Kottayam, India skyline: the 12 most iconic buildings and best views in Kottayam

One of the most beautiful temples I’ve had the chance to visit in Kottayam. The weather was just perfect, adding to the serene and peaceful atmosphere. I was lucky to make it just in time before the temple closed for the morning session, if I remember right, it shuts at 12 noon.

Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple is one of the most beautiful and spiritually powerful temples in Kottayam. The peaceful atmosphere, traditional architecture, and daily rituals make it a truly divine experience. The murals and wooden carvings are worth admiring. During the annual festival, the temple comes alive with vibrant processions and cultural performances. A must-visit for anyone visiting Kottayam!

**A serene spiritual retreat in the heart of Kottayam.** Kottayam Shiva Temple is not just a place of worship — it's an experience. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by an overwhelming sense of peace and timelessness. The temple architecture beautifully reflects Kerala's heritage, and the well-maintained premises add to the charm. Evenings here are especially divine, with the sound of temple bells, soft chants, and a gentle breeze that feels almost sacred — perfect for quiet reflection. The priests and staff are respectful and maintain the sanctity of the place. Whether you're deeply spiritual or simply looking for a peaceful stop during your day, this temple offers a kind of inner calm that's hard to find elsewhere. Highly recommended if you're in Kottayam — even a short visit can leave you feeling recharged and grounded.

A must visit temple in Kottayam with huge complex and divine atmosphere.

Yes one of the oldest Sri Mahadeva temple. Beautiful wooden carvings and type of pooja is unique. Many Swamy Ayyappa devotees come here both to remove or wear Ayyappa's mala. Nice temple in Aug I with my family members visited this temple during our pilgrimage to Sabarimala

The temple is located in centre of Kottayam Town.The Pooram celebrated famous.This temple is Lord Shiva. There is a lot of parking here.

Good atmosphere temples with nice view and plenty of space to hangout in the centre of the town

the 4th oldest mosques in the world, which is preserved in its original form and still functions as a mosque. And may be the oldest wooden built ever stood by time for more than 1200 years. The first 3 mosques which are still remained in its original form are Rank,Mosque Name,Year Built,Century,Location,Preserved?,Still Functions? 1. Great Mosque of Kairouan,670 CE,7th century,Tunisia, 2. Great Mosque of Damascus,715 CE,8th century,Syria 3. Grand Mosque of Xi’an,742 CE,8th century,China 4. Thazhathangadi Juma Masjid,824 CE,9th century,India

Thazhathangady Juma Masjid in Kottayam, Kerala, is one of India's oldest mosques, built around 824 CE. It features stunning Thachu Shastra architecture with intricate teak wood carvings. The mosque is known for its rich history, beautiful craftsmanship, and significance in the freedom struggle. Visitors can explore its unique blend of Islamic and Kerala architecture and enjoy local attractions.

Thazhathangady Juma Masjid in Kottayam, it's a 1000years old mosque in Kerala, is one of India's oldest mosque, built around 824 CE. It's kerala style architecture is very attractive . Visitors can explore its unique blend of Islamic and Kerala architecture.the area around the mosque is look like an asthetic view it gives an old look of kerala

Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, located near Kottayam in Kerala, is one of the oldest mosques in India, with a history spanning over 1,000 years. The mosque is renowned for its stunning architecture and craftsmanship, featuring intricate wooden carvings, a secret passage, and a water tank carved from a single block of stone. We were captivated by the peaceful and divine atmosphere here. However, our female friends weren't allowed to enter the mosque. Men in shorts are also prohibited, though if your shorts are below the knee, you can still enter. If you're in the Kottayam area, this mosque is a must-visit!

This is the Second Oldest Mosque in India which was build by Habib bi dinnar s/o Malik Mohammed Dinnar . Malik Mohammed Dinnar had build The first ever mosque in India and Kerala which is now as The Cheraman Mosque . This Thazhathangady Juma Masjid is situated near Kottayam City.

Thazhathangadi Juma Masjid is one of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in Kerala, over 1,000 years old. Built in traditional Kerala wooden architecture, with carved pillars, wooden ceilings, and a serene courtyard, it is a true heritage monument. The mosque stands on the banks of the Meenachil River, offering a peaceful atmosphere for prayer and reflection. Visitors are always impressed by its craftsmanship and history. A must-visit spot in Kottayam for those interested in culture, architecture, and spirituality.

One of the best and beautiful 🤩 oldest masjid ever seen with wood work in India Thazhathangadi is a priority visit among all wood worked masjid. Kottayam a heritage city Heritage enthusiasts must visit this place https://maps.app.goo.gl/7LuYTjm7roGeSt916 Plu go through my photos during my last visit with Heritage enthusiasts, they have allowed me to take the photos . Simply loved it 😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻😻

Very famous Subramanya temple in Kottayam . Divine and peaceful atmosphere and the temple is maintained neatly as well

Peaceful atmosphere one of the must visit temples in kottayam district 🤍

Very famous Subramanya Swami Temple in Kottayam District. Calm and quite religious place. Have enough parking and easily noticeable from main road on normal traffic. Lord Subrahmanya is the main idol. There is also idola of lord Vishnu, Dakshinaa Moorthi, lord Shastha, Rakshas, Ganapathi. There is also an Ootupura and peacock. Shashti is a very important day in every month. This Temple is the only Temple in the world having Shadchakra Ganapathy Picture having daily Naivedya & Poojas. Koothambalam in the temple is the only Opened Koothambalam in the Country. Ramayanam is sculptured in 3 dimension in Arpookara Temple Koothambalam....Mural paintings on the outside wall of the temple Sreekovil is world famous.

Arpookara Sri subramanya swamy time is located at Ambalakavala - Parappuram Rd, Gandhi Nagar, Arpookara Kottayam. Very calm and divine atmosphere Temple closes by 11 am in the morning Have parking space

Very famous Subramanya Temple in Kottayam district. Awesomely atmosphere,The peacock, the vehicle of god Murugan, can be seen in this temple. A most devotional atmosphere. By worshiping Murugan in the temple, the mind and body get the most peace and happiness.

Feel divinity in every time.Lord subrahmaniya(Deva senapathy)is the diety here.We get relaxed when entering this temple. This is the festival season.This year celebrations are under covid protocol.Many devotees are here to celebrate this festival.We feel 100%divinity here.Come here &go back with a blissful mind

Great temple near Kottayam medical college Peaceful atmosphere Ample parking space "Koothambalam"(where chakyaar kooth -an artform-were performed) is a special attraction.... Lord Subrahmanya is the main 'prathishta' There is also idola of lord vishnu,dakshinaa moorthi,lord shastha, rakshas,ganapathi There is also an ootupura and , peacock

A peaceful place for muslims

An absolutely comfortable Masjid with the facility for women to pray, being situating at its iconic location on the way to the internationally popular Kumarakom beach. Masjidunnoor, as it is named, is a perfec bless for the Travellers, both inbound and outbound. Wonderfully furnished, amply facilitated and beautifully designed and really spacious Masjid is a Devine retreat especially after a tedious journey.

Awesome

Very nice looking good 💯

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The Cheriyapalli is not just an architectural gem; it is also a place of deep spiritual significance for the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Christian community. It remains a center of devotion, hosting important feasts like the Feast of the Assumption of St. Mary (Vangippu Perunnal), which draws pilgrims from across Kerala. Visitors often admire the way the church has been maintained, preserving its historic beauty while remaining an active place of worship. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the historical richness, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone in Kottayam — whether you’re a pilgrim, historian, or simply a curious traveler.

St. Mary's Orthodox Syrian Church, Kottayam, commonly known as Kottayam Cheriapally, is a Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church located in Kottayam, Kerala, India. Cheriapally meaning ‘small church’, whose appearance contradicts its name, is one of the oldest and well-preserved churches in the state. Cheriapally is located on the way to Kumarakom from Kottayam. The church is dedicated to mother Mary. Kottayam Cheriapally, built in 1579, has retained its old world charm today as well even after so much of environmental changes. The length and breadth of the church is constructed with innovative paintings, mural, and architecture. Before the inception of the Old Seminary in 1815, Kottayam Cheriapally was the Headquarters of the Church and Malankara Metropolitans for a long time. The Dormition of Mother Mary or holy Theotokos occupies the most important place in the Orthodox Church next to that of Jesus Christ. It is indeed a great feast which depicts ‘falling asleep’ of the Mother of God and taking her body up into heaven by angels. The Feast of the Dormition of St. Mary (Vaangippu Perunnal or Shoonoyo Perunnal) is observed in this church on August 15. The feast of Dormition is celebrated by two weeks of fasting, known as the Dormition fast, beginning from 1 August to 15 August which draws many people from far and wide. The annual feast of the church (Feast of St. Mary) falls on January 15 and is known as Vithukalude Perunnal which means ‘the festival of seeds’. It is observed to invoke the blessings of Virgin Mary upon the agricultural seeds.

This beautiful church was built in the Portuguese-Baroque-Keralite style, the mural art on the church interiors depicts the major incidents in Jesus Christ's life. The eastern side of the church wall portrays the major happenings in the life of the Lord's mother. Some of the paintings depict the trial of Christ, Crucifixion, and Christ being taken down from the cross. The ceiling with 99 tiles is adorned with various paintings. Historians said that these were painted by foreign artists. Interestingly, the clothes worn by the people in the paintings are also European in style. Thought the paintings are in European style, some experts claim the technique used is that of artists from Kerala. All the paintings have been created by only using organic dyes from vegetables and flowers. A must visit place while you are in Kottayam.

A Historic and Holy Gem of Kerala Kottayam Cheriapally (St. Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church), established in 1579, is a place where history, holiness, and heritage come together. This majestic church stands as a beacon of apostolic faith and is one of the most revered churches in India. What makes Cheriapally truly unique is that it was the first church in India to receive and enshrine the Holy Girdle (Soonoro) of St. Mary (Mother of God) Every year, during August 10–15, thousands come to venerate this relic during the Feast of St. Mary. Inside the Madbaha (altar) lies the visible tomb of Punnathara Mar Dionysius, Malankara Metropolitan who led the Malankara Church during difficult times. Kottayam Cheriapally was the Headquarters of the Church and Malankara Metropolitans for a long time. Mar Gabrieal, a Persian bishop who came centuries earlier, lies on the Madbha— though it is not visibly marked. This points to the ancient Persian connection of the Indian Church long before European missions. The interior is adorned with historic mural paintings, and the architecture beautifully blends Portuguese and Kerala styles. As you step in, you feel a deep spiritual peace, and many faithful believe miracles quietly happen here without publicity. 🕊️ A true apostolic site with relics, saints, and sacred history. 🪦 Visit the tombs of holy bishops inside the Madbaha. 🎨 Admire the centuries-old murals and sacred beauty. 🙏 A perfect place for prayer, reflection, and encountering divine grace.

Kottayam Cheriapally is one of the oldest churches in India, built in 1579. The galleries and pillars indicate European architecture. Slightly off the main road, leading through a narrow lane, parking available for few cars only. When we reached it was raining heavily but suddenly the downpour reduced making way to our visit. Very beautiful chuch in a beautiful premises.

Kottayam Cheriya Pally (St. Mary's Orthadox Syrian Church) is one of the ancient Syrian Christian church located at Kottayam. This Church built on 1579, well preserved & renovated. The architecture style of the church is a mixture of Kerala & European. The ancient mural paintings inside the Church highlight its history & tradition. The Church welcomes Tourists too, but has to follow Church manners.

During the 11th century, native state of Venpoli (Venpolinadu) was under the supremacy of the Chera empire.Venpoli was made up of modern Vaikkom, Moovattupuzha, Kanjirapally and Thodupuzha. Kaduthuruthi was its capital. At the end of 11th century the conquest by the Cholas lead to the decline of Chera paved way for the independence of smaller states like Venpolinadu. Power struggles within Venpoli dynasty lead to the formation of Karikodu, Vadakumkoor and Thekkumkoor. Thekkumkoor state came into existence in AD1103 with Manikantapuram as its capital.Modern Kottayam was then known as Munjanadu whose capital was Thaliyilkotta consisting of Kottayam and Ettumanoor which was annexed to Thekkumkoor state and Vennimala was made region’s capital. But due to many reasons capital was again shifted back to Thaliyilkotta. During those times human civilization was based on river banks and the banks of river Meenachil began to develop trade routes with Kochi and Kozhikode states. Soon markets like Pazhayachanda (Old bazaar), Valiaangady (Big bazaar) began to flourish.

Famous temple in Kottayam . Bhagavaty is mainly worshipped here.

Kumaranalloor Devi Temple is one of the most divine temples in Kottayam. The peaceful atmosphere, traditional Kerala architecture, and beautiful murals make it very special. Famous for the annual Thrikkarthika festival, the temple is well maintained and easily accessible from town. A must-visit for devotees and visitors alike

A very famous Devi temple in Kottayam. Kumaraballor karthyayani temple facing to the east direction. Originally temple built for Lord Subramanya, devi came from Madurai same time and sat here. Then Subramanya temple was built at Udayanapuram, near Vykom. Kumaranallore Karthyayani is the landlord for all Manjoor and kumaranallor desham. Very nice, good, and powerful temple. Ample car parking space. No 🚽 toilet facilities for Physically Handicapped ♿ persons. No wheelchair accessibility.

Kumaranallur Devikshetra is located in KUMARANALLOOR , Kottayam. Very close to Kumaranallur railway station and less than four kilometers from Kottayam town. This temple is not under Devaswom Board. This Durga temple is very famous for the Kartika festival which is held in the month of Scorpio (December).

Kumaranalloor Devi Temple is considered as one of the most important Devi temples among the 108 Durgalayas (Devi temples) in Kerala. The temple is said to be more than 2400 years. My marriage was conducted in this temple and that's the first time I had come to know about this temple, but at that time I couldn't see the deit because of marriage rush and heavy downpour. On my first visit to Wife's house I wanted to see the deity but heavy rain was pouring down and I cancelled my plan to visit but then when I reached thiruvalla something told me that I should from that day onwards visit the Devi and then only go to Wife's home. Since then I have kept that and I am really fond and her sincere bhakthan. It is a peaceful and serene environment that reminds us that temples were place of workship and calmness. Really love the architecture and mural painting inside

I had been to see the Temple festival (2021). It was a wonderful spectacle with the unique rituals and rites. The whole process is done calmly with no hurry. One gets to enjoy a special darshan with rustic roots. A must-visit for temple enthusiasts.

A temple with a Powerful Vibe.Located at kumaranalloor near kottayam the magnificent temple is attracting millions of devotees.Goddess Karthyayani is the main deity.The mural arts surrounding the Sanctum sanctorum is a feast for eyes.One can see many idols of Lion across the temple. While having a darshan of that Indescribable Idol of Bhagavathi one will forget all his/her pains or sorrows. Such is the powerful energy this temple is giving.

Powerful goddess Worshipping Bhadra kaali Full positivity. It's near tb road , Kodimatha , Kottayam

Its a devi temple, situated near Kottayam town

Next to mc Road chanting of mantra can be heard whole day

More happy to say that,We got married here in july 2023.with the blessing of sri bhadra kaali amma. After marriage also we will visit this temple as much as possible. ❤️🥰

It is a Devi temple. Pallipurathukavu is not just a typical Devi temple, in almost all Devi temples Gurusi ( a ritual done in Devi temples) is done at night after temple is closed but here it is done in daytime. So many devotees come here seeking blessing from Devi goddess. It's also in the outskirts of Kottayam town.

It's a great place to visit and have to get the warming earthy blessings from the sanctum sanctorium of goddess Bhagavathy. The famous ritual to get to experience is 'Nadel Thiyattu' and the most thing I liked was the calmness of this place to be sit and inhale the peace .

My childhood temple. Always felt an incredible zen here.

St. Thomas Orthodox Church at Choottuveli area at Kottayam is located at the side of state highway. The Church is well renovated & maintained. But there is only limited Car parking area inside the Church compound.

St. Thomas orthodox church is located in Kottayam town of Kerala. The church is located in right-hand side of the road to Ettumanoor. Church is easily accessible to all and all the amenities are available here. Ample parking, prayer hall, small chapel and cemetery are also visible here. A best place to pray and offer your devotion.

This church belongs to the kottayam central diocese of Malankara Orthodox Church. Fully centralised AC. Silent atmosphere for prayer and meditation. No parking is allowed inside the compound. Separate parking ground is available in the eastern side of the church

One of the few centralised air conditioned churches in kerala. Situated at chavittuvary junction, on left side of popular maruti vehicles aka maruti arena, opposite to Indian Coffee House chavittuvary. Just attaching a pic drawn by me some years before.

Not enough parking it's a highway side church it's so close to road so it's always noisy and the church is not very spacious or good looking

A beautiful Church beside the Kottayam...Ettumanoor main M C road at Nattassery. ....in the name of Saint Thomas....

Malankara Orthodox Church. Vicar - Rev Fr Yohannan Baby. Air Conditioned Church.

Thirunakkara Sree Krishna Swamy temple is very close to thirunakkara mahadevar temple in the heart of Kottayam city. The temple is dedicated to Sri Krishna Bhagavan. The annual festival in the temple begins in january. The Upa Devatas worshipped in the temple are Ganapathi and Goddess Bhagavathi and Naga. The 7-day annual festival is very much famous for melam, elephants, temple art forms, kolams, and colorful procession along with a beautifully decorated palanquin and the temple is near to a pond which makes it sorrounded with a peaceful atmosphere. This is a beautiful Kerala style temple complete with a round shaped - vatta sreekovil, a huge beautiful pond and kodimaram. Annadanam is performed in the temple on all Thursdays and on Ekadashi days which is famous. The main offering to Thirunakkara Sree Krishna Swamy is Paal Payasam. Sri Krishna Janmashtami or gokulashtami is one of the important festival in the temple.

Lord Krishna temple, they do very dedicated Annadanam, the temple have huge pond with Tortoise and huge white red, black fishes. Just next to Shiva temple and KBSM

CENTURY OLD SRI KRISHNA TEMPLE JUST NEAR TO THIRUNAKKARA MAHA DEVA TEMPLE . TRADITIONAL KERALA STYLED OLD TEMPLE .A TEMPLE POND IS SEVERAL FEET BELOW AND SEEMS UNUSED.

Small and calm temple in the middle of Kottayam city

It's holi place I really liked the place

Hare Krishna! What a serene vibe you get from this place. The place is so divine and magical, it’s hard to go back, even when the temple closes. Most of my visit in the childhood was to get the paal payasam (kheer), which is too yummy. Parking is limited and mostly filled with bikes, advise the cars to be parked at the Mahadeva temple compound.

Thirunakkara Sri Krishna Swamy Temple, also called the South Guruvayoor Temple, is situated near the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam. Lord Krishna is the chief deity worshipped here. Lord Ganesh and Goddess Bhagavati are sub-deities. Abhishek, homam, archana and naivedyam are the main offerings. An annual seven days festival, 'Araattu', held here is a major draw. An impressive part of the festival is a palanquin with floral decorations. The pilgrims, who trek to Sabarimala, take a dip in the holy pond of this temple. Kottayam Railway Station and Kottayam Bus Station are the nearest access

It is my favorite place one of the grate place

One of favorite in my list I always prefer travel by bike awesome travelling experience

Nice

Hindu temple of Lord Shree dharma sastha. Conducting "Padi pooja" in every makar sankranthi day.

Very good and nice temple , I had visited 2 times for Jyothi dharashan

This temple also have the same size of golden 18 steps in Sabarimala.

Very good place for holistic activities .

A good church of Malankara Orthodox Sabha in Kottayam.

A big orthodox Church mooledam chingavanam kottayam a parish hall in left side silent area newly created this church. lock down time first weding is 18/5/2020 Robin & jyothy only twenty people attending this marrige all people where mask and sanitation arrange church committee

Believed to have been founded almost 1,000 years ago, with memorial stone inscriptions dating from circa 910–920 AD—demonstrating deep archaeological heritage . The church is known as the Global Marian Pilgrim Centre, the only one in Malankara where the site was revealed divinely . It houses the revered relic, the Holy Soonoro—a fragment of the Virgin Mary’s belt—considered one of the holiest among Malankara churches . ---

The old Church was demolished completely and constructed a big, beautiful Church in 2019. This is situated in a small hill with very good views around.

One of nearest church to kottayam devalokam malankara orthodox diocese and 4.5km from kottayam. A good spiritual architecture ambience .

Great place opposite to manarkad st Mary's jacob church

One of the closest churches to devalokam aramana.Originally built by Ennackal E J Abraham Achan.Rebuilt recently.