By FATHIMA
Kottayam, situated in Kerala, India, is a combination of backwaters, hills, and culture.
Day 1: Backwater Bliss
Morning: Reach Kottayam and proceed to the backwaters. Alleppey (Alappuzha) is well connected from Kottayam and a favorite spot for houseboat cruises. Board a traditional houseboat (kettuvallam) and sail through the peaceful canals, witnessing the green paddy fields, rice paddies, and local villages.
Afternoon: Proceed on your backwater cruise. Have a sumptuous Kerala lunch on board the houseboat. Watch the various bird species and even attempt to fish.
Evening: Leave the houseboat and check into your Kottayam hotel. Have a leisurely evening. You might visit the local market or indulge in a traditional Kerala dinner.
Day 2: Hills and History
Morning: Spend time at the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, an ancient and important temple in Kottayam for its murals and structure.
Afternoon: Take a trip to Vagamon, a hill station famous for its beauty, adventure sports, and climate. Go paragliding, trekking, or just relax and enjoy the splendor.
Evening: Return to Kottayam. If time allows, spend time at the Kottayam Cheriapally, an old church with pretty architecture.
Day 3: Nature and Culture
Morning: Go to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a bird-watcher's paradise. Spot various migratory as well as local birds in the wild. A boat tour of the sanctuary can be arranged.
Afternoon: Visit the markets for shopping of spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Being a region where rubber is mainly cultivated, Kottayam may acquaint you with the growth of rubber.
Evening: Depart from Kottayam.
Additional Activities
Athirapally and Vazhachal Waterfalls: If you have time, take a day trip to these impressive waterfalls, although they are somewhat remote.
Illikkal Kallu: A rare rock formation in the upper ranges of Kottayam. It involves a strenuous trek.
Monastery Visit: Kottayam boasts some very old monasteries which you may visit.
Cooking Class: Take a class to learn how to make traditional Kerala food.
Tips for Your Trip:
Best Time to Visit: September to May provides good weather.
Accommodation: Kottayam offers a variety of hotels and resorts to fit various budgets.
Transportation: Rent a car or taxi for local transportation, particularly for a visit to Vagamon. Auto-rickshaws are easily available in the city.
Food: Do not miss the opportunity to taste traditional Kerala food such as appam, puttu, fish curry, and karimeen pollichathu.
Backwater Options: You can opt for a houseboat stay or a shorter shikara boat ride based on your choice and time.
Make sure to confirm the opening hours and availability of attractions, particularly during peak season.
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