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Tourist Attractions in Kottayam |
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Tourist Attractions in Kottayam
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The main tourist attractions in Kottayam are the Vembanad Lake,
Anchuvilakku, Erumeli, Kannadipara, Vazhikkadavu. |
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Vembanad Lake
Kottayam has a vast network of rivers and
canals which empty into the Vembanad
Lake. The lake is an enchanting picnic
spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination,
that provides boating, fishing and sightseeing
opportunities. The serene lake comes alive
during Onam with the spectacular
snake boat races. It is very
amazing to watch hundred of
oarsmen in one boat,
slicing their way through the waters to
the fast rhythm of their own full throated singing. |
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Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple
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The 500 year old Shiva temple set in the heart of the town
was built by a Thekkumkur Raja. This simple and small with interesting wall
paintings is a fine specimen of Kerala temple architecture. Its low roof stage
(koothambalam) and carved wooden bay windowns on all four sides are noteworthy.
There are also subsidiary shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Ayyappa and
Murugan. ‘Phalguna Utsav’, the annual festival is celebrated during March. |
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St. Mary’s Orthodox Church or ‘small church, Cheriapally:
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It was built in 1579, by the Portuguese under the
patronage of the local raja. The church with an elegant façade is a unique
blend of temple and Portuguese architecture. Its interiors are embellished with
fine vegetable dye paintings. |
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St. Mary’s Church or ‘big church’, Valiyapalli:
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The ancient Syrian Christian church set atop a small hill
was built in 1550, by the descendants of Syrian Knanya Christians. |
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Thazathangadi Jama Masjid:
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The magnificent backwaters of Kottayam is must for every
tourist visiting this charming town. Several operators at the jetty in
Kodimatha provide tours around the Vembanad
Lake. The best itinerary comprises
of a visit to R-block, Kumarakom Sanctuary, Pathiramanal island en-route to
Alappuzha. |
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Anchuvilakku
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Anchuvilakku,
about 22 km from Kottayam is a
stone lamp post, built near the
Changancherry boat jetty. This lamp post is a
typical example of Kerala architecture, and
was built by the renowned freedom fighter
Veluthampi Dalawa. The Changancherry market, one of the largest
in Kerala, was also established by him. The five lamps on this
post are lit by kerosene. |
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Erumeli
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Erumeli is the nature rich village, about 60 kms northeast
from Kottayam. It is nestled in the lush green Western Ghats.
This village is also the entrance point to South India's most
prominent pilgrim centre - the Sabrimala temple. Erumeli is an
important pilgrim centre for the Hindus and Muslims. Sree
Dharmasastha Temple here is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord
Ayyappa. At Kanakapalam nearby, teak plantations dot the
landscape. |
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Kannadipara
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The
valley of this rocky mountain reflects the morning sun with a
mirror like perfection. This is also the highest point in
Ilaveezhapoonchira. The Pazhakakanam
plateau is about 3 kms from here and nourished by the Kadapuzha
river. Bamboo groves, meadows and wild flowers make this place
exotic. The another attraction here is
the Kazhukankulimali waterfalls that playfully cascade down the
mountain and greet the river below with a magnificent splash. On
the eastern side of Kannadipara is a natural fort set amidst
steep rocks. |
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Nattakom and Panachikad
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These are the two quiet villages and the scenic
reservoirs together with vivid green adds charm to it. The migratory
birds came to this verdant landscape in every summer and frolic in the natural
splendours till the end of the season. A boat ride from Kodoorar
in Panachikad to Kumarakom is a great way to relax and enjoy
nature's bounties. Some of the facilities
like an Ayurvedic massages to boating,
fishing and swimming fulfills the
recreational needs of the tourists. |
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Vazhikkadavu
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Vazhikkadavu is a small hill station, situated on the outskirts
of the district. This hill station of rocky terrain is known for
its pristine nature. On one side of the main rock are extremely
tall and steep rocks and on the other hand is a valley of
fearful depth. Bordering this crude landscape like a silver lace
is the Meenachil river. During the month of December, the
landscape comes alive in a riot of colours with orchids and wild
flowers. |
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