Things To Do
in Kottayam

A Kottayam specialty, this spicy and tangy fish curry is made with fresh catch from the backwaters, cooked in a rich coconut milk base with a blend of aromatic spices. It's a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.

Must-Try!

Appam, a popular breakfast dish, is a thin pancake made of fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It's often served with a fragrant and creamy mixed vegetable or chicken stew, offering a perfect balance of flavors.

This dish, originating from the Kuttanad region of Kottayam, features succulent duck pieces marinated in a flavorful mix of spices and then roasted to perfection. The dish offers a delightful blend of heat and aromatic spices.

This traditional vegetarian feast served during festive occasions features a luxurious spread of various dishes served on a banana leaf, including rice, numerous vegetable curries, lentils, pickles, and more. It offers a wholesome and varied taste of Kottayam's vegetarian cuisine.

The Kottayam Fish Market is a bustling and vibrant market where you can witness the local fishing community bringing in their fresh catches. Visitors can buy a variety of seafood, including prawns, crab, and different fish varieties. It's a great place to experience the local fishing culture and get the freshest seafood.

This bustling area is famous for its diverse street food, including Kothu Parotta, a popular street food made from shredded parotta (layered bread) mixed with eggs, meat, and spices, and Porotta and Beef, which consists of flaky layered flatbread served with a spicy beef curry. This is a must-visit for food enthusiasts eager to explore Kottayam's street food offerings.

In Kottayam, tipping is not widely practiced. It is not customary to tip in restaurants or taxis, although it is appreciated if the service is exceptional. Some upscale hotels and restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, in which case tipping is not necessary.

Cash is widely used for daily transactions in Kottayam. However, major credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments such as hotels, upscale restaurants, and stores. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets as they might not accept cards.

Kottayam offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting the city's rich tradition of plant-based cooking. Many local restaurants and cafes serve delicious vegetarian dishes like Avial, Thoran, and Sambar. Additionally, numerous eateries cater specifically to vegetarian and vegan preferences, ensuring a delightful dining experience for those with such dietary requirements.

While traditional Keralite cuisine heavily features rice-based dishes, individuals seeking gluten-free options will find a variety of choices in Kottayam. Many restaurants offer gluten-free versions of popular dishes by using alternative flours such as rice flour and gram flour. It is advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure a delightful and safe culinary experience.