Introduction

Kumarakom is a cluster of islets on the serene Vembanad Lake, a part of the Kuttanad region in Kerala. The backwater haven, Vembanad Lake is one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes and a major ecological resource. Set out on a boat ride towards the highly popular Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary on the eastern shores of the lake. Here you can enjoy birding in the green canopy of the rubber plantation for the whole day. Spread across 14 acres, the sanctuary is an ornithologist’s paradise, for it is a favorite haunt of migratory birds such as the Siberian crane and other indigenous species such as egrets, herons, waterfowls, kingfishers and teals to name a few.

An interesting way to explore this green backwater getaway is by renting a houseboat (locally called Kettuvalloms) and drifting on the lazy backwaters past a wealth of mangrove forests, emerald paddy fields and swaying coconut groves. Typically kettuvalloms measure 80 feet (24 meters), and provide you luxurious accommodation and modern facility coupled with traditional hospitality. The boat is made out of huge planks of jack wood tied together with rope, without using a single nail. Room options in the houseboats vary across one, two and three bedroom, air-conditioned and non air-conditioned categories. The rooms are aesthetically done up and elegantly furnished with amenities such as satellite television, comfortable double bed, coffee table and an attached bath complete with toiletries.

Spend leisurely hours soaking up the calm and the languid pace of backwater life. A cruise on these enchanting waterways opens up endless views of the canals, the fishermen hamlets on either side, and an open blue sky. Sit out on the deck of your houseboat as you soak up the sun, and capture in your lens the emerald green backwaters spattered with white lilies in some places, kids being rowed to school in a traditional rice boat, beautifully brown women draped in colorful saris on their way to the paddy field, and farmers enjoying a chat over a cup of tea… Life seems so peaceful on these waterways that you can reflect at leisure, take time to fill up your diary, and sip a few cups of freshly brewed tea - all the while listening to bird songs, the rise and drop of wind and the soft swishing of water.

If you take to angling, the backwaters are a great opportunity to hone your skills. Canoeing is another popular activity on the backwaters, if you wish to infuse some energy to your laidback holiday, canoe ride is most definitely worth considering. Savor the nuances of Kuttanadan delicacies complemented by traditional coconut beer or toddy. As night falls, twinkling lights from the surrounding backwater villages illuminate the waterway. Simply sit-out on your deck, enjoy the sea breeze and listen to night noises.

Special Attributes

Sailing on the serene waterway while taking in the verdant greenery, is extremely distressing. It rejuvenates you for the rest of your journey, and offers some truly unique sights and sounds.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

The nearest airport to Kumarakom is at Kochi, about 106 kilometers (66.25 miles) away and Kottayam Junction about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) away, connects the Bird Sanctuary with the rest of the country. Approx. 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Kumarakom is Kottayam city which stands on both SH 1 (Trivandrum to Cochin International Airport) and on NH 220 which leads to Theni. KSRTC buses ply from Kottayam to Kumarakom, Kochi, Trivandrum, Alleppey, Thekkady, Thodupuzha, Kollam, Kozhikode and Bangalore.

Enjoyed by

Families, Senior Citizens, Backpackers, Kids, Honeymooners

Exposure

Level of exposure to the sun depends on the activity undertaken at the backwaters, for instance if you choose canoeing you might have to face a harsh sun in some stretches where the palm canopy thins out. This wouldn’t be the case if you are sailing in the cool shade of a thatched houseboat. However, it is advisable to carry your sunglasses, a sunblock cream and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September, October

Facilities

Great chance to commune with nature, enjoy canoeing, angling, bird-watching and photography.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

For an inquisitive bird watcher, it is always advisable to carry their binoculars at all times.

Type of site

Cruise on the Kumarakom backwaters