Overview
Kottayam is a south-central Kerala city sandwiched between Vembanad Lake and Kerala hill-country. Best known as a hub of trade, commerce, education, and literature, it is India's first 100% literate city and known as the Letter Capital of Kerala due to headquarters of more than a dozen publishing houses and newspaper companies.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Nature
Before you go
Accommodation
Hotels average ₹1,000-2,000 nightly. Prices increase during Onam (September) and Christmas/New Year (December). Homestays and vacation apartments are growing alternatives.
Alcohol
Alcohol retail is a government monopoly. Toddy (palm sap beverage) is available. Wine is rare and international alcohol brands are hit-and-miss.
Food
Local Kerala food is recommended. Bakeries are popular for fresh bread and snacks. Beef is a staple; verify any 'meat' items if you want to avoid beef.
Language
The lingua franca is Malayalam. English is widely understood at least at a rudimentary level. Most sign-boards above shops are in English. Hindi is difficult to use with locals.
Money
Currency is Indian Rupee (₹). Budget hotels average ₹1,000-2,000 per night. Water transport to Alappuzha costs ₹29.
Transport
Kottayam has a railway station. Public boats to Alappuzha depart at 6:35 am, 11:30 am, 1:00 pm, 3:30 pm, and 5:15 pm (₹29).