Kottayam: The Land of Letters, Lakes, and Latex**

 # **Kottayam: The Land of Letters, Lakes, and Latex**


Set in the very heart of Kerala, **Kottayam** is a picturesque and culturally vibrant district famous for its **literary legacy, breathtaking backwaters, rubber plantations, and ancient temples**. Fondly called the **"Land of Letters, Lakes, and Latex,"** Kottayam boasts Kerala's first **100% literate town**, the majestic **Vembanad Lake**, and expansive tracts of **rubber plantations** that power its economy.


If you're seeking a **peaceful retreat** with nature, history, and cultural diversity, Kottayam is a **place to visit** in Kerala.  


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## **Why Visit Kottayam?**


???? **Rich Literary & Educational Heritage** – The first town in India to reach **100% literacy**.

???? **Scenic Backwaters & Lakes** – Visit the **Vembanad Lake and Kumarakom Backwaters**.

???? **Historic Churches & Temples** – A mix of ancient Christian and Hindu architecture.

???? **Lush Plantations & Eco-Tourism** – Extensive **rubber plantations and rolling green hills**.

???? **Houseboat Cruises & Bird Watching** – Ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure enthusiasts.


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## **Top Attractions in Kottayam**


### **1. Kumarakom Backwaters** – A Serene Escape

One of Kerala's most renowned backwater destinations, **Kumarakom** is a heaven of **serene waters, coconut lagoons, and houseboat vacations**. The **Vembanad Lake**, the biggest in Kerala, is ideal for a **slow boat cruise**, watching the sunset, or a visit to the **Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary** for spotting migratory birds. 


### **2. Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple** – A Fusion of Tradition & Art

Situated in the center of Kottayam, the **Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple** is a **centuries-old** Lord Shiva temple. The temple is renowned for its **traditional Kerala-style architecture and vibrant murals** illustrating Hindu mythology.


### **3. St. Mary's Church, Bharananganam** – The Tomb of St. Alphonsa

A prominent pilgrimage destination among Christians, **St. Mary's Church** in Bharananganam is the resting place of **St. Alphonsa, the first Indian woman saint**. The peaceful environment and religious importance of the church draw thousands of pilgrims.


### **4. Illikkal Kallu** – A Scenic Hilltop View

For the adventure enthusiasts, **Illikkal Kallu** provides a stunning **360-degree panoramic view** of the Western Ghats. This huge rock outcrop, sitting at **3,400 feet above sea level**, is perfect for **trekking, photography, and nature enthusiasts**.


### **5. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple** – An Ancient Shiva Temple

This **ancient temple** is famous for its **Dravidian-style architecture and beautiful murals**, such as the popular **"Nataraja" (Lord Shiva's cosmic dance)** painting. The **Ezhara Ponnana festival** celebrated annually is a big affair with thousands of pilgrims. 


### **6. Poonjar Palace** – A Glimpse into Royalty

For history enthusiasts, the **Poonjar Palace** is a gem that presents **Kerala's royal heritage**. The palace boasts **intricate wooden carvings, antique furniture, and artifacts** that present the splendor of Kerala's history.


### **7. Vagamon** – A Peaceful Hill Station

Only a short drive from Kottayam, **Vagamon** is a stunning hill station with **rolling meadows, pine forests, tea estates, and misty valleys**. It's a great place for **trekking, paragliding, and unwinding in nature's lap**.


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## **Things to Do in Kottayam**


???? **Houseboat Ride in Kumarakom** – Cruise through the picturesque backwaters.

???? **Bird Watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary** – Identify migratory birds such as Siberian cranes.  

⛰ **Trek to Illikkal Kallu** – Witness breathtaking scenery from the hilltop.  

???? **Visit Historic Temples & Churches** – Visit **Ettumanoor and Thirunakkara Temples**.  

???? **Explore Rubber Plantations** – Discover Kerala's rubber industry.  

???? **Escape to Vagamon** – Ideal for adventure and relaxation.  


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## **Local Cuisine to Try in Kottayam**  


???? **Karimeen Pollichathu** – Pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf and grilled with spices.  

???? **Meen Curry (Fish Curry)** – A must-try spicy, tangy dish made with coconut.  

???? **Kappa & Meen Curry** – Tapioca paired with fish curry, a Kerala favorite.  

???? **Puttu & Kadala Curry** – Steamed rice cakes with black chickpea curry.

???? **Konchu Fry** – Spicy prawn fry, Kerala-style.  


For the best dining experience, go to:

- **Theos Restaurant** – Famous for true Kerala food.  

- **Hotel Anand** – Perfect place for traditional veg meals.  

- **Thali Restaurant** – Renowned for tasty seafood and local cuisine.  


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## **Best Time to Visit Kottayam**


???? **Winter (October – March):** Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.  

???? **Monsoon (June – September):** Ideal for feeling lush greenery and waterfalls.  

???? **Summer (April – May):** Can get hot, but Vagamon is a cool respite.  


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## **How to Reach Kottayam**


✈ **By Air:** Nearest airport is **Cochin International Airport (88 km)**.

???? **By Train:** **Kottayam Railway Station** is well linked to major cities.

???? **By Road:** Well linked by **NH-183 and NH-66** to major Kerala towns and cities.


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## **Final Thoughts**


Kottayam is a **perfect blend of nature, culture, history, and adventure**. Whether you’re cruising the **Kumarakom backwaters, trekking to Illikkal Kallu, or exploring ancient temples and churches**, this hidden gem in Kerala offers an **unforgettable travel experience**.  


????✨ **

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