Kottayam, a city located in the Indian state of Kerala, is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. The city is surrounded by picturesque backwaters, lush green forests, and rolling hills, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. In this article, we will take you on a journey to discover the top places to visit near Kottayam, showcasing the region’s unique blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality.
Places To Visit Near Kottayam
Kottayam is strategically located, making it easy to explore the surrounding regions. Here are some of the top places to visit near Kottayam:
Backwaters and Houseboats
The backwaters of Kottayam are a must-visit attraction. Take a leisurely cruise through the serene waterways, surrounded by lush green paddy fields and coconut groves. You can also opt for a houseboat stay, which offers a unique experience of living on the water.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Located about 100 km from Kottayam, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys. Take a boat ride through the Periyar Lake to get a glimpse of the wildlife.
Alappuzha
Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a charming town located about 45 km from Kottayam. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches, backwaters, and traditional Kerala architecture. Take a stroll along the beach, visit the Alappuzha Lighthouse, or take a houseboat ride through the backwaters.
Vaikom
Vaikom is a historic town located about 30 km from Kottayam. It’s famous for its ancient temples, including the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, which dates back to the 15th century. The town is also known for its traditional Kerala cuisine and handicrafts.
Ettumanoor
Ettumanoor is a scenic town located about 20 km from Kottayam. It’s famous for its ancient Shiva temple, which is one of the largest in Kerala. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a picturesque town located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. It’s famous for its beautiful backwaters, traditional Kerala architecture, and bird sanctuary. Take a leisurely cruise through the backwaters or visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary to spot a variety of bird species. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Seattle In Winter)
In conclusion, Kottayam is a great base for exploring the surrounding regions, which offer a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality. From backwaters and houseboats to wildlife sanctuaries and ancient temples, there’s something for everyone near Kottayam. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the hidden gems of this beautiful region.
Places To Visit Near Kottayam
Kottayam is a beautiful city in the state of Kerala, India, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. There are many places to visit near Kottayam that offer a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. Here are some of the top places to visit near Kottayam:
Historical Places
Kottayam is home to many historical places that showcase its rich cultural heritage. Some of the top historical places to visit near Kottayam include:
- Cheriyapally Church: This ancient church is one of the oldest in Kerala and is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning murals.
- St. Mary’s Forane Church: This beautiful church is known for its stunning architecture and is a popular pilgrimage site.
- Kottayam Museum: This museum is home to a wide range of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Kottayam.
Natural Attractions
Kottayam is surrounded by natural beauty, with many places to visit near the city that offer stunning views and opportunities for adventure. Some of the top natural attractions to visit near Kottayam include:
- Pulickisseri Waterfalls: This stunning waterfall is located in the nearby town of Kuttanad and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
- Meenachil River: This beautiful river is a popular spot for boating and fishing, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Illikkal Kallu: This stunning rock formation is located near the town of Mundakayam and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
Kottayam is home to several wildlife sanctuaries that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich biodiversity. Some of the top wildlife sanctuaries to visit near Kottayam include:
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and leopards, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Illikkal Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a wide range of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and mammals, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Other Places to Visit
In addition to its historical, natural, and wildlife attractions, Kottayam is also home to many other places to visit that offer a unique blend of culture and adventure. Some of the top other places to visit near Kottayam include:
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a wide range of bird species and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Pathiramanal Island: This island is located in the nearby town of Alleppey and is a popular spot for boating and fishing.
- Vembanad Lake: This beautiful lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Conclusion
Kottayam is a city in Kerala, India, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. There are many places to visit near Kottayam that offer a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. From historical places to natural attractions, wildlife sanctuaries, and other places to visit, Kottayam has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or adventure, Kottayam is a city that is sure to leave you with lasting memories. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Katni)
Kottayam, a charming city in the state of Kerala, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. In this article, we have explored the best places to visit near Kottayam, showcasing the city’s proximity to some of the most stunning attractions in the region.
We began by highlighting the famous Vembanad Lake, a serene and picturesque spot perfect for boating and relaxation. The nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, was also featured, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich biodiversity.
Next, we explored the historic town of Ettumanoor, famous for its ancient Shiva temple and intricate murals. The nearby Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, a stunning example of Kerala’s architectural heritage, was also discussed, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
For adventure seekers, we recommended the scenic backwaters of Kottayam, perfect for kayaking and canoeing. The nearby Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, a sacred site for devotees of Lord Krishna, was also featured, offering a glimpse into the region’s spiritual significance.
In conclusion, Kottayam is a city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the serene Vembanad Lake to the historic Ettumanoor temple, and from the scenic backwaters to the sacred Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, there’s something for everyone in and around Kottayam. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, Kottayam is a city that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
Here are five FAQs related to “Places To Visit Near Kottayam”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the nearest hill stations to Kottayam?
The nearest hill stations to Kottayam are PeeruMEDU and Thodupuzha. PeeruMEDU is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and trekking opportunities. Thodupuzha is another hill station that offers a serene atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Kamareddy)
Which beaches are close to Kottayam?
Kottayam is close to several beautiful beaches in Kerala. Some of the popular beaches near Kottayam include Marari Beach, Alleppey Beach, and Cherthala Beach. These beaches offer a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
What are the best places to visit for wildlife enthusiasts near Kottayam?
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, there are several places near Kottayam that you should visit. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary are two popular destinations that offer a chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and birds.
Are there any ancient temples near Kottayam?
Yes, there are several ancient temples near Kottayam that are worth visiting. The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple and the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple are two popular temples that date back to the 16th century. These temples are known for their intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
Can I go trekking near Kottayam?
Yes, there are several trekking trails near Kottayam that offer a chance to explore the beautiful landscape of Kerala. The Kurisumala Hill and the PeeruMEDU Hill are two popular trekking destinations that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.