destinations for a Kottayam trip. Its backwaters, bird sanctuary, resorts and village landscapes make it ideal for a day visit or overnight stay.

Vaikom

Vaikom is known for the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, backwaters and its historic role in the Vaikom Satyagraha. It is a good destination for travellers interested in history, spirituality and village life.

Vagamon

Vagamon is a scenic hill station known for green meadows, pine forests, cool weather and trekking opportunities. It is particularly attractive during the cooler months.

Illikkal Kallu

Illikkal Kallu offers dramatic mountain scenery and panoramic views across the surrounding highlands. It is an excellent choice for nature lovers and adventure travellers.

Ilaveezhapoonchira

Ilaveezhapoonchira is a beautiful highland destination with wide-open views and rolling hill landscapes. It is especially popular for sunrise and sunset experiences.

Vaikom and Kumarakom Backwaters

The backwater areas around Vaikom and Kumarakom provide opportunities to explore traditional villages, canals, fishing communities, paddy fields and coconut-lined waterways.

Peermade and Thekkady

Kottayam also serves as a convenient starting point for journeys towards the high-range destinations of Peermade and Thekkady, making it useful for travellers planning a wider central Kerala itinerary.

Best Duration for a Trip

2 to 3 days is a good duration for experiencing the highlights of Kottayam.

A two-day trip can include Kottayam town, Thazhathangadi, Kumarakom, Vembanad Lake and selected temples or heritage sites. With three days, travellers can add Vaikom, a waterfall or one of the scenic hill destinations.

Travellers interested in a relaxed backwater stay, village experiences and hill destinations can comfortably spend 4 to 5 days exploring Kottayam and its surroundings.

Travel Tips

• Plan your Kumarakom and Vembanad Lake experiences in advance during the peak season.
• Carry light cotton clothing for the warmer months.
• Keep rain protection handy during the monsoon season.
• Wear comfortable footwear for hill destinations and waterfalls.
• Check local weather and access conditions before visiting Illikkal Kallu and other highland areas.
• Respect temple, church and mosque customs when visiting religious landmarks.
• Try local dishes such as Appam and Karimeen Mappas during your stay.
• Carry binoculars if you plan to visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
• Book accommodation near Kumarakom if you want to enjoy a peaceful backwater stay.
• Keep some free time for exploring Kottayam's literary, publishing and heritage character.
• During major festivals, expect larger crowds around important temples and pilgrimage centres.

Why Visit Kottayam?

Kottayam is ideal for travellers who want to experience a quieter and more culturally diverse side of Kerala. Unlike destinations known primarily for beaches or hill stations, Kottayam brings together backwaters, literature, religion, plantations, village life and mountains.

The region offers a wide variety of experiences within a relatively compact travel area. You can begin your morning with a backwater cruise in Kumarakom, explore a historic mosque or temple, enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine and finish the day surrounded by the green hills of the Western Ghats.

Its deep connection with Malayalam literature and publishing also gives Kottayam a character that is different from many other Kerala destinations. For travellers interested in culture, history and authentic local experiences, the city offers plenty to discover.

Conclusion

Kottayam is a destination where Kerala's intellectual heritage, natural beauty and traditional way of life come together. From the peaceful waters of Vembanad Lake and Kumarakom to the literary history of the city and the misty hills of the eastern highlands, the region offers a diverse travel experience.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing backwater holiday, a cultural journey, a pilgrimage trip, a food experience or an escape into the hills, Kottayam provides a balanced mix of all these experiences.

With its reputation as the Land of Letters, Legends, Latex and Lakes, Kottayam is more than a stopover in Kerala. It is a destination that allows travellers to experience the state's history, culture, landscapes and everyday life at a slower and more meaningful pace.