Kumarakom, a gem nestled in the heart of Kerala, India, offers a unique and enchanting experience: the Backwaters. This intricate network of lagoons, canals, rivers, and lakes stretches along the captivating Malabar Coast, providing a tranquil journey through God’s Own Country. Kumarakom Backwaters are a testament to nature’s marvel, offering an unparalleled escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
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The Backwaters Landscape
Kumarakom Backwaters are a complex labyrinth, intricately woven with an extensive network of waterways. The source of their unique charm lies in the delicate balance between freshwater and saline waters. The inflow of freshwater from the surrounding lands creates a haven for both aquatic life and travellers seeking solace in nature.
The entire navigable expanse of Kumarakom’s waterway system spans approximately 1,900 kilometres, making it one of the most extensive in the world. This vast network offers a serene and unforgettable journey through the heart of Kerala.
Houseboats: Floating Marvels
A trip to Kumarakom Backwaters would be incomplete without experiencing it from the deck of a traditional houseboat. These houseboats, locally known as “Kettuvallams,” are floating marvels that have been transformed into fully furnished vessels for travellers.
Houseboat Day Cruise: For those with a day to spare, a Houseboat day cruise is the perfect option. It offers an immersive experience from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, complete with delicious lunch and snacks on board. These houseboats can comfortably accommodate up to 150 people, making it a great choice for group outings and family gatherings.
3-Hour Houseboat: If your time is limited, you can still savour the beauty of Kumarakom’s Backwaters with a 3-hour Houseboat rental. This option allows you to enjoy the mesmerizing surroundings in a shorter timeframe.
Variety of Houseboats: Kumarakom offers a wide range of houseboats with varying capacities, from 1-bedroom to 6-bedroom vessels. You can choose from different classes, including deluxe, premium, and luxury. Houseboat rates may vary depending on the season, so it’s advisable to check in advance with sources like the Kumarakom Houseboat Club for pricing details.
A Journey through Paradise
Kumarakom’s Backwaters are not just a place but a journey that immerses you in the natural beauty of the region. Known as the “Venice of the East,” Kerala is celebrated for its picturesque canals, lagoons, backwaters, and pristine beaches. As your boat glides through the waterways, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views on both sides.
Natural Beauty: The Backwaters are fringed with coconut and palm trees, lush paddy fields, and charming houses adorned with colourful flower plants. The captivating panorama creates a sense of tranquillity and peace, allowing you to leave the worries of the world behind.
A Window to Local Life: During your journey, you’ll encounter slices of local life. Fishermen busy at work, a lone housewife rowing her boat filled with groceries, and small personal boats tethered along the shores. It’s a window into the daily lives of the people who call Kumarakom’s Backwaters their home.
Enchanting Stops: As your motor-driven Houseboat leisurely moves forward, it will occasionally pause along the shore. These stops allow you to step off the boat and enjoy fresh and refreshing coconut water—a simple pleasure that complements the overall tranquillity of the surroundings.
Kumarakom: A Backwater Paradise
Kumarakom stands as one of the most scenic Backwater destinations in Kerala. Travelers from different parts of India and around the world flock to Kumarakom to relish the beauty of the Backwaters. Located just 50 kilometres from Kochi, Kumarakom has become a popular weekend getaway for those residing in the bustling city.
Exploring Kerala’s Backwaters
Kumarakom is just one of many Backwater destinations in Kerala. The state boasts a multitude of picturesque backwater points, each with its unique charm. Among the most popular ones are:
- Kuttanad
- Patrhiramanal Island
- Kozhikode
- Kavvayi Backwaters
- Ashtamudi Lake
- Kayamkulam Kayal
- Thiruvananthapuram
- Kollam
- Alleppey Backwaters
- Kasaragod
- Kochi Backwaters
- Southern Backwaters
- Korapuzha
- Cherai Island
- Poovar Lake
- Punthura
- Ernakulam Backwaters
- Kannur Backwaters
When to Visit Kumarakom
Kumarakom is blessed with pleasant weather throughout the year. The average monthly temperatures in Kumarakom are as follows:
- January: 28.6°C
- February: 27.6°C
- March: 28.4°C
- April: 28.1°C
- May: 27.2°C
- June: 25.9°C
- July: 25.4°C
- August: 25.4°C
- September: 25.7°C
- October: 25.9°C
- November: 26.1°C
- December: 26.1°C
Maximum Temperature: 32.4°C, Minimum Temperature: 22.9°C.
While Kumarakom is a year-round destination, the post-monsoon period is particularly captivating. After the monsoon season, the landscape flourishes with diverse vegetation and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal time to visit. As a result, the best time to experience Kumarakom Backwaters is considered to be from September to February, when the weather is at its most pleasant.
How to Reach Kumarakom
Kumarakom is easily accessible from various parts of India through multiple modes of transportation:
By Air: The nearest airport to Kumarakom is Cochin International Airport, situated approximately 50 kilometres away. A car ride from the airport to Kumarakom takes approximately 2 hours.
By Train: Kottayam railway station is the closest railway station to Kumarakom. The distance from Kottayam railway station to Kumarakom is around 16 kilometres, and a car journey takes about 30 minutes.
By Road: Kumarakom stands as a prominent tourist hub, seamlessly linked by a network of roadways to diverse cities across India. You can easily reach Kumarakom by bus or private vehicle.
By Water: For a unique and immersive experience, some travellers opt to reach Kumarakom via Kerala’s extensive network of backwaters. You can hire houseboats to travel from nearby places like Alleppey (Alappuzha) or Kottayam.
Where to Stay in Kumarakom
Kumarakom offers a wide variety of accommodation options, catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly hotels, luxurious resorts, or the unique experience of staying in a houseboat, Kumarakom has it all.
Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Kumarakom boasts some of the finest luxury hotels and resorts in Kerala, offering world-class amenities and experiences. These include Whispering Palms Lake Resort, Coconut Lagoon, Vivanta Kumarakom, Kumarakom Lake Palace, and Kumarakom Lake Resort.
Serene Stays on Houseboats: For a truly unique experience, consider staying on a houseboat. These houseboats come equipped with bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and other amenities, offering a tranquil stay amidst the Backwaters’ beauty.
Homestays in Kumarakom: If you prefer a more personal and local touch, you can choose from the many homestays in Kumarakom. These homestays provide an opportunity to experience Kerala’s culture and hospitality up close. Popular options include Tharavadu Heritage, Philipkutty’s Farm, and Coconut Creek Homestay.
5 Fascinating Places to Visit Nearby
Kumarakom is not only about the Backwaters but also offers a wealth of other attractions that enrich your overall experience. Here are five fascinating places to explore nearby:
1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Spanning over 14 hectares on the banks of Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is renowned as India’s most celebrated bird sanctuary. It’s home to a diverse array of bird species, including the Indian Darter, Kingfishers, Little Cormorant, Cuckoo, White Ibis, Water Duck, Water Fowl, Owl, Larks, Siberian Cranes, Parrots, Teal, Flycatchers, and Wood Beetles. A boat trip around the sanctuary offers an immersive bird-watching experience. The sanctuary is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
2. Pathiramanal Island: Nestled within Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal Island is a small paradise for bird enthusiasts. Home to around 91 local bird species and 50 migratory birds, this island is a haven for bird watching. It’s accessible by motorboat from Alappuzha, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours.
3. Marari Beach: Located just 11 kilometres away from Alappuzha, Marari Beach offers a serene and less crowded coastal experience. With minimal commercial establishments, the tranquil atmosphere makes it ideal for relaxation. You can stroll along the shoreline and revel in nature’s beauty.
4. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, boasts an impressive architectural heritage. Devotees believe that worshipping here, along with visits to Ettumanoor Shiva Temple and Kaduthuruthy Shiva Temple before the Ucha Puja, can fulfil their wishes. The temple is located about 17 kilometres from Kumarakom.
5. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall: Situated approximately 30 kilometres from Kumarakom via Kottayam, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall comes to life during the monsoon season. The surrounding area offers a picturesque spot for picnics, and the sight of the cascading water is a treat for the eyes.
In Conclusion: Kumarakom Beckons
In conclusion, Kumarakom Backwaters offer an enchanting escape from the bustling city life. Whether you choose to explore the serene waterways, enjoy the abundant birdlife, or simply relax on Marari Beach, Kumarakom promises a memorable experience. The unique blend of nature, culture, and tranquillity makes Kumarakom a must-visit destination for travellers seeking solace and serenity.
So, plan your journey to Kumarakom and immerse yourself in the mystical Backwaters, where every moment is a memory waiting to be cherished. Witness the magic of nature, the simplicity of local life, and the allure of Kerala’s culture—all in one place. Kumarakom awaits, ready to reveal its timeless beauty to those willing to explore its hidden treasures.
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