People often complain there is nothing much to do in Kottayam and how the district is boring. It may be a disappointment for the city dwellers who seek malls and pubs, but for the souls who love adventure, treks and can be comfortable in the lap of nature, Kottayam is heaven.
Here are five offbeat things to do in the district.
Even people from Kottayam have not heard much about Vennimala, which is just about 15 kms away from the town. At a glance, it looks like a valley of mysteries. A place that hides both historical and mythological stories, and still stays away from the common man.
The terrain that leads to the destination is not very steep; even an autorickshaw can take you there. What attracts one to Vennimala is its green vegetation, the silence and the peace it offers.
If Ilaveezha Poochira had a bumper sticker dedicated to it, it would read, To see and not to be seen. It's almost as if the valley has an alter ego; though we can sight as many as six surrounding districts from the hills while we are at Illaveezha Poonchira, we're safely cocooned in the beauty of the hillocks of the Western ghats namely, Mankunnu, Kodayathoormala and Thonippara hills.
Legend has it that the valley was a temporary home to the Pandavas during their life incognito. While they resided on the lap of nature, Draupadi, their beautiful wife, used to take her bath in the lake.
This mosque in Kottayam is over a 1000 years old
Vaikom holds a special place in Kerala's history. And it is just normal to come across monuments across this village commemorating the famous 'Vaikom Satyagraha'.
The new park is the best place to relax - or catch up with family and friends. Right next to the park is the huge bell called 'Chronicle of the Shores Foretold.'
The jetty where Mahatma Gandhi landed to take part in the Vaikom Satyagraha is still preserved, complete with the royal seal of the Travancore kings: the conch shell.
Are you searching for a place to escape from the sweltering summer sun? Head out to Matsyafed's Aqua Tourism centre situated at Palaikari on the Kottayam – Ernakulam road.
Once you turn off the highway and enter the Fisheries Road, you are greeted by the sights and sounds of village life. Pick up your tickets at the entrance and you are all set to explore the peaceful environment.
Though, no longer an offbeat location as more and more tourists have started flocking to this place it is still a go to for the hill lovers.
If you are in Kottayam and planning a one-day trip, Illikal Kallu could be the place for you.
Read: Getting Around Kottayam