As for the attractions within and close to Kottayam is considered, there are many to catch your attention. Among them, religious places are in plenty, so if you have a religious bent of mind, you sure do know now where to head in Kerala. Additionally, the backwaters of Vembanad are a real gem for the lovers of nature.

Pala :Pala is at a distance of 27 km from Kottayam town and also boasts of a number of churches, temples and mosques within its area. Few of the prominent amongst these are St Thomas Cathedral, St Mary's Forane Church of Kuravilangad and the Twin Temples of Poonjar.

Mannanam :This place is located 11 km from the Kottayam town at a height of 150 feet, on a hillock. The importance of the place can be gauged from the fact that it is linked inextricably with the Blessed Father Kuriakose Elias Chavara. It also has many first to its credit - it is the seat of very first seminary of the Malabar Church, first Catholic Sanskrit School in Kerala, first printing press in Kerala started by Rev Benjamin Bailey, first Catholic English School and lastly the first daily newspaper in Malayalam.

Bharananganam :Bharananganam is an important Christian Pilgrimage centre, located 5 km east of Palai on the Kottayam - Erattupett Road. Associated with Sister Alphonsa, the blessed saint of the Catholics, the mortal remains of the saint are preserved in a chapel next to the St. Mary's Church. She lived from 1916 AD to 1946 AD. The day of 28th July, the death anniversary of the saint is observed with much solemnity.

Kanjirappally :39 km east of Kottayam and at the foot of Sabari Hills is this beautiful place known by the name of Kanjirappally. Attractions here include a number of highly revered churches, temples and mosque.