Kottayam

H. Qrs. : Kottayam

Area : 2203 Sq. Ft.

Season : September / march

Altitude : Sea leavel S. T. D. Code : 0481

Transport And Travel : Air : Cochin Air Port is nearest (69km.)

Rail : Connected to all cities of India Road : Connected to all towns in the state

Water : Ferry service to Alapuzha, Mannar, Champakulam, Ambalapuzha. Etc.

Local : Taxies, Auto, Bus.

Tourist Interest Places :

1. Kumarakam : 12 km. West of Kottayam, on the banks of the Vembanad backwaters, is a bird sanctury the season is June to August. Kumarakam is a tourist resort with 100 acres of coconut estate and bunglow called Bakel Mansion. The K.T.D.C. boats are available for hire for backwater cruise [12 km. From Kottayam Town]

2. Valiyapalli (St. Mary's Church) : Built in 1550 A. D. for the Knanaya Orthodox Syrians at Thazhathangady 2 km. From the town is famous for the 8th century Parsian cross with the Pallva inscription on it

3. Cheriyapalli: located near the Valiyapalli built in 1579 A.D. has murals and paintings depicting Bible themes

4. Ayyampara : Ayyampara is a beautiful scenic spot of rocky plains. Flat rock makes a natural granite stadiyam (100 acre ). Is an excellent point for sunset viewing. [43 km. From Kottayam]

5. Bharananganam : Bharananganam is an important Christian pilgrim center. Is the place where the mortal remains of Sister Alphonsa ( 1916-1946) is interned in a Chapel next to the St. Mary's Church. The anciant church contains an attractive Grotto of Virgin Mary.

6. Ettumanoor : An important Hindu pilgrimage center. Ettumanoor is famous for the 16th century Siva Temple and for the ten days festival in February / March. The inner and outer walls of the temple are decorated with exquisite sculptures and murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology [17 km.from kottayam.]

7. Mountains of Elaveezhchapoonchira : Mountains of Elaveezhchapoonchira is a picnic spot accessable from Palai and located the midst of beautiful hiillocks about 3000 ft. above sea level

8. Mundakayam : Mundakayam is the foot hill town before starting the mountainterain [50 km. From Kottuam ]

9. Panachikad : The Dakshina(Southern) Mukambika Saraswathy Temple at Panachikad is one of the most famous temples, dedicated to the Goddess of Learning. [10 km. from Kottayam]

10. Wagamon : 60 km. From kottayam, at an elevation of 1100 meters, Wagamon is a trekkers 'Paradise'