Kerala backwater tours, a unique way to travel Kerala. Even budget tourists can grab this opportunity to take a boat journey on the backwaters of Kerala. There are numerous backwater routes to choose from, on vessels ranging from local ferries, through chauffeur-driven speedboats offered by various tour operators, to customised Kettuvallam cruises offered by numerous travel agencies and upmarket hotels.

Kumarakom Backwaters

The enchanting backwater destination of Kumarakom is a small village that is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake in Kerela. Kumarkom strengthens Kerala’s reputation for being God’s own country with its unbelievably beautiful mangrove forests, coconut groves and emerald green paddy fields interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with while lillies. It is part of the Kuttanad region, and the bird sanctuary here spread across 14 acres of any ornithologist's paradise.

This enchanting backwater destination offers visitors many leisure options. From wandering into the depths of its wildlife sanctuary to cruising down the back waters and fishing, Kumarkom is perfect for a lazy and laid back holiday. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands, as hundreds of swaying verdant coconut palms lining the rivers lean to brush the tops of your heads. Kumarkom is an example of nature at her bountiful best in the fragrant flowers, the riot of multi coloured birds, the surrounding greenry and the clear waters.

The Vembanad Lake
The Vembanad Lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. It flows through the verdant lands of Kerala and offers one of the best backwater cruises. Most of the flora and fauna in this region flourishes around this supply of fresh water. The lake also acts as a balancing tank against floods, and its wooded banks, temptingly invite a visitor to explore more. The boats that ply on the lake vary from the large stitched-hull, cargo carriers with domed mat-roofs to houseboats.

The Water-bird Sanctuary
A water-bird sanctuary lies at the edge of the grounds of an old estate where a profusion of all kinds of birds can be observed. Domestic birds such as cuckoo, wild duck, egrets, darters, herons, teal, and water fowl can be seen in abundance here, as much as can the Siberian storks which migrate to this area each year.

Kottayam
Kumarakom is situated 15 km from Kottayam on the Vembanad lake. This little backwater town is well known for its rubber plantations. Christianity is the dominant religion here and it is dotted with pretty old churches. Rejuvenating ayurvedic massages are available here. Thekkady, a major wildlife center lies 114 km from here, and Sabarimala, a Hindu pilgrim center is another 134 km from Kottayam.

Alappuzha
The charmingly unkept coastal town of Alappuzha, formerly called Alleppey, lies close by. With its labyrinth of canals, bridges, silver beaches, and cheerful people it makes for a memorable holiday. Alappuzha is a never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, towering coconut trees, and long canals that offers enjoyable boat cruises to Kollam along the scenic Vembanad Lake.

Activities
Kumarakom is best described as a picturesque clean village like most places in Kerala. It has lately become a preferred tourist destination. Boat races, houseboat cruise, canoeing and fishing are some of the main attractions of this simple place. The huge houseboats, traditionally known as the Kettuvalloms, are complete with living rooms, toilets, kitchen, balcony for angling and it is possible to live on them for days together for a truly unique experience. These Kettuvalloms are actually remodelled cargo barges made of wooden planks joined together by rope only, without using nails at all.

Kumarakom lies in the region of Kuttanad, which is the rice bowl of Kerala. Here farming is done below sea level. The peace and quiet, biting fresh air and unspoiled life style of the simple people of Kumarkom are a unique and rejuvenating experience that surpasses any modern entertainment activity or pastime.

How to Reach
The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, which is about 76 kms from Kottayam town. Kottayam is the nearest railhead to Kumarkom, about 16 km away and provides a link to all major cities in Kerala and India with numerous trains plying its route daily. The nearest bus terminal, is also at Kottayam.

We offer complete travel and tour packages to the beautiful backwaters of Kumarkom that are inclusive of hotel booking, air booking services as well as cab and car hire services for the entire duration of your stay there. Our Kumarkom tour packages are irresistible and cost effective travel options that offer you the holiday of your lifetime!

Important Travel Information
Kumarakom is located on the Southern coast of India enjoys a well-balanced tropical climate. The local spring season emerges from August and coincides with the harvest festival of Onam. The lowest and highest temperatures recorded are 16.10 C and 37.80 C. There is always a cool, fresh breeze, which makes even the warmest weather readily agreeable. The South West monsoon is from early June to early August. However, slight drizzles persist till early November. Average rainfall is 1100 mm per year. The peak tourist season is from November to March.