Kumarakom
Kumarakom - Paradise of Birds
Home to various species of exotic birds, this scenic Kerala Backwater Destination site offers various leisure activities. There is Taj Garden Retreat offering fishing and boating experience. There are tiny little islands on the Vembanand Lake located near the Kuttanand area. Tourists can take the Houseboat rides and eat traditional Kettuvalloms rice dish. Apart from exotic migratory bird species and rarest flora to offer, this beautiful sleepy town can be called Heaven on Earth.
Major Attractions of Kumarakom
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Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
This is one of the most exotic bird sanctuaries in the whole world. It is spread over an area of 14 acres on the banks of the picturesque Vembanand Lake. This is the favorite for nature lovers, bird watchers and ornithologists who throng this place to spot migratory and resident bird species. View the spectacular Gold Back Woodpecker, Native Kingfisher, and birds that migrate from Himalayas and Siberia.
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Bay Island Driftwood Museum
This is an exquisite wood museum where a visitor can see unique shapes and sizes of driftwood artefacts. An interesting story lies behind the beginning of this high artistic superior driftwood museum. The museum is certified by two renowned records awarders namely the Limca Book of Records and The India Book of Records.
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Island of Pathiramanal
This is an island spread over 10 acres of land located in the midst the most scenic backwaters of Kerala. There are several birds from all over the world who love this bird paradise. It is like an extension cum attraction for the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. This lovely place is only accessible by a pleasurable boat ride.
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Kumarakom Coconut Lagoon
Private hospitality services offering various dream stays here. A visitor gets a warm musical welcome followed by coconut milk & coconut flannel. Moreover the visitors arriving by boat can take a shower outside. It is a mostly wooden home located in greenery with birds flying around. Traditional Kerala meals are served with friendly staff around.
Best Time to Visit Kumarakom
Monsoons can get extremely wet though adds to the look and ambience of the place. Summer is hot and humid. The best time to visit this ‘Paradise of Birds’ is in winter months which makes your trip the most memorable one.
How to Reach Kumarakom
Kottayam Railway Station is nearly 13 km from here. There is Cochin International Airport located less than 100 km from this place. You can also reach Kumarakom Jetty from Muhamma by Boat. Busses and taxies are available all times of day.
Shopping in Kumarakom
There are not any specific market places here. There are a few traditional things to shop for. You will find these at any small local shops in the area. Traditional Silk Sarees with local weaves. There are rare and a wide variety of antiques including woodwork, weaponry used in Kerala Martial Arts, etc. Pick up some rare screw –pine embroidery mats, artefacts with delicate craftsmanship and Kathakali (traditional Dance) masks.