Kottayam Tourism

Kottayam is a district located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is situated in the midland region of Kerala, and it has a total area of approximately 2,208 square kilometers. The district is bordered by the districts of Idukki to the east, Alappuzha to the west, Pathanamthitta to the south, and Ernakulam to the north. Kottayam is known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque backwaters, and unique eco-systems. Here, we will discuss Kottayam in detail, including its history, geography, culture, tourism, and economy.

History of Kottayam

The history of Kottayam can be traced back to the ancient times. According to historians, Kottayam was a part of the kingdom of Thekkumkur, which was ruled by the Thekkumkur royal family. The kingdom was later annexed by the Travancore royal family in the 18th century, and it became a part of the princely state of Travancore.

During the colonial era, Kottayam was under the control of the British East India Company. The British established a number of tea and rubber plantations in the district, which became the major source of income for the local people. Kottayam was also a center of the Indian independence movement, with many prominent leaders such as K. Kelappan and T. K. Madhavan hailing from the district.

Geography of Kottayam

Kottayam is located in the midland region of Kerala, and it has a diverse landscape consisting of hills, plains, and backwaters. The district is situated at an altitude of 9 meters above sea level, and it is spread across an area of approximately 2,208 square kilometers.

The district is drained by several rivers and backwaters, including the Meenachil River, the Manimala River, and the Vembanad Lake. The Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala and is a major tourist attraction in the district. Kottayam also has several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is home to a wide variety of migratory birds.

Culture of Kottayam

Kottayam has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of traditional and modern influences. The district is known for its vibrant festivals, art forms, and cuisine.

One of the most famous festivals in Kottayam is the Onam festival, which is celebrated in the month of August or September. The festival marks the homecoming of the mythical king Mahabali and is celebrated with great pomp and show. Another popular festival in Kottayam is the Thirunakkara Arattu, which is a ten-day festival celebrated at the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple.

Kottayam is also known for its traditional art forms, including Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Theyyam. The district has a number of cultural centers, including the Kerala Kala Mandalam and the RLV College of Music and Fine Arts.

Tourism in Kottayam

Kottayam is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, backwaters, and wildlife sanctuaries. The district has a number of attractions, including the following:

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a popular birdwatching destination, located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of migratory birds, including herons, storks, and egrets.

State :

Kerala

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