Chennai To Kottayam Distance By Road
Introduction
Chennai to Kottayam distance by road is approximately 680 km, and it takes around 12 hours to cover the distance by car. Kottayam is a beautiful city located in the state of Kerala and is known for its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip from Chennai to Kottayam, covering all the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers. It is home to a variety of migratory and local birds, including Siberian cranes, egret, heron, and darters. The best time to visit the sanctuary is from November to February.
St. Mary’s Church
St. Mary’s Church is a beautiful church located in the heart of Kottayam. It is known for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance. The church is also home to the mortal remains of St. Alphonsa, the first saint from India.
Vembanad Lake
Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala and is a popular tourist attraction. You can enjoy a boat ride on the lake and admire the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and villages.
Hidden Gems
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple
Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple is a beautiful temple located in the heart of Kottayam. It is known for its stunning architecture and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Marmala Waterfalls
Marmala Waterfalls is a hidden gem located in the outskirts of Kottayam. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and is a perfect spot for a picnic with family and friends.
Food Scene
Kottayam is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of traditional Kerala and Syrian Christian cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include appam, puttu, fish curry, and beef fry. You can find these dishes at local restaurants and street vendors.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you are traveling on a budget, you can opt for public transport such as buses and trains, which are affordable and well-connected. You can also find budget-friendly accommodation options such as guesthouses and homestays.
Outdoor Adventures
Kottayam offers a variety of outdoor adventures such as trekking, camping, and boating. You can explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and forests by going on a trekking or camping trip. You can also enjoy a boat ride on the backwaters and explore the beautiful villages and paddy fields.
Historical Landmarks
Murinjapuzha Archaeological Museum
Murinjapuzha Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kottayam and Kerala.
Thazhathangady Juma Masjid
Thazhathangady Juma Masjid is a beautiful mosque located in Kottayam. It is known for its stunning architecture and is a popular tourist attraction.
Family-Friendly Activities
Kottayam offers a variety of family-friendly activities such as visiting amusement parks, exploring the backwaters, and going on a nature walk. You can also enjoy a picnic at Marmala Waterfalls or go on a boat ride on Vembanad Lake.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you are looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, you can explore the surrounding villages and interact with the locals. You can also go on a nature walk and explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and forests.
Natural Wonders
Kottayam is known for its scenic beauty and is home to several natural wonders such as Vembanad Lake, Marmala Waterfalls, and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. You can explore these natural wonders and admire the beauty of nature.
Vibrant Nightlife
Kottayam has a vibrant nightlife, and you can enjoy a variety of entertainment options such as nightclubs, bars, and pubs. Some of the popular nightlife spots include Kavala Nightclub and Bar, The Bar at Windsor Castle, and The Terrace Bar.
Local Markets
Kottayam is known for its local markets, where you can find a variety of spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Some of the popular markets include Thirunakkara Market and Changanassery Market.
Beaches and Mountains
Kottayam is located in the lap of nature and offers a variety of attractions such as beaches and mountains. You can explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains by going on a trekking or camping trip. You can also enjoy a day at the beach and soak up the sun.
Cultural Immersion
Kottayam is known for its rich cultural heritage, and you can immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting local temples, churches, and mosques. You can also interact with the locals and get a glimpse of their way of life.
Art and Music Scene
Kottayam has a vibrant art and music scene, and you can enjoy a variety of cultural events such as music concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions. Some of the popular cultural events include the Kottayam Arts Festival and the Kottayam Music Festival.
Walking Tours
Kottayam is a beautiful city, and you can explore its beauty by going on a walking tour. You can explore the historic landmarks, local markets, and scenic spots by foot and get a glimpse of the local way of life.
Architectural Marvels
Kottayam is known for its stunning architecture, and you can admire the architectural marvels by visiting local temples, churches, and mosques. Some of the popular architectural marvels include St. Mary’s Church, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, and Thazhathangady Juma Masjid.
Historical Sites
Kottayam is home to several historical sites that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. Some of the popular historical sites include the Murinjapuzha Archaeological Museum, the Kottayam Fort, and the Thazhathangady Boat Jetty.
Biking Routes
Kottayam offers several biking routes that are perfect for adventure enthusiasts. You can explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and forests by going on a biking trip.
Wellness Retreats
Kottayam is known for its wellness retreats, where you can rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. You can enjoy a variety of wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, and Ayurvedic treatments.
Adventure Sports
Kottayam offers a variety of adventure sports such as trekking, camping, boating, and kayaking. You can explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and forests by going on a trekking or camping trip. You can also enjoy a boat ride on the backwaters and explore the beautiful villages and paddy fields.
Conclusion
Chennai to Kottayam distance by road is a long journey, but it is worth the effort. Kottayam is a beautiful city that offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers of all ages. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Kottayam.