Kumarakom, Kerala is one quiet, unspoiled destination for tranquil escape from hustle and bustle of city life.This pictueresque gem is situated on the shores of Vembanad lake in Kottayam district of Kerala.This lake is the largest backwater reserve in Kerala.
Kumarakom is actually a cluster of villages offering views of the backwater and is a perfect place for relaxation.Local culture, flavourful cuisine and stunning landscapes make an unforgettable experience for the tourists here.
Best way to enjoy the lake is boat tours or houseboat cruise with or without night stay options.Tours can be customised as per your needs like 2/4/6/ hours cruise, morning cruise, 4 hours cruise with lunch, sunset cruise or overnight cruise.
We took 3 hours evening boat tour with sunset and we enjoyed slow cruising along the narrow canals watching small local hamlets along the way till we entered the main lake.
Lake is huge and gives ocean like impression to you and has lush green landscape on the shores with coconut groves and tiny villages.
During overnight houseboat stay, afternoon and mornings are extremely enjoyable.However, boats get parked after sunset near the villages when insects and mosquitoes can be nuisance unless you are retired in your air conditioned cabin.
There are few islands within the lake of which Pathiramanal island is a small island in the middle of the lake and famous for birdwatching and its scenic beauty.Also Kumarakom island and Munroe island(towards Kollam) are known for their temples, traditional cultures and peaceful atmosphere.
Kumarakom bird sanctuary is a haven for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.Mangrove forests and wetland ecosystem provide support to wide range of birdlife, fish and other aquatic life.
Best time to spot birds is always early morning and it is advisable to take guided tours for visiting and identifying various types of birds.
This sanctuary is home to more than 200 species of resident birds like woodpeckers, parrots, Storks, Herons,Egrets, kingfishers etc and can be best watched during monsoon.November to February is migrating season and famous Siberian cranes and flycatchers can be spotted during this period.It goes without saying that binoculars and good quality cameras are must for this activity.
Another favourite activity is Fishing, very popular among locals everywhere along the shores. Tourists can engage themselves inside the resort as all resorts provide fishing equipments.
Kumarakom boat race is famous and popular and you need to visit this place in the month of September to experience this.
Local Keralite culture like Kathakali dance or Kalaripayattu (martial art) can be enjoyed too if some festival is going on.
Aurvedic massage-No kerala trip can be completed without mentioning and experiencing these wonderful rejuvenating massage techniques. We took herbal medicinal whole body massage at our resort and an excellent relaxing feeling we had thereafter.
Where to Stay
From many homestays and budget hotels to five star resorts are there to accommodate you. Taj, Zuri, Coconut lagoon, Kuamrakom lake resort,Karma are among the best ones.
How to Reach
Nearest airport is Kochi airport (140 kms) and by car is takes 2 hours.
Closest Rail station is at Kottyam.
What to Eat
– It is a paradise for non- vegetarian people.
– Varieties of fresh fish,prawns,lobsters,shrimps are there to try.
– Karimeen(pearl spot) is a local delicacy.
– Fish moilee,Prawn fry,Thoran,chicken curry,appam are must try dishes.
– Idli, dosa, appam along with Avial and Sadya are good options for vegetarians.
