list out 50 Places to Visit in Kottayam district when and why
Kottayam district in Kerala, India, is known for its picturesque landscapes, serene backwaters, lush greenery, and cultural heritage. Here is a list of 50 places to visit in Kottayam district, along with the best time to visit and the reasons why these places are worth exploring:
- Kumarakom: Visit this backwater destination between November and February to enjoy houseboat rides and bird watching.
- Vembanad Lake: The largest lake in Kerala, best visited from November to March for backwater cruises and scenic beauty.
- Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall: Visit during monsoon (June to September) to witness the waterfall in its full glory.
- Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple: Visit during February-March for the annual festival, celebrated with grand processions and cultural events.
- Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple: The annual festival in February-March is a major attraction with traditional dance performances and rituals.
- Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: Visit during November-December for the famous Vaikathashtami festival.
- St. Mary’s Church, Bharananganam: Visit in April for the feast of Saint Alphonsa, attracting pilgrims from all over.
- Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park: Anytime from November to February, explore this unique park focusing on agricultural practices.
- Poonjar Palace: Open throughout the year, this historical palace offers insights into Kerala’s royal heritage.
- Kottathavalam Cave Temple: Visit in January during the Thaipooyam festival for a spiritual experience.
- Kottayam Market: Explore throughout the year to experience the vibrant local culture and buy fresh produce.
- Thazhathangady Juma Masjid: Anytime during the year, visit this ancient mosque reflecting traditional Kerala architecture.
- Cheriyapally: Visit this ancient church in August during the Feast of the Assumption of Mary.
- Kottayam Cheriyapally: Visit in January during the Feast of Epiphany to witness grand celebrations.
- Kottayam Boat Jetty: Explore throughout the year for boat rides and relaxing by the backwaters.
- Bay Island Driftwood Museum: Visit any time to witness an impressive collection of driftwood sculptures.
- Elaveezhapoonchira: Visit during monsoon or winter for breathtaking views and trekking opportunities.
- Pallippurathu Kavu Temple: Visit in February-March for the annual festival, marked by processions and cultural events.
- Aruvikuzhy Waterfalls: Visit in monsoon for the cascading beauty and lush green surroundings.
- Ilaveezhapoonchira: Visit in winter for a unique experience of lush green meadows.
- Kottayam Cheriapally: Visit in January for the Feast of Epiphany celebrations.
- Vembanad Houseboats: Explore throughout the year for a relaxing houseboat stay on the backwaters.
- Mahatma Gandhi University: Visit throughout the year for its serene campus and academic ambiance.
- Nattakom and Panachikkadu: Visit during the annual Saraswathi temple festival in February-March.
- Kottayam Mother Teresa Ashram: Visit any time to engage in charitable activities and contribute to the community.
- Chengalam South Church: Visit during the annual feast in December for religious processions and cultural events.
- Saraswathi Temple, Panachikkadu: Visit during the annual Saraswathi temple festival in February-March.
- Puthuppally Church: Visit in January for the feast of St. George, celebrated with grand processions.
- Elaveezha Poonchira: Visit during monsoon or winter for stunning views and trekking adventures.
- Valiapally Church, Thottakkad: Visit in January for the annual feast of St. Sebastian, marked by religious rituals and cultural events.
- Erumely: Visit in January during the Petta Thullal festival at the Vavar Mosque.
- Kanjirappally: Visit the numerous ancient churches and temples throughout the year, reflecting the region’s cultural diversity.
- Aranmula: Visit during Onam (August-September) for the famous Aranmula Snake Boat Race.
- Kumaranalloor: Visit in April for the annual feast of Lord Sree Kumaranalloor Balasubramanyaswamy Temple.
- Vazhappally Maha Siva Temple: Visit in February-March for the annual Ashtami Rohini festival.
- Thrikodithanam Mahavishnu Temple: Visit in January for the annual Pallivetta ceremony.
- Sri Dharma Sastha Temple, Erumeli: Visit during the Petta Thullal festival in January.
- Nedumkunnam Durga Devi Temple: Visit during the annual festival in February-March.
- Vimalagiri Church, Kottayam: Visit in January for the annual feast of St. Mary, marked by processions and religious ceremonies.
- Mangalam Dam: Visit throughout the year for boating and picnicking.
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Best visited from November to February for bird watching.
- Juma Masjid, Thazhathangadi: Visit throughout the year for its serene ambiance and historical significance.
- St. George’s Forane Church, Aruvithura: Visit in January for the annual feast of St. Sebastian.
- Mahadeva Temple, Thazhathangadi: Visit during the annual Arattu festival in February-March.
- Thiruvarppu Sree Krishna Temple: Visit during the annual festival in March-April.
- Mahadevar Temple, Vaikom: Visit during the Vaikathashtami festival in November-December.
- Marmala Waterfall: Best visited during monsoon for its impressive cascades and lush green surroundings.
- Kaduthuruthy Thaliyil Mahadeva Temple: Visit during the annual festival in February-March.
- St. Dominic’s Cathedral, Kanjirappally: Visit throughout the year for its architectural beauty and religious significance.
- Vennimala Sree Rama Lakshmana Perumal Temple: Visit during the annual Utsavam in February-March.
Please note that the best time to visit these places can vary based on weather conditions and local festivals, so it’s advisable to check the specific dates and weather forecasts before planning your trip.