The Ultimate Guide for Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Kumarakom is a beautiful destination situated on the banks of Vembanad Kayal in the Kottayam district. It is best known for the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to a wide variety of local and migratory birds.

If you are planning to visit Alappuzha, the Venice of the East, then Kumarakom is a place you shouldn’t miss at any cost. We believe knowing the story behind a place makes the sights even more special.

So, in this blog, let’s explore:

• The history of Kumarakom
• Why Kumarakom is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and tourists
• The best time to visit Kumarakom
• The top activities you can enjoy there

History Of Kumarakom 

When you know the history of Kumarakom, you will definitely develop a connection with the place once you visit. The story of Kumarakom begins on the shores of Vembanad Lake.

The name Kumarakom comes from the old temple of Kumaran, the local deity. The word “Akam” means “place,” so it literally means “Kumaran’s Place.” It’s a land blessed with rich soil, perfect for growing rice and coconut trees.

The village was once part of the Vadakkancore Kingdom. But in 1750, King Marthanda Varma of Travancore took over and brought Kumarakom under his rule. 

In 1769, the first Christian church was built here on land given by the King and was the beginning  of a new chapter for the  Kumarakom village.

The modern story of Kumarakom begins in 1847, when Alfred George Baker, an English farmer, arrived.

 He saw the  potential of land  and decided to reclaim 500 acres from the lake. Baker turned the land into lush gardens and rice fields. He also built a house, known as Baker House or History House, where he and his family lived for generations.

The locals loved him and called him Kari Saipu, a name that meant “Baker Sahib” in their language. He wasn’t just a foreigner; he spoke Malayalam, wore the traditional mundu, and truly became a part of the community. His family lived in the house until 1962, leaving a lasting legacy.

Baker’s family also had a hand in education and started the Baker Memorial School in Kottayam around 1825. The Baker House eventually fell into disrepair, but then the Taj Group renovated it into a stunning luxury heritage hotel.

Ecosystem & Environment of Kumarakom

Kumarakom is home to many types of tropical plants and animals. One of the most popular spots here is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, where you can see many migratory birds. 

The sanctuary covers about 15 acres, and was once an estate owned by Baker, but is now managed by the government of Kerala.

The sanctuary attracts a variety of migratory birds, including the Siberian crane. You can also spot tropical birds like egrets, herons, waterfowl, ducks, moorhens, and kingfishers.

The place is not only home to migratory birds but also has Vembanad Lake nearby, which is home to many fish species, both marine and freshwater. There are plenty of shrimp, prawns, and freshwater fish. 

The Pearl Spot fish, which is a local delicacy, is found in smaller numbers. The area also has many tortoises.

Activities to do in Kumarakom

If you’re visiting Kumarakom, there’s so much to explore! Here are a few must-see spots and experiences that will make your trip unforgettable:

Visit the Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls:

If you love nature, don’t miss the Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls. It’s a stunning waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. You can even take a short hike to reach there.

Learn About Local Crafts at the Kumarakom Craft Museum:

To taste the culture of Kumarakom, head to the Kumarakom Craft Museum. It’s filled with beautiful handmade items created by local artists, like woven baskets, wood carvings, and pottery. It’s a wonderful way to learn about the skills and traditions passed down through generations in the region.

Visit the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple:

A visit to the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple is a must for anyone interested in local traditions. This ancient temple is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful vibe. It’s a great place to learn about the local religion and culture while soaking in the calm surroundings.

Try Some Delicious Kerala Food:

No visit to Kumarakom is complete without tasting the local food! The area is famous for its fresh seafood, spicy curries, and tasty snacks. Whether you’re a fan of fish or love the rich flavors of Kerala’s traditional dishes, your taste buds will be in for a treat.

Choosing Your Houseboat:

Visiting Kumarakom without experiencing a houseboat is like missing the glow of your trip. It’s not just an exaggeration. Read below to find out how a ride on a houseboat will enrich your experience.

Whether you’re looking for something simple and cozy or a luxurious boat with all the comforts, there’s something for everyone.Our houseboat is ready to welcome you. 

When you step into our floating resort, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views—lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and the charm of traditional Kerala villages. It’s like stepping into another world.

One of the best parts of staying on a houseboat is the chance to spot beautiful birds. Vembanad Lake is a birdwatcher’s dream, home to many species—both local and migratory. Picture yourself relaxing on the deck, sipping tea, and watching colorful birds fly by. It’s the perfect way to enjoy nature up close.

With  cozy bedrooms, a living area, and a kitchen where delicious Kerala meals are prepared just for you. You can unwind on the deck, read a book, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings. Some houseboats even offer fishing facilities, so you can try catching some fresh fish!

Your houseboat journey can also take you to nearby attractions, like the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Hop off your boat to explore the sanctuary and get a closer look at the incredible birdlife. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

So, if you’re looking for a unique way to explore Kerala’s backwaters, this is the perfect choice!

But when to visit Kumarakom? Let’s find the perfect time to absorb the beauty of Kumarakom.

Best time to visit Kumarakom

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a great place to see birds all year round, but some times are better than others depending on what you want to see. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide when to visit:

For local birds:

• June to August: This is the best time to see the birds that live in Kumarakom all the time. The weather is nice and there are lots of birds around.

For birds that fly there from far away:

• November to February: This is when many birds from other places, like the Himalayas and Siberia, come to Kumarakom for the winter. It’s a great time to see birds you might not see anywhere else!

Things to keep in mind:

• The weather in Kumarakom is hot and humid most of the year.
• It rains a lot in Kumarakom from June to August.
• The sanctuary is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

No matter when you go, you’re sure to see some amazing birds at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary!

How to Reach Kumarakom

Kumarakom is a bit tucked away, but don’t worry, it’s not too hard to get there! Here’s the lowdown on how to reach this lovely place:

By Air:

• The closest airport is Cochin International Airport. It’s about 80 km away from Kumarakom.
• Once you land, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kumarakom. The ride takes around 2-3 hours.

By Train:

• Kumarakom doesn’t have its own train station. The nearest one is in Kottayam, which is about 16 km away.
• From Kottayam, you can easily get a taxi or bus to Kumarakom.

By Road:

• Kumarakom is well-connected by roads. You can take a bus from nearby cities like Kottayam, Alappuzha, or Kochi.
• If you’re driving, the roads are quite good and the scenery is beautiful!

By Water:

• This is a unique way to reach Kumarakom! You can take a boat from Muhamma, a town near Alappuzha.
• The boat ride is super scenic and takes you through the backwaters. It’s a fun experience!

Important Note:

• If you’re coming from far away, you’ll most likely arrive at Cochin airport or Kottayam train station. From there, it’s easy to find a taxi or bus to Kumarakom.

Conclusion

Kumarakom is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers. However, even if you don’t belong to this group, a visit to Kumarakom can fill your senses and energize your soul. The lush greenery, breathtaking backwaters, diverse bird species, and serene houseboat rides create memories to cherish for a lifetime.

So, if you’re looking for a perfect day-out destination in Alappuzha or planning to stay in a houseboat and explore the beauty of the region, this is your best option. Tia Journey welcomes you to Kumarakom—come and make unforgettable memories!

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