Kottyam
a river running through a lush green forest

Best time to visit Kottyam


Kottayam, characterized by tropical climatic conditions, witnesses hot and humid summers. The monsoon season, spanning from June to September, brings substantial rainfall to the region. The months from September to February, constituting winter, introduce a pleasant cool breeze, making it the optimal time to discover the town.

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How to Reach Kottayam: Your Travel Guide

By Air:

  • Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

  • Distance: Approximately 76 km from Kottayam

  • Transportation: Taxis and buses are readily available at the airport. The journey takes about 2 hours.

By Rail:

  • Main Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station

  • Connectivity: Well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore.

  • Services: Regular trains run from various parts of the country, making it a convenient rail option.

By Road:

  • Road Networks: Kottayam is well-connected by roads to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states.

  • Bus Services: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates buses, and private services are also available.

  • Distances:

    • Cochin: Approximately 76 km

    • Trivandrum: Approximately 153 km

    • Kozhikode: Approximately 258 km

By Water:

  • Backwater Routes: For a scenic journey, you can explore the backwater routes, especially if arriving from Alleppey or Kumarakom.

Local Transportation:

  • Auto-rickshaws: Widely available for short-distance travel within the town.

  • Taxis: Taxis can be hired for more comfortable and convenient travel.

Travel Tips:

  • Best Time to Travel: The winter months from September to February offer the most pleasant weather for exploration.

  • Weather Consideration: Monsoons (June to September) may bring heavy rainfall, impacting travel plans.

Whether by air, rail, road, or water, Kottayam provides various options to cater to your travel preferences.

Tourist Information: click-here

1. Marmalade Waterfalls: Located exactly 8 km from Jeekoy and a short distance from Erattupetta, the Marmala Waterfalls stand as an enticing destination for adventure-seeking tourists. Despite the challenging journey, the captivating beauty of the waterfalls makes the effort truly rewarding. The sight of shimmering waters cascading down clear rocks adds to the tranquility of the surroundings.

  • Location: Marmala road, Vellani Erattupetta, Kerala.

  • Timings: Opens from 6 am – 6 pm daily.

Tip for Visitors: It is advisable to visit the waterfalls during spring and summer when the water is pleasant for a bath. Avoid visits during monsoons to prevent disruption of trekking and hiking activities due to lightning and thunderstorms.

2. Taj Juma Masjid: This 1000-year-old mosque, claiming the heritage of the oldest mosque in Kerala, sits on the banks of the Meenachil river. Renowned for its cultural and historic beauty, the mosque's architectural elegance, intricate wood carvings, and lush green surroundings make it a must-visit for tourists and history enthusiasts.

  • Location: Tourist Bangalow road, opposite Joy Alukkas, Eerayii Kadavu, Kottayam, Kerala.

  • Timings: 6 am to 8 pm daily.

3. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Nestled by the banks of Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a haven for rare and colorful bird species. Encompassing 14 acres, the sanctuary offers a serene setting for visitors to watch vibrant birds in flight, making it a delight for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts.

  • Location: Kavanattinkara, Kumarakom, Kerala.

  • Timings: Opens from 6 am to 5 pm daily.

  • Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indians, INR 100 for non-Indians.

4. Mozart Art Gallery: Situated in Aymanam, this well-maintained private art gallery is a retreat for art lovers and enthusiasts. Displaying contemporary and classic paintings, sketches, and various artistic skills, the gallery provides insight into the methodology and techniques behind the artworks.

  • Location: 3442, Aymanam, Kallum Kathara road, Aymanam, Kottayam, Kerala.

  • Timings: Opens from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm daily.

5. Elaveezha Poonchira: For a perfect hiking or trekking trip surrounded by the enticing scent of flowers, Elaveezha Poonchira is the ideal destination. Nestled amid three magnificent hillocks, the valley offers breathtaking views of the city, beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and picturesque waterfalls.

  • Location: Melukavu village, Kottayam, Kerala.

  • Timings: Not specified.

Tip for Visitors: Avoid visits during monsoons to ensure uninterrupted trekking and hiking activities.

6. St. Mary Orthodox Church: Also known as Kottayam Cheriapali, this 440-year-old church in the heart of Kottayam city showcases exquisite architecture, charming paintings, and beautiful murals. The church's European style, adorned with pillars, pediments, cornices, and galleries, is a captivating attraction for tourists.

  • Location: Oppotil junction, Kottayam, Kumarakom road, Kottayam, Kerala.

  • Timings: Opens from 8 am to 6 pm daily.

7. Monroe Lighthouse: Surrounded by beguiling waters, islands, and lakes, the Monroe Lighthouse has become a key attraction in Kottayam. Offering a panoramic view of the town, visitors can enjoy the beauty of Vembanad Lake, witness mesmerizing sunsets, and spot rare bird species in flight.

  • Location: Kottayam – Kumily road, Collectorate Kottayam, Kerala.

  • Timings: Opens from 10 am to 8 pm daily.

8. Vaikom: Cool, calm, and secluded, Vaikom serves as an unbeatable location for tourists seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Its proximity to beguiling backwaters, prestigious temples, and historically amusing places, along with plentiful affordable hotels and resorts, make it an ideal spot for a luxurious stay.

  • Location: Kottayam district, Kerala.

  • Timings: Not specified.

9. Bay Island Driftwood Museum: This popular museum in Kumarakom flaunts a large collection of high-quality driftwood articles with impressive artistic value. Visitors will be gratified by diverse collections of root sculptures in various shapes, themes, patterns, and designs.

**Bay Island Driftwood Museum Details: