Kottayam has a vast network of rivers and canals, which empty into the great expanse of water called the Vembanad Lake , 16 km from Kottayam town.

The lake, an enchanting picnic spot and a fast-developing backwater tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences, which are truly exhilarating.

The Kumarakom Tourist Village offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages.

The serene lake comes alive during Onam with a spectacular water regatta- the snake boat races. It is indeed amazing to watch oarsmen, at least a hundred in one boat, slice their way through the waters to the fast rhythm of their own full throated singing.

Climate in Kumarakom

Being situated very close to the sea, Kumarakom has a moderate climate, with heavy rains during June-August due to the southwest monsoon. Winter starts from December and continues till February in Kumarakom. In summer, the temperature in Kumarakom rises to a maximum of 35°C and 25°C in the winters. Annual average rainfall in Kumarakom is 310 cm.

History of Kumarakom

Earlier an old rubber plantation, Kumarakom was developed into a Bird Sanctuary. Kumarakom is now a leisure retreat very popular with foreigners, who club a visit to the sanctuary with a ride on Kerala's houseboats, known as Kettuvalloms. An Englishman Henry Baker, fascinated by the beauty of Kumarakom, settled here in the last century.

Tourism Spots in Kumarakom

Welcome to the holiday at Kumarakom the ornithologist's paradise. Bask in the beauty of nature amidst marvelous mangrove forests, coconut canopies and Pulsating paddy fields sprinkled with enchanting waterways and canals decked with while lilies. For everyone looking forward to a lazy and laid back holiday Kumarakom is the place to be at. While at Kumarakom visit to the Vembanad Lake is a must. The fresh water lake acts as an integral part of the backwater cruises in Kerala.

Water Bird Sanctuary

A 14-acre bird sanctuary is situated on the eastern banks of the Vembanad Lake . The sanctuary adds to the natural beauty of Kumarakom. Birds (waterfowl, water ducks, cuckoos, wild ducks etc.) nest and spend happy summers here. Birds like Siberian storks migrate here every year.

At the water-bird sanctuary you can spot domestic birds like cuckoo, wild duck, egrets, darters, herons, teal, and waterfowl as well as migratory birds like the Siberian storks. Further ahead from Kumarakom you may visit the backwater town of Kottayam . At Kottayam you must check out the rubber plantations and the old churches.

Backwater Cruises in Kumarakom

The backwaters of Kerala - endless miles of snaking waterways flanked on either side by emerald palms. Tranquil and alluring, they offer you the experience of a lifetime. While Kumarakom the boat races, houseboat cruise, canoeing and fishing are something not to be missed. A stay at the houseboat, called Kettuvallom is an unparallel and unique experience. The scintillating beauty of nature and the simplicity of the people will not fail to touch you at Kumarakom.