Short on time but craving a real taste of Kerala? You’re in luck. With just one day in Kottayam, you can experience temples, tranquil backwaters, and pink-flowered fields—all without feeling rushed.
This day trip guide to Kottayam’s top spots will take you from morning rituals to golden hour magic, with just enough spice and serenity in between.
Start your day early in the cool, quiet streets of Kottayam town. This is the best time to explore the area’s spiritual and cultural roots.
This iconic temple sits in the center of town and dates back over 500 years. The wooden carvings, mural-covered walls, and old-world charm make it a peaceful place to begin your journey. Try to reach here by 7:00 AM.
Step outside the temple and take a short heritage walk. Look out for colonial-era buildings, local art shops, and that unmistakable smell of filter coffee wafting from tiny tea stalls.
Don’t forget to grab a quick breakfast at a local eatery. Hot idlis, coconut chutney, and a glass of fresh juice? Yes, please.
After a cultural morning, it’s time to relax. Hop into a taxi or tuk-tuk and head toward Kumarakom, which is just about 30 minutes away.
This is the kind of place where time stands still. Rent a shikara boat or hop on a houseboat for a ride through serene canals lined with coconut palms and vibrant birdlife. It’s soothing, it’s scenic, and it’s very, very Kerala.
Most boats offer traditional Kerala lunch onboard—think rice, sambar, fish curry, and fried banana chips. If not, there are plenty of lakeside restaurants in Kumarakom where you can eat while watching the water ripple.
📌 Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Kottayam for Every Kind of Traveler
Ready for a pink fairytale? Wrap up your day with a visit to Malarikkal, Kottayam’s blooming wonderland.
If you're visiting between September and November, you’re in for a treat. The flooded paddy fields here are covered in pink water lilies, creating a dreamy view just before sunset.
Arrive by 4:30 PM to catch the soft light and fewer crowds. As the sun dips, the sky turns orange and the flowers shimmer on the water.
📌 Related Read: Discover Malarikkal: Kottayam’s Pink Bloom Paradise
If you’re an early riser or want to swap out one stop, consider Kidangoor, a charming heritage town just 25 minutes from Kottayam. It's known for its ancient temples and local flavor.
📌 Read More: Exploring Kidangoor: Kottayam’s Hidden Cultural Gem
Kottayam may be small, but in a single day, it gives you history, nature, color, and calm — all wrapped in authentic Kerala charm. If you ever get the chance to spend more time here, do it. But if all you have is one day, this plan will make every minute count.
Wander With Heart – writing you into the journey, one place at a time.
