Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 184

Aruvikuzhi Waterfalls: (18km from Kottayam town) Two kilometres down
Kumarakom is this beautiful picnic spot where streams tinkle as it penetrate to the landscape and water roars as it cascades down the mountains from a height of 100 feet. Visitors can also enjoy the beauty of rubber
plantations here.
St. Mary’s Church, Athirampuzha: This church was built in 1080 AD and was
renovated in 1874.
Surya Temple, Adityapuram: (15 km North of Kottayam) The only temple in
Kerala dedicated to Aditya, the Sun of God. Raktachandanam is the special Prasadam of this temple. Sundays are important days. The last Sundays
of the Malayalam months of Vrischika and Medom when the glory of the
Sun is at the highest. Ph: 04829 283112
Nattakom & Panachikadu Reservoirs: Adding to the charm of these salubrious and tranquil villages are their scenic reservoirs, escoted by vivid green
all along. Migratory birds flock together seeking this verdant landscape
during every summer and frolic in the natural splendours of the end of the
season. A boat ride from Panachikadu to Kumarakom is a great way to
relax and enjoy the nature’s extravaganza. Recreational facilities like
ayurvedic massaging, swimming, boating etc. are also available here.
Pathiramanal: This is a 10 acre island on the backwaters which houses
many rare varieties of migratory birds from different parts of the world.
According to mythology a young Brahmin dived into the Vembanad lake to
perform his evening ablutions and the water made the way for land to
rise from below. The island can be accessed only by boat.
Kayyoor: Kayoor is an exciting landscape with green hills at Bharananganam
Panchayat. A Shrine where only ghee is used to light the lamps like the
famous temple Sabarimala dedicated to the Pandava brothers of Mahabharatha is found here. Women are not allowed inside the temple.
Tourist Land, Vaikom: This is a quite picnic spot ideal for a languorous
break. Various recreation facilities available here adds the elegance of
land. Boating is possible in Vaikom lake. Vaikom has also importance in
the contemporary history with Vaikom Sathyagraham which is blessed by
Mahatma Gandhi to get entry for Harijan Hindus into the temple in 1925.
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: (40 km from Kottayam town) This is one of the
major temples of India and the most acclaimed Siva temple in the South.
This temple is believed to be the second version of Kasi.The Vaikom temple is an ideal example f