Kottayam, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Kottayam, India? If you're planning to go to Kottayam, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kottayam, India

Based on the climate and weather in Kottayam, India, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Kottayam, India

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kottayam, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Kottayam, India by month

January

If you visit Kottayam during January, you might find that it is mild and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

February

If you are traveling to Kottayam in February, you will notice that it is mild and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to choose the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

March

If you vacation in Kottayam during March, you may notice that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you find the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

April

April in Kottayam is warm. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

May

May for Kottayam is mild and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to get the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

June

Traveling to Kottayam in June, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

July

If you visit Kottayam during July, you may find that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

August

If you vacation in Kottayam during August, you are likely to find that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

September

In September, Kottayam is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (low 20s C) and about half of the time jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Kottayam, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

October

In October, Kottayam is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Kottayam, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

November

November in Kottayam is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

December

If you are traveling to Kottayam in December, you will notice that it is mild. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kottayam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the beautiful Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; it is best to check with the Kottayam tourism authority.

If you go to Vembanad Lake, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

If you decide to visit Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, prepare to get wet, and take these:

What to do in Kottayam, India

Kottayam, located in the Indian state of Kerala, is a town that boasts of rich culture and heritage. Known for its scenic landscapes, history and culture, Kottayam is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Kottayam:

1. Kumarakom Backwaters: Kumarakom Backwaters is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala. The serene backwater is spread over an area of 900 hectares and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, or indulge in fishing and other water-based activities.

2. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple: The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is one of the most popular Hindu temples in Kottayam. Built in the 16th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its ancient architecture and intricate carvings.

3. Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple: Another popular Hindu temple in Kottayam, the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple is known for its unique architectural style. The temple has a tall gopura and a pond which is used for ritual bathing by devotees.

4. St. Mary’s Orthodox Valiya Pally: St. Mary’s Orthodox Valiya Pally is one of the oldest churches in Kerala. The church was built in the 16th century and is renowned for its unique blend of Indian and Portuguese architectural styles.

5. Vembanad Lake: Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala and is located near Kottayam. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the lake, go fishing or simply take in the stunning beauty of the surroundings.

6. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is another popular Hindu temple in Kottayam. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its unique architecture and historical importance.

7. Illikkal Kallu: Illikkal Kallu is a popular trekking spot in Kottayam. The peak is located at an altitude of 6000 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

8. Thazhathangady Juma Masjid: Thazhathangady Juma Masjid is an ancient mosque located in Kottayam. The mosque is known for its unique architectural style and intricate wood carvings.

In conclusion, Kottayam is a town that is rich in culture, heritage and natural beauty. Whether you are looking for a spiritual experience, adventure or simply a leisurely vacation, Kottayam has something to offer for everyone.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Eagle River, Alaska, United States of America, Freetown, Sierra Leone, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand, Catia La Mar, Venezuela, Brisbane, California, United States of America, Santa Cruz do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Karpacz, Poland, Tatopani, Nepal, Milton, Vermont, United States of America, Suphanburi, Thailand, and Southern Finland, Finland.