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3 Days in Kottayam for a Kerala Food Trip
Kottayam is a hidden gem for food lovers, where every meal feels like a home-cooked feast. I've spent years tasting my way through its small eateries, bustling markets, and family-run restaurants. This itinerary is packed with the best local flavors, from spicy fish curries to sweet banana chips, all while soaking in the laid-back vibe of this riverside town.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Kottayam
Start your Kottayam adventure with its most iconic spots, blending history, nature, and delicious local flavors.
Activities
Explore Kumarakom Backwaters
Kick off your day with a serene houseboat cruise through the famous Kumarakom backwaters. Glide past lush greenery, coconut groves, and local villages while spotting birds like kingfishers and herons. Opt for a short 2-hour ride to soak in the scenery without spending the whole morning.
- Bargain politely for houseboat rates
- Carry sunscreen and a hat
Thazhathangady Juma Masjid & Local Lunch
Visit one of India's oldest mosques with unique Kerala architecture, then head to nearby eateries for an authentic Muslim-style lunch. Try the soft pathiri (rice pancakes) with spicy chicken curry or mutton stew at small family-run spots.
- Dress modestly for the mosque
- Ask for 'kallummakkaya' (mussels) if available
Vembanad Lake Sunset & Toddy Shop Experience
Wind down at a local toddy shop by Vembanad Lake as fishermen return with their catch. Sip fresh toddy (palm wine) with spicy karimeen (pearl spot fish) fry or duck roast while watching the sunset over the water.
- Toddy tastes best fresh - go earlier
- Try 'kappa' (tapioca) with fish curry
Must Try Foods
Transportation
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Day 2
Day 2 in Kottayam
Dive deeper into Kottayam's cultural and culinary scene with visits to historic churches, spice markets, and a traditional Kerala thali experience.
Activities
St. Mary's Orthodox Church & Illikkal Kallu
Start your day at the stunning St. Mary's Orthodox Church, known for its ancient Syrian Christian architecture and beautiful murals. Then, head to Illikkal Kallu, a dramatic rock formation about an hour's drive away, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. The hike up is moderate but worth it for the panoramic scenery.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the hike
- Carry water and snacks for Illikkal Kallu
Kottayam Spice Market & Lunch at Grand Hotel
Explore the bustling Kottayam Spice Market, where the air is thick with the aroma of cardamom, pepper, and cloves. Bargain for fresh spices to take home. For lunch, head to the iconic Grand Hotel for their legendary Kerala thali—a banana-leaf spread with over a dozen dishes, including fish curry, avial, and payasam.
- Try the karimeen (pearl spot fish) if available
- Ask for a demo on spice uses at the market
Evening at Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple
Wrap up your day at the serene Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's traditional Kerala architecture and evening rituals (puja) are mesmerizing. If you're lucky, you might catch a Kathakali performance at the temple's cultural center.
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
- Check temple bulletin board for performance schedules
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Kottayam
A relaxed day exploring Kottayam's hidden gems, from a serene bird sanctuary to a local pottery village and ending with a traditional Kerala meal.
Activities
Morning at Poonjar Palace
Start your day with a visit to the lesser-known Poonjar Palace, a hidden gem about an hour from Kottayam. This 600-year-old palace showcases exquisite wooden carvings, antique furniture, and a unique collection of royal artifacts. The quiet courtyard and ancient temple nearby add to the old-world charm.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces
- Ask the caretaker about the palace's history - they often share fascinating stories
Lunch at Thattukada Style Eatery
Head back to Kottayam town for an authentic 'thattukada' (roadside stall) experience. Try the local favorite 'karimeen pollichathu' (pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf) or 'kuttanadan duck roast' at one of the bustling stalls near Baker Junction. These no-frills spots serve the most flavorful Kerala meals you'll ever taste.
- Go for the daily specials - they're always the freshest
- Don't miss the 'tapioca with fish curry' if available
Evening at Vaikom Village Pottery
Spend your final evening in the pottery village of Vaikom, just 30 minutes from Kottayam. Watch local artisans shape clay using traditional techniques passed down for generations. You can even try your hand at the wheel and take home a handmade souvenir. The golden hour light makes for beautiful photos of the pottery drying in the sun.
- The best time to visit is late afternoon when most artisans are working
- Bargain gently if purchasing items