Kumarakom is backwater tourism in Kerala. It is situated on the backdrop of Vembanad Lake. Kumarakom is derived from the words Kuminja and Akam. Meaning of Kumarakom is Land which is formed by accumulation of sediments. This place is famous for huge variety of Flora and Fauna. Notable person who were born in this place are Alfred George Baker, Bishop Mar Alexader Choolaparampil and Umman Chandi. Boat race is most famous in this place. For the shopping lovers Urulis, decorated traditional door latches, household utensils, bronze lamps are worth buying in this place.
What to see in Kumarakom:
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: It is situated on the banks of Kavanar River. Area covered by this sanctuary is 14 acres. Tourists attracts towards Boating riding of this place. Main attractions of this bird sanctuary are Duck, Brahminy Kite, Darter, Moorhen, Cormorant, Heron, Egret, Owl, Cuckoo, and Waterfowl. These are local birds .To this sanctuary several birds come on migration also. Migratory birds are Flycatchers, Lark, Teal, parrot, Siberain Crane. These migratory birds come from two places. Some of these come from Siberia and some of the birds come from Himalayas.
Vabanad Lake: Another attraction of Kumarakom is Vembanad Lake. Other name of this lake is Kochi Lake. In Kerala this is the largest wetland. Nehru Trophy Boat race is the major attraction in this lake. Huge varieties of fishes can be seen in this Lake. It is estimated that there are 150 species of fishes in this lake.
Aymanam Village: other name of this village is Ayemenem. Arundati Roy’s Booker Prize winning novel is God of Small Things. This is set in this village.
Bay Island drift wood Museum: It is the only museum of its kind in India. This museum is the hard work of Mrs.Raji Punnoose. Drift wood museum is closed on Monday.
What to see around Kumarkom:
Aruvikkuzhi waterfalls: Height of these waterfalls is 100 m. It is located 2kms away from Kumarakom.
Pathiramanal: This became an Island when Young Brahmin had divided the lake to perform his prayers. This is the best place to see the migratory birds. It is located 5kms away from Kumarakom.
Muhamma: It is located 33kms away from Kumarakom. Most famous of this temple is Mukkal Vettom Ayyappa. It is believed that Lord Ayyappa trained at this Kalari.
Ettumanoor Shiva Temple: It is located 12kms away from Kumarakom. This temple is famous for unique sculptures and Paintings.
Vaikom Temple: Kerala style architecture is most attractive. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located 31kms away from Kumarakom.
Getting to Kumarakom: Kumarakom is well connected with roadways. From Cities such as Thiruvananthapuram, Cochin, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore buses are available to reach this place. Kottayam is the nearest railway head which is 15kms away from Kumarakom. Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport.
Getting around Kumarakom: Boats and Steamers are used to visit the places in Kumarakom. Taxis, Buses, Autos are available to visit the surrounding places of Kumarakom.
Best time to visit Kumarakom: Best time to visit this place is between September to February.
Where to stay in Kumarakom: House boats is the best option to stay in Kumarakom to enjoy the nature. But plenty of hotels are also available to stay in the town. All varieties of hotels are available. Cost of these house boats is raging between Rs.7000 to Rs.15000. Apart from hotels; resorts are also available to stay in Kumarakom.
Where to eat in Kumarakom: Plenty of Eating options in Kumarakom. Non vegetarian food is most famous in this place. Famous dishes of this place are Oysters, Crabs and Prawns cuisines.