Kottayam

Kumarakom Vaikom Poonjar Palace Vagamon Ilaveezhapoonchira

MUST SEE

Area : 2204sq kms Altitude : Sea level Population (2001) : 19,52,901 Clothing : Tropical Cotton

Kottayam is beautiful with some of the most enchanting natural scenes in God’s own country. Panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands etc. give this district an enviable position. Situated on the lap of Western Ghat bordering Ernakulam on the North, Idukky in the East, Pathanamthitta in the South and Alappuzha in the West Kottayam is also rich with backwaters. Kottayam, the land of letters, latex and lakes is the first district of Kerala that achieved 100% literacy. Kottayam is the richest district in Kerala for agricultural commodities like spices, rubber and coconut. The rubber board one of the first commodities boards of the country is situated in the Rubber Town of Kottayam. The first Malayalam printing press was established in Kottayam district by Benjamin Bailey, a Christian missionary, in 1820 AD. Kottayam is also known as the Mecca of publications. Many newspapers and magazines which include Deepika, the first newspaper in the state, Malayala Manorama, the leading newspaper in the state, Mangalam etc. are published from the land of letters. Kottayam is the ideal take-off point for visits to Peerumedu, Munnar, Idukky, Thekkady, Ernakulam and the temple city of Madurai.

Telephone Access Codes

Changanasserry ++ 91 481 Ettumannoor ++ 91 481 Kanjirapally ++ 91 4828 Kottayam ++ 91 481 Palai ++ 91 4822

Transport and Communication

Air: Nearest Airports : Cochin International Airport (76 kms), Ph - 0484 2610115. Trivandrum International Airport ( 160 kms) International and domestic flights of major companies operate to cities and countries from here. Airport International Ph: 0471 2500140, Domestic - 0471 2702311. Rail: Kottayam is well connected with the major towns in and outside Kerala by an extensive rail network. The railway station is situated just 2 kms away from the central bus station. There are regular trains from Kottyam to Major Stations in India. Railway enquiry - Ph: 139, 1397. Road: Kottayam is connected by road with several tourist centres and cities. Long distance buses operate from the KSRTC Bus Station. Ph: 0481 2562935, 2562908.

Local Transport: Buses, Taxis and Auto-rikshaws. Tourist Information Offices: The District Information Officer, Ph: 0481 2562558. District Tourism Promotion Council, Ph: 0481 2560479. St. Mary’s Church, Bharan-anganam, Ph: 04822 237144.

Places Interested

Anchuvilakku: (22 km from Kottayam) This stone lamp post, a fine example of Kerala’s Architecture, was built near Changanassery boat Jetty by the renowned freedom fighter Veluthambi Dalawa. The 5 lamps on this post are lit using kerosine.The Changanasserry market, one of the largest in Kerala was also established by him.

Karimbukayam: This quaint spot on the Manimala river is much sought after for its natural splendours. The river flows between Kanjirappally and Erumeli Panchanyats. What makes the place really popular is the exotic water fiestas on the reservoirs organised by the enthusiastic people. Marmala Stream: This scenic stream and its waterfalls are sights unique, sliding down numerous hillocks from a height of 200 feets. The gushing water has etched out a deep pond in the rocks. A natural bridge is there under the waterfall.

Thangalppara: The mausoleum of Sheikh Fariduddin found here makes this place a famous Muslim pilgrim centre.

Fascinating Destinations

Anchuvilakku | Aruvikuzhi Waterfalls | Aruvithira Church | Ayyappara | CSI Cathedral Church | Erumeli | Ettumannur Temple | Ilaveezhapoonchira | Illikkal Kallu | Illikkal Mala | Kaduthuruthi Valiapalli | Jama Masjid-Thazhathangadi | Kannadipara | Kayyoor | Kesari falls | Kottathavalam | Kumarakom | Kurisumala | Maniyamkunnu | Mankallu Mudikal | Marmala Stream | Nadukani | Pathiramanal | Pazhayapalli | Perunna Subramanya Temple | Poonjar Palace | Puthenpalli-Erattupetta | Mannanam Monastery | Bharananganam Church | Thangalppara | Vagamon | Vaikom Mahadeva Temple | Vazhikkadavu

Kumarakom Lying calmly on the lap of Vembanad lake

Kumarakom: (16km from Kottayam) This tiny unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves intertwined with picturesque water ways and canals adorned with similing innocent lillies is famous extra terrestrial. Lying calmly on the lap of Vembanad lake one will come across in this small water world a lot of traditional country crafts, houseboats and canoes. A cruise monotonous in a houseboat through the sapphire melted backwaters of Vembanad lake is an ecstatic experience. Lillies and lotuses, red and white strewn like glittering stars. Young coconut maids with their palm hair swaying in gentle wind, queueing up unto the nearby temple carrying coconuts for pooja. A comfortable stay and leisure options like ayurvedic massaging, yoga, meditations etc. are available nearby resorts. Kumarakom is a beautiful hamlet in Kerala in the eastern coast of lake Vembanad. It has pleasant climate with a temperature range between 20-32C. It is one of the most attractive and beautiful tourist spots in India. As it borders lake Vembanad, it maintains moderate warm climate even during the coolest winter season. Ecotourism is encouraged here and is the cradle of nature! Soothening and caressing breeze from the lake and beckoning call of coconuts invite one for relaxation of body and mind. Coconut water is a pure natural drink and coconut is a delicious natural food of enjoyment. Kumarakom, indeed, is a land of coconuts, birds and fishes. It is one of the most beautiful natural tourist attractions. Kumarakom welcomes one to backwaters and lagoons. The spot is very congenial for vacations and holidays. It is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forest, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with water lilies and lotus flowers. Motor boats, house boats, speed boats, rowing boats, canoeing, water sports, lake side driving, fishing using hooks, nets and other improvised aids etc. keep one enjoyable for hours and days here.

Illikkal Kallu Three hills rising to 4000 feet and above

Illikkal Kallu: Three hills, each rising to 4000 feet and above, together form this huge hill. Each of the hills has a peculiar shape. One resembles a mushroom and hence Kudakallu(umbrella shaped rock). Neelakoduveli,a medicinal herb bathes the hillsides in blue is found here. It has also supernatural powers to increase wealth and ensure a rich harvest. The second hill has a small hunch on the side and is Koonukallu(hunch back rock) and a half feet wide bridge across this rock is called Narakapalam(bridge to hell). The sunset from this rocks is really a sensational view. Illikkal Mala: It is 6000 feet above sea level. Numerous mountain streams in this peak flow down to form the serene Meenachil river. Tourists have to trek up 3 kms to reach the top of the hill. The solitude, the tranquility, the gentle breeze and the star spangled sky here are all enchanting. Aruvikuzhi Waterfalls: (18km from Kottayam town) Two kilometres down Kumarakom is this beautiful picnic spot where streams tinkle as it penetrate to the landscape and water roars as it cascades down the mountains from a height of 100 feet. Visitors can also enjoy the beauty of rubber plantations here. Erumeli: (60 km north-east of Kottayam town) Erumeli is a pilgrim centre. This is the entrance point to the Sabarimala Temple, the most prominent pilgrim centre in South India. This nature rich village is nestled in the lush green Western Ghats.

Vagamon at the elevation of 1100 metres above sea level

Vagamon: It is trekker’s paradise. This hill station, at the elevation of 1100 metres above sea level on the Idukki-Kottayam border is beautiful with tea gardens and meadows. Vagamon offers many holiday attractions throughout the year except during the monsoon season. The breeding centre of the Kerala Livestock Board located here.

Kurisumala: (3km from Vazhikadavu) The peaceful monastry at the top of the hill, the silence of the hill, the cool mountain air and the green land scape are all fascinating. This is a renowned Christian pilgrim centre where hundreds of devotees from far and near converge during the holy week and after to climb the hill carrying wooden crosses. On the eastern side of the hill is a rock-cut temple dedicated to Murugan,the son of Lord Siva. On the way to Kurusumala there is a marvelous sight seeing opportunities which include European style house, artificial lakes etc , designed by Laurie Baker a renowned architect.

Pathiramanal: This is a 10 acre island on the backwaters which houses many rare varieties of migratory birds from different parts of the world. According to mythology a young Brahmin dived into the Vembanad lake to perform his evening ablutions and the water made the way for land to rise from below. The island can be accessed only by boat. St. Mary’s Church, Athirampuzha: This church was built in 1080 AD and was renovated in 1874.

Ilaveezhapoonchira: Ilaveezhapoonchira means valley where leaves don’t fall. It is named so because the place has no trees, spread over thousands of acres. This is one of the best places in Kerala to enjoy both sunrise and sunset.The verdant landscape punctuated by four gigantic hills, each rising to around 3200 feet, is an ideal place to unwind. During the monsoons when the valley fills up to form a scenic lake, this place unveils yet another beautiful slice of the nature.

Ettumannur Mahadeva Temple: (12 km North of Kottayam) This temple is famous for its murals especially the paintings of Nataraja in the Gopuram and Ezharaponnana. Poonjar Palace: (47 km from Kottayam and 18 km from Palai) This is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a past. Within the royal palace walls is an extraordinary royal collection of antiques and exquisite furniture. It is a wonderland to a modern tourist. The palace is a treasure of rare collections such as palanquins, palm leaf engravings, variaties of lamps, weapons, huge chandeliers, grain measures, sculptures of dancing Siva (Nataraja) etc. Another attractions here is the Sastha temple which is a replica of Madurai Meenakshi Temple. Puranic stories are narrated in the walls with the help of sculptures and a chuttuvilakku (round of lamps) which is very rare is carved stone walls. Nattakom & Panachikadu Reservoirs: Adding to the charm of these salubrious and tranquil villages are their scenic reservoirs, escoted by vivid green all along. Migratory birds flock together seeking this verdant landscape during every summer and frolic in the natural splendours of the end of the season. A boat ride from Panachikadu to Kumarakom is a great way to relax and enjoy the nature’s extravaganza. Recreational facilities like ayurvedic massaging, swimming, boating etc. are also available here.

Tourist Land, Vaikom: This is a quite picnic spot ideal for a languorous break. Various recreation facilities available here adds the elegance of land. Boating is possible in Vaikom lake. Vaikom has also importance in the contemporary history with Vaikom Sathyagraham which is blessed by Mahatma Gandhi to get entry for Harijan Hindus into the temple in 1925.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: (40 km from Kottayam town) This is one of the major temples of India and the most acclaimed Siva temple in the South. This temple is believed to be the second version of Kasi.The Vaikom temple is an ideal example for architectural marvel, a rare blend of Dravidian temple architecture and Bharathiya Vaastu Sastra. Annual Festival Vaikathashtami (November/December)

Mankallu Mudikal: With no trees around the three hills which lie close to each other give a feeling of walking in the clouds. The scenic pictures from the hill are an enchanting views.

Kesari falls: It is also known as Valanjam-kanam falls between Kuttikanam and Murinjapuzha. It offers adventurous sprit and closness to nature.

Bharananganam Church Mortal remains of the Saint Alphonsa are kept here

St. Mary’s Church, Bharananganam: The mortal remains of the Saint Alphonsa (1916-1946) are kept at this church which is now a famous pilgrim centre.This holy shrine is crowded by the dovotees when it celebrates its annual feast (the feast of the Blessed Alphonsa) in July. An attractive Grotto of Virgin Mary adds beauty to this 1000 years old church. Ph: 04822 237144 Surya Temple, Adityapuram: (15 km North of Kottayam) The only temple in Kerala dedicated to Aditya, the Sun of God. Raktachandanam is the special Prasadam of this temple. Sundays are important days. The last Sundays of the Malayalam months of Vrischika and Medom when the glory of the Sun is at the highest. Ph: 04829 283112

Kottathavalam: Accordig to legends the royal family from Madurai rested here on their way to Poonjar. The rocks within the cave carved like chairs and couches and the figures of Madurai Meenakshi, Ayyappa, Murugan, Kannaki and weapons sculpted on them are all worth exploring. Kayyoor: Kayoor is an exciting landscape with green hills at Bharananganam Panchayat. A Shrine where only ghee is used to light the lamps like the famous temple Sabarimala dedicated to the Pandava brothers of Mahabharatha is found here. Women are not allowed inside the temple. St. Mary’s Church, Kudamaloor: This church 800 years old, was built by Chempakasseri Maharajah.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: (16 km from Kottayam town) An ornithologist’s paradise, Kumarakom bird sanctuary on the banks of the Vembanad lake is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Syberian stork, Egret, Darter, Heron and Teal. Other common varieties like the woodpecker, skylark, crane, water hen and parrots are also found here. A cruise through the Vembanadu lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary. Pathiramanal, one of the loveliest of islands on the lake, can be reached by boat from here.

Ayyappara: Legends explain that the five Pandava Brothers, heroes of epic Mahabharata,stayed near this rock, 2000 feet above sea level, during their exile. The name is said to be the modification of the orginal term Anchupara (five rocks). However, some others say that the term owes its origin to the Ayyappa temple here. This temple has four pillars which sopport a flat piece of rock that the roof.On one side of the rock is a cave that can accommodate over 15 people.

Kannadipara: Bamboo groves, meadows and wild flowers make this place exotic. As the name points, the valley of this rocky mountain reflects the morning sun with a mirror like perfection.An added attraction of this beautiful place is the Kazhukankulimali waterfalls that playfully cascade down the mountain and greet the river below with a magnificent splash. It is the highest peak of Ilaveezhapoonchira and a natural fort is set on the eastern side of Kannadipara.

St. Thomas Mount: This holy place of Christians is located 1200 feet above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the Vaikom Lake and the surrounding areas.

Bhagavathy Temple, Manarcad: Centuries old temple dedicated to goddess Bhadrakali.

Vavarambalam, Erumeli: A mosque, dedicated to Vavar, companion of Sree Ayyappa, the presiding deity of Sabarimala. This mosque is very significant because Hindu Pilgrims customarily worship here before trekking to Sabarimala. Festival - Pettathullal (January)

Maniyamkunnu: The majestic mountain here that slop down to meet the beautiful vallies below are really spellbinding. The panoramic sceneries of the place is exciting.

Vazhikkadavu: This hill station is one of the many beautiful picnic spots with pristine beauty of nature. One side is tall with steep rock and the other is valley with fearful depth. During December/January the landscape is coloured with orchid and wild flowers.

Nadukani: The lovely location at the top of hill with endless stretches of meadows girded by huge rocks.A bird’s eye view of the low lying lands can be enjoyed from here.

Thazhathangadi Valiapalli: (2 km from west of Kottayam town) This church, built in 1550 AD, belongs to Knanaya Orthadox Syrian Community. The Persian Cross, believed to be one of the seven brought here by St.Thomas. The church is also famous for Pahlavi inscriptions.

Siva Temple, Thalikkotta: (2 km from Kottayam town) It was the place of worship of the Thekkumkoor royal family. The temple attracts many pilgrims with its architectural style.

Aruvithira Church: Believed to be one of the seven churches established by St. Thomas. This is also one of the churches in Kerala which collects the largest amount of monetary offerings during the festival days.

St. Joseph Monastery, Mannanam: (8 km from Kottayam) This monastery is famous and associated with the name of Blessed Father Chavara Kuriakose Elias. It is an important Christian pilgrim centre. The mortal remains of Father Chavara Kuriakose Elias (1805-1871) is preserved in this Holy Monastery.

Vimalagiri Church: This church is built in the Gothic architectural style.

Jama Masjid, Thazhathangadi: (2 km from kottayam town) This ancient mosque is believed to be 1000 years old.It is one of the oldest in India and situated on the banks of Meenachil river.

Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple: In the heart of Kottayam town is this 500 year old temple built by the Thekkumkoor Maharajah. The Koothambalam, the special building in the temple premises used for cultural purposes, is one of the best in Kerala.

Pazhayapalli, Changanacherry: (21 km from Kottayam) This 950 year old mosque is the most famous one in Central Travancore. The annual festival, Thangal Adiyanthiram, is well known and is marked by a grand community feast of all religions.

St. Mary’s Church, Kuravilangad: Built in 355 AD on the high ranges of Kuravilangad town, this church has an old bell which bears an undeciphered inscription.

CSI Cathedral Church: Built over 175 years ago, is a monument from the British Era.

St. George Church, Puthupalli: This church is believed to have been built by the Thekkumkoor Rajas. The golden cross in this church is well known.

St. Thomas Church, Pala: The church dates back to 1002 AD and was renovated once in the 18th century.

Puthenpalli, Erattupetta: This mosque is famous for the feast Chandanakudam celebrated in February / December.

Bagavathy Temple, Ambalakkadavu: The Arattu Ritual of the Thirunakkara Mahadevar Temple takes place here. Kaduthuruthi Valiapalli: Built in 500 AD, the church has a huge cross sculpted out of a single stone at the entrance. Kavil Devi Temple, Chaganacherry: Built by one of the Thekkumkoor Maharajas. Perunna Subramanya Temple: Pallivetta utsavam is the famous festival here.

St. Thomas Church, Cherpungal: Believed to have been established by the apostle St. Thomas. St.Mary’s Church, Cheriapalli: (2 km from Kottayam town) The church is built in 1579 by Thekkumkoor Maharaja and displays outstanding architecture which is a blend of Kerala and Portuguese styles. Biblical and non- biblical themes are depicted on the walls.

Saraswathi Temple, Panachikkad: This temple, also known as the Mookambika Temple of the South, holds the Saraswathi, the goddess of learning and the arts as the presiding deity. Ph: 0481 2330670

Vazhappalli Siva Temple: (17 km from Kottayam) This Siva temple is famous for its sculptures and situated near Changanacherry.

Vazhappalli Kalkulathukavu Temple: This temple is famous for its Mudiyeduppu Utsavam celebrated once in 12 years and the rare art form connected with it.

St.Mary’s Church, Manarcad: (8 km from kottayam) This is one of the most important churches of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christians. The 8 days fasting from 1st to 8th September ( Ettunoyambu) gathers thousands of devotees from the different parts of the country.

Dharmasastha Temple, Pakkil: (3 km from Kottayam) This temple is said to be one of eight temples established by Holy Sage Parasurama.

Ayurveda

Amba Ayurveda Hospital: Amba Ayurveda Hospital: Amba Ayurveda Hospital has earned recognition and distinction as the leading health centre in Central Kerala by virtue of its excellence in the healing art. Started in 1945 as Amba Ayurveda Vaidyasala providing expert treatment through genuine medicines to outpatients is has now graduated into a full-fledged, well furnished hospital with excellent facilities for the comfortable accommodation of the patients and treatment by highly qualified and competent physicians. Well experienced Post graduate doctors in Ayurveda also available in the hospital. It represents the continuation and culmination of the good work done by the Vaidyasala, which by its devoted services over a period of Seventy Six years, has earned the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certification, one of the first among the few institutions chosen for

this coveted honour. The hospital is particularly famous for the purity and quality of its medicines which are prepared from rare medicinal raw-materials collected from all over India, strictly on the lines enjoined by the preceptors of the past. Amba has as a result become a household name in the region for effective treatment. Amba Ayurveda Hospial is just a kilometre from the municipal town of Changanasserry, a famous cultural, educational and commercial centre in Central Kerala; Located very near the Main Central Road close to the sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Subramania and situated in lovely natural surroundings the hospital provides a beautiful ambient essential for the peace and harmony of the patients. For more information: Amba Ayurveda Hospital, Perunna, Changanacherry, Kerala 686 102, Ph: +91 481 2420354, 2424354, Website: www.ambaayurveda.org, Email: info@ambaayurveda.org See Advt in Page 153 Eastend Ayurkshethra: Eastend Ayurkshethra, the temple of life is an authentic Ayurveda and Yoga retreat centre of the Eastend Hospitality. Situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake, it represents one of the oldest original systems of medicine that comes with a spiritual touch and is positive for health and cure for human ailments. Concept of positive health and the prowess of preventive and curative aspects of diseases are put into practice at Ayurkshethra. Ayurkshethra, as its very name denotes, is the temple of ancient times, with traditional treatment rooms and Greenleaf facilities. Ayurkshethra is housed in a temple like structure with sculptures and wood carvings that has its own ancient story to tell. Health or sickness depends on the presence or absence of a balanced state of the total body matrix. Ayurkshethra treatment regimen which includes Kalari marma Chikilsa, the unique treatment method drawn from the martial arts of Kerala, also constitute of: Relaxation programme, Insomnia and stress relieving programme, Panchakarma purification programme, Rejuvination programme, Old age disorders treatment programme, Harmonising programme (of body, mind and soul), Spine and neck treatment programme, Arhritis treatment programme, Slimming programme, Psoriasis treatment programme etc. Their unique Yoga centre situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake is a source for cure by its wondrous sights alone. Yoga is the process of practice whereby we start to become more and more aware of ourselves in terms of body mind and soul. Yoga is the process of practice whereby we start to become more and more aware of ourselves in terms of body mind and soul. Allow Ayurshethra to enrich your spirit, whereby you recharge your body, mind, and soul. Ayurkshethra is a hospitality venture of Eastend Hospitality. For more information: Eastend Ayurkshethra, Ammankari Road, Kumarakom, Ph: +91 481 2526300, Fax: +91 481 2526075, Email: lakesong@eastend.in. Central Reservation: Eastend Hotels & Resorts, HIG 50, Panampilly Nagar, Kochi 682 036, Ph: + 91 484 2774999, Fax: +91 484 4043081, Email: crs@eastend.in, Web: www.eastend.in See Advt in Page 145