Kumarakom – The Backwater Paradise of Kerala
Kumarakom is truly an enchanting travel getaway situated in Kerala. It is majorly famous for its backwater tourism. A great number of tourists from all across the globe visit this place to explore the raw beauty of Kerala and relax and unwind. Kumarakom is famous for its cluster of islands on Vembanad Lake and the bird sanctuary that hosts a variety of flora and fauna.
This lake is also known for its majestic houseboats. Apparently, tourists love to stay in these boats while holidaying. However, one can also choose resorts built in Kumarakom with natural surroundings.
This destination's charming and engaging nature is the major highlight of Kumarakom tourist places. One of the main reasons to visit is to experience India's longest freshwater lake and indulge in the perks of being a traveller.
The charming and engaging nature of this travel getaway is the major highlight of this tourist destination in Kerala. Another great reason to visit this place is the fact that one also gets the chance to experience the longest freshwater lake in India and explore the perks of being a traveler.
History of Kumarakom
Once upon a time, Kumarakoram was under the rule of the King of Thekkumkur. During those times, it became very common for the local kings to have fights and local competitions in the form of boat races. Yes, for this purpose, small boats, known as Chundan Vallam or Veppu Vallam, were typically used.
In those times, the Vembanad lake was also considered to be dangerous territory; therefore, the local king ordered the construction of a fort to protect the entrance of Kottathodu in Kumarakom. For this, many soldiers were employed in the geographical boundaries of this place, protecting the lands against enemy attacks. Interestingly, some of the local places still have a 'pada' as a prefix in their names, like Padakkalam and Padanilam. The remains of this fort's wall are six feet broad and still can be seen near the village office of Kumarakom. This historical backdrop makes Kumarakom sightseeing even more interesting, as visitors can explore the remnants of the past.
Major Attractions in and Around Kumarakom
Kumarakom offers a variety of attractions that showcase the region's natural beauty and cultural richness. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kumarakom:
1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
A paradise for bird watchers, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers. The lush green surroundings and diverse bird species, including the Siberian Stork and Kingfisher, make it one of the most famous places in Kumarakom.
2. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
The Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall is an ideal picnic spot, surrounded by rubber plantations. It's one of the tourist attractions in Kumarakom, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of nature and spend quality time with loved ones.
It is truly an ideal picnic spot where you can hope to spend some real quality time with your loved ones. And the fact that these have been surrounded by a rubber plantation only gives you more of a reason to travel here and witness the scenic happiness of nature.
3. Vembanad Lake
Vembanad Lake is the pride of Kumarakom and one of the famous places in Kumarakom. The picturesque backwaters and romantic settings make it a top destination for travellers. The lake is also a key spot for houseboat rides, offering a unique way to explore the places in Kumarakom.
It is the kind of place which is depicted as the glory of the city and rightly so. The picturesque backwaters and the artistic backgrounds of this place add a nice romantic touch to this travel getaway. Vembanad Lake is one of the largest lakes in India.
4. House-Boat Ride in the Backwaters
What can be greater than this? Residing in an old houseboat and then sailing through the quaint and charming backwaters is what makes this whole destination quite a jaw-dropping getaway.
5. Kathakali Performance
Kathakali is a traditional dance form that is an integral part of Kerala culture. It is specifically practised across the state. Furthermore, this amazing dance form involves diverse facial expressions from the part of the dancers, and perhaps that is what makes the whole experience magical.
6. Lakeside
A leisurely stroll along the lakeside, with the serene backdrop of the backwaters and the vast skies, is a magical experience. This simple activity is one of the best things to see in Kumarakom and provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.
Things to Do in Kumarakom
- Stay in a luxury houseboat and cruise through Vembanad Lake.
- Go birdwatching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
- Experience a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment.
- Visit Pathiramanal Island for a peaceful retreat.
- Try local Kerala delicacies, especially fresh seafood and Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot Fish).
- Explore the nearby villages and interact with local fishermen.
- Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, or sunset boating on Vembanad Lake.
Best Time to Visit Kumarakom
- September to March (Winter) – Best for houseboat cruises, birdwatching, and sightseeing.
- April to June (Summer) – Hot and humid but ideal for budget travelers.
- July to September (Monsoon) – Perfect for experiencing Kerala’s lush greenery and Ayurvedic therapies.
How to Reach Kumarakom
Kumarakom is situated at a distance of about 2,736, 1,353, 2,352, 572 km from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Check out the following details on how you can reach here by public transport.
By Air
Kumarakom doesn't have an airport; the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located in Kochi. The Kochi airport has good flight connectivity with other cities. After you deboard your flight, you will need to hire a cab or some other means of transportation to further cover a distance of around 70-80 km depending upon the route you take.
By Train
To travel by train, you must buy tickets for Kottayam instead of Kumarakom. From there, Kumarakom is located at an approximate distance of around 10-15 km. To continue your journey further, you will need to board a cab or some other means of public transport.
By Road
There are regular buses from some major cities to Kumarakom. Otherwise, you can also book private taxis at your convenience. Travelling in your own vehicle is always a good idea.
- From Madurai - 260 km via NH85
- From Thrissur - 131 km via NH544
- From Munnar - 148 km via NH85
Conclusion
Kumarakom is a place where nature and culture come together beautifully. The peaceful backwaters, vibrant bird sanctuary, and rich history make it a special destination. Kumarakom tourist places offer something for everyone, and simply relaxing in its calm environment is a memorable experience. With its many attractions and the best season to visit during cooler months, Kumarakom truly stands out as a jewel in Kerala.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Kumarakom
Q. What are the top tourist attractions in Kumarakom?
A: Some of the top tourist attractions in Kumarakom include the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom Backwaters, Vembanad Lake, and Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall.
Q. What is Kumarakom famous for?
A: Kumarakom is famous for its tranquil backwaters, bird sanctuary, and traditional houseboat experiences.
Q. What is the best time to visit Kumarakom?
A: The best time to visit Kumarakom is from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant for exploring the outdoors.
Q. How long should I stay in Kumarakom?
A: A 2 to 3-day stay is ideal to explore backwater cruises, bird sanctuary visits, local culture, and nearby attractions.
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