Kottayam Backwaters

Kottayam is a destination that has gained international recognition with its unique lifestyle and alluring backwaters. Sailing in houseboats on the backwaters in Kottayam is a major attraction that allures tourists from far and wide. Traditionally known as Kettuvallams, these houseboats offer you a chance to explore a wide region in a traditional way. Loaded with luxury and comfort, these houseboats are giving a tough competition to the five-star hotels in the region. During the cruise, tourists pass through the villages of the region, which enables them to view the traditional lifestyle of the region.

Tourists can choose from a range of houseboats to cruise in the different regions in Kerala. Vembanad Lake, Kollam and Alappuzha are some other backwater destinations that offer a lifetime cruising experience to the travellers. The lush green surroundings and the chirpy music by birds add a different charm to the backwater cruise in Kerala.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is one of the most popular attractions of the region. According to the legends, the temple was built by Parasurama, the mythical founder of the state. One of the main temple rituals include offering of Prathal, the most Holy Anna Dana. Major attraction of the temple is a festival that falls in November or December. Celebrated with full zest, the festival lasts for twelve days. During the festival, devotees please the deity with their musical and classical dance performances.

Erumeli

Erumeli is an ancient temple in Kottayam district. Dedicated to the 'Sridharma Sastha', the temple welcomes countless devotees every year. There is a mosque also, which is dedicated to Vavar, a friend of Lord Ayyappa. Irrespective of cast or creed, devotees visit the temple and mosque to offer their prayers to the Almighty. The unique attraction of the place is a ceremony named Petta Thullal.

St. Mary's Forane Church

Established in 1318, St. Mary's Forane Church deserves a visit during your Kottayam travel. Dedicated to Our Lady of Assumption, the church is one of the most popular attractions of the region. Also recognised as the 'Church of Koratty Muthy', it hosts an annual feast on 10th of October. Other popular churches in the region include St Mary's Church in Valiapally and St Mary's Orthodox Church in Cheriyapally.

Climate

The best time to visit Kottayam lies between August and February. During this season, the region enjoys salubrious weather, which adds a different flavour to your experience of cruising on the backwaters of Kottayam.