2026 Kottayam Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

Vibrant Kerala in Motion – Art, Coastlines & Waterfalls 🌊💃🕉️ Experience Kerala’s magic through its unforgettable dance traditions, dreamy shores, and lush landscapes. From dramatic Kathakali performances to sunrise vistas in Malarikal, this itinerary blends culture and scenic beauty for travelers craving authentic moments! Kochi has great Kathakali Show by Kochi Folklore Odeum (Napier Street, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001) – book an evening performance for a front-row seat to stunning masked dances under blue-curtained backdrops. Don’t miss snapping close-ups of performers’ vivid makeup and ornate costumes! 📸 Tip: Arrive early to secure great seating and check their schedule for Theyyam shows too (right after Kathakal). Fort Kochi Beach is great for casual strolls against charming colonial-era architecture and Chinese fishing nets. Best time for “insta-worthy” photos: just after sunrise or late afternoon when the light glows golden. Local food stalls offer fresh seafood—sample the fried fish! Head to Thrissur: Take a day trip out to Athirapally Waterfalls (7GR8+868, Athirappilly, Vettilappara, Pariyaram, Kerala 680724)—Kerala’s own ‘Niagara’. Trek down forest trails for epic waterfall shots and the cooling mist. Wear sturdy footwear and protect your gear from spray. don't forget the further 2 waterfalls within 5 km. If you want to experience water lilies, then plan for Malarikal Sunrise View Point (GFWV+C64, Thiruvarpu, Kerala 686003). A bit from Kochi but definitely worth a trip if you are spending more days in the region. Arrive before dawn for a canvas of misty vistas—perfect for panoramic photos Pro tip: Kerala’s weather flips fast—pack both an umbrella and a raincoat. Local buses and taxis link these spots without hassle. Other than that, the backwater, coastline, sea food- many great things to enjoy in Kochi and region around. #Kochi #KeralaCulture #Waterfalls #TravelGoals #SunriseMagic

Kottayam, found a nice place for my darling's favourite Kerala meals opposite Windsor Castle Hotel

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I booked the house boat during sunset. The view was superb and refreshing.! I tried to control the steering but it wasn’t easy. Overall it was great experience #Houseboatkerala

The CMS College was established in 1817 and has its bicentennial celebration recently. This historical place is well known as one of the first institutions of higher learning in India and the first college in South India. Lies in the heart of Kottayam City, Kerala, South India, the college maintains its virgin forest to host various flora and fauna. All create a shady and green atmosphere and a beautiful view to relax. #trip #triptoIndia #historicalplace #educationtrip

The regular ferry from Kottayam to Alleppey costs 50 yen per person and allows you to enjoy the life of the people along the river and the majesty of nature!! If you take the ferry that arrives in the evening, you can see a beautiful sunset if the weather is good! If you are going to Kerala, please take it. The boarding point is here ↓ HGH9+3JR, Near Police Station, Kodimatha, Kottayam, Kerala 686013 India @#IndiaTrip #Alleppey #BackwaterTrip