The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region of Kerala. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favorite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist’s paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and fascinate all visitors.
An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom offers visitors many other leisure options. Boating and fishing facilities are available at the Taj Garden Retreat, a sprawling old bungalow-turned-resort.
Waterscapes, the backwater resort of the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has independent cottages built on stilts, set amidst coconut groves offering a panoramic view of the backwaters. Holiday packages involving houseboats and traditional Kettuvalloms (rice barges) offer great experiences.
PLACES TO VISIT
The Vembanad Lake
This lake is the prime attraction of this destination which is also one of the most visited day trip destinations in Kumarakom. You can enjoy boating and fishing on this lake.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
A must-see destination for birdwatchers, the Kumarakom bird sanctuary is spread over an area of 14 acres. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between June and August as it is the breeding season of local wetland birds like Indian darter, little cormorant, white ibis along with several species of kingfishers. If you’re interested in watching migratory birds, then visit the sanctuary between the months of November and May.
You can also take a boat trip to the nearby locations like Pathiramanal, Kaipuzha Muttu, Narakathara, Thollayiram Kayal and Poothapandi Kayal where around hundred species of local as well as migratory birds can be easily spotted. Don’t forget to take your camera, as you’ll find many beautiful birds worth clicking.
Backwater Cruise
This is the number one activity while in Kumarakon, endless hours of relaxed enjoyment to be had here as you see lush palm trees and scenic beauty all around. Houseboats allow tourists to stay put while travelling about at a leisurely pace. If your agenda is tranquillity, add this to the top of your things to do around Kumarakom list.
WEEKEND GETAWAYS NEAR KUMARAKOM
Kottayam
Kottayam is home to many publishing houses and is popularly known as “Akshara Nagiri”. It is a beautiful place having serene lakes, pristine hills and green lands.
Major tourist places include Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Pallippurathu Kavu, Thiruverpu Temple, Saraswathy Temple, Subramanya Swami Temple, and Kottathavalam Cave. Among fun-filled activities one can participate in are boating, fishing, swimming and photography. The best time to visit is in the months between September and March.
Ernakulam
Ernakulam is one of the most visited tourist places in the South-Indian state of Kerala. It is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. The city is a major industrial and commercial hub of Kerala.
Alleppey
Alleppey or Alappuzha is home to the beautiful backwaters. Among the backwaters, canals, houseboats, lagoons and picturesque beaches indeed justify the city’s good name as “Venice of the East”. It is a very famous holiday destination for honeymoon couples, families and people who want to unwind from the city life.
Thekkady
Nestled beautifully amidst the dense forests, Thekkady is a place blessed generously with flora and fauna. This city is situated in Idukki district of God’s Own Country and is one of the most visited tourist places of Kerala. It is a one-stop destination for travellers who want to enjoy bamboo rafting, hiking, plantation tours, boating and nature walks.
Kozhikode
Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is the second largest city in Kerala. It is situated 410 km from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. Earlier a spice trade base, this modern city attracts tourists with famous lighthouses, manmade pond and modern entertainment squares.
EVENTS / FESTIVALS IN KUMARAKOM
Vaikathashtami
It is the most important festival of the Kumarakom which is celebrated in the Vaikom Mahadevar Temple. This festival is celebrated during November or December every year for 12 days. Large processions bearing statues of Lord Shiva are carried on decorated elephants during this festival.
Kumarakom Boat Race
This is another festival in Kumarakom which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and dedication.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Kumarakom is from September to March as the weather is pleasant. This area has moderate climate which allows tourists to enjoy the natural ambience.
HOW TO REACH KUMARAKOM
By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Kumarakom. The second nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram, 171 km away. You can get plenty of international and domestic flights from and to this place.
By Rail: Kottayam railway station is around 16 km away from the Kumarakom. You can also board direct and indirect trains to various destinations. Trains are frequent and link this city to many other cities and states.
By Road: Kumarakom is well connected by roads. How to reach Kumarakom by road is a question easily answered due to the availability of various types of public transport.
