Frequently Asked Questions About Kayamkulam

Kayamkulam is a charming, small town located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. This town is known for its unique culture and rich heritage. Kayamkulam is a great tourist destination with many interesting places to visit, including the Krishnapuram Palace, Kayamkulam Beach, and Oachira Temple. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Kayamkulam.

1. What is the best time to visit Kayamkulam?

The best time to visit Kayamkulam is from September to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. During this time, the temperature is between 22°C – 30°C. The town experiences heavy rainfall from June to August, which makes it difficult to explore the town.

2. How can I reach Kayamkulam?

Kayamkulam is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 110 km away. The nearest railway station is Kayamkulam Junction, which is connected to major cities like Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi. You can also hire a taxi or take a bus from nearby towns like Alappuzha or Kochi to reach Kayamkulam.

3. What are the famous tourist attractions in Kayamkulam?

Kayamkulam has many famous tourist attractions, including:

Krishnapuram Palace:

This ancient palace was built in the 18th century by the Travancore king, Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma. The palace is known for its intricate architectural design, stunning mural paintings, and collection of antiques and artifacts.

Kayamkulam Beach:

This beautiful beach is located near the town center and is a perfect place to relax and unwind. The beach is known for its golden sand, calm waters, and picturesque sunset views.

Oachira Temple:

This ancient temple is located about 34 km from Kayamkulam and is known for its unique tradition of not having any temple structure. Instead, the temple has a sacred site where devotees offer their prayers.

4. What are the popular festivals celebrated in Kayamkulam?

Kayamkulam town celebrates many festivals throughout the year. The most popular festivals include:

Kandiyoor Shivratri:

This festival is celebrated in the Kandiyoor Mahadeva temple, located about 3 km from Kayamkulam. The festival is celebrated in February-March and attracts thousands of devotees from all over Kerala.

Onam:

Onam is the most popular festival in Kerala and is celebrated in August-September. During this festival, Kayamkulam town comes alive with colorful decorations, traditional dance performances, and delicious food.

Vishu:

Vishu is the Kerala New Year, which falls in April. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Kayamkulam with traditional rituals, feasting, and fireworks.

5. What are the local delicacies of Kayamkulam?

Kayamkulam is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Kerala cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in Kayamkulam include:

Karimeen Pollichathu:

This is a specialty dish in Kayamkulam, made with marinated pearl spot fish, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over a low flame.

Appam and Stew:

This is a popular breakfast dish in Kayamkulam. It’s made of fermented rice and coconut batter, served with a vegetable or chicken stew.

Thoran:

This is a side dish made from stir-fried vegetables mixed with grated coconut, curry leaves, and spices.In conclusion, Kayamkulam is a charming town that offers a unique and authentic experience of Kerala’s culture and heritage. With its beautiful attractions, colorful festivals, and delicious cuisine, Kayamkulam is a must-visit destination in Kerala.

An Insider’s Guide to Kayamkulam, Kerala

If you’re interested in the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, Kayamkulam is an unmissable destination. This lesser-known town presents a unique blend of history and natural beauty. With its houseboats, palm trees, and gentle backwaters, Kayamkulam is an ideal escape from the traditional road traffic in Kerala, and it is a sublime place to experience Kerala’s rich culture and history.

Local Attractions

Kayamkulam’s key attraction is the Kayamkulam Lake, an expansive body of water that is accessible from the coastal town of Alappuzha (or Alleppey), connected to the Arabian Sea. You can hire a houseboat or go on a day-long boat ride to explore the lake and the surrounding islands. Another highlight of Kayamkulam is the Krishnapuram Palace, a stunning 18th-century palace that was once home to the rulers of Kayamkulam. The palace features traditional Kerala-style architecture and houses a museum displaying the history of Kayamkulam and the surrounding areas.

Dining Spots

When it comes to cuisine, Kayamkulam offers a mix of traditional Kerala cuisine and modern Indian food. If you’re interested in local delicacies, head to Hotel Gurukripa, which is particularly known for its vegetarian food. You can also try the seafood at Palliyil Kadai, an unassuming eatery that is a favourite of the locals. For a taste of international cuisine, the Fort House Restaurant, located inside the Krishnapuram Palace compound, serves delicious dishes that can accommodate most dietary restrictions.

Cultural Experiences

Kayamkulam offers plenty of cultural experiences, including attending a Kathakali performance. Kathakali is an ancient dance form that originated in Kerala, and it is renowned for its intricate make-up and colourful costumes. The Sree Krishnaswamy Temple is another must-visit spot for tourists as it hosts the grand Ashtami Rohini festival, which is celebrated annually in the month of August/September. The festival commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna and includes cultural events such as folk music concerts and street fairs.

Local History

Kayamkulam has a rich history that is worth exploring. The town was once home to the Raja of Kayamkulam, who played a significant role in the colonial history of Kerala. There are several historic buildings around town, including the Krishnapuram Palace and the Oachira Temple, that offer an insight into Kayamkulam’s past. The temple hosts the famous Ochira Kali festival, which is celebrated annually in June or July. The festival commemorates a battle between two local communities and sees devotees engaging in mock battles on the temple grounds.

Off the Beaten Path

Kayamkulam is still a lesser-known destination in Kerala, which means that there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had. One such experience is visiting the Kayamkulam Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to over 150 species of birds and is an ideal spot for bird-watching and nature photography. You can also pay a visit to the nearby village of Oachira, which is home to the Oachira Parabrahma Temple. The temple is unique in that it does not have any formal structure or roof but consists of an open space that is paved with stones.

In conclusion, Kayamkulam is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The town is perfect for those who are looking for an alternative experience in Kerala and want to escape the hustle and bustle of typical tourist destinations. With its houseboats, ancient temples, and stunning bird sanctuaries, Kayamkulam is a fantastic destination that is sure to leave you yearning to go back again and again.