Vaikom is situated on the western side of Kottayam district and shares its border with Vembanattu Kayal (lake). Vaikom is the oldest township in Kottayam district and amongst the oldest in Keralam. Its importance in Indian history is 'Vaikom Satyagraham' against untouchability. Leader of the Indian Freedom Movement Mahatma Gandhi participated in this struggle. It is easily accesable from Ernakulam, Alappuzha and Kottayam. Mahadeva temple is famous for Ashtami (vaikattamshtami), and the temple also known as Thekkan Kashi (Southern Varanasi). Vaikom has lots of backwaters and greenery and has a high potential for tourism. It has rail, road, and water transportation to all the nearby places. Mixture of Hindu, Christian, and Muslim residents lead peaceful life in this beautiful place.
Vaikom economy is in a state of flux. The economy was predominantly based on agriculture up until the 90's. But the more recent software revolution in India has had its impact on Vaikom too. Numerous computer training instititues have sprung up. Vaikom is famous for its Paddy fields and Coconut groves. Coconut and rice are the major crops and these used to be backbone of Vaikom economy along with Fishing. More recently spices like Nutmeg, Black Pepper have also caught the attention of Vaikom farmers. Another recent addition is Latex. It is expected that Tourism will be the next major thing to hit Vaikom.
Main Attraction - Vaikom Mahadevar temple |
