Kumarakom, situated in the backdrop of Vembanad Lake and located about 16 kms from Kottayam is a place rich in flora and fauna, making it a gorgeous place to unwind, away from the hustle bustle of city life and the hectic schedules that comes with it. The mangrove forests, paddy fields and coconut groves draws out the perfect picture of Kerala as we all imagine it to be. There are also waterfalls and forests in Kumarakom, making it quite the wonderland. Activities to indulge in are aplenty here, hence guaranteeing you that the time spent will be rich with a variety of experiences.
1Ideal time
- Summer (March to May):
Summers are not exactly the season time for Kumarakom, as the temperature usually shoots up, sometimes making it inconvenient to fully enjoy the potential of the place. The influx of tourists drops down during this time. However, that also means a reduction in the costs. So if you are not the kind to get beaten by the heat, make the most of the opportunity.
- Monsoon (June to August):
Monsoon brings out another beautiful face of Kumarakom with all the flora and fauna blessed with a fresh life. However, plans to go for boat rides might not go as per the plans. Hence, monsoon too might not be the perfect time for a visit.
- Winter (December to February):
The winter chill that wraps the place turns it into a heaven and opens doors for active tourism. You can indulge in literally everything Kumarakom has to offer, without having to worry about climatic fluctuations.
2How to Reach
- By Road:
Kumarakom is connected to the nearby cities through roads. Easiest and nearest would be Kottayam. If you don’t have private vehicle, the most convenient option would be to board one of the many KSRTC buses that regularly run in this route.
- By Train:
Kottayam Railway Station, located 16 kms away from Kumarakom, is the nearest railway station. Kottayam connects to all the other major cities in Kerala as well as India. You can travel to Kumarakom by road from the station.
- By Air:
The nearest airport to Kumarakom is the Cochin International Airport, located at a distance of 85 kms. You can hire a cab or board a bus or even train from Kochi to reach Kumarakom.
- By water:
You can also reach Kumarakom by travelling in a boat. The nearest point is the town of Muhamma in Alleppey. You can opt for boats run by the government, or take the private ferries to have picturesque ride o Kumarakom.
3Places to Visit
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary:
The abundance of flora and fauna that Kumarakom is famous for can be witnessed at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. It is home to a wide variety of birds and is usually thronged by bird watchers.
- Kumarakom Beach:
Kumarakom Beach ticks off all the boxes that it takes to qualify as one of the most happening beaches. There are plenty of adventure activities that can be undertaken at the beach. Now, if you are looking for a quiet time, Kumarakom Beach can offer you that too.
- Kumarakom Backwaters:
Kumarakom is best known for its backwaters and hence it goes without saying that a houseboat cruise through the tranquil backwater is a must-try while vacationing here. Enrich the experience by trying out some freshwater fish fry, which is delicacy in and around this part of Kerala.
- Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls:
Aruvikuzhi Waterfalls is a mesmerizing sight to behold. The journey to the waterfalls, too, is just as beautiful and enriching with treks along scenic trails. The waterfall is surrounded by rubber plantations, giving it a green envelope. Apparently, at the top of the waterfalls is situated St Mary’s Church, another popular place visited by tourists.
- Bay Island Driftwood Musuem:
This is a very unique museum, probably one of its kind in India or the world itself, and hence a must-visit. Ideated by Raji Punnose, who is a school teacher, the museum showcases artwork made out of driftwood or any kind of wood found from water. Art lovers and others from across the world visit the museum to understand the art up close.
- Vembanad Lake:
The long stretch of pristine water body is indescribably beautiful and the best way to experience it would be to take a boat ride. Close to ten rivers converge at this lake, which is the longest, and hosts the world famous Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race during the month of August.
- Pathiramanal Island :
Pathiramanal Island is a wonderland in itself. Take a boat ride to reach the island that has much in store for you. Stretching across a sprawling 10 acres, it has a zoo and natural aquarium with a wide variety of exotic wildlife. There are walkways wrapped in lush green, with sweet chirpings of birds in the background. You cannot have a more blissful escapade from the hectic city life!
4Things to Do
- Water sports:
Kumarakom Beach is one place that hosts a variety of adventure activities. Water skiing, wind surfing, parasailing and boating are some such experiences to indulge in to keep the adventure junkie in you grinning.
- Trekking:
Trek along the natural trails, basking in the beauty of Mother Nature to rekindle your connection with her. The journey to Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls is one such fulfilling journey. If you have a thing for observation, you will also realize that Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is not the only place where you can spot a variety of bird species.
- Houseboat Rides:
Riding through the backwaters in a houseboat is one thing that you just cannot do away with, when you are in Kumarakom.
- Enjoy traditional art forms:
If you are staying in one of the resorts in Kumarakom, chances are, you will get an opportunity to watch some of Kerala’s intriguing traditional art forms, be it Kathakali or the martial arts Kalaripayattu. While you might catch it anywhere else in the world too, watching it in such an incredibly scenic background that defines the soul of Kerala’s beauty is one experience you cannot have elsewhere.