The centre of attraction

The backwaters of Kumarakom, comprising a network of canals, lakes, and lagoons, are its most prominent attraction. Tourists can explore the tranquil backwaters on houseboat cruises, offering an opportunity to soak in the scenic beauty of the surroundings while gliding past coconut groves, rice paddies, and traditional villages. Houseboats in Kumarakom range from luxurious to budget-friendly, providing options for all types of travellers.

Get closer to the nature

Situated on the banks of Lake Vembanad, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Spread over an area of 14 acres, the sanctuary is home to a diverse range of migratory and resident bird species, including herons, egrets, kingfishers, cuckoos, and migratory Siberian cranes. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot or by boat, spotting birds amidst the dense mangrove forests and marshy wetlands.

Paddle through the paradise

Lake Vembanad, one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, forms the backdrop of Kumarakom's scenic beauty. The lake provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and recreational activities, allowing visitors to witness stunning sunsets and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, held on Lake Vembanad in August, is a major cultural event that attracts participants and spectators from across Kerala.

Beyond the backwaters

Kumarakom is a place rich in cultural heritage, with a history that goes back centuries. One notable example is the Jatayu Rock, a large rock sculpture depicting the mythical bird Jatayu from the epic Ramayana.

Kumarakom also features traditional Kerala architecture, including heritage homes, temples, and churches, which showcase the region's cultural and religious diversity. You can wander through the charming streets of Kumarakom, engage with locals, and immerse yourself in the traditional rural way of life in Kerala.

Kumarakom is even known for its Ayurvedic wellness centres and spa resorts, offering rejuvenating treatments and therapies based on ancient Ayurvedic principles. Visitors can indulge in traditional massages, yoga sessions, and holistic healing practices, promoting relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being.

Savouring the scrumptious seafood

Kumarakom offers a delectable culinary experience, with a variety of seafood delicacies and traditional Kerala dishes to tantalise the taste buds. Freshly caught fish, prawns, crabs and mussels are prepared in authentic Kerala style, flavoured with coconut, spices and aromatic herbs. Visitors can savour these culinary delights at local restaurants, homestays and houseboats, enjoying the flavours of Kerala's coastal cuisine.

Heed to the call of Kumarakom

Beyond its natural beauty and tranquil vistas, Kumarakom inspires visitors with its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and reverence for nature. It is a place where the echoes of ancient traditions mingle with the whispers of the wind, where every sunrise paints the sky in hues of gold and crimson, and where the rhythm of life flows like the gentle ebb and flow of the backwaters.

As you wander through the verdant landscapes of Kumarakom, breathe in the fragrant air, listen to the symphony of birdsong, and feel the gentle caress of the breeze against your skin, you'll find yourself transported to a realm of peace, beauty, and harmony. It is a destination that nourishes the soul, rejuvenates the spirit, and reminds us of the timeless connection between humanity and the natural world.