A little bit of heaven in God’s own country, Kumarakom, in the backwaters of Kerela in southern India is a village (a cluster of little islands) on Vembanad Lake.
We visited Kumarakon, over an extended weekend, more than a decade ago. The lazy backwaters settles you in for a leisurely holiday. Choose to stay in one of the many lake resorts or on a traditional houseboat. Awaken to the songs of the neighbourhood birds and let the day unfold the many treasures of this serene and pristine village.
Our home during our stay
Best time to visit
- Winter (October – February) allows you to participate in a variety of activities.
- Monsoon (June – September) is humid but the season for festivals.
How to reach
- Nearest airport in Cochin, approximately 95 kms away, is well connected with the prominent destinations in India. You can either hire a cab or use public transport (bus) to reach Kumarakom.
- Kottayam railway station is the nearest railway station to Kumarakom, at a distance of approximately 15 kms. Daily connections between this station and other important Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Bangalore are available. Once again, either hire a cab or use public transport (bus) to reach Kumarakom.
- The Kerala State Run Transport Corporation (KSRTC) connects Kumarakom to other nearby cities, towns and villages. There are private-run buses (air-conditioned / non air-conditioned) as well.
Where to stay
A wide selection of budget to luxurious accommodations are just a click away. Kumarakom also has wonderful heritage properties which, I personally recommend.
Things to do
- Bird-watching. Familiarise yourself with both local and migratory birds that fly in from the Himalayas and as far away as Siberia.
- Morning and evening backwater boat rides on the many canals connecting to Lake Vembanad.
- Houseboat cruises on the Lake. The stunning sunrises and sunsets will leave you spell-bound.
- Experience authentic village life.
- Indulge your taste buds. Enjoy traditional culinary delights like Chemmeen (seafood delicacy), the super light Appams (fermented rice and coconut milk pancakes), Fish Moilee (traditional fish curry) and much more.
- Explore the traditional wooden structured temples unique to Kerela.
- Rejuvenate your mind and body with the universally renowned Kerela massage.
- Go fishing in the canals running across the village as well as the shallow waters of the Lake.
- During the Onam Festival in August, be a part of the celebrations and exhilarating boat races.
The backwaters of Kumarakom is the perfect place to indulge yourself in a laid-back, dreamy holiday. It is a welcome alternative to the hustle and bustle of Alleppey, the more renowned ‘backwaters destination’ of Kerela. Life here floats at a slower pace and offers serenity and warmth to the ‘peaceful’ traveller.
