Explore Kerala’s Backwaters, Kottayam, Ancient Churches & Scenic Rubber Plantations often called the “Land of Letters, Lakes, and Latex,” is one of Kerala’s most captivating districts — a place where culture, history, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. This charming town is famous for its serene backwaters, centuries-old churches, sprawling rubber plantations, and a strong literary legacy that has shaped Kerala’s intellectual identity. For travelers searching for the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration, Kottayam is a must-visit. And with PickupTrails, the best travel company in Kerala, your journey through Kottayam becomes an unforgettable chapter in your Kerala holiday.
Backwater Bliss in Kottayam
Kottayam lies along the banks of the picturesque Vembanad Lake, home to some of Kerala’s most peaceful backwaters. Unlike the busier backwater hubs such as Alleppey, Kottayam offers a more tranquil and intimate experience. Here, you can glide through calm waterways aboard a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat), surrounded by lush paddy fields, coconut palms swaying in the breeze, and village life unfolding at a slow, unhurried pace. PickupTrails’ Kerala backwater tour packages often include overnight houseboat stays in Kottayam, where you can enjoy freshly cooked Kerala meals onboard while watching the sunset over the water. For honeymooners booking Kerala honeymoon packages, this is one of the most romantic settings imaginable.
Spiritual & Architectural Landmarks
Kottayam’s cultural landscape is enriched by its historic churches, each telling a unique story of Kerala’s past. The 16th-century St. Mary’s Orthodox Church at Cheriapally is a treasure of Kerala’s Christian heritage, with beautiful murals, ancient stone architecture, and a peaceful ambiance that welcomes travelers from all walks of life. Another spiritual gem is St. Alphonsa’s Church in Bharananganam, dedicated to India’s first woman saint, which attracts pilgrims year-round. These landmarks are often featured in PickupTrails’ Kerala pilgrimage packages, giving travelers a chance to explore Kerala’s religious harmony and history.
The Green Charm of Rubber Plantations
Rubber plantations define much of Kottayam’s countryside. These vast green estates are not just visually stunning but also offer fascinating insights into Kerala’s agricultural life. Guided tours of these plantations reveal the process of rubber tapping, where latex is collected from rubber trees and processed into sheets. Many Kerala sightseeing tours include visits to plantations where you can also explore spice gardens growing pepper, nutmeg, and cardamom. The fresh mountain air, the shade of towering trees, and the earthy aroma make plantation visits a rejuvenating experience.
Gateway to Kumarakom
Kottayam is also the gateway to the world-famous Kumarakom backwaters, one of the highlights of any Kerala tour. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers, with species such as kingfishers, herons, and migratory Siberian cranes making seasonal appearances. PickupTrails’ customized Kerala travel itineraries often combine Kottayam and Kumarakom for travelers who want the best of both worlds — cultural landmarks in town and nature’s bounty just a short drive away.
Hill Stations & Hidden Gems
Beyond the backwaters, Kottayam surprises visitors with scenic highlands such as Ilaveezhapoonchira, a lesser-known hill station offering panoramic views of rolling hills, misty valleys, and shimmering reservoirs. It’s a photographer’s paradise and an ideal stop for travelers looking for offbeat Kerala destinations. Meenachil River, immortalized in Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things, also flows through Kottayam, adding a poetic charm to the town’s landscape.
Food & Cultural Delights
No Kerala travel experience is complete without tasting its local cuisine, and Kottayam is a haven for food lovers. Traditional appam and stew, spicy fish curry, and karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish grilled in banana leaves) are just some of the delicacies travelers can savor. PickupTrails’ Kerala food tours often highlight local toddy shops, where you can sample fresh palm wine alongside authentic Kerala seafood dishes.
Best Time to Visit Kottayam
The ideal time to visit Kottayam is from September to March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, boat cruises, and plantation walks. However, if you love the lush greenery of monsoon season, June to August transforms the region into a rain-kissed paradise, with the backwaters swelling and waterfalls coming alive.
PickupTrails – Your Perfect Kottayam Travel Partner
At PickupTrails, we understand that every traveler has a unique vision of their Kerala trip. That’s why our Kerala holiday packages are fully customizable. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a cultural pilgrimage, or an offbeat adventure, we ensure your Kottayam experience is tailored to your pace and preferences. From arranging luxury backwater resorts to guiding you through hidden village lanes, we make sure every moment in Kottayam is special.
If you’re planning to explore Kottayam — with its tranquil backwaters, historic churches, lush rubber plantations, and cultural treasures — let PickupTrails, the best travel company in Kerala, craft the perfect itinerary for you.
Contact PickupTrails to Book Your Kerala Tour Package
📱 Click to Chat on WhatsApp | ☎️ 8547903187
