Weird & Unusual Attractions in Kottayam, Kerala, India

1. Kumarakom Dragon Boat Race

Annual race featuring traditional Chinese dragon boats, held in Kumarakom, a village near Kottayam.

Cultural Blend: Blends Chinese and Kerala traditions
Rare Event: One of the few places in India where this event is celebrated
Community Participation: Involves participation from local and international teams

Famous for being the 'Rice Bowl of Kerala', Kuttanad is unique as it's below sea level and has a network of canals and backwaters.

Agricultural Marvel: Unusual farming techniques due to being below sea level
Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning vistas and serene boat rides
Birdwatching Paradise: Rich in avian fauna, particularly water birds

A Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Rani Kannaki, known for a huge cobra residing in the sanctum sanctorum.

Snake Sanctuary: One of the few temples in India housing a venomous snake
Religious Significance: Considered sacred by devotees due to the presence of the cobra
Worship and Awe: Offers a unique blend of worship and awe for visitors

One of the oldest mosques in India, believed to have been built by Malik Deenar, a companion of Prophet Muhammad.

Historical Significance: Significant as one of the oldest mosques in India
Architectural Marvel: Stunning example of traditional Kerala architecture
Interfaith Harmony: Symbolizes the harmony between various religions in Kottayam

Birthplace and early residence of the social reformer and spiritual leader Sree Narayana Guru.

Spiritual Significance: Pilgrimage site for followers of Sree Narayana Guru
Historical Importance: Significant in understanding the social reform movements in Kerala
Cultural Education: Provides insights into the life and teachings of Sree Narayana Guru

Known for the rare 'Nabhastha Linga' (celestial linga) of Lord Ayyappan.

Celestial Linga: One of the few celestial lingas in India
Religious Significance: Considered sacred by devotees due to the presence of the celestial linga
Architectural Wonders: Offers a stunning example of Kerala temple architecture

Known for the unique practice of offering toddy (coconut palm wine) as a ritual.

Toddy Offering: One of the few temples in India where toddy is offered
Religious Significance: Considered sacred by devotees due to the unique offering
Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience for visitors

Famous for its rich spice plantations and the spice trade.

Spice Capital: Known as the 'Spice Capital of Kerala'
Historical Significance: Plays a significant role in India's spice trade history
Culinary Delights: Offers unique culinary experiences due to the variety of spices

Known as the 'Publishing Capital' of Kerala due to its high number of print and publishing houses.

Printing Hub: Home to a large number of print and publishing houses
Cultural Impact: Influences Kerala's literature, education, and cultural discourse
Book Lover's Paradise: Ideal destination for book lovers and publishers

Known for its unique black granite rock formations.

Geological Marvel: Unusual black granite rock formations
Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning landscapes and geological wonders
Photography Opportunities: Ideal for landscape photographers and geology enthusiasts

A unique saltwater farm located amidst the backwaters of Kumarakom.

Salt Production: Produces traditional sea salt using ancient techniques
Cultural Significance: Significant in understanding the traditional salt production process
Nature Conservation: Contributes to the conservation of the local ecosystem

A picturesque town situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake.

Lakefront Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the serene Vembanad Lake
Boat Rides: Provides scenic boat rides through the lake and its surroundings
Birdwatching Paradise: Ideal for birdwatching, particularly during the migratory season

Known for its rich history as the capital of the ancient Venad Kingdom.

Historical Importance: Significant in understanding Kerala's history
Architectural Wonders: Features stunning examples of traditional Kerala architecture
Cultural Education: Provides insights into the traditions and culture of the Venad Kingdom

A unique mosque built on a man-made island in the backwaters of Kumarakom.

Island Masjid: One of the few mosques built on an island in Kerala
Architectural Marvel: Stunning example of traditional Kerala architecture
Community Interaction: Offers opportunities for interaction with the local Muslim community

Known for its numerous freshwater lakes and beautiful landscapes.

Lake Abundance: Boasts a large number of freshwater lakes
Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views and serene surroundings
Photography Opportunities: Ideal for landscape photographers and nature lovers