Kottayam

	Bordered by the lofty Western Ghats on the east, the Vembanad lake and the paddy fields of Kuttanad on the west, Kottayam is a land of unique characterestics. Panaromic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands, extensive rubber plantations and the total literacy level achieved by the people have given this district the title: the land of letters, latex and lakes. Backwater Destination A voyage towards the north of Alappuzha, about 10 Kms from Kottayam, takes you to the rich green, sleepy little village of Kumarakom on the Vembanad lake. An enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, Kumarakom provides boating , fishing and sight-seeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. An exclusive attraction of this much sought after backwater resort is the Kumarakom bird sanctuary. The Kumarakom bird sanctuary is an orthithologists paradise and a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. A cruise along the Vembanad lake is the best way to view the bird life