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Kottayam, celebrated as the literary capital of Kerala has much more than the 1st Malayalam Printing press to boast
of. There are many famous
artistically and historically important temples and churches here, including the Cherupally church that is known
for its 400 year old vegetable dye paintings on the walls and ceiling; and the Ettumannoor Siva Temple that is
noted for its superb wood carvings and murals. A small cluster of islands (Kumarakom) makes a picturesque holiday
spot in the backwaters of Kerala. There are also plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing and sightseeing. There
is also a bird sanctuary that is home to many local owl as well as migratory species. Kottayam is blessed with lush
rubber plantations, acres of paddy fields and several clear streams- all providing a relatively cool
climate. Aruvikkuzhi waterfalls in Kumarakom area presents a magnificent picnic spot. The many lakes and canals
that find its destination in the vast Vembanad Lake makes this land of letters, latex and lakes one of the best
spots from where one can take off on a luxurious backwater cruise.
::::::::::: Places to see in and around :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple - 12 kms north of Kottayam
This famous temple is well known for the several temple murals that add to the
beauty of the monument. The gopuram or the headstone of the temple has a painting of Nataraja- one of the forms
of Lord Siva. There is also the well known structure, ezhara ponnana. It is a magnificent sculpture of seven and
a half elephants, and it is done in gold. The temple celebrates a festival in honour of the sculpture. This is
called the Ezharaponnana Utsavam and is celebrated in February/ March.
This temple was erected to worship Goddess Saraswathi, the Goddess of learning. There
is famous Saraswathy Pooja celebrated here in the month of Thulam (September/October) that attracts devotees and
tourists from far and near.
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Thalikota temple, Kudamaloor temple is equally
famous, Siva Temple at Vaikom, Thiruvarpu Lord Krishna Temple, Subramanya Temple, Suryakshethram (temple in honour
of the Sun god) are the other famous temples in Kottayam. The artwork and woodcarvings at these temples are
examples of great craftsmanship and instance of typical Kerala style architecture.
This church is one of the most important pilgrim centers in South India. The
sacred place also known as Anakkallu Palli is also the chosen spot to preserve the mortal remains of blessed
sister Alphonsa. Her death anniversary is commemorated here every year and it is a function that attracts believers.
Kottayam also has several other famous churches, each of which has some feature
that earns it a distinct place. The Mannanam Church preserves the remains of blessed Fr. Kuriakose Elias
Chavara. The Kottayam Vimala Giri church, is the cathedral of the Diocese of Vijayapuram and is also considered
to have the highest church steeple (172 feet)in the state. The Manarcaad St. Mary's Church and the Pala
Valiyapally are famous for its celebrations of the famous Ettu Noyampu and Rakkullithirunal respectively.
Erumeli mosque in the name of Vavar, a friend of Lord Ayyappa, is almost as famous
as the Sabarimala Temple itself. The Chandanakkudam festival celebrated here every January is a grand festival
complete with dazzling procession with caparisoned elephants and panchvadyam. The mosque and the festival here
convey the spirit of Hindu-Muslim unity.
The Pazhayapally and Puthuppally mosques at Changanassery , Erattupetta mosque
and the ancient mosque at Thazhathangadi are famous Muslim worship centers.
Pilgrim Centres and Religious Festivals
Kottayam, where several well known temples, churches and mosques dwell side by
side, is the doorway to famous Hindu, Christian and Muslim pilgrim centers.
Beautiful High Ranges
Kottayam is flanked by the mighty Sahya Mountains in the East, and this gifts
the place a cool climate, panoramic views and faint tranquility. Several spots here would make ideal picnic
spots and idyllic getaways.
This is probably where nature has perfected its work with contrasts. This hill
station situated in the outskirts of the district presents the most mind-blowing picturesque scenery. The famous
Meenachil river gurgles through the landscape, bordering the clusters of steep rocks that overlook a deep
valley. The best time to visit the place is December- January when one can find plenty of vibrant flowers
and vivid orchids that paint an even more gorgeous picture.
The palace is a wonderful monument that speaks of the history of early royal
families and also showcases ancient Kerala architecture. There is also an astonishing collection of antiques
and artifacts preserved in the palace. Splendidly carved palanquins, special boats, huge chandeliers, palm
leaf engravings, gorgeous jewel boxes, different varieties of lamps, sculptures and idols, grain measures,
statues and weapons are some of the many amazing displays.
 This
is one of the most sought after tourist destination in Kerala. It is synonymous with luxurious backwater
cruising. However, a holiday on this perfect little village on the Vembanad Lake also provides opportunities
for boating, fishing and certain other water sports as well. A day in spectacularly built houseboats, among
acres of rice fields, exquisite forests and vast expanse of water, is an experience one cannot afford to
miss. The variety of birds that visit the bird sanctuary here adds more colour to the sweet memory of one's
visit to Kottayam.
This 10 acre stretch of land on the serene backwaters near Kumarakom, is a
perfect picnic spot intact and unpolluted, Pathiramanal is accessible only by boat. The marvelous site is
also the favourite of many species of birds from far and wide.
Vembanad Lake
This famous water body around Kumarakom, is instrumental in gifting Kottayam
with the wealth of backwaters. There are facilities to boating and fishing. A ride along the lake will also
present pleasant pictures of the simple village life in Kerala.
Kumarakam Bird Sanctuary 
It is a 14 acre bird sanctuary on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. There are
many different varieties of birds that make this their home from time to time. One can spot Egrets, darters,
herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork on their visit to the
sanctuary.
Aruvikkuzhi waterfalls in Kumarakom - 18 kms from Kottayam town
This magnificent falls add life and zest to the serenity that prevails through
most of Kumarakom. It is also a beautiful picnic spot and a lovely getaway.
Transport Facility
Air: Nearest airport Kochi (76 kms from Kottayam), Thiruvananthapuram
(160 km from Kottayam)
Rail: Kottayam has its own railway station connected to the major
cities of India and it is situated 2 km from the central bus station.
Road: An excellent network of roads connects the district to all
the major towns and cities of India.
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