Kumarakom- Kerala’s Backwater Paradise is a major tourist attraction in Kerala located in the scenic vicinity of Vembanad Lake, Kerala’s biggest lake. A rich ecosystem, the site is a haven for various marine and freshwater fish species, and a teeming refuge for the Karimeen also known as the pearl spot shrimp, and Poovalan Chemeen Metapenaeus dobsonii- species of shrimp. Tourists flock to Kumarakom to experience the backwaters of the Vembanad Lake. Many luxury and budget resorts line the embankments of the lake, accommodating tourists with boating, sailing, fishing, and magnificent lake views. The glimmering water, green mangrove forests, the refreshing feel of watching the most eccentric birds, including the migrant ones, in the sky, and the famous beach – all contribute to the astonishing beauty of this serene location. There are dozens of little islands in Kumarakom- an idyllic backwater destination, which is part of the Kuttanad region. Kumarakom is an important stopover not only for its scenic beauty but also for a Bird Sanctuary where numerous varieties of migratory birds come every year- giving wonder to one’s eyes and hence is the second-most famous leisure activity over here. Avid birdwatchers are going to love this place because of the abundance of flocking birds like Egrets, Herons, Darters, Cuckoo, Teals, Waterfowl, migratory bird Siberian Stork, Wild Duck, etc.
Additionally, the tourist places in Kumarakom boast a rich spectrum of historical shreds of evidence also that offer one the much-needed getaway from the busy city life. Vivanta By Taj- formerly Taj Garden Retreat is one such place. This modern tourist resort, which is a Victorian two-storeyed bungalow, currently open for tourists was actually built in 1881, by British missionary Alfred George Baker. A Baker Memorial School which was established by a daughter of the Baker family also exists still now. Furthermore, Kumarokam has a significant role in the literature as well. Famous Arundhati Roy- the author of “The God of Small Things” is based in the Ayemenem village adjacent to Kumarakom. “Vivanta By Taj” is referred to as “History House”, and “Baker Sahib” is named “Kari Saipu” in the novel. Also, the Ayemenem house- where Arundhati Roy lived for a time as a child (as depicted in the story) is also maintained here.
The beach is a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing and backwater cruising. Among the water sports available on the beach are swimming, water polo, snorkeling, volleyball, and other activities. The beach is clean and calm, hence best suitable for practicing some yoga and meditation on the shores. Also, a stroll down to the shoreline will allow you to observe nature at its best. Last but not least, Kumarakom has one more specialty to offer to tourists- Rejuvenating Ayurveda. Almost all resorts here have Ayurvedic spas and healthcare centers that offer relaxing and rejuvenating treatments.
History
As per historians, Kumarakom was a common war place for the local Kings of Thekkumkur Kingdom. Being dangerous for this reason, the king of Thekkumcore built a fort at the entrance of Kottathodu in Kumarakom. The soldiers along with Chundan Vallam and Kettu Vallam were kept here. Some places near Kumarakom still have “pada” (meaning war) in their names, like Padakkalam and Padanilam. Near the village office of Kumarakom, you can still see the remnants of the fort’s six-foot-wide wall.
Visiting Hours:
Bird Sanctuary –
open from 6 am to 6 pm
Bay Island Drift Museum –
open from 10 am – 5 pm on Tuesdays – Saturdays
open from 11.30 am – 5 pm on Sundays.
Getting there :
Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 13 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 94 km