Located at a distance of about 16 km from Kottayam, Kumarakom is one of the most fascinating and invigorating paradise in Kerala. The beauty of this place lies in its coconut palms, never-ending paddy fields, lagoons, backwaters and of course the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary on the Vembanad Lake, which attracts a variety of migratory birds and water birds. The backwaters at Kumarakom offer a variety of flora and fauna. There are many good resorts and hotels in Kumarakom that offer comfortable accommodation. Most of the resorts in Kumarakom offer recreational facilities like Ayurvedic massage, yoga, meditation, boating, fishing and swimming etc.
What is Kumarakom famous for ? Well, in a few worls, Kumarakom is extremely famous all around the world for some incredible backwaters tourism, and eco tourism. It is a good starting point to begin houseboat cruises over the scenic backwaters of the state. A well-organized house boat (needs to be cool during the summers though) cruise can be experience to cherish for lifetime. For many people, doing this once is just an invitation to do such trips again (and again). Combine this with some great healthy oil massages, and you will keep on coming back.
Kumarakom on Google Maps:
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Backwaters here in Kumarakom are amazing jumble of flickering waterways composed scenic lakes, channels, rivers, inlets, lagoons and canals. Lined with palm coconut trees and other leafy plants and bushes, Kumarakom backwater offers wonderful example of ecosystem. A houseboat trip over serene and azure Kumarakom backwaters also offers a glimpse into rural life styles of the state as the houseboat passes through the traditional villages situated alongside the backwaters. Kumarakom houseboat cruise also provides wonderful opportunity to see several species of aquatic life, water birds and animals in and alongside the backwaters.
Being situated very close to the sea, Kumarakom has a moderate climate, with heavy rains during June-August due to the southwest monsoon. Winter starts from December and continues till February in Kumarakom. In summer, the temperature in Kumarakom rises to a maximum of 35°C and 25°C in the winters. Annual average rainfall in Kumarakom is 310 cm. There is always a cool, fresh breeze, which makes even the warmest weather readily agreeable. The South West monsoon is from early June to early August. However, slight drizzles persist till early November.
Tourism spots in kumarakom
Tour to Kumarakom Welcome to the holiday at Kumarakom the ornithologist's paradise. Bask in the beauty of nature amidst marvelous mangrove forests, coconut canopies and Pulsating paddy fields sprinkled with enchanting waterways and canals decked with while lilies. For everyone looking forward to a lazy and laid back holiday Kumarakom is the place to be at. While at Kumarakom visit to the Vembanad Lake is a must. The fresh water lake acts as an integral part of the backwater cruises in Kerala.
Water Bird Sanctuary
The 14-acre sanctuary is an ornithologist's paradise and a favourite haunt of migratory birds like Siberian stork, Egret darter, Heron and Teal. There are also different varieties of local birds like waterfowl, wild duck, cuckoo, owl, water ducketc. The sanctuary is open from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm and the best months to bird watch are between June and August. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands.
Backwater cruises in kumarakom
The backwaters of Kerala - endless miles of snaking waterways flanked on either side by emerald palms. Tranquil and alluring, they offer you the experience of a lifetime. While Kumarakom the boat races, houseboat cruise, canoeing and fishing are something not to be missed. A stay at the houseboat, called Kettuvallom is an unparallel and unique experience. The scintillating beauty of nature and the simplicity of the people will not fail to touch you at Kumarakom
Vembanad lake in kumarakom
Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals, which empty into the great expanse of water called the Vembanad Lake. The lake, an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating.
Aruvikkuzhi waterfalls in kumarakom
Located 18 km from Kottayam town, is this beautiful picnic spot where streams tinkle as they make their way through the landscape and waters roar as they cascade down the mountains from a height of 100 ft. Tourists can also enjoy the shade of the rubber plantations here.
Janardhana Temple
The famous Janardhana temple of the 12th century dedicated to the Lord Vishnu is located in Kumarakom; this makes the place another important place for Hindu pilgrimage.
Places to stay:
Radisson Plaza Resort & Spa
Kumarakom Lake Resort
Lakesong
Backwater Ripples (link)
Kumarakom Lagoon
Taj Garden Retreat (link, link2)
Kalathil Lake Resort
Water Scapes (link)
Coconut Lagoon (link)
Abad Whispering Palms (link)
The Backwater Resort
Golden Waters (link)
Lake Palace Resorts (link)
CocoBay Resort
Tharavadu Heritage Home (link)
Lakshmi Hotel & Resorts
Paradise Resorts
Backwater Retreat
Bridges Kumarakom
Kumarakom Homestay: This is a 150 year old heritage homestay in the backwaters of arakom in Kerala. It's built in the traditional Kerala architecture with a central courtyard.
Privacy (link)
Lake Village (link)
The Zuri Kumarakom (link)
How to reach:
By Air: via Cochin International Airport (75 km)
By Rail: via Kottayam (16 km) By Boat: From Muhamma (near Alappuzha) to Kumarakom Jetty (7 km).
By boat: From Muhamma (near Alappuzha) to Kumarakom Jetty.
By Road: Buses and taxis are easily available at all times of the day from Kottayam & Cochin.
External articles / blogs and photos:
1. Photo of Kumarakom lake from between trees (link)
2. Extracts from moorejoseph's blog (link)
Despite houseboats and backwaters, Kumarakom is also famous for some of several other attractions. It is home to rich flora and fauna. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Vembanad Lake is very famous among tourists. The bird sanctuary can be delight for birdwatchers. Ettumanur Shiva Temple, St Mary's Knanaya Church, Thazathangadi Juma Masjid, Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, Kesari Waterfalls, Panchikkad Temple, Panchikkad Temple, etc are other attractions in and around Kumarakom. There are also several ayurvedic resorts and spa centres in Kumarakom which are also very popular among tourists.
3. Hiking adventures (link)
The rich history of Kerala arises at the Ayurveda Spa, Ayurmana, which is dedicated to this ancient science of healing. The traditional mansion which houses the Spa, was owned for centuries by a renowned family of Ayurvedic practictioners. The multicusine restaurant, Ettukettu, is an even grander mansion with a pedigree to match: It was commissioned by the King Marthanda Varma for his martial arts maestro, in appreciation of his services, and the mansion belonged to the family for over a century.
4. Another post on Kumarakom (link)
Kumarakom is a small town situated on the shore of picturesque Vembanad Lake in the state of Kerala, India. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state and deserves the attention of tourists from all over the world. It appeals tourists with exceptional natural beauty. There are lush green banana plantations, plush paddy fields, coconut lagoons, clean water lakes, scenic backwaters, etc to make tourists delightful. Houseboats and bird sanctuary are the most favorable attractions of tours to Kumarakom. Sunset cruise on picture perfect Vembanad Lake is simply a pleasant experience of lifetime.
5. Photo of first light in Kumarakom (link)
6. Nakul Shaji's Photo Blog (link): Some great photos here as well
The best thing about cruising in the houseboat, other than the beautiful view of course, is the great seafood. We started out with a great appetizer in the form of fried Clams (Note that these are not batter fried, but fried directly in oil with spices). Then came the special treat .. we found a local fisherman (on the lake) trying to sell his catch before evening. Boy, what a catch it was. These were by far the largest prawns I have ever seen in my lifetime. For 1.5 Kg, we got about 4 prawns (thats close to 400 gms per prawn!)
7. A few photos of Kumarakom (link)
8. Comments from Footloose and Fancy Free (link)
Our last day in Kumarakom was spent just taking walks and hanging out in the hammocks overlooking the rice fields. I loved G.K’s. It was so peaceful and George was wonderful. Our last few meals were delicious and spicy. Very good. Seriously, Keralan food is awesome.
9. Houseboat tours (link)
Another predominant backwater tourism destination in Kerala is Kumarakom – also famous for Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary on the periphery of the picturesque Vembanad Lake. It is a small but picturesque village in Kerala. It is blessed with copious nature beauty. It is the ideal destination for eco tourism, beach tourism and backwater tourism.
10. Rajahamsam Luxury Houseboat (link)
Rajahamsam is about 100 feet in length and has a width of around 19 feet. Fully furnished in teak, this houseboat is made by strictly adhering to the traditional boat making style. In a bid to provide maximum comfort for the tourists, Rajahamsam luxury houseboat is a having two AC bedrooms of size 12 x 12 each. In addition to it has a separate glass AC dining halls for providing additional comfort to you while you are enjoying some of the finest traditional Kerala cuisine. The balcony is spacious, with enough space for you and your family to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Kumarakom.
11. Forum discussion about traveling to Kumarakom in rainy season (link)
12. Beautiful photo of Kuamarakom (link)
13. Photos from Backwater Heritage Home Stay Kumarakom (link)
14. Beautiful photo of Kumarakom on Flickr (link)
15. 3 beautiful photos of Kumarakom Lake Resort (link)
16. Beautiful photos of Kumarakom and Waterscapes resort (link)
17. Description of Kumarakom Lake Resort (link)
18. Photos of backwaters at Kumarakom (link)
19. Photo Gallery of Kumarakom (link)
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