Explore Kottayam
Kottayam
Explore Kottayam: A Brief Introduction
Known as the Land of Letters, Lakes and Latex, Kottayam is a city located in the beautiful South Indian state of Kerala. Nestled between the majestic Vembanad Lake and the scenic Western Ghats, the city boasts a unique blend of nature, culture, and history. With its verdant paddy fields, mangrove forests, coconut groves, and age-old temples, Kottayam offers a serene and picturesque retreat for every traveler.
Why is Kottayam famous?
Kottayam is famous for its contributions to literature and education, earning it the title, 'Akshara Nagari' or 'City of Letters'. It is home to several reputed educational institutions and was the first town in India to achieve 100% literacy. The city is also renowned for its spice and rubber trades, with numerous plantations dotting the landscape. Kottayam is also a gateway to the famous pilgrim centers of Sabarimala, Vaikom and Ettumanoor.
How to Reach:
Kottayam is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 90 kilometers away. The city is well-connected by rail with regular trains from major cities in India. Road travelers can reach Kottayam via the National Highway 183 that passes through the city.
When to Visit Kottayam:
The best time to visit Kottayam is between October and March. During this period, the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, boating and exploring the city's natural beauty. The monsoon season (June to September) provides a different kind of charm with lush green landscapes and fresh air.
Local Transportation in Kottayam
Local transportation in Kottayam is well-developed with numerous options available. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation operates regular buses within the city. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also readily available. For a unique experience, try a boat ride through the city's extensive network of canals and waterways.
Things to Do and Activities in Kottayam
Kottayam offers a myriad of activities for every kind of traveler:
- Explore the city’s heritage by visiting the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, an ancient temple built by the Thekkumkoor Maharajah.
- Visit the Driftwood Museum, a unique museum displaying sculptures made from driftwood.
- Enjoy boating in the Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in India.
- Take a stroll through the numerous spice and rubber plantations in and around the city.
- Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for birdwatchers.
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FAQs about
Kottayam is located in the South Indian state of Kerala.
The best time to visit Kottayam is from September to March.
The main tourist attractions in Kottayam are Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, and St. Mary's Orthodox Church.
The local language in Kottayam is Malayalam.
The local cuisine of Kottayam includes dishes like Appam, Beef Roast, and various seafood dishes.
Kottayam can be reached by air (Cochin International Airport), by train (Kottayam Railway Station), and by road from various parts of Kerala and neighboring states.
Yes, it is generally safe to travel in Kottayam but it's always advisable to take standard travel precautions.
Yes, there are a number of good hotels and resorts in and around Kottayam.
Kottayam has a tropical climate. Summers (March to May) are hot and humid, monsoons (June to September) are marked by heavy rainfall, and winters (October to February) are mild and pleasant.
If you are not an Indian citizen, you will need a visa to travel to Kottayam.
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