Key Takeaways:
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Kottayam offers a unique mix of serene backwaters, rich literature heritage, and vibrant religious traditions year-round.
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The city is a gateway to Kerala’s lush countryside, filled with hiking trails, ancient churches, and quiet temple villages.
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Whether you enjoy houseboat rides, spice markets, or literary history, Kottayam delivers meaningful experiences in every season.
Located in the heart of Kerala, Kottayam is a land of letters, latex, and lakes. Known for its high literacy rate and deep cultural roots, this city is a gateway to Kerala’s tranquil backwaters and rolling Western Ghats. Historically, Kottayam played a crucial role in India’s publishing industry and is still home to influential newspapers, writers, and religious institutions.
People love Kottayam for its lush scenery, peaceful pace, and spiritual atmosphere. It’s not as touristy as Kerala’s coastal towns, which gives it a charming, authentic appeal. From ancient churches and temples to forested hills and canoe rides through coconut groves, Kottayam invites exploration all year long.
Table of Contents
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Cruise the Vembanad Lake Backwaters
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Visit the Ancient St. Mary’s Orthodox Church in Cheriapally
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Hike Through Illikkal Kallu and Its Stunning Views
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Explore the Kerala Literature Museum and Publishing Legacy
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Enjoy Birdwatching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
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Attend a Local Festival at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple
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Take a Spice Garden Tour in Poonjar Hills
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Visit the Peaceful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid
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Walk Through the Rubber Plantations and Learn Tapping Techniques
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Discover Village Life on a Bicycle Tour
1. Cruise the Vembanad Lake Backwaters
Vembanad Lake, the longest in Kerala, stretches along the western edge of Kottayam and offers some of the most tranquil houseboat and canoeing experiences in South India. Surrounded by lush paddy fields, palm-lined canals, and lotus ponds, it’s a picture-perfect escape into nature.
You can book a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat) for a day cruise or overnight stay, complete with Keralan meals and panoramic views. Smaller canoe rides provide a closer look at village life, fishing scenes, and birdwatching opportunities. The backwaters are beautiful year-round but especially vibrant during the monsoon when the landscape turns emerald green.
2. Visit the Ancient St. Mary’s Orthodox Church in Cheriapally
Dating back to 1579, St. Mary’s Orthodox Church in Cheriapally is one of India’s oldest surviving Christian churches. The architecture blends Kerala and Portuguese styles, featuring stone walls, murals, and wooden altars that reflect the region’s deep-rooted faith and artistry.
The church is still active and welcomes visitors throughout the year. Whether you’re attending a service or quietly walking through its cool interiors, the space offers a sense of spiritual calm. History lovers will appreciate the preserved manuscripts and Christian-Hindu artistic synthesis carved into its pillars.
3. Hike Through Illikkal Kallu and Its Stunning Views
Illikkal Kallu is a striking rock formation perched over 3,500 feet above sea level in the Western Ghats near Kottayam. A moderate hike takes you past streams, cardamom plantations, and open ridgelines before you reach the rock’s famous cleft—often cloaked in mist.
The viewpoint offers panoramic vistas over the Kerala hills and valleys, especially mesmerizing at sunrise and sunset. The trail is accessible year-round, though early mornings or post-monsoon months offer the best conditions. It’s a great choice for adventure seekers and photographers alike.
4. Explore the Kerala Literature Museum and Publishing Legacy
Kottayam is known as Akshara Nagari (City of Letters) for good reason—it’s the birthplace of many of Kerala’s earliest publications and literary journals. The Kerala Literature Museum highlights the region’s proud literary past, featuring first editions, printing presses, and exhibits on legendary Malayalam authors.
The museum is housed in a historic building and also showcases handwritten scripts and printing memorabilia. Visiting gives you a richer appreciation for how Kottayam shaped Kerala’s education and intellectual identity. It’s a quiet, enriching stop—ideal on a rainy afternoon or cultural day out.
5. Enjoy Birdwatching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Set along the banks of Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a haven for migratory and resident birds alike. Spanning over 14 acres, the sanctuary is home to herons, kingfishers, paradise flycatchers, and even Siberian storks during winter migration.
A network of raised paths and boating routes makes it easy to explore, whether you’re an avid birder or casual observer. Early morning visits offer the best sightings and peaceful ambiance. The sanctuary is lush and accessible year-round, making it a favorite among nature lovers.
6. Attend a Local Festival at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is one of Kerala’s oldest and most significant Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s especially famous during the annual Vaikathashtami festival held between November and December, when the entire town transforms into a hub of processions, lamps, and cultural performances.
Even outside of festival season, the temple is worth visiting for its intricate wooden architecture, ancient carvings, and sacred pond. Pilgrims and visitors alike are welcomed with warmth, and the serene surroundings offer a peaceful retreat. It’s a powerful blend of devotion, history, and art that defines Kottayam’s spiritual spirit.
7. Take a Spice Garden Tour in Poonjar Hills
Poonjar Hills, located about an hour from Kottayam, are home to verdant spice plantations growing cardamom, pepper, vanilla, and nutmeg. Local farmers offer guided tours where you can walk through shaded paths, learn about organic farming, and even taste freshly harvested spices.
The hills also feature small waterfalls, forest trails, and an old royal palace nearby for a full day of eco-cultural exploration. The region stays green and fragrant throughout the year, with monsoon months being particularly lush. It’s a calming escape that connects visitors to Kerala’s agricultural roots.
8. Visit the Peaceful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid
This 1,000-year-old mosque sits quietly by the Meenachil River and is one of India’s oldest and most beautiful wooden mosques. Renowned for its handcrafted latticed windows, teak pillars, and sloping tiled roof, the mosque is a marvel of traditional Kerala architecture.
Though it’s a functioning mosque, visitors are welcome (outside prayer times), and respectful dress is appreciated. The surrounding riverfront adds to its serenity, especially during early morning or late afternoon visits. It’s a hidden gem that showcases Kottayam’s multi-faith heritage.
9. Walk Through the Rubber Plantations and Learn Tapping Techniques
Kottayam is one of India’s largest producers of natural rubber, and rubber plantations are spread across its rural outskirts. Many estates offer tours where you can watch or try your hand at rubber tapping, understand the process from tree to sheet, and walk through shady rows of trees.
These tours often include a short nature walk and insights into how the rubber industry shaped local livelihoods. They’re especially enjoyable during early morning or after rain when the forests are cool and earthy. It’s a simple but eye-opening experience tied deeply to the region’s economy.
10. Discover Village Life on a Bicycle Tour
One of the best ways to explore Kottayam’s countryside is by joining a guided bicycle tour through its villages. These routes take you past rice paddies, banana groves, ancient wells, temples, and smiling locals who often wave you in for tea.
The terrain is mostly flat and the pace is slow, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Tours are available year-round and often end with a local lunch in a homestay or riverside hut. If you want to truly feel the soul of Kerala, this is one of the most immersive ways to do it.
What to do if you have kids?
Kottayam is a great family destination filled with nature-based and cultural activities. Kids will enjoy spotting birds at Kumarakom Sanctuary, riding in houseboats on Vembanad Lake, and exploring interactive exhibits at the literature museum.
Hikes like Illikkal Kallu can be adapted for older children, and spice gardens provide sensory fun for all ages. Many temples, parks, and lakeside spots offer open space to run around safely. With its friendly locals and easy pace, Kottayam is both educational and enjoyable for young travelers.
Where can I find free events in Kottayam India taking place this weekend?
To find free cultural events, temple festivals, art exhibits, public talks, or nature workshops happening in Kottayam this weekend, head over to PlanMyWeekend.ai. The platform curates real-time listings of everything happening nearby—whether you’re a local or just passing through. From evening processions to poetry readings and folk music concerts, you’ll always find something enriching and free to do in Kottayam.
Final Thoughts
Kottayam is a city that captures the heart of Kerala through its peaceful waterways, literary legacy, and deep spiritual life. Whether you’re gliding through its backwaters, hiking hilltop trails, or discovering the warmth of its villages, each experience reveals something timeless and true. It’s a destination that invites you to slow down, learn, and connect. Visit in any season and you’ll find Kottayam’s natural beauty and soulful charm waiting to embrace you.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
