Kumarakom, Kerala

Kumarakom is famous for offering some of the best and most beautiful backwaters in Kerala. Found in the southern area of the state, the village of Kumarakom is a cluster of tiny islands nestling around the Vembanad Lake. Due to its natural beauty, the Kerala government has declared Kumarakom a special tourism zone.

One of the amazing features of this region is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a huge natural expanse that stretches across 14 acres. This is an ornithologist's paradise; many flock here to catch a glimpse of egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork. A tour of the bird sanctuary is conducted by canoe and is best taken early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the hottest times of day.

Great value holidays in Kumarakom

Kumarakom holidays offer visitors lots of interesting and relaxing leisure options - such as boating and fishing at the Taj Garden Retreat for example. Another 'must visit' destination is Waterscapes, where you can see pretty cottages built on stilts amongst the coconut groves, with wonderful panoramic views of the backwaters. The many houseboats or traditional Kettuvalloms (rice barges) also offer memorable images of your holiday in Kerala.

Kumarakom is mentioned in a popular bestselling book - God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy. In fact the house where the author spent her early childhood is now a tourist attraction for fans. You may also like to visit the 100ft Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls which are located close to the main town and offer a unique photo opportunity.

Book your Kumarakom holiday today

Kumarakom is a popular choice for holidays in Kerala because of its variety of beach activities and watersports including water polo, parasailing, scuba diving, water skiing and many more. The many sightseeing spots in the region include Vembanad Lake and Kumarakom Backwaters which are close to the main town and easily accessible by bus, auto rickshaw or taxi. Juma Masjid (Thazhathangadi), Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple and St Mary's Church at Athirampuzha and Cheriapally are all major pilgrimage sites in the region.

One thing is for sure - you'll find plenty to do on your holiday in Kumarakom.