Thursday 14 July 2011

Kottayam, Kerala

Kottayam is a city in the Indian state of Kerala and is the administrative capital of the Kottayam district. Kottayam is located in south-central Kerala and is approximately 150 km from the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram.

The Rajas of the independent little kingdom of Thekkumkoor ruled Kottayam from Thazhathangady till the mid-18th century. Later, Marthanda Varma, who was king of Travancore annexed Thekkumcore and the surrounding areas of Kottayam to the Kingdom of Travancore. During the British rule of India, Kottayam continued to be ruled under the Princely State of Travancore.


Sea
Kottayam Port, India's first multi-modal ICD and a minor port using inland water way, is situated at Nattakom, on the banks of Kodoor river.

Places to See:

Bharananganam


Bharananganam is an important pilgrimage center for the Christians. It is located next to the St. Mary's Church. The church is a thousand years old and has a well-carved cavern of Virgin Mary. 

Cheryapalli


Built in the year 1579, this church is dedicated to St. Mary. The church has some beautiful paintings of the Biblical era. 

Mannanam

This place is a famous Christian center. The famous St. Joseph's monastery is located over here. A famous saintly figure of Kerala known as Father Kuriakose Elias of Chavara (1805 -1871) lived here. Mannanam is the place where one of the oldest printing presses of India was established. Some of Kerala's oldest newspapers were printed over here. 

Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple

Located in the heart of Kottayam, this temple is built in the typical Kerala style. The architecture and murals are stunningly beautiful. The temple is packed by a large number of devotees who come to attend the annual festival in the month of March. 

Valiyapalli Church

One of the largest churches in Kottayam, the Valiyapalli church was built in the year 1550. This church was built for the Knanaya Orthodox Syrians and is renowned for its ancient Persian cross dating back to the 8th century and also the Pahalavi inscription on the cross.

Ettumanoor Temple

A famous Hindu pilgrimage, Ettumanoor Temple is known for its unique and original architecture, wooden carvings and murals. The one that truly deserves a special mention is a statue of Shiva as Nataraja in a stunning pose. The temple is also famous for its 10 day long annual festival held during February-March. 

Grampi Hill

A great place to relax and unwind, the Grampi hill station is a beautiful place to visit and rest in nature's lap. 

Ilaveezhapoonchira

A beautiful picnic spot located at a distance of 55 kilometers from Kottayam, Ilaveezhapoonchira is situated among beautiful hills and is stunningly beautiful. 

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Located at a distance of 12 kilometers from Kottayam town, this bird sanctuary is known to be home to local as well as migratory birds. 

Peerumedu

A small hill station located at a height of 914 meters above sea level, Peerumedu derives its name from the famous Sufi saint, Peer Mohammad............
http://famousindiantouristplaces.blogspot.com

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