
Adventure Travel Destinations in Kottayam, Kerala, India
1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
A sprawling waterbird sanctuary covering 25 sq. km on the Vembanad Lake, providing a perfect setting for an adventure into birdwatching.
- Variety of Birds: Home to over 50 species of resident birds and 26 international migratory birds
- Unique Eco-System: Offers a rich mangrove forest, lagoons, salt marshes, open water and emergent marshes
- Boat Rides: Provides opportunities for guided boat rides to explore the sanctuary
2. Vembanad Lake Kayaking
Explore the largest freshwater lake in India, Vembanad, by kayak for a peaceful and adventurous travel experience.
- Scenic Landscape: Offers breathtaking views of the backwaters and surrounding paddy fields
- Wildlife Encounters: Provides opportunities to spot various aquatic and terrestrial wildlife
- Guided Tours: Includes guided kayaking tours with local experts for a memorable experience
3. Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
A small but rich wetland bird sanctuary in the heart of Kottayam town, offering a quick escape for urban travelers seeking adventure.
- Urban Location: Located within the city limits making it easily accessible
- Rich Avian Life: Attracts a variety of resident and migratory birds
- Educational Tours: Offers educational tours focused on bird identification, behavior, and conservation
4. Athirapally Waterfall Trek
Embark on a thrilling trek to the breathtaking Athirapally waterfall, located near Kottayam.
- Stunning Landscape: Offers panoramic views of the lush Western Ghats and roaring waterfall
- Adventurous Hike: Involves a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience
- Natural Shower: Allows you to enjoy the rejuvenating natural shower under the waterfall
5. Periyar Tiger Reserve Jeep Safari
Experience an exciting jeep safari through the Periyar Tiger Reserve, home to several endangered species.
- Tiger Spotting Opportunity: Provides opportunities for tiger sightings in their natural habitat
- Rich Biodiversity: Boasts of a rich biodiversity with elephants, leopards, gaurs, and various bird species
- Guided Tours: Includes guided tours led by experienced naturalists for an enriching experience
6. Eravikulam National Park Trek
Trek through the lush green forests of Eravikulam National Park to witness the rare Nilgiri Tahr and Neelakurinji flowers.
- Rare Species: Provides opportunities to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and other wildlife
- Neelakurinji Bloom: Allows you to witness the once-every-12-year bloom of the Neelakurinji flowers
- Eco-Friendly Guides: Uses eco-friendly guides who educate travelers about the park's conservation efforts
7. Thusharagiri Waterfall Hiking
Hike through lush forests and rocky terrain to reach the stunning Thusharagiri waterfalls.
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and roaring waterfalls
- Adventurous Hike: Involves a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience
- Wildlife Encounters: Provides opportunities to spot various aquatic and terrestrial wildlife
8. Kurishumala Ashram Trek
Trek through serene hills and tea plantations to reach the tranquil Kurishumala Ashram.
- Spiritual Experience: Offers a peaceful spiritual experience amidst nature
- Tea Plantations: Provides opportunities to explore the lush tea plantations
- Community Interaction: Allows you to interact with the local community and understand their lifestyle
9. Kumarakom Backwaters Canoeing
Canoe through the enchanting backwaters of Kumarakom for a peaceful and adventurous travel experience.
- Scenic Landscape: Offers breathtaking views of the backwaters, paddy fields, and coconut groves
- Wildlife Encounters: Provides opportunities to spot various aquatic and terrestrial wildlife
- Local Interaction: Allows you to interact with the local fishermen and learn about their lifestyle
10. Mulamthuruthy Snake Boat Race
Witness the thrilling snake boat race at Mulamthuruthy during Onam festival.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience showcasing traditional Kerala boat racing
- Community Interaction: Allows you to interact with the local community and learn about their culture
- Competitive Spirit: Inspires a sense of camaraderie and competitive spirit amongst participants and spectators
11. Vaikom Muruga Temple Elephant Festival
Experience the unique elephant festival at Vaikom Muruga Temple during Thai Poosam.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience showcasing traditional Kerala elephant processions
- Elephant Interaction: Allows you to interact with the elephants and their mahouts
- Devotional Spirit: Inspires a sense of devotion and spirituality amidst the vibrant festivities
12. Poonjar Palace Trek
Trek through the picturesque hills to reach the historical Poonjar Palace, a former royal residence.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into the history and culture of the region
- Stunning Views: Provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside
- Guided Tours: Includes guided tours led by knowledgeable guides to enrich your experience
13. Kalari Payattu Martial Arts Workshop
Learn the traditional martial art of Kalaripayattu from experienced masters.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience showcasing Kerala's martial arts heritage
- Physical Challenge: Involves both mental and physical challenges that push your limits
- Customized Sessions: Allows for customized sessions catering to various skill levels
14. Kumarakom Houseboat Stay
Stay aboard a traditional houseboat in Kumarakom for a unique and adventurous travel experience.
- Scenic Landscape: Offers breathtaking views of the backwaters, paddy fields, and coconut groves
- Local Cuisine: Enjoys traditional Kerala cuisine prepared by onboard chefs
- Relaxing Ambiance: Provides a relaxing and peaceful ambiance for unwinding and rejuvenation
15. Kumarakom Cooking Classes
Learn to cook traditional Kerala cuisine in a hands-on cooking class at Kumarakom.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience showcasing Kerala's culinary heritage
- Hands-On Learning: Allows for hands-on learning and interaction with local chefs
- Cooking Skills: Enhances your cooking skills and knowledge of Kerala cuisine