Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 191

Backwaters
Relaxation of body and mind

Perunna Subramanya Temple: Pallivetta utsavam is the famous festival here.
St. Thomas Church, Cherpungal: Believed to have been established by the
apostle St. Thomas.
Vagamon: It is trekker’s paradise. This hill station, at the elevation of 1100
metres above sea level on the Idukki-Kottayam border is beautiful with
tea gardens and meadows. Vagamon offers many holiday attractions
throughout the year except during the monsoon season. The breeding
centre of the Kerala Livestock Board located here.
Kurisumala: (3km from Vazhikadavu) The peaceful monastry at the top of
the hill, the silence of the hill, the cool mountain air and the green land
scape are all fascinating. This is a renowned Christian pilgrim centre
where hundreds of devotees from far and near converge during the holy
week and after to climb the hill carrying wooden crosses. On the eastern
side of the hill is a rock-cut temple dedicated to Murugan,the son of Lord
Siva. On the way to Kurusumala there is a marvelous sight seeing
opportunities which include European style house, artificial lakes etc ,
designed by Laurie Baker a renowned architect.
St.Mary’s Church, Cheriapalli: (2 km from Kottayam town) The church is built
in 1579 by Thekkumkoor Maharaja and displays outstanding architecture
which is a blend of Kerala and Portuguese styles. Biblical and non- biblical
themes are depicted on the walls.
Saraswathi Temple, Panachikkad: This temple, also known as the Mookambika
Temple of the South, holds the Saraswathi, the goddess of learning and
the arts as the presiding deity. Ph: 0481 2330670
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TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS|KOTTAYAM