Kumarakom

Fact File
» Location From Major Cities : Trivandrum (225 kms), Bangalore (230 kms), Cochin (78 kms)

» Known For : Kumarakom is known for her splendid natural beauty. It is emerging as a popular backwater destination of Kerala.

» Climate & the best time to visit : Kumarakom has a moderate climate. The highest temperature recorded in summer is 37.8 degrees while the lowest temperature recorded in winter is 16.1 degrees. The South West monsoon brings a lot of rainfall between June and September. The average annual rainfall is 1100 mm per year. A cool breeze continuously blows during the summer months. The best time to visit Kumarakom is between November and April.


The City
Kumarakom is located in southern Indian state of Kerala. It is a small town on the banks of the enchanting Vembanad Lake. Kumarakom falls in the Kottayam region of Kerala, the most interesting area in the backwaters. Kumarakom is actually a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake and is known for her splendid natural beauty. The landscape, comprising of a beautiful lake, lush green trees and a bird sanctuary leaves all tourists coming to the place spellbound. Boat rides are the best way to explore the magnificence of Kumarakom.

Attractions in the City
» Vembanad Lake : Vembanad Lake is fast developing as a backwater tourism destination of Kerala. The most interesting part of Vembanad lake is that many small rivers and canals originate from here. The lake provides facilities like boating and fishing which are a hit among tourists. A visit to the lake is sure to be an exhilarating experience. » Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary : The Bird Sanctuary of Kumarakom is known as a paradise for bird watchers. The sanctuary is located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake and covers a total area of 101 acres. Other than local bird species, a number of migratory birds come to the sanctuary during the winter months. Some of the commonly spotted birds here are egrets, darters, herons, teal, bitterns, brahminy kites, marsh harries, waterfowl, cuckoo and wild ducks. Siberian storks are also a major attraction here.

» Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls : The picturesque Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls is another major attraction of this small town. The waters roar as they cascade down the mountains from a height of 100 ft and provide for a breathtaking sight. The waterfalls are also a popular picnic spot.

Other Places to Visit
» Alleppey : The beautiful coastal town of Alleppey lies near to Kumarakom. The presence of a number of canals, bridges and silver beaches makes Alleppey an ideal spot for holidaying. The popular Nehru Trophy boat race is also held in Alleppey in the months of August-September. Boat house cruises on the backwaters also attract a lot of tourists to Alleppey.

» Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary : The Periyar wildlife sanctuary is another great excursion option from Kumarakom. Spread in an area of 777 Sq Kms, the wildlife sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna. Though a tiger reserve, the sanctuary is more popular for elephants. Elephant rides inside the sanctuary adds a lot of thrill to the visit.

» Kumily : Kumily would be the best choice for shopping. A small town near to Kumarakom, Kumily has emerged as a major shopping destination and spice trade centre in recent times. The coffee plantations of Kumily adds to the beauty of its landscape.


How To Reach
» Air : The nearest Airport is Cochin International Airport which is 70 kms. away from Kumarakom. Flights operate to Cochin from many national destinations and a few international destinations as well.

» Rail : The nearest railway station is at Kottayam at a distance of some 15 kms. Regular local and Express trains connect the city with rest of India.

» Road : Kumarakom can be approached from Kottayam which is only 14 kilometres away. Both State highway and National Highway links Kottayam with the rest of the country.