Things to do in Kottayam

Activities, attractions and tours

Kumarakom which includes a lake or waterhole
Kottayam
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary featuring animals
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary showing a river or creek
Kottayam

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Most popular experiences in Kottayam

Tours & day trips

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Aleppey Backwater Tour with Kerala Traditional Lunch

Aleppey Backwater Tour with Kerala Traditional Lunch

Activity duration is 8 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €68 per adult
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Food, drink & nightlife

See all 5 activities
Alleppey Shikara boat ride

Alleppey Shikara boat ride

Activity duration is 3 hours
2.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is €39 per traveller*
Alleppey Shikara boat rideOpens in new tab

Water activities

See all 4 activities
Alleppey Shikara boat ride

Alleppey Shikara boat ride

Activity duration is 3 hours
2.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is €39 per traveller*
Alleppey Shikara boat rideOpens in new tab

What to do in Kottayam

Popular places to visit

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary which includes bird life

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Stroll through lush woodland on the banks of the Kerala backwaters to spot a fascinating variety of colorful and migratory birds.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Kumarakom Boat Jetty

Explore the waterfront of Kumarakom Boat Jetty and enjoy other activities such as boating in Kumarakom. Wander the lakeside in this relaxing area.

Kumarakom Boat Jetty

Mahatma Gandhi University

Explore the campus of Mahatma Gandhi University during your visit to Kottayam. Wander the lakeside in this culturally rich area.

Mahatma Gandhi University

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

You can learn about the history of Ettumanoor with a trip to Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple. Wander the lakeside in this relaxing area.

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple

You can find out about the history of Kottayam with a visit to Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple

Kumarakom Backwaters

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Kumarakom Backwaters during your travels in Kottayam. Make time to visit the temples and monuments while you're in the area.

Kumarakom Backwaters

Kottayam Cheriyapally

You can learn about the history of Perumbaikad with a trip to Kottayam Cheriyapally. Wander the lakeside in this relaxing area.

Kottayam Cheriyapally

Nagambadam Stadium

Catch an event at Nagambadam Stadium during your trip to Nagampadam. Wander the lakeside in this relaxing area.

Nagambadam Stadium

Thangal Hill

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Thangal Hill during your travels in Kottayam. Wander the lakeside in this culturally rich area.

Thangal Hill
Marari Beach which includes a beach

Cherthala

Photo by Anudath Brahmadathan

Vaikom

Photo by MariaDassTheWorld

Mankombu

Photo by MariaDassTheWorld

Kuttanad Taluk

Photo by Natalie Robinson

Aryad South

Frequently asked questions

Is Kottayam worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of great things to do in Kottayam. Make sure to enjoy the area's blend of unmissable attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Kottayam?
Begin your day with a visit to Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple and Kottayam Cheriyapally. Then, check out different areas of Kottayam for a quick bite and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kottayam?
The top tourist attraction in Kottayam is Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Kottayam?
Three days in Kottayam is plenty of time to visit the city's major attractions. Many travellers spend three days on average. Kottayam Cheriyapally, Thangal Hill and St. Mary's Church are among the most popular sights. Want to see more? Hang around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Kumarakom.
What are some activities to do in Kottayam with kids?
Planning what to do in Kottayam with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or toddlers, there are plenty of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Kottayam for adults?
Adults of all ages will find lots of things to do in Kottayam. Whether you're into art, history, nature or just love exploring new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Kottayam?
From checking out parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Kottayam. If you're stuck for ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Kottayam Cheriyapally is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their travelling adventures.