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2,208 km2
Census 2011 recorded a population of 3,57,533.
The official languages are Malayalam and English.
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Kottayam is also known as the Akshara Nagari (City of Alphabets) for its contributions to literature. It is also called the Land of Letters, Lakes & Latex. Of letters, since it was the first city in India to attain 100% literacy; of lakes, for its vast network of rivers and canals flowing into the backwaters and for latex, the extensive rubber industry there. This urban city is an important trading and educational centre for Kerala.
The name of this city is a combination of two Malayalam words, Kott- means fort and Akam- means inside. This translates into ‘the inside of a fort’. The residing Syrian Christian Community has widely influenced the culture of this region. The traditional cuisine of Kerala also has a Syrian Christian touch to it. The major tourist attractions here are the exotic hilly areas located nearby, bird sanctuaries, lakes, royal palaces and places of religious significance.
Climate & Geography
Kottayam has an elevation of 3m above the sea level. The city situated in the basin of the Meenachil River and Vembanad backwaters. Kottayam is classified as a midland area in Kerala with respect to its altitude. The soil found here is mainly alluvial.
The climate of this city is pleasant and moderate all around the year. The fluctuations in temperature from summers to winters range from 20 to 35 °C. Rainfalls are heavy during south-west monsoon. Humidity can also vary from moderate to high.
Transportation
Airports at Kochi and Trivandrum are 93 and 152 km away respectively. The city has its own railway station where many long-distance trains pass by from. Kottayam lies on NH183 giving it a good access via road from other major cities.
Kottayam is a small town and can be covered on foot. Other local travel options are buses, rickshaws and taxis.
