Kottayam Places to Visit
|| Kottayam || Activities in Kottayam || Kottayam Art and Culture || Kottayam Fairs and Festivals || Kottayam Places to Visit ||
Pilgrim Centers :
Kottayam is the gateway to some pilgrim centers such as Sabarimala, Mannanam, Vaikom, Ettumanoor, Bharananganam, Erumeli, Manarcadu, Aruvithura and Athirampuzha. Vaikom Siva Temple is just 40 km. north of Kottayam town which is an emblem of Kerala Temple Architecture. Pilgrims also can set out tour to Perunna, Vazhappally and Thrikkodithanam near Changanacherry. Tourist while in Kottayam can explore the pilgrims centre located in and around it.
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Shiva Temple :
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Shiva Temple dating back to 500 years is a true example of Kerala architecture. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built by Thekkumar Raja; the main attraction is its murals on its walls which tell mythological stories and epical stories of the Hindu epics. The annual Phalguna Utsav is celebrated with great pomp and show during the month of March.
Panchikkadu Saraswathy Temple :
This temple is located at Panchikkadu; it has been described as the Dakshina Mookambika of Kerala. Though it is named after Saraswathy, Vishnu is the man deity in the temple. The idol of Saraswathy lies in the waters of a pond. The never changing creeper nearby is worshipped by the devotees as the idol.
St.Mary’s Knanaya Church :
Known as Valiyapalli, this church is perched on top a hill. The main attraction is its huge Persian crosses made of granite. The ceiling and altar of the church are decked with frescoes depicting stories from the Bible. St. George’s Feast is celebrated here in the month of April.
Thazhathangadi mosque :
Located on the banks of the Minachil River, this Thazhathangadi mosque is said to be 1000 years old. It is made completely from teak. The architecture is attractive with its latticed windows, the bathing tank, and the carved wooden tank.
Backwaters of Kottayam :
Kottayam is known for its backwater tourism, the Vembanad Lake with its network of backwater routes make Kottayam a preferred backwater destination. One can enjoy backwater cruise on a traditional houseboat through the backwater canals of Kottayam.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary :
Bird watchers can set out birding tour to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary which is home to birds like Siberian Stork, egret, darter, heron, teal etc. as well as local birds like the wood pecker, parrot, crane etc.
