Kottayam has an elevation of 3m above the sea level. The city situated in the basin of the Meenachil River and Vembanad backwaters. Kottayam is classified as a midland area in Kerala with respect to its altitude. The soil found here is mainly alluvial.
The climate of this city is pleasant and moderate all around the year. The fluctuations in temperature from summers to winters range from 20 to 35 °C. Rainfalls are heavy during south-west monsoon. Humidity can also vary from moderate to high.
Airports at Kochi and Trivandrum are 93 and 152 km away respectively. The city has its own railway station where many long-distance trains pass by from. Kottayam lies on NH183 giving it a good access via road from other major cities.
Kottayam is a small town and can be covered on foot. Other local travel options are buses, rickshaws and taxis.