Kumarakom is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala as a group of small and beautiful islands. Kumarakom, situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kerala’s largest freshwater lake, attracts tourists from all over the world with its pristine and enchanting beauty.
Located about 16 km from Kottayam district, this place is famous worldwide due to its lake tourism. Surrounded by greenery and rivers, the peninsula of Kumarakom invites tourists to relax and rejuvenate.
Great species of flora and fauna
The region is known for its picturesque views of palm and coconut trees and paddy fields. The proximity to the waterlogged area makes this place healthy and lush green trees. When a necklace starts raining the entire area is filled with greenery.
Being the most famous bird sanctuary of Kumarakom in Kerala, it is an ideal place for those who love birds. The sanctuary is home to a variety of migratory birds and Siberian cranes can often be seen here. Apart from this, this area is also known for the species of marine fish. The most prominent of these is the Pearl Spot popularly known as Karimeen.
Places to visit around Kumarakom
There are many historical and cultural sightseeing options in Kumarakom along with waterfowl and houseboats. The region has been declared as a special tourism area by the state government of Kerala due to its contribution to the development of tourism. Aquatic attractions of the region include the famous Vembanad Lake , Aruvikkuzhi waterfalls , Kumarakom Waterfalls and Kumarakom Beach .
Other tourist destinations in the place are the Bay Island Driftwood Museum , Jama Masjid and Pathiramanal . The fast growing tourism in the area has not tampered with the religiosity here and there are many temples and churches in and around Kumarakom. Major temples and churches include Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple , Ettumanannur Mahadev Temple , Saint Mary Church of Cheriyapalli, Saint Mary Church of Athirampuzha and Vaikom Mahadev Temple .
Different type of Culture
Along with fishing and agriculture, the business of tourism contributes to the economy of the region, due to which a different type of culture is found here. The waterways and canals, found in the form of a difficult network, make major contributions to irrigation and transport, making Kumarakom an extraordinary tourist center.
Kumarakom was known by tourists from across the country and abroad due to Arundati Roy’s book ‘Gad of Small Things’, he was awarded the prestigious Booker Prize for this book and became the best-selling book of the modern era. Aymanam village, which is the centerpiece of this novel, is located near Kumarakom and became a popular tourist destination after the publication of ‘Gad of Small Things’.
Houseboat – a Unique Travel Experience
The houseboats of Kumarakom distinguish it from other tourist sites. Millions of tourists visit this place to enjoy the houseboat and spend their time and enjoy the peace and beauty of the waterfowl. There are also facilities to roam the houseboat throughout the day or overnight, which travelers can choose according to their budget.
These houseboats are luxury boats made of wooden rails and equipped with all modern amenities like air conditioner, one to three bed rooms, toilets, kitchen, balcony, and entertainment options. These houseboats are perfect for corporate meetings, holidays and honeymoon as the journey of the houseboat is recognized as the most unique journey.
Kumarakom is famous for Naukaud, organized on the occasion of Onam, Kerala’s main festival celebrated during August – September. Boats of various sizes and types like Odi-Vallam, Kochu-Odivallam, Churulan-Vallam, Iruttukuthi-Vallam and Chunandan-Vallam participate in the race and the winner is awarded with the Chaldamayanti Trophy of Sri Narayana.
The heavens of delicious foodie people’s
Kumarakom dishes have traditional Kerala flavors and provide a finger licking experience. The seafood varieties of the region are extremely tasty and tourists must take some time to taste this taste. Karimine polychauthu, fried chilemin, ulrathiyathu prawns, moili fish and fried crab are dishes that no one would want to skip.
Palappam Mutton, Kerala Chicken Fry, Duck Roast, Beef Fry, Puttu-Kadala, Kappa – Fish Curry and Karimeen Mappa give Kumarakom food an exotic feel. Being a popular tourist destination of Kumarakom, it offers good resorts, budget hotels and accommodation in homes. Travelers can stay in these resorts and homes to enjoy the amazing beauty and traditional flavors of the area.
Kumarakom Attraction:
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Kumarakom Beach
Kumarakom Beach, Kerala’s most enchanting beach, is an ideal place to spend a relaxing moment and relax. The long ridges of the sandy beach are a favorite place to spend leisure time. The beach is located in a quiet coastal area away from business activities.
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Bay Island Driftwood Museum
The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is the only museum in India that has a collection of objects made of driftwood. The museum is unique in its type and collection as it has examples of nature’s craftsmanship and man’s creativity.
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Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple
Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple, a major religious center near Kumarakom, is located about 2 km from Kottayam town. The temple has a history dating back to the 16th century and was built by King Thekkumkur. The temple attracts thousands of tourists due to its magnificent architecture.
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Vembanad Lake
Vembanad Lake or Vembanad Kayal, on which Kumarakom is situated as a group of islands, attracts tourists through its picturesque, attractive and pristine water areas. It is the largest lake in Kerala and the longest lake in the country. This lake spreads across the district and the Punnamuda Kayal
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Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary or Vembanad Bird Sanctuary is located on the eastern bank of Lake Vembanad. The sanctuary is in a picturesque area with the backdrop being waterlogged. It is home to hundreds of migratory birds and is a unique place for bird lovers and bird studiers.
- Kumarakom WaterfillKumarakom waterlogging is a major tourist center and attracts millions of people from all over the world. The peace of Lagoon and the beauty of the flora contribute to the attraction of waterlogging, due to which there is a lot of demand for this destination. An ideal way to enjoy Kumarakom waterlogging.
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Pathiramannal
Pathiramannal, also known as Anand Padmanabhan Thoppu and Pathira Thoppu, is a small beautiful island located near Kumarakom. This beautiful place is spread over 10 acres and is situated on Vembanad Lake. Located on the borders of Kottayam and Alleppey districts, the island ferrys from Kumarakom.
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Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid of Kumarakom is popularly known as Thajhathanagadi Mosque. It is located at a distance of 12 km from the town of Kumarakom and is one of the popular religious sites in the region. Located on the banks of the Meenachil River, this mosque attracts travelers throughout the year.
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Waikom Mahadev Temple
The Vaikom Mahadev Temple attracts nationwide attention as it is one of the oldest and historic temples in Kerala. The temple is located in the city of Vaikom which is situated on the banks of Lake Vembanad. This temple is unique because it is one of the few Shiva shrines where Shaiva and Vaishnavas worship equally.
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Aruvikkuzhi Falls
The Aruvikkuzhi waterfall near Kumarakom is known for its natural beauty. Located 18 kilometers from Kottayam town, it is easily accessible. One can visit this popular tourist destination on the way to Kumarakom which is ideal for walking and natural walks.
How to reach Kumarakom
Kumarakom is well connected to the rest of the country by road, rail and airways. Apart from this, many tour packages are available for the area according to the duration of stay and rates.
By Bus
Kerala State Transport (KSRTC) and private buses are available from Kottayam to Kumarakum. Luxury buses run regularly for major South Indian cities like Bangalore, Coimbatore, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Chennai. Travellers who want to visit Kumaracom can opt for packages provided by private bus agencies.
By Train
Those who travel by train can reach at Kottayam railway station which is about 15 km away from Kumarakom. Kottayam Railway Station is well connected to other Indian cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi and Mumbai. Taxis and buses are available to reach Kumaracom from Kottayam railway station.
By Air
Kochi International Airport, also known as Nidumbassary International Airport, is the best option to visit by air. The airport is located at a distance of 80 km from the city of Kumaracomem. Kochi Airport is well connected to all major cities in India. Travellers can avail taxi services from the airport and reach Kumaracome.
Kumarakom Weather
The region receives a lot of rainfall during the monsoon and the tropical climate makes Kumarakom a pleasant tourist destination. Kumarakom keeps tourists beyond the limits due to its magnificent lagoon, enticing cuisines, numerous tourist spots, magical houseboats and an enchanting atmosphere.
