Kumarakom: Scenic Bunch Of Islands Around Vembanad Lake!

Kumarakom is a small village located in the Kottayam district of the southern Indian state of Kerala. The village is situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala, and is known for its beautiful backwaters and bird sanctuary.

Apart from the bird sanctuary, Kumarakom is also famous for its houseboat cruises, which take visitors on a tour of the backwaters, allowing them to experience the local culture and cuisine. The houseboats are designed to provide all modern amenities and are an excellent way to explore the beauty of Kumarakom.

Overall, Kumarakom is a popular tourist destination that offers a unique experience of Kerala’s backwaters and birdlife, making it a must-visit place for nature lovers and travel enthusiasts.

Best places To Visit In Kumarakom

Kumarakom beach

One of the most popular beaches in Kumarakom is Kumarakom Beach, also known as Thirunakkara Mahadeva Beach. This beach is located near the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and offers stunning views of the Vembanad Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia.

The beach is also known for its calm and serene atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. Visitors to Kumarakom can also explore other nearby beaches, such as Marari Beach and Alappuzha beach which are located about 15-35 kilometers from Kumarakom.

Kumarakom may not be primarily known for its beaches but visitors to the area can still enjoy a range of beautiful beaches and natural scenery.

Kumarakom Bird sanctuary

It is a well-known bird sanctuary. It is also known as the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, as it is situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake.

Spread over an area of 14 acres, the sanctuary is home to a variety of bird species, including both resident and migratory birds. Some of the popular bird species found here include egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoos, owls, and many more.

the sanctuary is open throughout the year, and visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot or by boat. There are also several watchtowers and observation points within the sanctuary that offer visitors an opportunity to observe the birds in their natural habitat.

Apart from bird watching, the sanctuary also offers boating, fishing, and nature trails for visitors. There are also several resorts and hotels near the sanctuary where visitors can stay and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Pathiramanal Island

A small island located in the Vembanad Lake in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. The name “Pathiramanal” means “sands of midnight” in the local language, and the island is known for its scenic beauty and abundant birdlife.

The island is about 10 acres in size and is covered with a variety of vegetation, including coconut palms, mangroves, and shrubs. The island is home to over 90 species of birds, including migratory birds that come here during the winter months.

Pathiramanal Island is a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Visitors can take a boat ride from Alappuzha or Kumarakom to reach the island. The island also has a small park where visitors can relax and enjoy the views.

Kumarakom Backwaters

The backwaters of Kumarakom are popular tourist destinations and are known for their serene natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and traditional Kerala houseboats. The backwaters consist of a network of lagoons, canals, and lakes that are fed by several rivers, including the Meenachil, Pamba, and Achankovil.

The backwaters are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several species of fish, turtles, and birds. Visitors to Kumarakom can take a leisurely boat ride through the backwaters, enjoying the tranquil scenery and spotting the local wildlife.

The traditional Kerala houseboats, known as “Kettuvallams”, are a popular way to explore the backwaters. 

Vembanad Lake

Vembanad Lake is a lagoon lake located in the state of Kerala, India. It is the longest lake in India and the largest in the state of Kerala, spanning several districts including Kottayam, Alappuzha, and Ernakulam.

The lake is fed by several rivers and is an important tourist attraction in Kerala, known for its scenic beauty and unique ecosystem. The lake is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It is also an important breeding ground for several species of birds, including migratory birds that come from as far away as Siberia.

The lake is also an important resource for the people of Kerala, providing irrigation water for agriculture and serving as a means of transportation for local communities. Several traditional industries, such as coir production, are also dependent on the lake. Overall, Vembanad Lake is a significant ecological, cultural, and economic resource for the state of Kerala and the people who live there.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls

The waterfall is situated near the town of Kumarakom, which is known for its backwaters and beautiful landscapes. The waterfall is formed by the streams of the Meenachil River that flows through the rocky terrain and cascades down from a height of about 100 feet.

The Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls are surrounded by lush green forests and a beautiful landscape, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the waterfall and indulge in activities such as trekking, hiking, and bird-watching.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, is a beautiful picnic spot and an ideal shooting location for movies located in Kottayam. pic.twitter.com/YnEdpg681o

— Kerala Tourism (@KeralaTourism) December 12, 2015

The best time to visit the waterfall is during the monsoon season. During this time, the waterfall is at its full flow, and the surrounding forests are at their greenest

Aymanam

It is a village located in Kottayam. It is situated on the banks of the Meenachil River and is known for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Aymanam has a rich history and is famous for its ancient temples, churches, and traditional architecture.

The village is also known for being the setting of the famous novel “The God of Small Things” by Arundhati Roy. The novel is set in Aymanam and explores the lives of a family living in the village.

The novel has brought international attention to Aymanam and has become a popular destination for tourists who want to visit the places mentioned in the novel. The village is also known for its traditional handicrafts, including coir products, pottery, and handloom textiles. Aymanam is well-connected to the nearby towns and cities, and it is easy to reach.

Kudamaloor

It is situated about 6 kilometers east of Kottayam town and is surrounded by the Meenachil River on one side and paddy fields on the other. 

Kudamaloor is known for its historic St. Mary’s Forane Church, which is believed to have been established in the 9th century AD. The church is one of Kerala’s oldest structures. It is also famous for its annual feast, which is held in September and attracts a large number of devotees from all over Kerala.

Apart from the church, Kudamaloor is also home to several temples, including the famous Mahadeva Temple and the Puthuppally Temple.

Kallara

Another town in the district of Kottayam is known for its landscapes. The name “kallara” originated from the word “Kallukalude Ara” meaning a room or section within rocks, due to the first ever temple in the area named Pandavar Kulangara Sreekrishna Swami temple and their tradition. as per beliefs

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

The famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located in the town of Ettumanoor in the Kottayam district The temple is believed to have been built around 1542 AD by the local ruler of Ettumanoor, King Vadakkumkoor.

The temple is renowned for its beautiful architecture and intricate wood carvings. The main attraction of the temple is the idol of Lord Shiva, which is said to be over 1,500 years old and is made of a rare type of stone.

Overall, the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, and its rich history, unique features, and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian culture and spirituality.

Best Time To Visit Kumarakom

Kumarakom is a popular tourist destination and can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Kumarakom depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons in Kumarakom:

Winter Season (November to February): The winter season is the best time to visit Kumarakom for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The weather is pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C, making it a great time to explore the backwaters, go birdwatching, and enjoy various water activities.

Summer Season (March to May): Kumarakom experiences hot and humid summers with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 37°C. This time of the year is not ideal for outdoor activities, but if you can handle the heat, you can enjoy some great deals on accommodation and travel.

Monsoon Season (June to September): Kumarakom receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which makes it a great time to witness the lush greenery and enjoy the peacefulness of the backwaters. However, water activities are not recommended during this time, and some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding.

The best time to visit Kumarakom is during the winter season (November to February) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

How To Reach Kumarakom?

By Air: The nearest airport to Kumarakom is Cochin International Airport, which is located about 80 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kumarakom.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Kumarakom is Kottayam Railway Station, which is located about 16 kilometers away

By Bus: Kumarakom is well connected by road to major cities in Kerala. You can take a bus from cities like Kochi, Kottayam, and Alappuzha to reach Kumarakom.

By Car: You can also hire a car from any major city in Kerala to reach Kumarakom. The drive is scenic and enjoyable, with many picturesque views along the way.

Apart from all these activities, nature, flora and fauna, scapes as well as culture and history Kumarakom is known for its Ayurvedic spa treatments and wellness centers. Many tourists come here to rejuvenate their minds and body through these traditional treatments and stay in resorts with great hospitality.

Overall, Kumarakom is a beautiful and serene destination that offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. It is a must-visit place for anyone traveling to Kerala or looking for a peaceful getaway.

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