Kottayam City Tour Guide - Kerala

An important centre of the Syrian Christian community in Kerala, Kottayam is located between the palm-fringed backwaters on the west and the Western Ghats to the east. Also called the Rome of the East, the city is renowned for its churches and houses built in the colonial styleIn 9th century AD Kottayam was a part of the Kulashekara Empire (AD 1090–1102) and was referred to as Vempolinad (the logical root of the Vembanad Lake). By about 1102, the empire split into the kingdoms of Thekkumkur and Vadakkumkur. Both these kingdoms were annexed by Marthanda Varma of Travancore between 1748 and 1754. During Marthanda Varma/’s reign, Kottayam received a prominent place among the princely states of the South. During 1924–25, Kottayam became the breeding ground for the Vaikom Satyagraha, a movement started for eradication of untouchability in the state The Syrian Christian community has a special place in the history of Kottayam. Kottayam has a moderate and pleasant climate. The temperature here reaches up to 34.33°C during summers. The winter months are more suited for a visit to this place.


Kottayam Facts:

• Area 27.33 sq. km
• Population 89,625
• Altitude Sea level
• Languages Malayalam and English
• STD Code 0481
• Best time to visit October to March

Tourist Attractions in Kottayam

The lush paddy fields, the highlands, the extensive rubber, tea, coffee, teak, cardamom, and pepper plantations enchant all those who visit this little town. The panoramic backwaters here offer an ideal retreat to enjoy nature at its best. A visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Vembanad Lake with beautiful sights provides an opportunity for boating and fishing.

Tourist Attractions around Kottayam

Pathiramanal, an enchanting island that can only be accessed by a boat. The religious-minded should not miss a visit to Erumeli, an important pilgrim centre for both the Hindus and Muslims.