Kottayam District

With a literacy rate of over 95%, Kottayam boasts of being the literary capital of Kerala. Kottayam is the land of letters, latex and lakes. There are also many artistically and historically important temples and churches here like the Thirunakkara temple, Ettumanoor temple, Manarcad Church etc.

English education in Kerala first started in Kottayam. Rev.Benjamin Baily established printing press in Kerala at Kottayam. Malayalam English dictionaries were first printed from Kottayam. Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India, selected Kottayam as the first town in India to be transformed into an eco city.

Tourist Destinations in Kottayam

Kumarakom: With its luxurious backwater cruising, Mangrove forests, paddy fields, coconut groves and enchanting waterways, Kumarakom is a true Paradise for travelers. The bird sanctuary in Kumarakom is home to a variety of native and migratory birds.

Vembanad Lake: With an area of 260 sq.km., Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala. House boat cruises, boating, sightseeing and fishing are the main attractions. During Onam, boat races are held in the lake, making this otherwise serene water body, lively.

Temples and Churches: Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Thirunakkara Temple, Bharananganam Church, Manarcad Church are important religious centers.