Kumarakom is a village in Kottayam district of Kerala, situated close to the backwaters. Kerala Honeymoon Tour Packages may include cruise along the backwaters in a houseboat. The backwaters are a very large water body similar to a lake extending almost half of Kerala. They are formed by several rivers flowing from eastern mountain ranges having an outlet to the sea in the west. This picturesque landscape around the backwaters are a major tourist attraction. Kumarakom is an ideal place for backwater tourism.
Houseboats are the major attraction of Kumarakom. These houseboats are equipped with all the requirements for a comfortable stay. They have comfortable bedroom, toilet, and arrangements to serve food in houseboat. Some of them have a kitchen and a cook will prepare and serve food. Most of the houseboats have seating arrangements in the front portion where tourists can sit and relax. They can sit here and get a glimpse of the magnificent view of the backwaters and the coconut trees in the background. This is also an opportunity to experience the village life of Kumarakom and taste the delicious locally prepared food.
Before roads were constructed most of transport of cargo took place through these backwaters in traditional boats called ‘kettuvallams’. With the arrival of modern road transport these traditional boats were no longer required for transporting goods. With a slight modification, these traditional boats were transformed to what we see today as houseboats. Now houseboats have become one of the major tourist attractions in Kerala.
Other than houseboats there are many accommodation facilities in Kumarakom. There are so many tourist resorts in this village. In addition there are many home stays run by local people for tourists who would like to interact and experience the life here. There are also five star hotels and lake resorts in Kumarakom. In some resorts one can also opt for ayurvedic massage, swimming, fishing etc.
Places in and around Kumarakom:
Vembanad lake : This lake is the largest lake in Kerala. Kumarakom is situated close to this lake. Vembanad lake can be seen by taking boat trips from Kumarakom. Other than houseboats ordinary boats are also take tourists around the lake.
Pathiramanal : This island is located in Vembanad lake. This small island can be seen during a boat journey in Vembanad lake. There is no road access to this island. This island has an unique ecosystem and has many different types of flora and fauna. Migratory birds from other countries come to this place during winter in the northern hemisphere.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary : Another major attraction is the Kumarakom bird sanctuary. This small sanctuary is spread across four acres of land. This place is a nesting place for cranes, herons and many migratory birds. The bird sanctuary is open on all days a week and the timing are from 6:30am to 5:30pm. The entry fee is Rs.50 per person for Indian nationals and Rs.100 per person for foreign nationals.