Thekkady

Bordered by the lofty western ghats on the east and the vembanad lake and paddy fields of kuttanad on the west, kottayam is a land of unique characteristics. Panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands, extensive rubber plantations and a totally literate people have given this district the enviable title the land also boasts the first malayalam printing press which was established by benjamin bailey, a christian missionary, in 1820 A.D.
Kumarakom

Kumarakom -
An unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white lilies. Situated on the vembanad lake, in this small water world you'll come across plenty of traditional country Crafts, boats and canoes which will take you into the heart of the scenic lake. The resorts nearby offer comfortable accommodation and exclusive leisure options like an ayurvedic massage, yoga, meditation, boating, fishing, angling and swimming.

Water Hen -
Kumarakom bird sanctuaryKumarakom bird sanctuary - Located on the banks of the vembanad lake, the kumarakom bird sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. Other common varieties like the woodpecker, skylark, crane, water hen and parrots can also be spotted here. A cruise along the vembanad lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary.

Aruvikkuzhi
Aruvikkuzi Waterfalls is located about 18 km from Kottayam town. This is a beautiful picnic spot where streams tinkle as they make their way through the landscape and waters roar as they cascade down the mountains from a height of 100 feet.

Erumely
Erumely is an important pilgrim centre for the Hindus and Muslims. Sree Dharmasastha Temple here is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.

Kumarakom
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a world famous bird sanctuary. This bird sanctuary is located about 16 kms from Kottayam on the banks of the Vemband lake. This sanctuary is an ornithologist’s paradise. Some migratory birds migrate during the winter from across the world including the Siberian stork. Some local birds which are found at this sanctuary are Water fowl, Cuckoo, Owl, Egret, Heron, Teal and Water duck. The best time to visit this sanctuary is between June and August and if you want to view the migratory birds then the best time is from November to February.

Aranmula Boat Race, Kumarakom Aranmula
Aranmula is located about 50 kms from Kottayam. Aranmula is the place where the splendid Onam festival boat races take place. These races are religious, based on a temple festival. Caparisoned elephants with beaded umbrellas, processions of decorated floats, and highly ornate boats make this a lovely event to witness. Aranmula is also the centre of bell metal mirror craft .Vaikom is famous for the Shiva Temple. A festival take place here in November and December and last for 12 days. The 'Panchavadyam' is an important musical performance in the festival