Located in the heart of Kerala both geographically and spiritually, Kumarakom is the sleepy little village situated beside serene Vembanad Lake. It offers a wide variety of flora and fauna for exotic sightseeing and solitaire experience of Kumarakom Houseboat riding. This composed village is a craft, fully knitted with mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut trees comprising waterways and canals adorned with white lilies’ aroma enchanting the soul.
Kumarakom is famous for its bird sanctuary which is a home for many migratory birds such as Siberian Stork, wild duck, Egrets, and many more and spread across 14 acres of land. Vembanad Lake offers its guests the chance to have a glance at some magnificent marine creatures such as the Chemmeen (prawns), the Konju (Tiger Prawns), and Karimeen, just to name a few.
Kumarakom houseboats are the epitome of the whole experience in the village. They commute through the serene waters while the sunset and the marine life play their tunes. The houseboats are made by the traditional format of “Kettuvallams” which have thatched roof covers over wooden hulls.
OVERVIEW
Location: Kerala
Nearest Airport: Kochi Int. Airport
How to reach: Approx. 2-hour drive from Kochi international airport
Famous for: Backwaters, Houseboat tours, Beaches, Bird-watching
Best time to visit: Oct to March
WHAT TO SEE
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Vembanad Lake
Houseboat backwater cruise
Kumarakom Kerala is located 16 km away from the city of Kottayam. It is set in the backdrop of the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in the state of Kerala. Fishing, agriculture, and tourism are the major activities supporting the economy of the village.
Kumarakom is also a home for a wide variety of animals and plants. The bird sanctuary in Kumarakom is a valued and notable bird sanctuary where many species of migratory birds visit.
Culture
The culture of Kumarakom is vibrant and traditional with neat attire of the people Mundu which is a plain white dhoti bordered with classic golden silk embroidery.
The beauty culture of the village is at its peak when accompanied by the holy festivals which are enthusiastically celebrated.
The festival of Onam is an important event celebrated in Kumarakom. This sacred festival arrives in September and October. During the festival, the Onam Festivity snake boats organize a series of rowers in a boat racing competition.
Another auspicious festival celebrated in Kumarakom is Ugadi which marks the beginning of a New Year. The people of the village decorate their doorways and get dressed in their best attires as they stroll the neighborhoods and greet their family and friends.
Places of Interest
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary– Adjoined to the Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom bird sanctuary is a haven to various migratory birds like Siberian Stork, darter, heron, and many others. The Sanctuary can be explored with houseboats and motorboats which enhances the experience to peak height. The best time to watch birds is from June to August but to watch the Migratory birds, the best time is November to February.
Vembanad Lake – Kumarakom is blessed with a blanket of rivers and canals that relay themselves into the picturesque Vembanad Lake. There are many activities which the Lake offers to the tourists such as boating, fishing, and sightseeing. On the auspicious festival of Onam, a new life is brought into the waters by the speedy Snake boat racers.
Kumarakom Backwaters – Kumarakom Backwaters hub is a cluster of islands on the eastern banks of Lake Vembanad. The backwater offers boating and fishing experience and makes a picturesque holiday spot in the backwaters of Kumarakom.
Nearby Attractions
Vagamon (78km) – Vagamon is a hill station located two hours away from Kumarakom on the border of Kerala. It is a perfect tourist place situated 1200 meters above the sea level spot surrounded by the greenery of tea gardens, pine forest, waterfalls, and attractive meadows. Reaching the beautiful hill station is an extraordinary experience in itself as the swift and cold breeze lingers around you all the time. If you are an adventure seeker then Vagamon has some plans for you like paragliding, trekking, and rock climbing.
Where to stay
Kumarakom is a small village but there is close to nothing that can be seen here in one day. A multiple-day exploration of the city is an ideal way to spend a relaxing time, with such a relaxing place you will need accommodation in relaxing hotels. The 16th century themedKumarakom Lake Resort offers Kerala’s charm and modern comfort.
TheCoconut Lagoon is another hotel with great ambiance and comfort, located in a sheltered and enchanting cove in Kumarakom this resort reflects the diversity and magnificence of Vembanad Lake.
We hope that you had a great experience at Kumarakom Kerala, but remember, before you leave this beautiful village to try the mouth-watering cuisine to give your hunger some satisfaction.
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