Kumarakom, one of the mostly visited tourist spot in Kerala is situated in the Kottayam District of the state. It is a set of little islands scattered in the Vembanad Lake, the biggest of backwater lakes in Kerala. The place is famous for its bird sanctuary, where visitors can see, enjoy and study about vivid species of migratory birds. The sanctuary is managed by the Tourism Department of Kerala, KTDC. It covers a beautiful landscape of about 14 acres. The Vembanad Lake or locally called ‘Vembanatt Kayal' is the habitat for many varieties of marine or freshwater species including famous ‘Karimeen' (Pearl Spotted Fish), ‘Chemmeen' (Shrimp) and prawns. The main attraction of Kumarakom is of course the ‘Kettuvallom' or House Boats as in any other Backwater spot in Kerala. A Voyage through the lake enjoying the natural beauty of Kerala and observing rare species of organisms in the lake or in the sanctuary will be a mind blowing experience to every tourist.During 1870s this place was a swampy mangrove forest. A missionary worker named George Alfred Baker was the person who cleared the place and started coconut cultivation. The beauty of Kumarakom depends mostly on these mangrove forests and coconut canopies.
The perfect way to peek into the natural beauty of Kumarakom will be a journey through the sparkling waters of Vembanad Lake. Tourists can hire houseboats from local individuals, hotels or from K.T.D.C. Rates depends on the time and facilities selected. People interested in cheap rates can find local canoes with a boats man.
Kumarakom has a range of well managed luxury and budget hotels including international Star Hotels like Taj Residency. There are also resorts with awesome views of the natural beauty of Kumarakom.
How to Reach
Kumarakom is well connected with the other part of the state by railway, road, air and water way.
The nearest Airport is Cochin International Airport which is about 70kms away from Muhamma Boat Jetty. Nearest Railway Station is Kottayam which is 14 kms from Kumarakom. The state and National Highways als o connects Kumarakom with the rest of the country.
Climatic condition
Kumarakom enjoys a well-balanced tropical climate. The local spring season is from August and this coincides with Onam, the harvest festival in Kerala. Slight drizzles persist till early November. A cool fresh breeze always seems to blow the backwaters.
Best time to Visit
November to March. |
