The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Kottayam: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re planning to visit Kottayam or you’re already there, you might have some questions in mind that you want answered. In this post, we’ve highlighted some of the most frequently asked questions about Kottayam to help you better understand this enchanting place.

Where is Kottayam located?

Kottayam is located in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is situated in the western part of the state, bordering the state of Tamil Nadu. The city is located about 154 kilometers from Kerala’s capital city, Thiruvananthapuram.

What is the best time to visit Kottayam?

The best time to visit Kottayam is during the winter months, between November and February. The weather during this time is pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 17 to 30 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season runs from June to September, which can make travel in Kottayam challenging due to heavy rainfall.

What are the main tourist attractions in Kottayam?

Kottayam is known for its lush green landscapes, backwaters, and scenic beauty. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kottayam include:

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of birds, including waterfowl, ducks, herons, and kingfishers.
• Vagamon: Vagamon is a hill station located on the Kottayam-Idukki border, known for its scenic beauty and trekking trails.
• Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its exquisite mural paintings.
• Poonjar Palace: The palace is an ancient structure that showcases the architectural styles prevalent in Kerala during the 16th century.

What is the cuisine of Kottayam?

Kottayam’s cuisine is primarily vegetarian, with the use of rice, coconut, and locally grown vegetables as the main ingredients. Some of the popular dishes in Kottayam include:

• Appams with vegetable stew: Appams are a type of South Indian pancake made with fermented rice and coconut milk. The vegetable stew is a mildly spiced coconut milk-based gravy that is usually served with appams.
• Puttu and kadala curry: Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake that is layered with grated coconut. Kadala curry is a chickpea-based gravy with a blend of spices and coconut milk.
• Kappa and fish curry: Kappa is a boiled tapioca dish that is a staple in Kerala. Fish curry is a spicy gravy made with coconut milk and a range of herbs and spices.

What are the festivals celebrated in Kottayam?

Kottayam is known for its vibrant and colorful festivals, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. Some of the popular festivals celebrated in Kottayam include:

• Onam: Onam is the biggest festival in Kerala and is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Kottayam, with people participating in a range of cultural activities and feasting on traditional cuisine.
• Vishu: Vishu is a Hindu festival that marks the beginning of the Malayalam calendar year. The festival is celebrated with the exchange of gifts and feasting on traditional vegetarian cuisine.
• Christmas: Christmas is a major festival in Kottayam, with the entire city lit up with lights and decorations. Christian churches in Kottayam hold midnight masses, and people participate in caroling and feasting on traditional Christmas delicacies.

What are the modes of transportation available in Kottayam?

Kottayam has a well-connected transportation network with various modes of transportation available, including:

• Buses: Buses are the most common mode of transportation in Kottayam, with regular services to nearby towns and cities.
• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Kottayam for short and long-distance travel.
• Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are also a popular mode of transportation in Kottayam, particularly for short-distance travel within the city.

What are the accommodations available in Kottayam?

Kottayam offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget, including luxurious resorts, homestays, and budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the popular accommodations include:

• Aveda Resorts and Spa: This luxurious resort is located in Kumarakom and offers world-class amenities and services.
• The Zuri Kumarakom: This five-star resort is located on the banks of Vembanad Lake and features stunning views and top-notch facilities.
• Coconut Creek Farm & Homestay: This homestay is located in Kumarakom and is perfect for travelers seeking a taste of traditional Kerala living.
• Olive Downtown: This is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Kottayam and offers comfortable accommodations and modern amenities.

Conclusion

Kottayam is a beautiful city located in the state of Kerala, offering natural beauty, cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided answers to some of your frequently asked questions about Kottayam and has helped you plan your visit to this enchanting place.