Kothamangalam, often called the Gateway to the High Ranges of Kerala, is a beautiful town in Ernakulam district surrounded by forests, rivers, hills, and rich cultural heritage. It is an excellent destination for nature tourism, eco-travel, birdwatching, temple visits, and peaceful weekend getaways.
Here is a detailed list of the best places to visit in Kothamangalam, along with the ideal time to explore each attraction.
1. BHOOTHATHANKETTU DAM & PERIYAR VALLEY
Bhoothathankettu Dam and Periyar Valley, located near Kothamangalam in Ernakulam district, is one of the most scenic and peaceful tourist attractions in central Kerala. The dam is built across the Periyar River and is named after the natural rock formations (“Bhootham” meaning spirit and “Kettu” meaning bund) that historically blocked the river’s flow. Surrounded by dense forests and hills of the Western Ghats, the area is known for its calm atmosphere, lush greenery, and rich biodiversity. The Periyar Valley around the dam offers beautiful river views, birdwatching opportunities, forest walks, and picnic spots, making it ideal for nature lovers and families.
Boating is a popular activity when water levels are safe. The best time to visit Bhoothathankettu Dam and Periyar Valley is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are at their most accessible and beautiful.
Best time to visit:
- October to March – Pleasant weather and safe water levels
- Monsoon (June–September) – Very scenic, but boating may be restricted
2. THATTEKKAD BIRD SANCTUARY (SALIM ALI BIRD SANCTUARY)
Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, also known as the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, is one of the most important birdwatching destinations in Kerala and is located near Kothamangalam in the Ernakulam district. Established in 1983, it is Kerala’s first bird sanctuary and is famous for its rich avian diversity, with over 270 species of birds, including migratory, endemic, and rare species. The sanctuary is set amid tropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands along the Periyar River, creating an ideal habitat for birds and other wildlife. Popular sightings include the Malabar grey hornbill, Sri Lanka frogmouth, drongos, flycatchers, and kingfishers.
Thattekkad is especially popular among birdwatchers, nature photographers, and eco-tourists. The best time to visit is from November to March, with early morning hours offering the best chances to spot birds in their natural surroundings.
Best time to visit:
- November to March – Best for bird sightings and photography
- Early mornings are ideal throughout the year
3. INCHATHOTTY SUSPENSION BRIDGE
Inchathotty Suspension Bridge is a popular scenic and adventure attraction located near Kothamangalam in Ernakulam district. Stretching across a calm river and surrounded by dense greenery, the bridge offers a thrilling walking experience along with beautiful views of forests, water, and village life. Its gentle sway and narrow structure make it an exciting spot for visitors, especially nature lovers and photographers. The peaceful atmosphere around the bridge makes it ideal for short walks, relaxation, and capturing scenic photographs.
The best time to visit Inchathotty Suspension Bridge is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are lush and safe to explore.
Best time to visit:
- October to February – Cool and comfortable weather
- Avoid heavy monsoon months due to slippery conditions
4. NADUKANI VIEW POINT
Nadukani View Point is a beautiful hilltop destination near Kothamangalam, offering stunning panoramic views of the Western Ghats, deep valleys, and surrounding forests. Located along a scenic forest route, the viewpoint is known for its cool breeze, misty mornings, and peaceful natural setting. It is a favorite spot for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking a quiet escape into the hills. Sunrise and sunset are especially breathtaking, with changing colors lighting up the landscape.
The best time to visit Nadukani View Point is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and visibility is clear, making it ideal for sightseeing and photography.
Best time to visit:
- October to March – Clear skies and pleasant climate
- Early morning or sunset for the best views
5. ILLITHODO FOREST & RIVERSIDE AREA
Illithodu Forest and Riverside Area is a serene natural destination near Kothamangalam, known for its dense forest cover, flowing streams, and peaceful riverbanks. This lesser-known spot offers an untouched environment, making it ideal for nature walks, short treks, and relaxing beside clear waters. The area is rich in greenery, birdlife, and natural pools, providing a refreshing escape from busy tourist locations. Illithodu is especially loved by travelers seeking silence, fresh air, and a close connection with nature.
The best time to visit Illithodu Forest and Riverside Area is from November to February, when the weather is cool and water levels are safe for exploration.
Best time to visit:
- November to February – Safe water levels and cool weather
- Avoid peak monsoon due to strong currents
6. URULANTHANNI HILLS
Urulanthanni Hills is a quiet and scenic hill area near Kothamangalam, known for its cool climate, lush greenery, and untouched natural beauty. Surrounded by forests of the Western Ghats, the hills offer peaceful trekking routes, fresh mountain air, and panoramic views of valleys and forests. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers looking to escape crowded tourist spots. The calm atmosphere and scenic landscapes make Urulanthanni Hills perfect for short hikes and relaxation.
The best time to visit Urulanthanni Hills is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor exploration.
Best time to visit:
- October to February – Best climate for hiking and exploration
- Monsoon season offers greenery but limited access
7.PUYAMKUTTI
Puyamkutti is a picturesque forested village area near Kothamangalam, located along the Periyar River and close to the Thattekkad region. It is known for its rich greenery, calm riverside views, and proximity to wildlife habitats, making it a peaceful destination for nature lovers and eco-tourism enthusiasts. Puyamkutti serves as a gateway to forest areas and is popular for birdwatching, nature walks, and enjoying the quiet beauty of Kerala’s high-range foothills. The untouched surroundings and fresh air make it ideal for relaxation away from busy towns.
The best time to visit Puyamkutti is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its best.
8. MAMALAKANDAM FOREST ROUTE & WATERFALLS
Mamalakandam Forest Route and Waterfalls is a scenic eco-tourism destination near Kothamangalam, known for its dense forests, misty hills, and beautiful waterfalls. The forest route offers a refreshing drive through the Western Ghats, surrounded by rich greenery, wildlife sounds, and cool mountain air. Along the route, small waterfalls and natural streams appear, especially after the monsoon, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. The area is ideal for forest trekking, short hikes, and exploring untouched landscapes.
The best time to visit Mamalakandam Forest Route and Waterfalls is from September to February, when the waterfalls are active, the weather is pleasant, and travel conditions are safer.
Best time to visit:
- September to February – Waterfalls are active and safe
- Avoid peak monsoon due to landslide risks
9. St MARY’S JACOBITE SYRIAN CATHEDRAL (Valiyapally)
St. Mary’s Jacobite Syrian Cathedral (Valiyapally) in Kothamangalam is one of the oldest and most important churches in Kerala, known for its rich religious heritage and traditional architecture. Believed to have been established in the 4th century, the cathedral is a major spiritual center for the Jacobite Syrian Christian community. The church features beautiful mural paintings, wooden carvings, and ancient inscriptions that reflect Kerala’s cultural and historical traditions. It is both a place of worship and a heritage landmark, attracting pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. The peaceful atmosphere and architectural beauty make it a must-visit site in Kothamangalam.
The best time to visit is throughout the year, with special significance during church feasts and festivals.
Best time to visit:
- All year round
- Festival seasons offer a cultural experience
10. THRIKKARIYOOR MAHADEVA TEMPLE
Thrikkariyoor Mahadeva Temple is an ancient and revered Hindu temple located near Kothamangalam in Ernakulam district. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to be one of the 108 sacred Shiva temples of Kerala, giving it great religious importance. Surrounded by serene natural surroundings, the temple is known for its traditional Kerala-style architecture and peaceful spiritual atmosphere. It attracts devotees seeking blessings as well as visitors interested in history and culture. Temple festivals and special poojas add to its spiritual charm.
The best time to visit Thrikkariyoor Mahadeva Temple is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and during festival days for a deeper cultural experience.
Best time to visit:
- October to March – Comfortable climate
- During temple festivals for cultural significance
11. AYYAPPANMUDI TEMPLE
Ayyappanmudi Temple is a sacred hilltop shrine located near Kothamangalam, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. Set amidst dense forests and natural surroundings, the temple offers a peaceful spiritual experience along with scenic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Reaching the temple involves a short trek, which adds to its devotional significance and attracts pilgrims seeking both spiritual fulfillment and a connection with nature. The temple is known for its unique tradition of opening only on specific days, making each visit special.
The best time to visit Ayyappanmudi Temple is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking and temple visits.
Best time to visit:
- November to February
- Visit only on temple opening days
Best Overall Time to Visit Kothamangalam
The best overall time to visit Kothamangalam is from October to March. During these months, the weather is cool, pleasant, and ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities. The Western Ghats and surrounding forests are lush and green after the monsoon, rivers and waterfalls are full, and wildlife and birdwatching conditions are optimal. This period also provides clear skies for photography and comfortable temperatures for exploring hill stations, temples, and scenic viewpoints. Monsoon months (June to September) are beautiful for greenery but may limit outdoor activities due to heavy rainfall and slippery terrain.
Visiting between October and March ensures that all attractions, from Bhoothathankettu Dam and Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary to Nadukani View Point and Ayyappanmudi Temple, are fully accessible and enjoyable.
Why Visit Kothamangalam in 2026?
- Unspoiled nature and eco-tourism destinations
- Rich wildlife and bird sanctuaries
- Spiritual and cultural landmarks
- Ideal for photography, trekking, and peaceful travel