Activities
Bordered by the Western Ghats and the pictureque Vembanad Lake, Kottayam is one of the most beautiful destinations in Kerala. Well-known for its scenic backwaters, picturesque hills, old world charm, interesting sights, churches, temples, and stunning beauty, Kottayam must be included on a holiday in Kerala.
The numerous plantations – rubber, coconut, palm, spices and the flora make for lush green landscapes that are totally stunning. All these factors, aside from it being strikingly beautiful, make it as one of the must visit destinations in Kerala.
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple
Thirunakkara Mahadeva temple was constructed in the early 16th century by the Raja of Thekkumkur. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and represents beautiful Kerala style of architecture. The temple is adorned with murals that depict themes of Hindu epics. The temple is visited by numerous tourists during the annual festival Aaraattu that lasts for 10 days. Various folk art forms like Mayilattom, Velakali and Kathakali are performed by professional dancers at the festival. A procession is also carried out on elephants, rendering glimpse into the traditions, customs and rituals of Kerala.
Thazhathangady Juma Masjid
Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, also known as the Taj Juma Masjid, is located on the banks of the Meenachil River. The foundation of the shrine was laid by the members of the Jama-Athe in 1959 and was completed in 1964. Renowned for its wood carvings and beautiful architecture, the mosque was the abode of Muslims who arrived in Kottayam from different parts of Kerala. Since 1947, the residents of the mosque follow the Hanafi tradition, under the guidance of the Kottayam Settu Masjid.
St. Mary’s Orthodox Church
St. Mary’s Orthodox Church is located in Cheriyapalli at a distance of around 4 km from the destination. Being a prominent centre for the Syrian Christians of Kerala, the church originally belonged to the Malankara Orthodox Christians. It was constructed by the Raja of Tekkumur in 1579 in Kerala in Portuguese architectural styles. Tourists can also see the influence of Hindu temple architectural styles. Depicting biblical and non-biblical themes, the walls of the church are adorned with murals and stone carvings. The church is especially visited for the feasts of St. Mary and St. Mary’s Feast of Assumption that are held on January 15 and August 15 respectively.
Elaveezhapoonchira
Elaveezhapoonchira is a beautiful hill station that lies in proximity to Melukavu Mattom. It is situated in the midst of three beautiful hillocks namely, Mankunnu, Kudayathoormala and Thonippara. The hill station derives its name from two words ‘Elaveezha’ and ‘poonchira’, meaning a valley where leaves do not fall. Elaveezhapoonchira, which spreads over an area of thousand acres, is a place where there are no trees or plantations. It is believed that the site was the bathing place of Paanchali, the legendary Queen of Mahabharata.
