Top Places to Visit in and Around Kumarakom and Kottayam District, Kerala
Kottayam, known as the “Land of Letters” and the “Lake District of Kerala,” is a captivating destination in central Kerala, nestled between the Western Ghats and Vembanad Lake. It offers a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for family vacations. This guide highlights the top family-friendly places to visit in Kumarakom and around Kottayam district. Each destination includes details on why it’s great for families, timings, entry fees, and practical tips for a delightful experience.
Natural Attractions
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Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Location: Kumarakom, Kottayam
- Why Visit: Spanning 14 acres along Vembanad Lake, this sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers, hosting migratory birds like Siberian cranes and local species such as kingfishers. Families can enjoy guided nature walks or boat rides to nearby Pathiramanal Island.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Birdwatching, nature trails, and short boat rides engage all ages.
- Timings: 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 50–100
- Best Time: November to February for migratory birds
- Tip: Bring binoculars and comfortable walking shoes for the best experience.
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Vembanad Lake
- Location: Kumarakom, Kottayam
- Why Visit: Kerala’s largest lake offers serene houseboat rides amidst lush greenery and coconut palms.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Houseboat cruises, photography, and the Nehru Trophy Boat Race in August are exciting for families.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM for boat rides
- Entry Fee: Varies (starting at INR 500/hour for small boats)
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Book a family-friendly houseboat with air-conditioned rooms and onboard meals.
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Kumarakom Backwaters
- Location: Kumarakom, Kottayam
- Why Visit: A network of canals and lagoons provides tranquil boat rides through picturesque landscapes, ideal for family bonding.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Scenic cruises and a peaceful atmosphere suitable for all ages.
- Timings: Available throughout the day
- Entry Fee: No fee for access; boat ride costs vary
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Opt for a shikara boat for a more intimate family experience.
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Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
- Location: Near Kumarakom, Kottayam
- Why Visit: Nestled amidst rubber plantations, this waterfall is a refreshing spot for picnics and light treks.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Picnicking, short treks, and exploring nature.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Pack a picnic basket and visit early to avoid crowds.
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Pathiramanal Island
- Location: Vembanad Lake, accessible by a 10-minute boat ride from Kumarakom
- Why Visit: Known as the “sandbar in between,” this island is a serene retreat for birdwatching and relaxation.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Birdwatching and peaceful walks.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: No fee; boat ride costs apply
- Best Time: November to February
- Tip: Combine with a visit to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
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Kumarakom Beach
- Location: Kumarakom, Kottayam
- Why Visit: Offers water sports and relaxation, with nearby museums adding cultural value.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Water sports like jet skiing and beach relaxation.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Check with resorts for kid-friendly water sport packages.
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Vaikom Beach
- Location: Vaikom, Kottayam (35 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A quieter alternative to Kumarakom Beach, ideal for peaceful strolls and sunsets.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Relaxed atmosphere, picnic opportunities, scenic views.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Bring a picnic and beach games for a fun family day.
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Marmala Waterfalls
- Location: Near Erattupetta, Kottayam
- Why Visit: One of Kottayam’s highest waterfalls, vibrant during the monsoon.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Picnicking, nature exploration, photography.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: June to September
- Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for the trek to the waterfall.
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Thiruvarppu Waterfalls
- Location: Near Ettumanur, Kottayam
- Why Visit: A serene waterfall ideal for a refreshing family day trip.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Picnicking, photography, nature walks.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: June to September
- Tip: Visit post-monsoon for the best water flow.
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Ilaveezha Poonchira
- Location: Near Melukavumattom, Kottayam
- Why Visit: A hill station offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Scenic views, light treks, picnicking.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Carry water and snacks for the trek.
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Vagamon
- Location: Kottayam-Idukki border
- Why Visit: A picturesque hill station with rolling meadows, tea gardens, and pine forests.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Boating at Vagamon Lake, nature walks, picnicking.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Varies for specific activities
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Visit the Vagamon Meadows for a relaxing family picnic.
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Nadukani Hills
- Location: Near Kottayam
- Why Visit: A serene hill station offering panoramic views and tranquility.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Nature walks, picnicking, scenic photography.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Carry a camera for stunning landscape shots.
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Meenachil River
- Location: Flows through Kottayam district
- Why Visit: A major river offering opportunities for boating and fishing amidst lush greenery.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Boating, scenic views, fishing experiences.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Varies for boat rides
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Check with local operators for family-friendly boat tours.
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Vennimala
- Location: Kottayam district
- Why Visit: Known as the “Hill of Victory,” this hill station offers scenic views and trekking opportunities.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Scenic views, light trekking, historical significance.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Suitable for older kids due to trekking; bring comfortable shoes.
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Pallam Backwaters
- Location: Near Kottayam
- Why Visit: Tranquil backwaters offering peaceful boat rides through scenic canals.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Scenic cruises, relaxation, photography.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Varies for boat rides
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Combine with other backwater visits for a full day of exploration.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
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Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
- Location: Ettumanur, Kottayam (25 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its 16th-century murals and wood carvings.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Exploring architecture, learning about history.
- Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Dress modestly and explain the temple’s significance to children.
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Vaikom Shri Mahadeva Temple
- Location: Vaikom, Kottayam (18 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: One of Kerala’s oldest temples, known for its role in the Vaikom Satyagraha and architectural grandeur.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Cultural exploration, vibrant festivals.
- Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: November (Vaikom Ashtami festival)
- Tip: Visit during festivals for cultural performances.
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Poonjar Palace
- Location: Poonjar, Kottayam
- Why Visit: A 600-year-old palace-turned-museum showcasing royal artifacts, antique furniture, and palm-leaf manuscripts.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Historical exhibits, traditional Kerala architecture.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (check locally)
- Entry Fee: Nominal
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Guided tours enhance the educational experience.
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St. Alphonsa’s Tomb
- Location: Bharananganam, Kottayam
- Why Visit: The resting place of Saint Alphonsa, Kerala’s first woman saint, with a chapel and museum.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Spiritual reflection, educational museum visit.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Maintain silence to respect the serene atmosphere.
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Thiruvarppu Temple
- Location: Near Ettumanur, Kottayam
- Why Visit: A historic Shiva temple with beautiful architecture, offering a serene setting.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Cultural learning, peaceful ambiance.
- Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Combine with a visit to Thiruvarppu Waterfalls for a full day.
Educational and Recreational Attractions
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Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park
- Location: Near Kumarakom, Kottayam
- Why Visit: A park promoting sustainable agriculture with over 4,800 plant species and hands-on activities.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Learning about eco-tourism, interactive farming activities.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 100–200 (check locally)
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Wear comfortable clothing for outdoor activities.
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Bay Island Driftwood Museum
- Location: Kumarakom, Kottayam
- Why Visit: A unique museum displaying sculptures made from driftwood, highlighting artistic creativity.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Viewing driftwood sculptures, learning about eco-art.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (check locally)
- Entry Fee: Nominal
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Check museum hours in advance.
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Kerala Album Art Gallery
- Location: Kumarakom, Kottayam
- Why Visit: Showcases a collection of paintings and photographs of Kerala’s culture and history.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Interactive art displays, cultural learning.
- Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (check locally)
- Entry Fee: Nominal
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Combine with other Kumarakom attractions for a full day.
Nearby Attractions
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Alappuzha Beach
- Location: Alappuzha (40 km from Kottayam)
- Why Visit: A scenic beach with a 150-year-old pier and lighthouse, perfect for family outings.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Picnicking, beach walks, lighthouse exploration.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Visit the nearby Vijaya Beach Park for additional family entertainment.
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Kurisumala Ashram
- Location: Vagamon, Kottayam-Idukki border
- Why Visit: A Benedictine monastery offering peace and stunning hill views.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Spiritual retreat, nature walks, scenic beauty.
- Timings: Throughout the day (check visitor hours)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Respect the peaceful environment; suitable for calm family visits.
Planning Your Family Trip to Kottayam
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Kottayam is from September to March, when the weather is pleasant, making outdoor activities like boating, trekking, and beach visits enjoyable. November to February is particularly great for birdwatching due to migratory bird arrivals.
How to Reach Kottayam
- By Air: Cochin International Airport, approximately 80 km away, is the nearest airport, with taxi and bus services to Kottayam.
- By Train: Kottayam Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Chennai.
- By Road: Kottayam is accessible via NH 183 and state highways, with regular buses and taxis from Kochi (60 km), Alappuzha (40 km), and Munnar (145 km).
Activities for Kids
- Water Sports: Available at Kumarakom Beach, including jet skiing and banana boat rides.
- Cultural Shows: Many resorts offer Kathakali and Mohiniyattam performances.
- Cooking Classes: Learn to make traditional Kerala dishes like appam at select resorts.
- Fishing: Try net fishing or angling at Vembanad Lake or Meenachil River with local guides.
Local Cuisine
Enjoy Kerala’s culinary delights such as appam with stew, puttu, and fish curry at local restaurants or floating restaurants run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC). Family-friendly eateries in Kottayam town offer kid-friendly options like dosas and fresh fruit juices.
Packing Tips
- Pack light, breathable clothing for the warm climate.
- Include sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
- Bring comfortable shoes for trekking and nature walks.
- Carry modest clothing for temple visits, covering shoulders and knees.
Table of Key Attractions and Details
| Attraction | Distance from Kottayam Town | Key Family-Friendly Features | Entry Fee | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary | 16 km | Birdwatching, nature trails, boat rides | INR 50–100 | Nov–Feb |
| Vembanad Lake | 16 km | Houseboat cruises, scenic views | Varies | Sep–Mar |
| Kumarakom Backwaters | 16 km | Scenic boat rides, photography | Varies | Sep–Mar |
| Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall | 18 km | Picnicking, light treks | Free | Sep–Mar |
| Pathiramanal Island | 16 km (by boat) | Birdwatching, peaceful walks | Boat ride cost | Nov–Feb |
| Kumarakom Beach | 16 km | Water sports, relaxation | Free | Sep–Mar |
| Vaikom Beach | 35 km | Picnics, sunsets, relaxed atmosphere | Free | Sep–Mar |
| Marmala Waterfalls | 30 km | Nature exploration, photography | Free | Jun–Sep |
| Thiruvarppu Waterfalls | 12 km | Picnicking, nature walks | Free | Jun–Sep |
| Ilaveezha Poonchira | 40 km | Scenic views, light treks | Free | Sep–Mar |
| Vagamon | 60 km | Boating, nature walks, picnicking | Varies | Sep–Mar |
| Nadukani Hills | 50 km | Nature walks, scenic photography | Free | Sep–Mar |
| Meenachil River | Throughout Kottayam | Boating, fishing | Varies | Sep–Mar |
| Vennimala | 20 km | Trekking, scenic views | Free | Sep–Mar |
| Pallam Backwaters | 10 km | Scenic boat rides, relaxation | Varies | Sep–Mar |
| Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple | 12 km | Cultural exploration, architecture | Free | Year-round |
| Vaikom Shri Mahadeva Temple | 35 km | Cultural learning, festivals | Free | Nov (festivals) |
| Poonjar Palace | 45 km | Historical exhibits, architecture | Nominal | Year-round |
| St. Alphonsa’s Tomb | 25 km | Spiritual reflection, museum | Free | Year-round |
| Thiruvarppu Temple | 12 km | Cultural learning, serene setting | Free | Year-round |
| Mango Meadows Agricultural Park | 20 km | Eco-tourism, hands-on activities | INR 100–200 | Sep–Mar |
| Bay Island Driftwood Museum | 16 km | Driftwood sculptures, eco-art | Nominal | Year-round |
| Kerala Album Art Gallery | 16 km | Art exploration, cultural education | Nominal | Year-round |
| Alappuzha Beach | 40 km | Picnicking, beach walks, lighthouse | Free | Sep–Mar |
| Kurisumala Ashram | 60 km | Spiritual retreat, nature walks | Free | Year-round |
Towns and Villages to Visit in and Around Kottayam District, Kerala
Towns and Villages in and Around Kottayam District
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Vaikom
- Location: Kottayam (18 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A historic town famous for the Vaikom Shri Mahadeva Temple, a key cultural and spiritual site known for its role in the Vaikom Satyagraha. The town also offers access to serene backwaters, making it ideal for cultural and scenic family outings.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Temple visits, backwater boat rides, exploring local markets with traditional Kerala snacks like banana chips and jackfruit halwa.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free (boat ride costs vary)
- Best Time: November (Vaikom Ashtami festival for cultural performances)
- Tip: Visit the temple early morning and explore nearby Vaikom Beach for a relaxing family day.
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Pala
- Location: Kottayam (30 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A bustling commercial hub surrounded by rubber plantations and scenic hills, Pala is known for its churches, such as St. Thomas Cathedral, and vibrant local culture. It’s a great spot for families to explore Kerala’s Christian heritage and enjoy local cuisine.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Visiting historical churches, tasting local delicacies like puttu and kadala curry, and exploring nearby plantations.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Stop by local eateries like Hotel Aramana for authentic Kerala meals suitable for kids.
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Kanjirapally
- Location: Kottayam (38 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: Known as the “Gateway to the High Ranges,” Kanjirapally is home to the unique Surya Temple, Kerala’s only temple dedicated to Lord Surya, and offers scenic views of the Western Ghats. It’s perfect for families interested in spirituality and nature.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Temple visits, nature walks in nearby hills, and exploring local spice markets.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Combine with a visit to Nadukani Hills for a full day of exploration.
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Poonjar
- Location: Kottayam (45 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A historic town famous for the Poonjar Palace, a 600-year-old royal residence turned museum, and the annual Maholsavam festival. It offers a glimpse into Kerala’s royal heritage and vibrant traditions.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Exploring the palace’s artifacts, attending cultural festivals, and learning about Kerala’s history.
- Timings: Throughout the day (palace: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, check locally)
- Entry Fee: Nominal for palace entry
- Best Time: Year-round; check festival dates for Maholsavam
- Tip: Engage kids with guided palace tours to make history fun.
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Ponkunnam
- Location: Kottayam (35 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A quaint town known for its ancient temples and churches, offering a serene setting to experience local traditions and community life.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Visiting cultural sites like the Ponkunnam Devi Temple, shopping for handicrafts, and enjoying local street food.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Explore local markets for souvenirs like coir products and traditional lamps.
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Kozha
- Location: Near Kottayam town (10 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A serene village surrounded by backwaters and paddy fields, Kozha offers a peaceful rural Kerala experience with opportunities for boating and village walks.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Backwater boat rides, interacting with locals, and exploring paddy fields.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Varies for boat rides
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Engage with locals to learn about traditional farming practices, which can be educational for kids.
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Kaduthuruthy
- Location: Kottayam (25 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: Known for its historic churches like St. Mary’s Syro-Malabar Church and the Painkuni festival, Kaduthuruthy offers a blend of religious and cultural experiences.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Attending festivals, exploring historical sites, and enjoying local cuisine.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round; check Painkuni festival dates
- Tip: Visit during festivals for vibrant cultural events like processions and performances.
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Changanassery
- Location: Kottayam (18 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A major commercial and cultural town, Changanassery is known for its ancient churches, bustling markets, and proximity to backwaters. It’s a great spot for families to experience urban Kerala life with a cultural twist.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Visiting St. Mary’s Metropolitan Church, exploring local markets, and backwater boat rides.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Visit the Changanassery Market for kid-friendly snacks like murukku and fresh coconut water.
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Erattupetta
- Location: Kottayam (40 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A culturally diverse town near Marmala Waterfalls, known for its harmonious blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities, and vibrant local festivals.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Exploring local culture, visiting nearby waterfalls, and attending festivals like Chandanakudam at the mosque.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round; check festival schedules
- Tip: Combine with a visit to Marmala Waterfalls for a nature and culture-filled day.
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Bharananganam
- Location: Kottayam (30 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: Home to St. Alphonsa’s Tomb, the resting place of Kerala’s first woman saint, this village offers a serene spiritual experience with a chapel and museum.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Spiritual reflection, visiting the museum to learn about St. Alphonsa’s life, and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Teach kids about St. Alphonsa’s legacy for an educational visit; maintain silence in the chapel.
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Manarcad
- Location: Kottayam (10 km from Kottayam town, 25 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: Famous for the St. Mary’s Church, one of Kerala’s largest Christian pilgrimage centers, known for the annual Ettunoyambu festival.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Attending cultural festivals, exploring the historic church, and enjoying local food stalls during events.
- Timings: Throughout the day; church hours: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: September (Ettunoyambu festival)
- Tip: Visit during the festival for a lively cultural experience suitable for families.
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Athirampuzha
- Location: Kottayam (15 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: Known for St. Mary’s Forane Church and its annual boat race, this village offers a blend of cultural and recreational activities.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Watching the boat race, visiting the historic church, and exploring local traditions.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round; check boat race schedules
- Tip: Plan a visit during the boat race for an exciting family outing.
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Kumaranalloor
- Location: Kottayam (10 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: Home to the Kumaranalloor Devi Temple, one of Kerala’s oldest temples, known for its vibrant festivals like Thrikarthika.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Temple visits, cultural festivals, and exploring local handicraft markets.
- Timings: Throughout the day; temple hours: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: November (Thrikarthika festival)
- Tip: Dress modestly and engage kids with stories about the temple’s history.
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Mannanam
- Location: Kottayam (15 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A serene village known for St. Joseph’s Monastery, the first Carmelite Monastery in Asia, offering a peaceful setting with beautiful gardens.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Exploring the monastery, learning about its history, and relaxing in the gardens.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Respect the monastery’s peaceful ambiance; ideal for calm family visits.
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Nattakom
- Location: Kottayam (10 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A tranquil village along the Meenachil River, known for its backwaters and rural charm, perfect for families seeking a peaceful escape.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Backwater boat rides, village walks, and learning about local farming practices.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Varies for boat rides
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Book a short boat ride for a kid-friendly backwater experience.
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Panachikkad
- Location: Kottayam (12 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: Home to the Panachikkad Saraswathy Temple, this village is known for its spiritual significance and serene backwater setting.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Temple visits, backwater exploration, and cultural immersion.
- Timings: Throughout the day; temple hours: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: October (Navratri festival)
- Tip: Visit during Navratri for vibrant cultural events suitable for families.
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Ayarkunnam
- Location: Kottayam (15 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A quiet village with lush greenery and the historic Ayarkunnam St. George Church, offering a peaceful retreat for families.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Exploring the church, village walks, and enjoying local snacks.
- Timings: Throughout the day; church hours: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Combine with a visit to nearby backwaters for a full day trip.
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Kudamaloor
- Location: Kottayam (12 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A historic village known for the Kudamaloor Devi Temple and its proximity to backwaters, offering a blend of spirituality and scenic beauty.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Temple visits, backwater boat rides, and learning about local traditions.
- Timings: Throughout the day; temple hours: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: Year-round
- Tip: Engage kids with stories about the temple’s cultural significance.
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Ettumanur
- Location: Kottayam (12 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A culturally rich town famous for the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple and nearby Thiruvarppu Waterfalls, offering a mix of spiritual and natural attractions.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Temple visits, exploring nearby waterfalls, and enjoying local festivals.
- Timings: Throughout the day; temple hours: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: February (temple festival)
- Tip: Plan a morning temple visit followed by a picnic at Thiruvarppu Waterfalls.
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Mundakayam
- Location: Kottayam (50 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A scenic town surrounded by rubber and spice plantations, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s plantation life and proximity to hill stations like Vagamon.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Plantation tours, nature walks, and exploring local markets.
- Timings: Throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: September to March
- Tip: Visit a rubber plantation to teach kids about Kerala’s agricultural heritage.
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Kidangoor
- Location: Kottayam (5 km from Ayarkunnam, 20 km from Kumarakom)
- Why Visit: A historic village along the Meenachil River, Kidangoor is renowned for the ancient Subramanya Swami Temple, believed to be over 1500 years old, and its unique Koothambalam (temple theatre) featuring a rare Kurumthotti Thoonu (pillar) carved from the medicinal Kurumthotti plant. The village is also a hub of education with schools and an engineering college, offering a blend of cultural and intellectual experiences.
- Family-Friendly Highlights: Visiting the Subramanya Swami Temple to explore its unique architecture and Koothambalam, learning about local history, and enjoying the serene riverside setting. The temple’s Brahmachari Koothu, a special performance for couples seeking children, and the intricate Ramayana and Mahabharata carvings in the Koothambalam are educational for kids.
- Timings: Throughout the day; temple hours: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time: February/March (annual festival with Chakiyar Koothu performances)
- Tip: Explain the temple’s unique traditions, like the restriction on women entering the Nalambalam due to Lord Subramanya’s Brahmachari Bhava, to kids for cultural learning. Visit the nearby Maha Ganapathy Temple for additional exploration.
Planning Your Trip to Kottayam’s Towns and Villages
Why Visit These Towns and Villages
These towns and villages offer a diverse range of experiences, from spiritual and cultural exploration to scenic backwater rides and rural immersion. Their proximity to Kumarakom (most within 50 km) makes them ideal for day trips or extended stays. Families can enjoy a mix of educational activities, like learning about local traditions and temple architecture, and fun outings, such as boat rides and festival visits, ensuring a well-rounded vacation.
Best Time to Visit
September to March offers pleasant weather, ideal for exploring villages, temples, and backwaters. November to February is particularly great for cultural festivals like Vaikom Ashtami, Thrikarthika, and the Kidangoor temple’s annual festival, which add vibrancy to family visits.
How to Reach
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (80 km from Kottayam) is the nearest airport, with taxis and buses to these towns and villages.
- By Train: Kottayam Railway Station connects to major cities, with local transport like auto-rickshaws to nearby villages.
- By Road: Well-connected via NH 183 and state highways, with buses and taxis from Kottayam to towns like Vaikom (35 km), Pala (30 km), Kanjirapally (38 km), and Kidangoor (20 km from Kumarakom).
Family-Friendly Tips
- Accommodation: Stay in family-friendly resorts like The Zuri Kumarakom or homestays like Holiday Homes in Kidangoor (rated 9.4 for its serene setting) / Kumarakom for a local experience with kid-friendly amenities.
- Activities for Kids: Engage children with temple stories, local craft workshops, or short boat rides. Festivals offer cultural performances like Chakiyar Koothu at Kidangoor that captivate young visitors.
- Local Cuisine: Try kid-friendly Kerala dishes like dosa, idiyappam, and banana fries at local eateries or markets.
- Packing: Pack light clothing, comfortable shoes for village walks, and modest attire for temple visits. Sunscreen and hats are essential for outdoor activities.
- Timing: Plan early morning or late afternoon visits to avoid heat, especially for outdoor activities like boat rides or plantation tours.
Table of Towns and Villages
| Town/Village | Distance from Kumarakom | Key Family-Friendly Features | Entry Fee | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vaikom | 18 km | Temple visits, backwater boat rides, markets | Free | Nov (Vaikom Ashtami) |
| Pala | 30 km | Churches, plantations, local cuisine | Free | Year-round |
| Kanjirapally | 38 km | Surya Temple, nature walks, spice markets | Free | Year-round |
| Poonjar | 45 km | Palace museum, cultural festivals | Nominal | Year-round |
| Ponkunnam | 35 km | Temples, churches, handicraft shopping | Free | Year-round |
| Kozha | 10 km | Backwater rides, village walks, farming | Varies | Sep–Mar |
| Kaduthuruthy | 25 km | Churches, Painkuni festival, local culture | Free | Year-round |
| Changanassery | 18 km | Churches, markets, backwater rides | Free | Year-round |
| Erattupetta | 40 km | Waterfalls, festivals, cultural diversity | Free | Year-round |
| Bharananganam | 30 km | St. Alphonsa’s Tomb, museum, spiritual site | Free | Year-round |
| Manarcad | 25 km | St. Mary’s Church, Ettunoyambu festival | Free | Sep (festival) |
| Athirampuzha | 15 km | Church, boat race, cultural events | Free | Year-round |
| Kumaranalloor | 10 km | Devi Temple, Thrikarthika festival, markets | Free | Nov (festival) |
| Mannanam | 15 km | Monastery, gardens, historical exploration | Free | Year-round |
| Nattakom | 10 km | Backwater rides, village walks, farming | Varies | Sep–Mar |
| Panachikkad | 12 km | Saraswathy Temple, backwaters, Navratri | Free | Oct (Navratri) |
| Ayarkunnam | 15 km | Church, village walks, local snacks | Free | Year-round |
| Kudamaloor | 12 km | Devi Temple, backwater rides, local culture | Free | Year-round |
| Ettumanur | 12 km | Mahadeva Temple, waterfalls, festivals | Free | Feb (festival) |
| Mundakayam | 50 km | Plantation tours, nature walks, markets | Free | Sep–Mar |
| Kidangoor | 20 km | Subramanya Temple, Koothambalam, riverside | Free | Feb/Mar (festival) |