The Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom (16 km from Kottayam town): Also
called a land of lakes, Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals
which empty into great expanse of water called the Vembanad lake. The lake,
an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism
destination, provides boating, fishing and sight seeing experiences that are
truly exhilarating. The Kumarakom Tourist Village offers houseboat cruises
and holiday packages.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (16 km from Kottayam town): Located
on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an
ornithologist's paradise and a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the
Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. A cruise along the Vembanad
lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary.
Pala and
Kanjirapally : Pala and Kanjirapally nourished by the Meenachil and
Manimala rivers respectively, these two towns are centres of rubber
plantations.
Siva Temple,Vaikom (40 km north of Kottayam):
Associated with the legendary Parasurama, this temple is a typical example
of Kerala Temple Architecture.
Thirunakkara Mahadevar
Temple: In the heart of Kottayam town.
Thalikotta
Temple: The ancient temple was the place of worship of the
Thekkumkoor royal family. The Kudamaloor Temple is equally famous. The
Thazhathangadi Mosque built on the Meenachil river is one of the oldest in
India. The C.S.I. Cathedral Church built over 175 years ago is a monument
from the British Era. The Old Seminary, Marthoma Seminary and Vadavathoor
Seminary proclaim Syrian and Roman traditions. The Malankara Orthodox Syrian
Church has its headquarters at Devalokam, Kottayam. The mortal remains of
the Blessed Father Chavara are entombed at the St.Joseph's Monastery Church
at Mannanam. Thousands gather at this holy shrine during festivals.
Mahadevar Temple, Ettumanoor (12 km north of Kottayam town):
Mahadevar Temple is famous for murals and ezharaponnana (the 71/2 elephants
finished in gold) Festival: Ezharaponnana utsavam (February/March)
The Vavarambalam, Erumeli (60 km north-east of Kottayam town):
This mosque is dedicated to Vavar, a contemporary and companion of Lord
Ayyappa, the deity of the Sabarimala Temple. The mosque is famous for the
centuries old custom of multitudes of Hindu pilgrims worshipping here before
their trek to Sabarimala to worship Lord Ayyappa. Festival: Pettathullal
(January)
St. Mary's Church, Bharananganam, Pala:
The mortal remains of the Blessed Alphonsa are entombed at this church which
is now a famous pilgrim centre. Thousands gather at this holy shrine during
the annual festival: Feast of the Blessed Alphonsa (July) * Ettunoyampu,
Manarcad (September)
St. Mary's Church, Kuravilangad:
Built in 355 A.D on the high ganges of Kuravilangad town, this church has an
old bell which bears a hitherto undeciphered inscription.
Valiapalli
& Cheriyapalli (2 km from Kottayam town): These two churches
dedicated to St. Mary were built in 1515 AD and 1579 AD respectively. The
Valiapalli is known for its Persian cross and Pahalavi inscriptions. The
Cheriyapalli houses some of the most exquisite murals and paintings based on
Biblical and non Biblical themes.
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