Kottayam is known as the land of two Ls . It is the first city in India which has attained full literacy. The second L is for latex which is obtained from rubber trees. It is the main centre of the Syrian Christian community. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Taj Garden Retreat is located on the banks of Lake Vembanad. Recipe - Chicken Stew. Coconut Lagoon of the Heritage Resort, Kottayam.