Kottayam Districts in Kerala

sighseeing in kumarakom

PATHIRAMANAL (Sands of Midnight) This 10 acre island on the backwaters is home to many rare varieties of migratory birds from different parts of the world. According to mythology a young Brahmin dived into the Vembanad Lake to perform his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below. Surrounded by the Vembanad Lake, stretching from Alappuzha to Kochi, Pathiramanal is accessible only by boat. The green island thus forms an ideal place for a break in the journey while on a backwater cruise.

PILGRIM CENTRES Siva Temple, Thalikkotta. Approx 12 kms from Kumarakom, it is the place of worship of the erstwhile Thekkumkoor Royal family. Thazhathangadi Valiapalli (12 kms from Kumarakom). Built in 1579 by Thekkumkoor Maharajah, this church displays outstanding architecture, which is a blend of Kerala and Portuguese styles. The walls are adorned with beautiful murals made in oriental and western styles on biblical and non-biblical themes. Jama Masjid Thazhathangadi Approx 12 kms from Kumarakom this ancient mosque on the banks of the Meenachil River is believed to be 1000 yrs old. It is one of the oldest in India. Thirunakkara Mahadevar Temple In the heart of Kottayam town is this 500 year old temple built by the Thekkumkoor Maharajah. This temple built in the Kerala style of architecture has colorful murals on its walls, which are worth exploring. The Koothambalam, the special building in the temple premises used for cultural purposes, is one of the best in Kerala. Mahadevar Temple, Ettumanoor 15 kms from this temple it is famous for its murals, especially the panting of Nataraja in the gopuram and ezharaponnana. St Mary’s Church, Cheriapalli 12kms from Kottayam built in 1579 by Thekkumkoor Maharajah, this church displays outstanding architecture which is a blend of Kerala and Portuguese styles. The walls are adorned with beautiful murals mad in oriental and western styles on biblical and non biblical themes. Vaikom Mahadever Temple 8 kms from Kumarakom, associated with the legendary Parasurama, this temple is a typical example of the Kerala style of temple architecture. More popular as the Kasi of the South, this temple is famous for its elephant pageant and traditional art performances.