Kumarakom Backwaters-Kottayam,Kerala

Kumarakom a small village is situated 15 kilometers from Kottyam on the Vembanad Lake. The fresh water lake acts as an integral part of the backwater cruises in Kerala. It is a much sought after back water destination in Kerala.Kumarakom consists of a number of small islands on the Vembanad Lake. Boat races, house boat cruises are some of the main attractions of this place. The Huge houseboats traditionally known as Kettuvalams provide every amenities of a house, which includes living rooms, kitchen and toilets and also a balcony, from where the tourist can have a good view of the backwaters.The Vembanad Lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. It flows through the verdant lands of Kerala and offers one of the best backwater cruises. The Vembanad Lake, the largest backwater in Kerala, is the habitat for many marine and freshwater fish species and it teems with 'Karimeen' (Pearl Spotted Fish), shrimp (chemmeen in the local language) and prawns. Kumarakom is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.


Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: The bird sanctuary extends over 14 acres (57,000 m²), and came into existence following preservation efforts from the government. It is a major tourist attraction. This is a perfect place for any body who loves birds. You can walk through the forests and watch variety of birds in the size and might, flying past you or resting on the trees .You can enjoy these sights along with the chirping of the birds. Birds are seen fluttering here and there. For the tourists it is heartening to see so many species of birds together in a single trip. The local population of the birds includes Waterfowl, Cuckoo, Owls, Egrets, Herons Water Ducks, Parrots, Teal, Larks, Flycatchers and Wood Beetle.The Siberian Cranes which are migratory birds can also be seen here, if we visit the place during the month of November to March. These migratory birds remain for a short visit at Kuumarakom Bird Sanctuary.


The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands, either on a housing boat or a motor boat. Along with the birds the tourist can see lots of coconut trees lined up by the side of the backwaters.Boat trips make us possible to sight a number of birds without actually disturbing them. What makes these cruises all the more special is the kind of tranquility felt while sailing through the serene waters of the Vembanad Lake. The Island of Pathiramanal ( meaning Sands of night) which attracts a large number of migratory birds is also easily accessible from the boats


Enjoy Walking Tours - Another option to spot the bird species of the park is to set out on foot on the one and half km long walking track. Chances are that a large number of birds on our stroll.Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a golden feather in India's ecological crown, despite being one of the smallest parks in the country. A visit to Kumarakom, nesting on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, will give you memories to cherish.