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Places To Visit In Kumarakom

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1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

11 km from city center 1 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, also popularly known as the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, is a breathtaking and beautiful bird sanctuary that is located at Kumarakom in the Kottayam district in the Indian state of Kerala. Situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in the Kerala Backwaters, this bird sanctuary is a favourite spot for many native as well as migratory birds.

2. Kumarakom Backwaters

22 km from city center 2 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Backwaters of Kerala are one of the most sought after destinations of the itinerary. Dotted with coconut groves and brilliant panoramic vistas, houseboats serves as the best way to explore the idyllic backwater lagoons of Kumarakom.

3. Thanneermukkom Bund

11 km from city center 3 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

The Thanneermukkom Bund, also called Thanneermukkom Salt Water Barrier, is a bridge constructed across Lake Vembanad. It was built in 1974 as a part of the Kuttanad Development Scheme and aims to intercept tidal action and the incursion of saltwater into the lowlands of Kuttanad across Lake Vembanad. Thanneermukkom Bund has been functional since 1976, and today it is the only coastal reservoir in India.

4. Village Life Experience

4 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Kumarakom is beautifully crafted by nature, and it offers a multitude of options for entertainment to tourists, of which the most captivating is the Village Life Experience (VLE). Remarkably, Village Life Experience at Kumarakom is a half-day tour package that enables travelers to get a taste of rural life in Kerala. Most travelers opt for the bird sanctuary visit or backwater cruises at this destination, but the actual beauty of Kumarakom can only be experienced in its villages.

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11 km from city center 5 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Kumarakom Beach is a famous for recreational activities and water sports. Situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala, Kumarakom Beach offers breathtaking views of the shimmering waters and lush green surroundings. The area is dotted with coconut palms, mangrove forests, and vibrant flora, creating a serene and picturesque ambiance.

6. Pathiramanal

15 km from city center 6 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Pathiramanal is a beautiful island in Alappuzha which was once the property of the Thaimattatil family until 1979. The island is covered with dense natural vegetation and offers a perfect climatic condition for regional flora and fauna to thrive. The attraction is also famous as a bird watcher's paradise and a favourite amongst nature lovers.

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7. Kumarakom Craft Museum

10 km from city center 7 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Situated amidst the serene beauty of Kumarakom's backwaters, the Craft Museum is housed in a charming heritage building that exudes old-world charm. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waterways, the museum's idyllic setting provides a peaceful and scenic backdrop for exploring the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. Kumarakom Craft Museum has a stunning collection of antiques ranging from woodwork, decor items, paintings, portraits, etc.

8. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall

17 km from city center 8 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Situated amidst lush greenery and rolling hills, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall is a 30 feet high waterfall and is easily accessible from Kumarakom, a popular tourist destination known for its backwaters and serene landscapes. The waterfall is approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) from Kumarakom town and can be reached by road within a 30-minute drive. The surroundings are covered with dense forestation and have several exciting trekking trails. It is, therefore, an apt attraction for nature walks, trekking or hiking.

9. St Mary's Church, Cheriapally

5 km from city center 9 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

St. Mary's Church, Cheriapally was built in 1579. It belongs to Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church and is one of the oldest orthodox churches in the country. The Metropolitans of the church belonged to 3 families in the region. The beautiful structure is an amalgamation of Kerala and Persian style of architecture that has been preserved very well.

10. Bay Island Driftwood Museum

10 km from city center 10 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Founded by Raji Punnoose, a school-teacher in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Bay Island Driftwood Museum is famous for its innovative modern art techniques deployed to design various kinds of root and tree-trunk sculptures.

11. Toddy Shops in Kumarakom

10 km from city center 11 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

During your boat cruise or while on a trip across the village, one thing might catch your attention is a small thatched building with a black board outside with 'Kallu' written boldly in white. This is a traditional toddy shop in Kumarakom, though now many have tiled or concrete roofs.

12. Fishing in Kumarakom

14 km from city center 12 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Fishing is not just a livelihood in Kumarakom but it has also turned out to be an excellent tourist-bait. Catering to the newly emerged demand from visitors, travel planners, resorts and agencies include fishing using traditional methods in their tourist packages.

13. Angling in Kumarakom

20 km from city center 13 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

The canals running across the village as well as the shallow waters of Lake Vembanad offer great opportunities for angling. With patience and a little bit of skill, you are sure to have a fairly good catch as well as a lot of fun, taking part in a traditional village activity.

14. Juma Masjid

11 km from city center 14 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Located one of the banks of the serene stream of Meenachil, Juma Masjid is a stunning ancient mosque. It is one of the oldest mosques in the country and is famous for its architectural beauty. The beautiful carvings on the wood and the royal interiors are a delight for tourists.

15. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

15 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Located at a distance of about 10 kms from Kottayam in Kumarakom, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a revered holy place of the Hindus. Considered to be the oldest temple in the state of Kerala, the temple is believed to have been a common site of worship by the Pandavas and Sage Vyasa in the ancient days. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the shrine is popular for its spectacular murals, beautiful frescos and excellent wood carvings made in the 16th century, which are borrowed from the classic epics of Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranas.

16. Vembanad Lake

16 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Vembanad Lake is a lagoon located in the district of Alleppey in the South-Indian state of Kerala. This expansive lake/ lagoon is longest lake in the country and the largest Lake in Kerala, accessible from Kottayam , Kuttanad and Kochi . Vembanad Lake is known by different names in different regions of Kerala. It is called the Kochi Lake in Kochi, the Punnamada Lake in Kuttanad and as Vembanad in Kottayam.

17. Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple

17 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

A popular Hindu shrine and great epitome of Kerala style of architecture, Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple was established in 16th century by the king of Thekkumkur. The place is also adorned with several beautiful murals showcasing the Hindu themes. A festival of Aaraattu celebrated for 10 days witness several cultural performances of various art forms like Kathakali, Velakali and Mayilattom performed by professionals. The festival attracts devotees and tourists in large number to the temple.

18. Thazhathangady Juma Masjid

18 out of 18 Places To Visit in Kumarakom

Thazhathangady Juma Masjid or Taj Juma Masjid as it is popularly known as is a beautiful structure situated on the banks of River Meenachil. The shrine is said to have been established by the members of Jama-Athe 1959 and was completed in year 1964. The mosque building is famous for its charming wood carvings and structure. Once served as a home to Muslims who came from different parts of Kerala, the residents followed Hanafi tradition back in 1947 under the leadership of Kottayam Sethu Masjid.

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Explore Kumarakom

Plan your trip to kumarakom: best of kumarakom tourism.

Essential Kumarakom

Kumarakom Is Great For

Eat & drink

• Kumarakom Lake Resort
• Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters And Beyond
• Taj Kumarakom Resort and Spa
• Coconut Lagoon, CGH Earth
• Gokulam Grand Resort & Spa, Kumarakom
• The Waterside
• Kilikkoodu Toddy Shop
• Tharavadu Restaurant
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
• Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
• Maya Spa at The Zuri Kumarakom Kerala Resort and Spa
• Kumarakom Craft Museum
• Kumarakom Beach
• Sunrise Cruise with Village Life and Local Food
• Private Half Day Sunset Cruise with Village Life and Local Food
• Learn Traditional Kerala Meal in Kumarakom
• Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise
• Kumarakom Backwater Kayaking

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• RT Destinations
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A beautiful combination of greenery and azure skies welcome backpackers to Kumarakom. A walk through God’s garden, the paddy fields of Kumarakom, is an enriching and humbling experience. It renders a feeling of refreshment just as exploring the State’s backyard beverage-toddy fills one with warmth and wonder. This tepid mild alcoholic drink made from the fermented sap of the coconut palm tree is a unique brew. The backwater cruises in Kumarakom offer a distinctive and ravishing experience which will last a lifetime.

The net fishing practice in Kerala is truly a delightful sight to behold. Savouring the tastes of marine and freshwater fishes like Karimeen, shrimp, prawns etc. draw one to the ethnic tastes of Kerala. The ultimate crafted beauty of coconut palm weaving amuses the spectator in equal measure. The richly multifaceted craft of coconut frond weaving is one that furnishes an eco-directive effect. Kumarakom offers you the opportunity to watch the making of coir and the way its magical textures and natural properties are given life with the talent of master craftsmen. The process has been perfected to an art and is mastered and passed on through generations. A blend of myriad experiences, Kumarakom truly is a heaven made on earth.

RT in Kumarakom was found to be a grand success more than the other 3 destinations in the State. Personal interviews were conducted at the destination as part of the assessment of RT implementation. RT Coordinator of Kumarakom was the main source of information.

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Top 10 places to visit & things to do in kumarakom, kerala.

‘Nature’s healing touch – Kumarakom’

Decked on the Eastern banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a refreshing nature getaway and backwater destination in Kerala. It’s perfect for an awesome South India vacation. Emerald green forests, fresh tint of trees, mesmerizing backwaters which compels us to be lost in the folds of time forever to live in bliss, narrow canals running through the other side of the lake will definitely seduce your senses.

When you visit Kumarakom you will be spellbound to see the exotic flora and fauna, delightful migratory birds, exquisite houseboats and fantastic ambiance. It is one of the most favorite travel destinations of honeymoon couples. The picture-perfect landscapes, backwater cruise experience, delicious cuisines, nature’s refreshing vibes and alluring beaches makes Kumarakom one of the best places to visit when it comes to Kerala Tourism .

It would take me a whole day to describe Kumarakom, it’s so beautiful that the definition of beauty is redefined here. You must visit Kumarakom once in your lifetime. If you are already planning a trip to Kumarakom then here is our wonderful list of top tourist attractions to visit here –

• Kumarakom Backwaters
• Kumarakom Beach
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
• Pathiramanal Island
• Vembanad Lake
• Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls
• Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

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Kumarakom Backwaters – Enjoy the Most Fascinating Backwater Tourism Destination

If you are visiting Kumarakom then the tourist attraction which comes first in the list of top travel destinations in Kumarakom is Kumarakom backwaters. Soul pleasing vistas of mangrove forests, narrow canals, network of rivers, coconut groves and green hills makes this spot the best place to enjoy holidays in Kerala. It is one of the most alluring nature destinations where your eyes and mind will be captivated by lush paddy fields, meandering lagoons and the country rafts and canoes will delight your soul. Its beauty will completely overpower your mind.

Kumarakom Backwaters Highlights

• Amazing Boating, houseboat cruise and fishing facilities. In fact, the activity of river cruising in Kumarakom is worldwide famous.
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – An alluring nearby destination for sightseeing and birdwatching
• Scenic rubber plantations, remote villages, cascading streams, soul soothing narrow canals and Vembanad Lake.
• Ayurveda, Massage Spas and Yoga centers
• Canoeing, swimming, fishing, boating, water sailing, water skiing is some of the top adventure activities to do in Kumarakom backwaters.

Best Time to Visit – November to February

Location – 16 km from Kottayam town

Kumarakom Beach – Relax and Rejuvenate your Mind

Kumarakom Beach offers the most stunning shoreline vistas to the tourists. It is one of the best places to include in your Kumarakom travel itinerary. The tranquil ambiance and soothing breeze take all the tiredness away. The resorts and restaurants nearby offer exciting recreation to the tourists as the delicious sea food and ayurvedic massages of the spas nourishes the soul. For couples, one of the best things to do here is to enjoy some fun-filled adventure activities with your partner such as water skiing, water polo, parasailing, windsurfing and boating.

Kumarakom Beach Tour Highlights

• Enjoy an amazing nightlife by indulging in nighttime activities to make your day here.
• The delicious Sea cuisines, luxury lounges, bars and pubs will make your holidays in Kerala more exciting.
• You can also enjoy a romantic stay in a Kumarakom houseboat cruise, the luxuries and all the comforts will definitely make your moment with your partner special.
• Relaxation should be your first priority. So, don’t forget to enjoy the bliss of Ayurvedic massage at the beach.
• Try amazing water adventure activities like Water skiing, water polo, swimming, parasailing, windsurfing and boating etc. while enjoying Kumarakom sightseeing tour.

Location –   Kottayam

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Kudamaloor – Where History, Culture and Beauty Meets

The delightful rural ambiance of Kudamaloor attracts tourists from far away. It is one of the best places to visit in Kumarakom. If you are looking for a place to stop for a moment and introspect your soul then this is a perfect place for you. You will witness scenic temples, experience amazing rituals and cultural performances, ruined forts, churches, mural paintings in this fascinating and peaceful travel destination.  Moreover, this place will lure you with its simplicity. There are many traditional Nalukettu houses and mansions of historical importance. The combination of history, culture and divinity has kept the beauty of this place by stories, rituals, culture, heritage and architecture.

Kudamaloor Tour Highlights

• Mesmerizing vistas of blissful river Meenachil will overpower your mind.
• Traditional Nalukettu Houses are quite gorgeous.
• Visit Vasudevapuram Temple and  Eeraveeswaram Mahadeva Temple. These temples will take your breath away with its soothing ambiance and attractive Mural paintings.
• Do visit Virgin Mary Church. It is believed that the country’s first woman saint, St Alphonsa was baptized here.
• The art and research centers are some of the must visit places here to enjoy amazing art and culture of the place such as Sopanasangeetham, Kalamezhuthu and Mudiyattom. This will definitely elevate the holiday experience in Kerala through cultural knowledge.

Location- Banks of River Meenachil

Kallara – A Serene and Enchanting Hamlet

The unmistakable charm and subtle magic of Kallara’s beauty will be etched on your soul forever. Just visit this scenic village once in your lifetime. Located 20 km away from Kottayam, Kallara is an offbeat but one of the best serene tourist spots to explore in Kumarakom while on your Kerala Holiday tour.

The delightful canals which lead you to the enchanting backwaters of Ezhumanturuth and the ever-pleasing Vembanad Lake will be memorable forever. Why not consider it for a romantic vacation? Believe us, its calm ambiance, picturesque vistas will let you spend soothing romantic moments and click amazing pictures. Surely, it will make your romantic holidays in Kumarakom blissful.

There are many ancient temples and churches in the village to get divine blessings. The lush greenery and enchanting backwaters of Kallara can be best experienced by house boat cruise and Kettuvallams. It is indeed one of the best places to visit near Kumarakom.

• Enjoy the enchanting backwaters of Ezhumanturuth in a wonderful houseboat cruise or Kettuvallams.
• Let the soul pleasing churches and temples be the answer to your tired soul.
• Keep amazing pictures as a memory of this scenic village. Nature’s beauty is at its peak here.

Best Time to Visit – January to May

Location – Kottayam

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Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – Enjoy Bird Watching

Spread over its serenity in 14 hectares, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of the top tourist attractions to visit in Kumarakom. If you are fond of birdwatching and nature photography then it is a must visit place to capture some amazing vistas of nature and cheerful sight of migratory bird species. You will witness the sight of waterfowls, water ducks, flycatchers, Siberian cranes and larks etc. The sightseeing tour gets more interesting on a boat trip where you can behold greenery and water birds. It is an amazing place to spend a fun-filled moment with your family amidst the lush green setting.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Highlights

• Capture the picture of amazing migratory bird species like doleful parrots, flycatchers, waterfowls, water ducks, moorhen, owls, egrets and Siberian cranes etc.
• Embrace the alluring beauty of dense forests, green paddy fields, coconut groves and lush green tea plantations.
• Don’t forget to visit the amazing butterfly garden known as Kumarakom Heronry which houses around 25 species of beautiful butterflies.
• Climbing at the observatory tower will enable you to see the birds and beautiful green landscapes.

Timings- 6:30am to 5:30pm

Location – Banks of Lake Vembanad

Best Time to Visit – June and August

Entry Fee – Indians- 50 INR and foreigners -150 INR

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Aymanam – Surreal Scenic Village

Aymanam is one of the must visit scenic places in Kumarakom. Located near Kottayam, this quaint tourist spot is a scenic village having beautiful Vembanad lake in the background.  You will not doubt its beauty when you come to know that it is the place chosen by a renowned novelist Arundhati Roy’s novel The God of Small Things which also won the Booker Prize. The local culture, the simplicity in the ambiance, nature walks in the peaceful lanes will make you feel like you are in a different world. It is one of the best river cruising destinations in Kerala. River cruising through the quaint waters is an experience of a different kind which is quite difficult to explain in words.

Aymanam Tour Highlights

• Splendid architecture of scenic churches and temples will attract your senses. One of the prominent churches to visit here is St George Jacobite Syrian Christian Church. Shree Narasimha Swamy Temple is one of the most famous temples to visit here.
• Also visit Sarpa Kavi, it is a blissful abode of snake gods.
• You can also enjoy cultural dance performances like Kathakali here.
• One of the best things to do here is country boat rides. It is the best way to explore the scenic village life of Aymanam.

Best Time to Visit – September to March

Location – 1.5 hours boat ride from Kumarakom

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Pathiramanal Island- Sands of the Night

Surrounded by the serene Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal Island is one of the top places to visit in Kumarakom. It is a heaven for bird watchers and nature lovers. Thousands of migratory birds flock here to lure you with their sweet chirpings. It houses around 91 local birds and 50 species of migratory birds. Some of the most prominent bird species here to see are Purple Heron, Whiskered Tern, Little Egret, Indian Shag, Cattle Egret and Darter etc. you can only reach here by a boat ride which is in itself a delightful experience. The backwaters of Vembanad Lake offer scenic vistas. So, get ready for a wonderful Island visit with your camera and binoculars to capture some enchanting pictures.

Pathiramanal Tour Highlights

• Pathiramanal is a bird watchers’ Heaven. You will behold amazing local and migratory bird species here such as Whiskered Tern, Little Egret, Indian Shag, Cattle Egret, Purple Heron and Darter etc.
• Nature walks, boat rides and Bird watching will make your Kumarakom sightseeing tour wonderful.
• Spending the night in a houseboat is an amazing idea. Isn’t it?
• There are around 24 species of dragonflies and 34 species of butterflies to see in Pathiramanal.

Best Time to Visit – Summer (April to June)

Location- 1.5km from the Muhamma boat Jetty

Timings – 9:00am to 8:00pm

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Vembanad Lake – Best of Kerala Tourism

Vembanad Lake is one of the top tourist destinations to visit in Kumarakom. In fact, it is a landmark tourist attraction of Kumarakom, one cannot miss it. It is decked with breathtaking mangrove forests, coconut groves and lagoon islands. Be it a small canoe or boat ride, stay on luxurious houseboats or the thrills of water adventure sports – Vembanad Lake will take you to the world of enchantment with its one-of-a-kind soothing experience. You will enjoy the best moment of your life here. The splendid vistas of greenery all around with emerald backwaters and on it various lagoon islands makes the scene out of this world. It can also be the voice of your lovely heart’s sentiments as it is one of the best romantic places in Kerala. Couples really enjoy houseboat cruising here. If you visit here during the harvest festival Onam you will see amazing snake boat races in its alluring waters. Oh! That sight will be awe inspiring.

Vembanad Lake Tour Highlights

• Indulge in photography. Embrace the splendid beauty of greenery all around and amazing vistas of lagoon islands and backwaters.
• Enjoy houseboat cruising. The stay experience is one of a kind.
• Boating, Canoeing, fishing and birdwatching are the best things to experience here.
• Also visit Thanneermukkom Bund which is visually very appealing. It divides the lake in two sections. One is salty water and the other is fresh water which is enriched by various rivers.

Location – Throughout Kerala

Best Time to Visit – August and September and November to March

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Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls – Hidden Bliss

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall is one of the popular points of tourist interest in Kumarakom. The height of this enchanting water spring is about 30 feet. One of the best things about this place is that your day here will never get dull. There are also many things to enjoy for a wonderful memory of Kumarakom tourism. You can enjoy hiking trails around Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls and capture amazing pictures of nature.

Here nature walks feel like you are in a fairyland. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls is a wonderful place to enjoy a picnic with your family and indulge in tourist activities like trekking and photography with your friends. The calm and pleasant environment away from the hustle and bustle of daily life is all that we need to fine tune our tired spirit. Here it is in the form of an enchanting waterfall.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall Tour Highlights 

• Become one with nature, the entire scenery around Aruvikkuzhi is so soothing.
• Nature walks, photography, trekking is some of the best things to experience to enjoy the best of Kumarakom sightseeing tour.
• The refreshing vibes of this enchanting waterfall will heal your spirit.
• It is a great spot to enjoy fun moments with family and friends.

Timings- 6:00am to7:00pm

Best Time to Visit – Monsoon – July to September

Location – Oravackal Koorali Road.

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Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple – Embrace the Divinity

Located in the small village of Ettumanoor near Vaikom in Kumarakom, “Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple” is one of the popular tourist attractions of Kumarakom. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, thousands of devotees throughout the year come where to take divine blessings. An ever-lit lamp in the center, clay murals on the wall, a famous painting of Nataraja and long queues of devotees waiting to pour oil into the lamp are seen every day in the temple. If you are planning a trip to the major tourist places of Kumarakom with your family or friends, then you must visit the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple to take the blessings of Lord Shiva on your trip.

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple Highlights

• For a spiritual bent of mind, this temple’s serene environment and mystical vibes are enough to captivate the senses of a tourist.
• Get the divine blessings of Lord Shiva and embrace the whirlwind of spiritual wisdom within you.
• There are many wooden sculptures in the temple which will overpower your senses.
• The Ezhara Ponnana festival is the best time to visit here which is celebrated in the months of February to March every year.

Best Time to Visit – February to March

Location – Ettumanoor Temple Road, Kottayam

Timings- 4:00am to 12:00pm and 5:00pm to 8:30pm

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Kumarakom offers the best Kerala holiday experiences to the tourists of all kinds. It is an all-rounder destination. You will get the bliss of backwater tourism, serene tourist attractions for a solace seeker, spiritual hubs for spiritually elevated souls, amazing picnic spots for family and friends and there is no dearth of romantic places in Kumarakom. Visiting Kumarakom is definitely a wonderful part of Kerala Tourism. So, pack your bags and flock to Kumarakom, make some amazing memories and share your experience with us in the comment section of the blog.

Latest Updated Kumarakom Travel Guide 2022 | Tour My India.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best day trip tourist attraction options from kumarakom.

There are many best tourist attractions to enjoy on your day trip from Kumarakom. You can choose from these scenic locations –

• Pathiramanal Island - Enjoy Bird Watching and Nature sightseeing
• The backwaters of Vembanad Lake
• Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls and trekking to its serene environment.
• Vagamon - A lovely Hill Station for awesome and refreshing holidays

How many days are required to explore the best of Kumarakom tourism?

Kumarakom is a wonderful backwater destination in Kerala. There are many tourist attractions in and around Kumarakom. Scenic villages, hill stations, temples and many interesting islands and adventure activities to do here. You can give 3-4 days to this destination for a wonderful Kumarakom Holidays.

What are the top sightseeing places in Kumarakom?

Some of the top sightseeing places to explore in Kumarakom are –

What is the right time to visit Kumarakom for a holiday vacation?

The right time to visit Kumarakom is in the months of November to February. It is the best time for sightseeing, backwater tourism, bird watching, houseboat rides and adventure activities. The weather is extremely pleasant for enjoying vacations here.

How are the accommodation facilities for tourists in Kumarakom?

There are numerous luxury resorts, Spa resorts, 5-star hotels and budget stay options in Kumarakom to choose from. Moreover, you can also stay in Houseboats for a unique experience. Depending on your budget and preference you will get the stay options according to your needs. The warm hospitality of the people, amazing facilities and hygiene will give you the best stay experience here.

Which is the nearest airport and railway station to Kumarakom?

• Nearest Airport to Kumarakom- Cochin International Airport
• Nearest Railway Station to Kumarakom - Kottayam Railway Station

Published: 14 Apr, 2022

About the author

Pallavi Roy

She is a candle who burns and melts in the chaos of infinity, from where her visceral whistles and leaves an imprint of desire in her heart to know the map of an Island where there are different sunrises and sunsets. Her curiosity brightens to conquer the hearts unrelieved and sometimes mysterious. Her name is - Pallavi Roy - A traveller by soul and a writer by Profession.

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• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Landscape
• 1.3 Flora and fauna
• 1.4 Climate
• 2.3 By train
• 2.4 By plane
• 2.5 By boat

Kumarakom is a tourist village in Kerala in India . It is a cluster of small islands on the Vembanad backwaters . It houses the popular Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Kumarakom is on man-made land reclaimed from the vast Vembanad Lake. The name Kumarakom was derived from the deity of its oldest temple Kumaran. Kumaran's Akam or place became Kumarakom. The place was fertile and most suitable for cultivation of rice and coconut trees. This village was part of Vadakkancore kingdom. But in 1750 Marthanda Varma the King of Travacore conquered and annexed it to Travancore. The first Christian Church was built here in the year 1769 in the land granted by the King of Travancore.

The modern history of this exotic backwater village started with the arrival of the English farmer Alfred George Baker in 1847. He reclaimed 500 acres of Vembanad Lake and made garden land and paddy fields. He built the Baker House (also known as the History House ). Mr.Baker was the beloved Kari Saipu (possibly an elision from Baker Sahib ) of the locals. Four generations of Bakers lived in the house until 1962. It is reported that they spoke Malayalam, the local language, and even wore the "mundu", which is the traditional formal wear of the people of Kerala (a plain white dhoti , with golden silk lining). The Baker Memorial School in Kottayam, was started around 1825, by members of the same family. The Baker House itself was in ruins, until it was taken over by the Taj Group and restored into a luxury heritage hotel. (For an elaborate stdy visit www.kumarakomvillage.com, P.G.Padmanabhan- Kumarakom-An Insider's Introduction)

Landscape [ edit ]

Situated in the Kottayam district of Kerala, which is already known for its lush greenery, this exotic backwater village adds more than a sparkle to it. The landscape basically consists of a cluster of island villages in and around the large "Vembanad Kayal" backwater body (which is also, incidentally the largest in Kerala), with a plethora of branched bodies all lined by beautiful, thick, lush and peaceful greenery. A large number of coconut trees line the horizon to add the perfect tropical touch to the landscape.

With the onset of the monsoon rains, some time around June, the little streams and lagoons break their flow beds and irrigate the fertile land to an overwhelming cover of green. Shrubs, grass and bushes cover every available inch of land to provide a fantastic treat to the eyes with the morning dew and surface mist on the water bodies, spotted in colors with blooms of algae and lillies.

Flora and fauna [ edit ]

Kumarakom is home to a wide variety of tropical flora and fauna. An important point of interest is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, where a significant number of bird species are known to make migratory visits. The park area covers around 15 acres and functions under the aegis of the government of Kerala. It was developed as a rubber estate by the English colonial entrepreneurs, and called "the Baker estate". One of the important migratory species is the Siberian crane. Other tropical species such as the egret, heron, waterfowl, ducks, moorhens and kingfisher are commonly found.

The Vembanad Lake, is home to many marine and freshwater fish. Varieties of shrimp, prawn and fresh water fish are boutiful. The "Pearl spot" fish is found in relatively lower numbers, and is a local delicacy.

Climate [ edit ]

Kumarakom enjoys a well-balanced tropical climate.The lowest and highest temperatures recorded are 60.8 °F (16.0 °C) and 100 °F (38 °C). There is always a cool, fresh breeze, which makes even the warmest weather readily agreeable after sundown. 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.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

It is approximately 2 hours from the Cochin International Airport.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses and taxis are easily available at all times of the day from Kottayam and Cochin .

By train [ edit ]

via Kottayam (16 km)

By plane [ edit ]

via Cochin International Airport (75 km)

By boat [ edit ]

From Muhamma ( near Alappuzha ) to Kumarakom Jetty.

See [ edit ]

• Bay Island Driftwood Museum .  

Do [ edit ]

The destination is most popular for its backwater boathouse rides. Rentals are relatively expensive, but well worth every penny if you can also get a good chef on board, who is well versed in exotic local cuisine. It would be well worth to research on reliable service companies and demand for a good chef, while making your booking.

It is a very lovely experience that you can enjoy with either a small or large group.

While having your boat trip through the backwaters make sure that you tell them to stop at R-block for the small toddy shops there provide very good and delicious sea food and toddy.

Eat [ edit ]

The local cuisine of Kerala is a large variety of lesser known delicacies of the most exotic genre. It is markedly different from cuisines from other parts of India, in its emphasis on non-vegetarian culinary and liberal use of a wide variety of spices. It is heavily influenced by the Syrian Christian taste buds. The local saying goes "If thou are in the land of rat snake stew, thou shalt choose the thickest piece". So do not hesitate to try even more exotic menus like frog legs, donkey stew, crane fry, which can be found in some of the more elaborate local toddy shops.

Some of the popular items are listed below:

• Appam - A local bread prepared with fermented rice and coconut dough. It is slightly sweet and is an excellent combination with meat dishes (beef, pork or chicken) or stew.
• Kappa - This is the local name for tapioca (a tuber). It is boiled with rock salt and then sauteed with grated coconut, onion, red chilly and curry leaves to make a solid meal commonly eaten with spicy fish or beef curries or roast.
• Karimeen - Otherwise known as "Pearl Spot", this is probably the most exotic freshwater fish of them all. With its rich flavors, it is a culinary delight. Common dishes are "Karimeen Pollichathu" (a Kerala version of grilled fish, prepared with rich spices, wrapped in a banana leaf on burning coal), fry and curry (prepared either in chilly paste with a special kind of tamarind or with coconut milk or paste).
• Seafood - The state of Kerala is popular for the large varieties of seafood including shrimp, prawn, crab and squid amongst others. It is difficult to find such varieties of spicy and exotic preparations of seafood anywhere else in the world.

Drink [ edit ]

Sip tender coconut. Refresh yourself with a sip of cool tender coconut and a scoop of its soft white flesh. Ask your tour guide to arrange for fresh madhura kallu (sweet toddy extracted from the coconut palm) and have it the Kerala way with exotic karimeen pollichathu (coal-baked freshwater fish), spicy pickles or kappa (cassava) and fish curry. Optionally, a visit to a toddy shop (locally known as a kallu shappu ) can be a good experience. Toddy shops across the state are known to serve excellent spicy seafood, fish and all kinds of meat with matured alcoholic kallu .

Sleep [ edit ]

Without a doubt, the best option is hiring a houseboat for the true experience. A large number of companies offer board and tour on houseboats. Again, good research can save you bucks and a word of caution to insist on getting a good chef, for the true exotic Kerala cuisine experience. There is almost no equal to the peaceful boathouse ride in this piece of tropical paradise. The lazy morning glory sipping authentic Kerala tea, that one can experience is simply beyond words, of course, followed by a sumptuous breakfast, to venture into a busy day of doing nothing at all. It would be a wonderful day to start your day with appam and chicken stew.

• Abad Whispering Palms ( Whispering Palms ), New Nazarath Road, Konchumada ( on the bank of the Vembanadu Lake ), ☏ +91 481 252 3821 , [email protected] . ( updated May 2015 )
• 9.653581 76.427849 1 Kumarakom Heritage Resort , SH42, Achinakam, Vechoor , ☏ +91 482 9277836 , [email protected] . Has a swimming pool, banquet hall, ayurveda wellness, restaurant, lounge bar. Provides yoga, backwater cruise, inland water cruise, cycling, horse riding, fishing. ( updated Dec 2019 )
• 9.610193 76.431918 2 Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond, Kumarakom , ☏ +91 80 4510 4510 , [email protected] . It is nestled on the banks of the Lake Vembanad with lush tropical gardens set around 27 luxurious villas. ( updated Nov 2020 )

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Kumarakom Travel Guide

Kumarakom  is a must-visit tourist destination in Kerala located on the Vembanad Lake with immense natural beauty. This scenic vacation spot is a cluster of small islands and a paradise for each ornithologist. The main tourist attraction of this destination is its bird sanctuary which spread across more than 14 acres. You can spot many migratory and rare bird species here such as herons, waterfowls, teals, cuckoo, egrets, wild duck and darters. It must be a fascinating experience for the visitors to watch the migratory Siberian Stork that visit the region in flocks.

Kumarakom – A veritable dreamland!

Kumarakom is a very scenic tourist destination that offers a lot to its visitors. A lot of people visit this exhilarating vacation spot to experience its stunning backwaters. Aside, it is a gifted tourist place rich in coconut palms, paddy fields and mangroves. The sparkling backwaters of Kumarakom reflect the beautiful blue sky.

Kumarakom is an ideal destination to spend a vacation with your family. It is a truly a dreamland which the National Geographic Magazine has described as a must-visit tourist spot in a lifetime. In fact, more than seven million tourists visit this enchanting tourist destination every year.

The Vembanad Lake has its maximum length and breadth near Kumarakom than other nearby villages. With a vast network of waterways and a large and beautiful lake on one side, this enchanting destination can be a masterpiece created by both nature and man. Kumarakom plays an important role in the tourism scenario of Kerala.

Geographic and Demographic Information

Located nearly 14 kilometres away from Kottayam, Kumarakom is a part of Kuttanad, which is popularly known as the Rice bowl of Kerala. It is interesting to know that these areas lie a few feet below sea-level. You can reach Kumarakom within 2-hour journey from Kochi/Cochin International Airport and it takes half an hour boat ride from Muhamma in Alappuzha.

Kumarakom is a picturesque village spread across more than an area of 51.67 sq km which including 24.13 sq km of the lake. The green rich paddy fields in the area below the sea level are sprawls over 15.75 sq km. There are around 1253 hectares of dry land in Kumarakom which is the inhabited area.  Criss-crossed by streams and canals, you can watch the rural life by visiting this area.

As per the 19 th  century records, Kumarakom was a sparsely populated area. There was only a population of 8332 in this small village according to the census of 1891. At that time, the houses built in this area were only 1700. However, the population in Kumarakom has increased to nearly 23000 with approximately 5120 households by 2001. Like the rest of the state, the sex ratio of the region is supporting women. The ratio was 1026 females as of 2001 for 1000 males.

Kumarakom is such an area that experiences pleasant and moderate climate throughout the year. It is a safe tourist destination and the visitors do not face much challenges or risks. You can experience a very favourable weather throughout the year because of the proximity to the Vembanad Lake. There is a continuous flow of cool wind to the land from this lake. The temperature of the area usually varies from 22 to 34 0 C.

When it comes to Monsoon, Kumarakom obtains 2 monsoons- the southwest monsoon from June to August with an average rainfall of 1100 mm and the northeast monsoon in November.  Even if Kumarakom is famous for backwater cruising, you will not be able to enjoy this activity during southwest monsoon. November to March is the best time to visit Kumarakom but people visit this destination throughout the year.

Kumarakom – A unique name

It is believed that the word Kumarakom means a land formed by the build up of sediments as it may be derived from 2 words ‘kuminja’ and ‘akam’. This land may be formed by the accumulation of mud and other substances through different natural and man-made ways.

In another version, the word Kumarakom might originate because of the presence of the Lord Subrahmanya temple which located a few kilometres away from the centre of the village. It may be the combination of two words, ‘Kumara’ (Lord Subrahmanya) and ‘aham’ (home).

Must visit places In and around Kumarakom

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

The most important attraction of Kumarakom is its bird sanctuary. It was originated dates back to 1847 in the name of Bakers’ Estate.  The Kumarakom of today is the effort of Alfred George Baker who tried to develop the wetlands near the lake into fertile area.  He planted mangroves in 10 acres out of the 500 acres granted by the then king which were on the southern bank of Kavanar River. Gradually, both local and migratory birds adopted this area as their habitat and later grown to a popular bird sanctuary.

Also known as the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom bird sanctuary was later developed into more than 14 acres. This first scientifically made and preserved bird sanctuary in India has more than 180 bird species. The favourable climatic situations and unique landscape attract plenty of different species of birds to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The proximity to the Vembanad Lake, fertile and undamaged land and lush mangroves are suitable for rich avian and insect life.

Bay Island Driftwood Museum

Never miss the Bay Island Driftwood Museum located at Chankarapadi, near Kumarakom. This red-brick construction is located off the main road worth a visit to enjoy a wide range of high quality driftwood sculptures. Prepared through a unique and modern innovative art form, you can find a large collection of driftwood sculptures in different designs and shapes here. The driftwood pieces are collected from the Bay Islands of Andaman and Nicobar and cleansed and give the final touches by retired teacher, Ms. Raji Punnoose.

Most of these sculptures resemble the shapes of reptiles, animals, birds, fishes and amphibians. You can take a glance at these sculptures which has the hallmark of Nature. You can visit this Museum from 10 am to 5 pm from Tuesday to Saturday while it is open on Sundays from 11.30 to 5 pm. Mondays are closed. Take a pass to get the entry to this museum.

Pathiramanal

People who visit Kumarakom never forget to plan a trip to the scenic island of Pathiramanal which is located in the Cherthala Taluk of Alappuzha district. It is a small island famous for its picturesque landscape and presence of plenty of rare migratory birds. Simply en route at this marvellous island if you plan a backwater cruise from Alappuzha to Kumarakom.

Also known as Pathira Thoppu or Ananda Padmanabhan Thoppu, Pathiramanal is located in the middle of the enchanting Vembanad Lake.

Experience Ayurveda at Kumarakom

Of course, Kumarakom offers a lot to its visitors. You can watch many rare local and migratory birds and experience mind-blowing backwater cruising in a traditional houseboat.  It must be exciting to wander along the tranquil roads to watch the rural life and scenic nature of the destination.  The spicy fish, seafood and other traditional cuisines that you tasted should give you a memorable dining experience.  Now it is the time to experience a wonderful and mind-blowing Ayurvedic treatments and therapies to rejuvenate your body and mind.

Ayurveda at Kumarakom

Ayurveda is an age-old health system of Kerala which encourages longevity and holistic living. Most of the hotels and resorts in the state have excellent Ayurvedic spas and healthcare centres for their guests to provide rejuvenating massages and treatments. You have the option to choose a suitable rejuvenating and stress-relieving package. Undergoing Ayurvedic therapies is the best way to remove toxins from the body and renew the balance of it.

Many tourists to Kerala prefer to undergo standard oil massages which relax and rejuvenate the body and mind. You can acquire glowing and attractive skin also by undergoing such Ayurvedic therapies. The expert Ayurvedic masseurs and therapists apply warm herbal oil on your body that give perfect relaxation to you.

The monsoon season is the best time to undergo rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments and massages and strengthen your body. This is the time when the heavy rain cleanses the air. You can choose a monsoon package which usually includes a medicated steam bath besides massaging your body, head and face with herbal oils.

Most of the Ayurvedic centres in Kumarakom have special therapy rooms and facilities for steam bath. Besides, they have yoga and meditation centres. You can also find special area for recreational activities at these Ayurvedic centres.

Enjoy Kerala Houseboat Cruising

Backwater cruising in an eco-friendly houseboat can be a wonderful experience for each traveller to Kumarakom. It is the best way to explore the scenic beauty of this mesmerizing tourist destination. Simply plan a houseboat cruising in the gorgeous Vembanad Lake from Kumarakom to Alappuzha and explore the scenic eco-system of the destination.

Getting there

Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 13 km Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport , about 94 km

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• 12 Things To Do In Kumarakom For A Chilled Out Holiday

23 Mar 2023

Kumarakom – an entrancing backwater destination – offers unworldly natural beauty and charm. Comprising of island clusters surrounding the Vembanad Lake, this picturesque tourist spot is a perfect paradise for nature enthusiasts and a treat to the eyes for ornithologists. In addition to the numerous places to visit in Kumarakom, the city also has some absolutely pleasant activities including boating, angling, strolling, and quick & short treks.

These super cool activities for families, couples, and friends are some of the best ways to chill out. Besides the unparalleled beauty of Kumarakom, these activities make it one of the most visited destinations in the God’s own country. How much one can indulge in depends on the duration of stay. But even during a short and crisp vacation, one can plan and extract the maximum fun of this pristine backwater scene.

How To Reach Kumarakom?

Cochin International Airport, located 85 km from Kumarakom, is the nearest airport that is well connected to the other cities of the country as well as the world.

Kottayam Railway Station, located 16 km from Kumarakom, is the nearest railway station.

There are regular buses of KSRTC (Kerala State Run Transport Corporation) plying between Kumarakom and Kottayam. Located 16 km from Kumarakom, Kottayam is further well connected to the cities of South India by bus.

State-run boats and private ferries across the Vembanad Lake are available from Muhamma, a small town located near Alleppey.

Must Read: 20 Best Resorts In Kumarakom

Best Time To Visit Kumarakom

November – February is the best time to visit the popular places to visit in Kumarakom . The temperatures are moderate and the climate is perfect for sightseeing, houseboat rides, and to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.

Coming to the actual itinerary of your trip, here is a detailed list of top things to do in Kumarakom that must be a part of your plan.

Things to do in Kumarakom

Here are some of the best things to do in Kumarakom which will make your stay in Kerala exciting and also let you indulge into some enthralling adventure.

1. Houseboat Ride

Image Source

Residing in a houseboat and sailing through the quaint and charming backwaters is one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. The jaw-dropping backdrop, lush green plantations along the banks, and gorgeous Vembanad Lake (formed by convergence of 10 Malabar Rivers) pulls plenty of tourists to rent a houseboat and voyage in it. The houseboats are endowed with all essential and luxury amenities and run by professional agencies whose expertise lie in offering utmost delight while exploring the in-depth exquisite Malabar prettiness.

Operating hours: Depending on the holiday duration, one can float in the traditional houseboats for some hours or spend the entire night. The journey starts at noon with lunch and ends the next day with breakfast at 10 am. The boats are anchored in the Lake Vembanad near the mainland from 6 pm – 7 am.

Charges: Approximately INR 9000 is charged for a 22 hours voyage, including the stay and food. The prices, however, may vary from agent to agent.

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2. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Watch The Birds

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a small piece of heaven for nature lovers and bird watchers. Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, this preservation ground is a habitat to plenty of common as well as endangered species of residential and migratory birds. These include Siberian Cranes, Parrots, Herons, Owls, Egrets, Darters, and Waterfowls. Exploring the sprawling 14 acres in a canoe is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating things to do in Kumarakom.

Also visit: Pathiramanal, the fascinating island called the Sands of Midnight on the Vembanad Lake, can be reached by boat from here.

Opening hours: 6:30 am – 5 pm; all days of the week

Entry charges: INR 50 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners; camera charges extra

3. Maya Spa: Invigorate With Aromas Of Ayurveda

The peaceful glory of Kumarakom is enjoyed best by soothening of senses and relaxation of mind, body, and soul. And when we talk about the same, Maya Spa of Zuri Resort occupies the top most rank in the list. With a plethora of Ayurvedic massages, Maya Spa Kumarakom in Kerala is conceivably the idyllic rejuvenation destination. As a prestigious winner of Green Leaf certification for authenticity and excellence of spa, it offers expertise and professional service excellence in Shirodhara, Ksheeradhara, Padabhyanga, face massage, Njavarakizhi, Patra Potala Swedam, and Udwarthanam.

Tip: Maya Spa is quite popular amongst tourists and hotel residents, so a prior reservation is a must.

Opening hours: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm; all days of the week

Charges: Depending on the service(s) the charges vary. For details click here .

4. Kathakali Performance

Kerala is a land of colorful culture and vibrant traditions. Kathakali – the traditional dance form – is an integral part of the Kerala culture and is practiced across the state. The bold dance form, its dynamic mudras, diverse facial expressions, and the charismatic accompanying rhythm make the ambiance magical and mythical. Watching and enjoying the beauty of these dance performances is one of the mesmerizing things to do in Kumarakom.

Some of the resorts also arrange for performances of Kalaripayattu – a traditional martial art form of Kerala, performed by local artists.

Opening hours: Evening shows are common. One needs to check with the respective hotel helpdesk for show times.

5. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall: Experience Trekking

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall is a scenic and gorgeous tourist attraction near Kumarakom , surrounded by rubber plantations and sedimentary rocky outcrops. The fascinating place is a favorite among wanderers, nature lovers, and trekking enthusiasts. One can take a 2 km muddy trail and trek up to the cascading waterfall to enjoy the jaw-dropping charm of luxuriant green foliage and sparkling meandering streams plunging over the rocks. The waterfall is also a popular picnic spot and must not be missed while sightseeing in Kumarakom.

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6. Lakeside Strolls

Nature walking and leisure strolls along the lakeside while enjoying the mesmerizing backwater landscape is a perfect treat for the mind and soul; and one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. The lush green plantations, blue lake water, picture-perfect rural landscape and chirping of birds intoxicates the mind completely.

Kumarakom is a dreamland for nature enthusiasts. One can spend the entire stay peacefully with pleasure and delight simply by taking nature strolls through the small piece of heaven.

7. Nehru Snake Boat Race: See The Exotic Activity

If you happen to be in Kumarakom between August and September, you can be a spectator to the world famous boat races, such as the Nehru Trophy snake boat race, Champakulam Moolam Boat Race, Aranmula Uthrattadi Vallamkali, and Payippad Jalolsavam. The thrilling boat races change the serenity of backwaters and make the ambiance fiery and sizzling during this fun-filled competition. Viewing this super cool boat competition is one of the most fun things to do in Kumarakom.

Opening hours: Every year timing for each of these races vary. So for the current year, check out the festival calendar .

Entry charges: Check the official website of KTDC for details about the dates and tickets.

8. Street Markets: Shop ‘Em All

One must try and explore the local street markets of this Kumarakom. Gorgeous Kerala silk sarees, antique handicrafts like bronze & metal statues, camel-bone carvings, wood carvings, embroidered screw pine mats, and Kathakali masks are the best things to pick while shopping in Kumarakom.

Opening hours: 10 am – 8 pm; time may vary from shop to shop

9. Baker’s Gourmet: Taste The Delight

If you are a foodie at heart, Kumarakom will not disappoint you. Tempting Kerala cuisine will certainly entice the soul and would spoil your taste buds for good.

Grannery Restaurant: The popular restaurant in Abad hotel serves palatable appam, Karimeen Pollichathu, and Grilled fish wrapped in banana leaf.

Cocobay Resort: The resort houses a charming restaurant that specializes in Meen Molee and Chemmeen Ularthu.

Baker’s Gourmet: This restaurant in Vivanta-by-Taj is also a favorite among tourists. Must tries here include uttapam and avial!

One can also try authentic Kerala cuisine in Lakshmi Restaurant and Lakesong Restaurant .

10. Trunk Call Bar: Chill And Relax

Image Source Trunk Call Bar in the Zuri Resort & Spa is the star attraction of the nightlife scene in Kumarakom. The luxury lounge boasts of its posh ambiance, perfect crowd, myriad of cocktails, sumptuous food, jaw-dropping lake views, and landscaped garden. The place is comforting and pleasing. The bar serves a great assortment of liquor ranging from imported scotch to outlandish cocktails.

Opening hours: 11 am – 11 pm; make sure you are not visiting on a dry day

11. Vagamon Hill Station: Witness The Beauty

If taking a break in nature’s lap is what you’re wondering, then take a drive to the Vagamon hill station while in Kumarakom. Located at a distance of 80kms from Kumarakom, this beautiful nature’s paradise is known for its lush greenery and spectacular waterfalls. For the people who love nature and want to capture its beauty in the best way, Vagamon is the place one should go.

Timings: 6AM-6PM

12. Vembanad Lake: Go For Fishing

Kumarakom is home to some of the best lakes and beaches and what can be better than fishing when you’re close to the waters. One of the famous locations to go for fishing is the Vembanad lake, which is the largest in Kerala and longest in India. It is quite a popular activity to try out when you’re in Kumarakom.

There is a lot to see, do, and discover while one is sightseeing in Kumarakom. Try the traditional foods, engage into shopping in Kumarakom, and feel the extravagant beauty of the backwater landscape. Plan your surreal vacation to Kerala and don’t miss out the chance to take a glimpse of the nature’s serene paradise. 

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Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Kumarakom

What is Kumarakom famous for?

While being one of the best destinations to visit in South India, Kumarakom is known for its beautiful houseboats and many other locations which reflects the fine beauty of nature. Places like the Vembanad lake, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, Kumarakom bird sanctuary and Kumarakom beach make this destination worth visiting.

Is it safe to visit Kumarakom during Covid?

Yes, Kumarakom is one of the safest destinations to visit during the current situation. However, it is recommended to get fully vaccinated before planning a trip. Also, stay masked whenever out and maintain social distancing whenever required. Your safety is always in your hands.

What can I buy in Kumarakom?

There are numerous souvenirs and gifts that you can buy in Kumarakom. Some of these include household utensils, bronze lamps, hand-woven textiles, hand-made jewellery, urulis, and more.

What is the best time to visit Kumarakom?

The best time to visit Kumarakom is the winter season, that is, the months from November to February. During this season, you’ll be able to spot various migratory birds in the Kumarakom sanctuary. You can also visit the destination during the months between September to March as the weather is pleasant. This place has a rather moderate climate which allows travellers to enjoy its natural ambience.

Which are the best experiences to try in Kumarakom?

Here are some of the delightful experiences that one can enjoy their vacation in Kumarakom: 1. Watch colourful birds at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary 2. Indulge in a houseboat experience 3. Attend shows of Kalaripayattu and Kathakali 4. Trek to Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall 5. Spectate Nehru Snake Boat Race 6. Indulge ins hopping experiences

Which is better Kumarakom or Alleppey?

Both Alleppey and Kumarakom are popular destinations among tourists because of the pristine view of the backwaters. But both of these locations in Kerala have their own significance. Alleppey is a town which is known for luxurious resorts. While Kumarakom is a collection of islands and is famous for its houseboats.

Does Kumarakom have a beach?

Yes, there is a beach in Kumarakom located in the Kottayam district. This beach is known for its beautiful coastline, pristine sand and smooth waters which attracts tourists.

How far is Kumarakom from Kochi airport?

The Cochin International Airport is located at a distance of 74 km from Kumarakom city centre. You can simply take a state-run or private bus or hop into a cab to get to Kumarakom from Kochi airport.

How can I go to Kumarakom by train?

The Kottayam railway station happens to be the nearest railhead to Kumarakom and is located at a distance of 16 km from it. This railway station has access to frequent train traffic coming from all over the country and connecting this city to every other town in Kerala and the rest of the country.

How far is Kumarakom from Munnar?

Kumarakom is located at a driving distance of 137 km from Munnar, while the aerial distance between the two is about 85 km. You won’t find any direct flights, trains, or buses between these two cities. The most convenient and fastest way to travel from Munnar to Kumarakom is by hired vehicle.

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Kumarakom Activities

Here are some of the best things to do in kumarakom:, quick navigation.

Have a Look at Birds of Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

The sweet chirruping of birds adds a lot into a naturally blessed place. This bird sanctuary is located on Vembanad lake and is a house of various species of birds. Few birds are migratory while others are residential. The list of bird includes Parrots, herons, Siberian Cranes, Egrets, owls, waterfowls and darters. Moreover, the outlandish view of nature with these birds can prove to be one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. Entry charges : Charges to see this bird sanctuary is very nominal, you will just have to pay 50 INR if you are Indian resident and 100 INR if you are a foreigner. Timing: Opening hours are 6:30 Am to 5 pm and is open for seven days a week.

Experience Boating in Backwaters and Lakes

If you are visiting Kerala and you are not enjoying boating then for sure your trip to Kerala is gone waste. Lakes of Kumarakom are surrounded by green coconut trees. You can imagine how beautiful the environment will be when you will be boating in between the lake and surroundings will be of lush green trees. Boating can be one of the best things to do in Kumarakom. With the waves of serene lake and cool breeze, you can enjoy the weather to the fullest. In the backwaters of lakes of Kumarakom, boating can be a memorable experience. Entry Charges:  The charges of normal boating are nominal, ranging from 350 INR per person for about an hour. Timing:  From eight in the morning to five in the evening.

Stay in a Houseboat for Entire Day and Night

Witness the Beauty of Aruvikuzhy Waterfall

If you are surfing on the internet with the term, things to do in Kumarakom   and you are not visiting Aruvikuzhy waterfalls in Kumarakom then precisely you are missing something really precious. This is a stunning waterfall which attracts tourists to a large extent. While standing near this waterfall, you will feel that you have found heaven on mortal earth. You will just have to take a two kilometers trek to enjoy the beauty of this incredible waterfall where you will find eye attracting greenery and milk-white waterfall from the upland. It is not a challenging trek and is doable. Entry Charges:   Do not worry, god really won’t charge you for seeing his astounding creation. So, if you are visiting Kumarakom, then do enjoy this blissful waterfall. Timing:  As per your convenience.

Best of Kerala

Witness the Beauty of Vagamon Hill Station

If you are wondering about activities in Kumarakom, then one of the best suggested in this list is, visiting Vagamon hill station. Vagamon is one of the treasured hill stations of Kerala. It will prominently fill the gallery of your phone or camera with uncountable photographs of hill views, sightseeing, green valleys, spectacular waterfalls and what not. So, if you are a hill lover then in such case, Vagamon is definitely a place for you to visit. Entry Charges: Null Timing: Best visiting time is 6 AM to 6 PM.

Top Experiences To Do in Vagamon

Best of Coorg

Stare the Beautiful Sunset

Nothing can be more beautiful, charming and alluring than a sun setting on the horizon. Now imagine such a setting sun over a beautiful lake in a naturally blessed place. Well, for sure you could imagine a sky painted with a mixture of red, yellow and orange color. On a sky blue canvas when the sun will spread its color, the earth will be scenic and blissful. In your trip to Kumarakom, one epic thing to do will give your eyes an honor to witness the amazing sunset over Vembanad lake. Do not miss to see it in the evening time, the perfect sunset will be there for just five minutes, you got to see this on perfect timing. Entry Charges:  No entry charge for the public place. Timing:  Try visiting when the sun sets perfectly on the horizon.

Best of Munnar

Enjoy Kathakali

Kerala is known to be a land of vivid culture and vivacious traditions. One most famous tradition of Kerala is the attractive and unique dance forms, Kathakali is one such dance form which is being practiced in Kerala, but is popular all over the country. This dance is well known for its unique mudras, incredible facial expressions by the performers. These dancers are exceptionally talented that often they depict the entire story through their dance. Thus, you must give a visit to this dance form in your visit to Kerala. Entry Charges And Timing:  Evening shows are common for this dance, you just need to check your hotel about timings of this show. You will love the performance and will learn about the culture and heritage of Kerala.

Best of Wayanad

Have Fun at the Trunk Call Bar

Best of Ooty

Enjoy Ayurveda Spa at Maya Spa

Add one more in your list of activities in Kumarakom. The serene wonder of Kumarakom where you can experience unwinding of mind, body, and soul. What's more, when we talk about the equivalent, Maya Spa of Zuri Resort possesses the best most position in the rundown. With plenty of Ayurvedic rubs, Maya Spa Kumarakom in Kerala is possibly the charming restoration goal. As an esteemed victor of Green Leaf confirmation for realness and magnificence of spa, it offers aptitude and expert administration brilliance in Ksheeradhara, Shirodhara Padabhyanga, face massage, Patra Potala Swedam, Njavarakhiji, and Udwarthanam. Entry Charges:  Entry Charges will vary with your services. Timing:  It is open for all seven days from 8 am to 8 pm. It is popular among tourist, thus, prior booking is a must for it.

Best of Kochi

Have a Look at Nehru Snake Boat Race

Nehru Trophy Boat Race is the most popular of the popular races of Kerala, this could be one of your things to do in Kumarakom. This yearly regatta is hung on the Punnamada Backwaters of Alappuzha locale on the second Saturday of August. So if you are visiting in August then you must give a look to this splendid race. The occasion is a remembrance of the visit of the late Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, in 1952. On the incredible conduits of Kerala, savage Vallom Kallies (boat races) and water jubilees emit each year in a sensational scene and hold a huge number of individuals hypnotized, cheering the activity, laying wagers, spurring the boatmen to push quicker and a whole lot more. Entry Charges:  You need to check the official website of KTDC for entry charges  as they are variable but it begins from INR 2,000. Timing:  Timing vary every year, so before visiting check festival calendar for timing.

Best of Sakleshpur

Wander in the Local Streets

Are you are shopaholic? then strolling along the markets is undeniably on the top of the list of things to do in Kumarakom. So, if you are going on a vacation then you ought to carry lots of memories in your heart and bags. With emerging technologies, these memories can be saved in your phones and laptops by the means of pictures, but how about bringing memories in form of buying something as a souvenir. One must explore the nearby road markets of Kumarakom, which holds exquisite Kerala silk sarees, antique crafted works like bronze and metal statues, wood carvings, camel-bone carvings, weaved screw pine mats, and Kathakali covers are the best things to shop while you are touring the quarter. Entry Charges:  Wait, are you looking for prices? Well, that totally depends on your will to shop. Timing: Usually shops open at 10 in the morning and closes at 8 in the night.

Best of Thekkady

Stay in Exotic Resorts

When you have really planned for a vacation, then you must make your entire travel, luxurious and memorable. You should give a little concern about the money you spend on your stay. Kumarakom have a long list of exotic resorts that can help you stay in lavish rooms and villas. You can enjoy private rooms, private pools, natural view in your resort itself and many more things. Also, you will be surprised to know that you can enjoy staying in a resort at affordable prices too. Entry Charges:   Starting prices are just 1000 INR for such resorts. Timing:  As per your convenience.

Best of Varkala

Give Utmost Pleasure to Your Taste Buds at Cocobay

If you are a foodie kind of person then the foremost things to do in Kumarakom   will be finding out best restaurants where you could give utmost pleasure to your taste buds. Do not worry at all, Kumarakom will never disappoint you when it comes to restaurants and resorts. Grannery is a prevalent restaurant in Abad hotel which is well known for serving grilled fish in banana leaf, Karimeen Pollichatu, and palatable appam. Cocobay resort has a specialization in Cheemen Ularthu and Meen Molee. Entry Charges:  Depends on food ordered by you. Timing:  Usual opening timing of such restaurants are 11 am to 11 pm

Best of Thrissur

Try Fishing

You are visiting a land of beautiful lakes and beaches and henceforth, you must add fishing in the list of things to do in Kumarakom. Well, it does not have any charges too, you just have to take your own kit and in Vembanad lake, you can exclusively enjoy fishing. Imagine, you are sitting with your partner on the bank of a beautiful lake and enjoying the most popular activity of coastal areas. Well, you never know, how simple fishing can help you bring sweet memories at home. Thus, do try fishing too on your visit to Kumarakom. Entry Charges:  You can enjoy fishing for free. Timing:  Nature welcomes you as per your convenience.

Visit the Local Village of Kumarakom

When you are done with all other things to do in Kumarakom, then after all those, you must visit the local village of Kumarakom. This is because, every tourist place hide in itself a unique, traditional and attractive local life. You must visit in such local villages to experience on your own, what kind of lifestyle do they people live? You may be surprised by their way of living or you may be impressed too. Locals will welcome you by all their heart and will entertain your visit in here. You will experience eating food on banana leaves, sleeping under stars in night etc. All such experiences will definitely load your heart with enormous lovable memories, moreover, you will have knowledge about the local lifestyle of Kumarakom. Entry Charges:  Local villagers will not charge you for visiting, in fact, they will be overwhelmed by your visit. Timing:  You can visit as per your convenience.

People Also Ask About Kumarakom

What are the best romantic things to do in kumarakom, what are the best thrilling things to do in kumarakom, what are the best things to do in kumarakom at night, is kumarakom worth visiting.

Yes, Kumarakom, with its beautiful beach, amazing backwater and exciting air adventure sports is a true adventurer’s paradise and is definitely worth a visit. The place is also known for its Kumarakom bird sanctuary, where colourful birds can be spotted. 

How can I spend my day in Kumarakom?

The first thing to do while visiting Kumarakom is to enjoy a boating experience in the backwaters. You may also prolong your backwater experience by opting to go for a day and night houseboat cruise. Apart from this, a visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary must also be on the cards along with a few other beautiful sightseeing spots. Do not miss out on watching the boat race or its rehearsal on the Punnamada Backwaters.

Kumarakom Top Attractions

There are umpteen holiday destinations to go to, but Kumarakom bird sanctuary in Kerala is one of those rare places where you can go bird-spotting throughout your holiday. It is one of such unprecedented places in India that appeals to a specific type of tourist – the bird watchers.Set across 14 hectares of lush, sprawling green lands, the large sanctuary houses some of the rarest and most amazing seasonal birds.Siberian Crane, Night Herons, Pelicans, Parrots, Larks, Flycatchers, Wood Beetle, Golden-backed Woodpeckers are some of the birds that migrate to India all the way from Siberia and Himalayas, They travel to elude subzero temperatures and ensuing lack of nutrition.Along with uncountable migratory birds, you can also spot some indigenous cormorants and Kingfishers standing apart with their vivacious colors.The sanctuary is well conserved by the Government of India which welcomes the birds with open arms. The government also takes care of the beautiful towering coconut trees and overall natural haunts of the birds as per a stringent routine.The magnificent beauty of the bird sanctuary befriends you and makes you feel like you belonged there all your life.During the migratory season, thousands of birds arrive and loaf in the ostentatious nature of this sanctuary. It is absolutely astonishing to see them stay close to each other in a small radius. It is almost like they're interconnecting with each other and have opted to stay in a clique.Though it’s not easy to spot these birds, people who are true bird enthusiasts or have been birdwatching since a long time can easily spot a rare species even at a single glance. The tourism department of the Kerala state government also manages a beautiful age-old mansion in the sanctuary called the 'Baker's Mansion.' The mansion is more than 70 years old and is a part of the sanctuary since the time it was known as 'Baker's Estate’. The estate was created by an Englishman named George Alfred Baker.The sanctuary is pretty clean and well maintained. As you visit the reserve, you will find a circuit of paths that will take you along the entire sanctuary. There is about 2 km of road that will help you witness every neck of the woods in the sanctuary. You can also go to the interpretation center in the sanctuary built by the government, should you like to know about the birds that visit during the migratory season.The sanctuary is positioned on the beautiful banks of Kavanar River. After you are done exploring, you can take a boat ride in the Kavanar River or Vembanad Lake just to spectate the charm of the place.Not only the place is at par with heaven for bird aficionados, but it is also a delight for the people who’d love to spend some time in tranquility away from their homes and the ever-bustling cities. It is one of those places in India that you must unquestionably include on your bucket list.Best time to visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary:People flock to Kumarakom bird sanctuary all year round. It really depends upon what you are expecting out of this place.If your purpose is to just come to the sanctuary, chill out and spend some quality time with your loved ones amidst nature, the sanctuary is yours to visit any time of the year. The temperatures range from 18°C to 38°C all year round, and it is safe to visit at all times.But if you looking to spot the migratory birds, it is advised to visit during the migratory season starting from November and lasting all the way to May.Birders also visit this place in June and August as it is the breeding season for native birds like Kingfishers, Indian Darter, Little Cormorant, White Ibis and a few more.Timings and Entry Fee:It is true that all the good things in life aren’t free, and the entrance to the beautiful Kumarakom bird sanctuary is no exception. To enter the sanctuary, you have to pay a small fee of Rs. 50 per person.To keep the sanctuary up and running and to ensure the habitat doesn’t perish due to lack of maintenance, the fee levied is used to keep the sanctuary working flawlessly.The fee of Rs. 50 per person is for Indian citizens only and that it might vary for international tourist.The timings of the sanctuary are from 6.30AM to 6.30PM. It is highly recommended, by the birdwatchers who have been here before, to visit the sanctuary in the early hours.There are better odds of you spotting the birds in the cold mornings, than in the sweltering afternoons. Birds usually rest in the deeper shades of the trees during the noon where it is difficult to spot them.Main attractions of kumarakom bird sanctuary:Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is filled to the brim with species of numerous migratory birds that act as attractions for tourists.The beautiful and slender Siberian Crane is among many such appeals. They are one of the major attraction of the bird sanctuary, and people travel from across the world to see the Siberian Cranes.The most astonishing fact about the Siberian Crane is that it travels an unbelievable distance of approximately 3000 miles (4,760 km) to reach the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary in Kerala, India.It is the most dangerous period of their life. During the long, weary flight, they face the loss of habitat, shootings, strong gusts of wind often mixed with dust, haze, accidents with power lines and so much more. It is a natural phenomenon, and they must do this twice a year to survive! So, whenever you visit, make sure you don’t miss seeing one.Waterfowl, another family of birds that comprises of swans, geese, and ducks, travel to the bird sanctuary to seek refuge and to survive the unforgiving climate in their native lands.The sanctuary lives in the lap of nature protected from the hot sun by the towering coconut trees. The charisma of the place is even furthered by the mellifluous twitter of thousands of birds. The splendor of the place makes for an infallible place to live for some cute tortoises and super-zippy lizards too.You can also revel at the photo vantage point which is a belvedere at the top of the lookout tower of the sanctuary commanding a spectacular view. Who knows, you might even spot one of them Siberian Cranes from here!You can also watch beautiful many other beautiful birds that visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The incoming of birds also proves as a picture perfect spot for all the tourists. You can even make it a destination to chill out with your family and friends by having some delicious munchies amidst nature.The lake and the river on the banks of which the sanctuary is located also stands as one of the best attractions. People hang out here all the time.The banks of the Kavanar River is primarily used to hop on a boat and check out the sanctuary from the outer side. You can also go on a bird safari and enjoy spotting various birds in the sanctuary from the boat.And if not the birds, just get on a boat for a hypnotic ride and have some fun! There are endless attractions you can enjoy in the sanctuary. This place never ceases to amaze. No matter when you visit, you are sure to get a flash of something unique and rare.Located in the ‘God’s own country,’ Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is indeed an Elysium for anyone visiting it. It is a place of eternal bliss, and one must visit this sanctuary at least once in their lifetime!How to reach the Kumrakom bird sanctuary:The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located just 15km away from the Kottayam city in Kerala. You can drive from the Kottayam city easilyThe nearest airport to the sanctuary is the Cochin International Airport in Cochin city of Kerala.If you are visiting by rail, you can board a train from your home station to the Kottayam railway station in Kerala. Once you alight at the Kottayam railway station, you can either choose to travel 15kms to the sanctuary in a taxi, or you can select any other mode of road transport as per the availability and economy.Places to visit in & around the Kumarakom bird sanctuary:In the sanctuary, you can visit tons of awesome places. Moreover, the area around the sanctuary also holds myriads of other places worth visiting.The photo vantage point right above the lookout tower gives a spellbinding view of the sanctuary.You can also chill out by the Vembanad Lake in the sanctuary.Visit the marvelous Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall which is a treat to your eyes. There is also a church at the top of the waterfall you could trek up to.Right in Kumarakom, there is a beautiful beach where you can chill out with your friends or family.Kumarakom backwaters are also one of the top destinations to visit. Its blue waters and absolute tranquility have cast a spell on many a soul!Bay Island Driftwood Museum is right there at your behest. If you love art and would love to see some fabulous woodwork, the museum is unique and holds some mind-blowing intricate woodwork on the woods recovered from the water. Art enthusiasts flock to this museum from across the world all year round.Situated amidst the Vembanad Lake is the Pathiramanal Island. It too embraces migratory birds every year and holds in it, an enigmatic temple and an exquisite bio-park which are totally worth seeing.There are a lot of ancient spiritual places worth seeing in the proximity of the sanctuary such as Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, St Mary’s Church, Juma Masjid, Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple and many more!

Kumarakom Beach is situated in the Kottayam region of Kerala, in a spectacular and serene setting. Visitors come all across the nation to see the seductive splendor of the shoreline, with its immaculate beaches and calm waves. Many activities like parasailing, volleyball, water polo and water skiing are held here, making it a great place for adventure seekers to try out numerous adrenaline pumping sports.This site is a must see for visitors to Kumarakom Beach as it has the right combination of peace and excitement. It is only a short walk from the center of the town. The beach’s outer edge is lined by resorts and restaurants, providing a wealth of activities to partake in and really immerse yourself in the vacation joy. Parasailing, water skiing, windsurfing and boating are just a few of the adventure sports available for you to try out with your near and dear ones.

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11 Amazing Places to See in Kumarakom

• Travel Tips
• April 12, 2019 in City Tours , Travel Tips
• Places to visit tourist places

One of the most beautiful places in God’s Own Country, Kumarakom is the verdant green village on the banks of Vembanad Lake in Kerala’s backwaters. Kumarakom is surrounded by rich green forests and numerous flowing lakes, canals, and beautiful backwaters. This natural bounty invites several migratory birds that can be spotted in the magnificent Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

Find Best Hotels in Kumarakom

Apart from it being a place gifted with natural beauty, culturally too the place has lots to offer. The place is laced with holy pilgrimage sites like temples, churches, museums, and mosques. This mesmerizing landscape dotted with forests, hills, rivers, Ghats, and the sea draws hundreds of travellers around the year.

Top 11 Places To Visit In Kumarakom

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
• Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
• Vembanad Lake
• Kumarakom Beach
• Kumarakom Backwaters
• Bay Island Driftwood Museum
• Jatayu Rock
• Pathiramanal Island
• Thanneermukkom Bund
• Kumarakom Craft Museum

1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Every birdwatcher’s paradise is the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which stands very close to the spectacular Kerala Backwaters. The sanctuary is located in Kottayam District and spreads on a sprawling 14 acres of land. It is one of the most loved birdwatching spots, famous for the migratory birds that flock here especially the Siberian Storks and Kingfisher. Other birds you can expect to see are waterfowls, water duck, cuckoo, flycatchers, wood beetles, etc.

Inside the sanctuary, you can avail boat rides, and a ten-minute ride from the sanctuary will take you to Pathiramal Island, which is another beautiful site to visit.

Entry fee: INR 50 to INR 100

Days and timings: Open all days from morning 6:00 am till evening at 6:00 pm.

Address: Kavanattinkara, Kumarakom, Kerala 686563

2. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall

One of the most exhilarating places to see in India is the gorgeous Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall. The gorgeous fall is encircled by rich rubber plantations making it an ideal picnic spot and is also great for hiking and trekking. You can hear the roaring waterfall from afar; the place has a very rustic and serene charm to it and hence is very popular amongst nature lovers and photographers. It is known to be one of the best waterfall’s in India .

If you are a trekking enthusiast, try to trek to the waterfall’s top. You will reach St Mary’s Church once you reach the top. St Mary’s is a very important religious site in the area and is frequented by tourists all round the year.

Entry fee: No charges

Days and timings: Open all days from morning 6:00 am till 7:00 pm at night.

Address: Oravakkal Koorali Road, Kerala 686503

3. Vembanad Lake

Vembanad Lake is another popular tourist attraction in Kumarakom as it forms the converging point of ten rivers and is a beautiful freshwater lake. The lake offers splendid views of the backwaters amidst coconut trees and mangrove forests, great for some memorable Instagram moments.

To enjoy the place in totality you can rent a houseboat to explore the blue lake and enjoy delicious local cuisine, or simply go for a boat ride. The peace and tranquillity this place can offer are unmatched and priceless.

The popular Nehru Trophy Boat Race is hosted in the Vembanad Lake every year in the month of August attracting many tourists and locals alike. The place witnesses maximum footfall during this time. Visit Vembanad Lake to enjoy a nice afternoon or have a small picnic.

Entry fee: Free. Prices are applicable for activities.

Days and timings: Open all days from morning 10:00 am until 6:00 pm.

Address: Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom, Kerala

4. Kumarakom Beach

Kumarakom Beach is a happening spot in the area. It is both serene and also great for adventure junkies. You can either sit and enjoy a tranquil sunset or get going with water sports such as boating, windsurfing, water skiing, parasailing, etc.

Being one of the most fun but peaceful places with so many activities to spruce up your holiday spirit, Kumarakom Beach has plenty of good resorts and eateries serving delicacies of all sorts.

Entry fee: None

Days and timings: All days of the week from morning 12:00 till 12:00 in the night.

Address: Kumarakom Beach, Kumarakom, Kottayam, Kerala, 686563, India

5. Kumarakom Backwaters

One of the best places to visit in Kumarakom is its exhilarating stretch of backwaters. The backwaters singlehandedly contribute to 60% of Kerala’s tourism income. The Kumarakom Backwaters are ideal for a getaway as it soothes your senses with its tranquil beauty and charm, the blue waters and boathouse cruises.

Explore the backwaters by renting out a boathouse and sail toward the horizons amidst the lush green mangrove and coconut groves especially during the sunsets. The backwaters are home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna. The exclusive variety of kumarakom karimeen fish, tiger prawns, crabs, prawns, and many more. The place is also popular among tourists for bird watching. The backwaters grow vitally green with the monsoon rains as it transforms into the most fertile lands nourishing the trees and shrubs.

Entry fee: None. Expenses apply to houseboats and other activities.

Days and timings: All days of the week from morning 10:00 am till 6:00 pm in the evening.

Address: Kumarakom Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom, Kerala

Vagamon is a charming hill station that will mesmerize you through its green velvety stretches of grass and beguiling hills. The place is not only special for its scenic beauty and soothing calm atmosphere, but it is also a great spot for trekking and many other adventure activities.

The Vagamon forest is an artificial man-made forest made during the British era, also offering breathtaking views of the valley surrounded by green mountains.

Whatever your preference be in sightseeing, Vagamon has it all. Today it is very popular among tourists and locals alike for adventure tourism. Major attractions of Vagamon are trekking, hiking, paragliding, rock climbing, etc. Paragliding through the refreshing scenery and hiking on the Vagamon pine forests are very popular activities among travellers. Many travellers also go cycling among the pine trees.

Vagamon hosts an International Paragliding Festival every year that attracts tourists from all over the country in huge numbers.

Entry fee : None

Days and timings: All days from morning 6:00 am until 6:00 pm in the evening.

Address: Vagamon, Idukki, Kerala

7. Bay Island Driftwood Museum

Bay Island Driftwood Museum is one of its kind and hence one of the most popular places to visit in Kumarakom. The museum displays a unique form of art made on driftwood or wood that is retrieved from the water. The museum showcases such sophisticated and intricate woodwork carvings.

The mastermind behind this museum is a local school teacher, Mr. Raji Punnose. Today this unique form of art is appreciated all over the world and remains significant as very few artisans in the world practice it.

Entry Fee: Requires a pass

Days and timings: Tuesday to Sunday; from morning 10:00 am to 5:00 pm in the evening from Tuesday to Saturday; Sunday timings are 11:30 am till evening 5:00 pm.

Address: Chakranpadi, Vayitharamattom, Kumarakom, Kerala 686563

8. Jatayu Rock

The magnificent and majestic Jatayu Rock is situated in the extensive Jatayu Park, spread over a sprawling 65 acres of land. As the name indicates, Jatayu Rock derives its name from the famous character of Jatayu of the Indian epic Ramayana. Today it is the world’s largest bird sculpture.

The significance of this place lies in the belief that Jatayu had fallen from the sky in this very spot after a duel with Ravana as Jatayu strived to save Sita who was abducted by Ravana. The statue is also carved to resemble Jatayu in a fallen pose.

The vast sculpted rock sits inside the Jatayu Nature Park that came into existence in 2016. The place also has a 6D theatre and a digital museum at its base. The idea was conceived by a famous Malayalam film director and it took seven years to finish this magnanimous project.

You can also take part in several adventure activities in the park such as rock climbing, rifle shooting, archery, etc. or take a tour around with cable cars.

Entry fee: INR 400

Days and timings: All days from morning 10:00 am till 4:00 pm in the afternoon.

Address: Jatayu Earth’s Center, Jatayu Nature Park Road, Jatayu Junction, Chadayamangalam (PO), Kollam, Kerala, India.

9. Pathiramanal Island

The island of Pathiramanal is one of the most visited places in Kumarakom. This place has enthralled everyone with its scenic beauty and for hosting rare migratory birds.

The small island is situated in Muhamma in Alappuzha. You can rent a boat from the Kayippuram jetty to take you through the green stretches of land and water. More than 150 species of birds, both local and migratory, flock here thereby making it a hotbed for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The mystic green and cool ambience of the place makes it a must-visit spot undoubtedly.

Days and timings: All days from sunrise to sunset

Address: 4 kilometres from Kumarakom.

10. Thanneermukkom Bund

This famous bund was constructed for preventing harmful tidal activity and salt infiltration. It is built on the largest lake of Kerala, the Vembanad Lake. The bund is one of the most famous places to see in the town, as it is also the largest mud regulator in our country.

The barrier separates one side of the lake from another; therefore, one part has brackish water while the other contains fresh water. The waters also have two different colour gradients- green and blue. This saltwater barrier also conjoins the district of Kottayam with Alapuzzha.

The scenic beauty of the place is also unparalleled with a perfect blend of blue-green water and distant green trees. You may drive down the road to get the best views of the place or take a boat on rent and navigate through the waters.

Days and timings: All days from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Address: Vembanad Lake, Kerala

11. Kumarakom Craft Museum

If you love antiques, a must-visit destination for you is the Kumarakom Craft Museum. The museum displays a wide range of antiques such as paintings, decoration items, woodwork, sacred figurines, enormous handcrafted Kathalaki dance masks, and several such items that are close to the culture and traditional art forms of Kerala. 

The museum also has a shop for buying crafts made by local artists or purchase antiques.

Entry fee: Free for kids, INR 100 for adults

Days and timings: All days of the week from morning 10:00 am till 5:00 pm in the evening.

Address: Old Curiosity Shop Kumarakom, Kottayam, Kerala 686563

Excited by the marvellous and beautiful places in the list? Do not miss out on any of these during your visit to Kumarakom. Although you can visit all around the year, the best time is considered between August and September, the time of Kerala’s national festival, Onam when you can witness some beautiful traditional dances and snake boat racing competitions.

Although the epitome of natural beauty, Kumarakom also has numerous religious sites- temples, churches, and mosques. The most famous ones are Juma Masjid, St Mary’s Church, Vaikom Shiva Temple, and many more. While you enjoy sightseeing, visit one of Kerala’s popular toddy shops for local drinks and delicacies experience.

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• Things to do in Kerala

Kumarakom Backwaters

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Kumarakom a wonderland of Kerala, is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is a popular tourist destination located near the city of Kottayam in Kerala. Ranked as one of the top 50 destinations of a lifetime by the National Geographic Traveller, Kumarakom backwaters make for a massive irrigation system of canal-linked lagoons and lakes. The place and its surroundings make for a beautiful tourist attraction with its vistas of green hills, mangrove forests and coconut groves interposed with waterways, offering excellent opportunities for Aqua Tourism.

Cruising on the Kumarakom backwaters is one of the best ways to explore the water-logged beauty encased in this area. A cruise along these backwaters in a ‘Kettuvallom’ (A traditional houseboat) is the perfect way to have a rendezvous with pristine nature and to come face to face with the lifestyle that thrives on the sea shores. These cruises leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.

Rankings & Ratings

#3 in 4 Things to Do in Kumarakom #1 in 1 Photography Walks in Kumarakom #1 in 1 Village Walks in Kumarakom #2 in 3 Boatings in Kumarakom #1 in 2 Canoe Rides in Kumarakom #1 in 2 Houseboats in Kumarakom

Editor's Review

The backwaters of Kumarakom provide some awesome scenic views. The houseboat experience in these backwaters is really nice. You also get to see a variety of birds in the area. If you choose a good houseboat, then the ride will certain be refreshing and relaxing.

• Opportunity to see a lot of exotic birds if you go for an early morning cruise.
• Shikkara ride available if you want to go for a canal cruise.
• Suitable for all type of travellers.
• One of a kind experience that you will not get anywhere else.
• Relaxing experience with scenic views and abundant natural beauty.
• Can be very crowded during peak season.
• At times, it might be very difficult to find a good houseboats.
• Cleanliness of the lake is becoming a concern.
• Houseboat rides might not be to convenient if you're travelling with very small kids.

Detailed Info

Cruising on the Kumarakom backwaters is one of the best ways to explore the water-logged beauty encased in this area.  A cruise along these backwaters in a ‘Kettuvallom’ (A traditional houseboat) is the perfect way to have a rendezvous with pristine nature and to come face to face with the lifestyle that thrives on the sea shores. Not to be missed, these cruises leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.

While cruising you will skim past backwater villages, traditional fishing operations, local ferries, ancient Chinese fishing nets, renowned snake boat races in Onam season, lush paddy fields, coir villages, rustic homes, temples and coconut groves etc.

The houseboats are provided with all modern amenities, an open sit out, a sunbath deck, a spacious living area, a kitchen, bath-attached bedrooms with T.V, DVD and other entertainment options. The choice of menu is handed over to the guests who can decide which kind of typical Kerala food are to be served on board for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Check-in Time: 11:30 AM, Check-out Time: 9:30 AM

Recommended Activities near Kumarakom

Shikkara Cruise

Canoe Kerala

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Traveller reviews & comments.

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• Tourist Places

Kumarakom gained national and international importance with the visit of the Hon’ble Prime minister A.B. Vajpayee in 2000 December. Kumarakom is a small village 14 km. west of Kottayam. It is a part of Kuttanad, which is a ‘ wonder land ‘, lying below sea level, comprising of a number of islands, in the back waters. Kumarakom Village covers an area of 5166 Ha of which 2413 Ha is lake portion, 1500 Ha is paddy fields and the remaining portion of 1253 Ha is dry land. Kumarakom is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white lilies. Situated on the Vembanad Lake, this small water world has plenty of traditional country boats, crafts and canoes which will take you in to the heart of scenic Kerala. The resorts near by offer comfortable accommodation and exclusive leisure options like Ayurvedic massages, Yoga and meditation besides boating, fishing, angling and swimming.

In the last Century, Henry Baker, an English man, attracted by the beauty of the place, selected Kumarakom as his residence and built a bungalow, obtaining 104 acres of land from the then Maharaja of Travancore. He also made a beautiful garden. Preserving the old style, the beautiful bungalow of Baker has now been modified into the Taj Garden Retreat, a hotel with modern living facilities. The Kerala State Tourism Development Corporation is converting this place into a Tourist Complex. K.T.D.C. has constructed A.C. Cottages here and it runs a floating restaurant. The Corporation also provides boating facilities.

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How to Reach :

Nearest airports are Cochin International Airport, Ernakulam District (74.3 Km)& Trivandrum International Airport, Thiruvananthapuram District (163.8 Km)

Railway Station Kottayam (16 Km) (Enquiry : 0481-2563535, 2567360, 2567491)

KSRTC, Kottayam (15 Km) (Enquiry:0481 2562908)

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Welcome To Kumarakom, Kerala, India

Hotels & Resorts in Kumarakom

Kumarakom Lake Resort

The Zuri Kumarakom

Taj Kumarakom Resort and Spa

Coconut Lagoon KUMARAKOM

Backwater Ripples KUMARAKOM

Eastend Lakesong Resort KUMARAKOM

Whispering Palms KUMARAKOM

Aveda Resorts & Spa KUMARAKOM

Kumarakom Tour Packages

Kumarakom Honeymoon Package

Relish the mist covered hill tops and beautiful walks that the valley has on offer. Go to Alleppey and enjoy the laid back lifestyle as you cruise ...

Kumarakom Backwater Package

Walk around in the hills and misty forests of Munnar or spend your vacation in the serene ambience with much needed seclusion, a splash of luxury and ...

Kumarakom Elegant Holidays Package

Life is to enjoy. Offer your loved ones a memorable and ever-lasting note for their dream journey. Enjoy up to the peak level and make your dream jour...

Kumarakom Backwaters

Kumarakom is a serene, emerald green peninsula set in the backdrop of Vembanad Lake which is dotted with numerous traditional rice boats rafts and canoes. This backwater spot is abundant with flora and fauna, being especially rich in marine life View More

People & Lifestyle

The rural folk of Kumarakom are peace loving, keep their houses and surroundings clean,and follow a healthy lifestyle. Fishing is their main source of livelihood while rice, tapioca and fish curry form part of their regular food… View More

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Spread across fourteen acres of the lush green jungle nearby, Kumarakom bird sanctuary houses thousands of water birds and migratory birds coming as far away from the Himalayas and even Siberia View More

In & around Kumarakom

Cruising through Kumarakom in a kettuvallam offers a view of the peaceful village life where one finds men and women fishing, cattle grazing, and ducks paddling in the waters dotted with lilies and lotuses…... View More

Boat races in Kumarakom are spectacular events involving hundreds of oarsmen rowing the snake boats in unision, singing in chorus and slicing their way through the backwaters to a spectacular finish View More

How to get there

You can either take a delightful ride to Kumarakom by road upto Muhamma boat jetty or take a train journey and alight at Kottayam, the nearest railhead. You can also use the ferry service to Alleppey, enjoying the pleasant trip along the backwaters View More

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Chimps are dying of the common cold. Is great ape tourism to blame?

Viruses that cause mild sniffles in humans are devastating populations of chimpanzees and gorillas. In some ape communities, it’s a bigger killer than habitat loss or poaching

T here was something wrong with the chimpanzees. For weeks, a community of 205 animals in Uganda’s Kibale national park had been coughing, sneezing and looking generally miserable. But no one could say for sure what ailed them, even as the animals began to die.

Necropsies can help to identify a cause of death, but normally, the bodies of chimps are found long after decomposition has set in, if at all. So when Tony Goldberg, a US wildlife epidemiologist visiting Kibale, got word that an adult female named Stella had been found freshly dead, he knew this was a rare opportunity to look for an answer.

Goldberg and two Ugandan veterinary colleagues drove for two hours to a remote part of the park, then lugged their gear for another hour through the forested terrain to where Stella’s body lay. They lifted the 45kg animal on to a tarpaulin, and got to work. Crouching over the chimp – sweating beneath their full-body protective suits, their goggles fogging in the humid air – they meticulously worked through Stella’s organ systems, collecting samples. Not knowing what had killed her was “unnerving”, Goldberg recalls. “It could have been Ebola.”

As the necropsy progressed, however, Goldberg began to see telltale signs of a familiar disease: fluid buildup in Stella’s chest cavity and around her heart; lung tissue that was dark red, consolidated and marked with lesions. It looked like the chimp had died of severe pneumonia.

Months later, molecular testing revealed the culprit: human metapneumovirus (HMPV), one of a collection of viruses that presents in people as a common cold but is “a well-known killer” in our closest primate relatives, says Goldberg, a researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. More than 12% of the community that Stella belonged to died in the outbreak. Others were lost as a result of being orphaned. “Stella had a baby that was clinging to her body for a while after she died,” Goldberg says. “The baby subsequently died.”

This phenomenon of animals catching diseases from humans, called reverse zoonoses, affects species around the world – from mussels contaminated with hepatitis A virus to tuberculosis transmitted to Asian elephants. But because of their evolutionary closeness to humans, great apes tend to be most vulnerable.

For some great ape populations that live in protected areas, reverse zoonoses are an even bigger threat than habitat loss or poaching. In a group at Kibale , for example, respiratory pathogens such as human rhinovirus C and HMPV have been the leading chimp killers for more than 35 years, accounting for almost 59% of deaths from a known cause.

For conservationists, the phenomenon presents a thorny problem. In many places in Africa , people live in close proximity to great apes. Great ape tourism has also become a central pillar of these endangered species’ conservation: ensuring habitats are preserved and local people are incentivised to support wildlife. But the same industry that funds protection of many apes could also be helping to drive them towards extinction, as close proximity to humans can expose the animals to deadly pathogens.

Tourism is necessary for conservation, says Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, a wildlife veterinarian and founder of Conservation Through Public Health, a nonprofit group in Entebbe, Uganda. “But it needs to be done carefully, otherwise we won’t have these animals around.”

Some of the first records of reverse zoonoses in great apes were made by British primatologist Jane Goodall. In 1986, Goodall wrote that chimps “quite often” had colds and coughs, and “can contract the same contagious diseases as humans”. But conclusive evidence that chimps were being infected by people didn’t arrive until 2008, when Fabian Leendertz, the director of the Helmholtz Institute for One Health in Greifswald, Germany and his colleagues used molecular tools to show that human viruses were to blame for a decade’s worth of major respiratory disease outbreaks in chimps in Taï national park, Côte d’Ivoire.

Since the paper came out, habitat destruction, human encroachment, the climate crisis and globalisation have only accelerated, and all of Africa’s great ape species are now decreasing. Eastern and western gorillas are both critically endangered, while chimpanzees and bonobos are endangered. The fact that human diseases can take out significant proportions of great ape communities makes the pathogens a dire threat to all four species. “Great ape populations can’t afford these sorts of losses,” Goldberg says. “Their populations are already so small, fragmented and declining that they just don’t have the ability to rebound or adapt.”

Many of the pathogens cause infections that, in a person, would result in an annoying but mild cold. In great apes, however, these diseases can be deadly, because the animals have no immunity or evolved genetic resistance. Once a chimpanzee or gorilla becomes unwell, there is usually little that can be done to help. There are also no vaccines for most common cold viruses.

What could work, Goldberg realised, was a public-health approach: finding the source of pathogens and preventing them from getting into the populations in the first place.

In 2015, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) released guidelines for great ape tourism, recommending that people stay at least 7 metres away from animals, tour groups limit their size, all visitors wear face masks and people who feel unwell be excluded.

But there are obvious reasons why that doesn’t always happen. For one, it relies on honesty from international visitors. “Imagine you’re an American tourist, you’ve gone all the way to Africa, and this is your bucket-list trip,” Goldberg says. “Now you’ve got a stomach ache – and you’re not going to go see the gorillas? Of course you are.”

Tourists often break rules while out in the field, either because of excitement in the moment or wilful disregard. “Some tourists just don’t listen,” says Kalema-Zikusoka. And local guides might or might not correct them. “They don’t want to be rude, and they find it hard to manage tourists.”

Guides may also refrain from reproaching visitors for fear of losing a potential tip. Some guides “get tips that are twice the monthly salary of typical villagers in the area”, Goldberg says. “There are all these perverse incentives.”

One 2020 study that analysed 282 YouTube videos of mountain gorilla tourism found that 40% depicted humans within arm’s reach of gorillas or engaging in physical contact with the animals.

In another 2020 study , Darcey Glasser, then a graduate student at Hunter College of the City University of New York, joined 101 chimp treks at Kibale. Glasser observed tourists coughing during 88% of excursions; sneezing in 65%; and urinating in 37%. “Everyone’s touching everything,” she says.

Glasser presented her findings to wildlife officials in Uganda, who responded encouragingly, she says, adding hand-sanitising stations at the start of trails. In general, however, officials tend to avoid imposing strict rules that they think may impact visitors’ experiences.

Great ape tourism is a key source of revenue for the 13 African countries where it occurs, Leendertz says, so reverse zoonosis is “not always an easy topic”. Officials at the Uganda Wildlife Authority, which oversees the country’s national parks and all tourism activity in them, did not respond to multiple interview requests.

Ecotourism represents one serious disease risk for great apes, but it cannot account for all cases of reverse zoonoses. Some great ape populations never see a tour group – Stella’s community among them – yet still experience deadly outbreaks of human pathogens.

As Goldberg thought about how to tackle this problem, he noticed a perplexing pattern in the list of human pathogens that typically afflict great apes: they’re the infections that, like clockwork, young children catch when they go back to school, and then bring home.

Great apes, it occurred to him, could be catching diseases from adults who go into the forest after catching pathogens from their children. The idea seemed even more plausible when Goldberg realised that adults infected with these “sniffle germs” often show no symptoms, even as they shed copious viral particles.

Goldberg secured a grant for new research, led by Taylor Weary, an epidemiologist who recently graduated from Goldberg’s lab, alongside Patrick Tusiime, health coordinator for the Kasiisi Project, a nonprofit group that supports primary schools around Kibale. They compared monthly nasal swabs from local schoolchildren, parents who worked in the forest, and faecal samples from the chimps.

The findings, which are now in review for publication, confirmed Goldberg’s original hypothesis. Every respiratory pathogen that has caused a chimp outbreak in Kibale was present in children living nearby. Then, during Uganda’s most stringent Covid-19 lockdown between March and September 2020, the researchers observed an “extraordinarily clear” drop in infections across the board, Goldberg says, suggesting that schools are indeed a major source of transmission.

The message, Goldberg says, was clear: “To save the chimps, we have to make kids healthier.”

One big takeaway from the findings was that the current model is inadequate to reduce the risk of reverse zoonoses in Kibale’s chimpanzees, and probably in great apes in Africa as a whole. It hinges on stopping symptomatic people from going into the forest, but infected adults are usually asymptomatic. Forbidding guides and trackers from working whenever their children are ill isn’t a solution, Goldberg says: kids “are sick all the time”.

Banning tourism also wouldn’t work. Parks depend on visitor fees to pay salaries, maintain local support for conservation and justify the cost of setting land aside for wildlife. “When I was growing up, the perception was that chimps are bad,” says Tusiime, who was born in a rural village near Kibale. “Now there’s a shift to a positive attitude towards chimpanzees because they bring in tourists, they bring in revenue.”

Focusing on making children living near great apes healthier, then, could be the best bet for keeping human diseases out of great ape populations. Programmes have already been launched to reduce transmission among local children, teaching handwashing and other hygiene measures.

Scientists also believe that enforcement of existing biosecurity rules could go a long way toward reducing transmission – but that will require focused commitment from African governments and tourism providers, says Cristina Gomes, a wildlife conservationist at Florida International University in Miami who helped launch a working group to identify new strategies. One idea is to entitle guides working with chimps to paid sick days – a luxury most do not have. Another suggestion is to certify companies that follow best practices, justifying a slightly higher fee for their services.

Common cold viruses cannot be eradicated, and people and great apes won’t be staying apart anytime soon. Goldberg says outbreaks of respiratory disease were documented in chimps in at least five locations throughout sub-Saharan Africa in 2023 alone.

The hope, however, is that these will become rarer as scientists, officials, rural residents and tourists gain a deeper understanding of the problem. “Behavioural change takes time, but if you’re committed, it eventually happens,” Tusiime says. “So we need to start now.”

A version of this report was previously published in Nature

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Bodies found in Mexico in search for missing Australian brothers Jake and Callum Robinson

Mexican authorities say three bodies have been found in an area where two Australian brothers and their American travel companion are missing.

A local government official in Ensenada, in Mexico's north-west, told the ABC the bodies were found near a cliff on the Pacific coast on Friday morning, local time.

The bodies have not been identified.

Jake and Callum Robinson, originally from Perth, and their American friend Jack Carter Rhoad have not been heard from since April 27.

They were surfing and camping in Baja California, south of the US border, but had failed to show up at their accommodation in the city of Rosarito.

The car the three travellers had been using was found, burnt out, on a ranch in the area.

Authorities confirmed tents had also been found where the men were believed to be staying.

The Baja California coast is a popular surfing destination but is also plagued by violent drug cartels . The state contains many smuggling routes used by the cartels to get to the US, but tourist spots such as the Enseneda area are generally considered safer than other parts.

Local authorities fear the men met with foul play. But Baja California's Attorney-General, María Elena Andrade Ramírez, said they did not currently believe there was a link to organised crime.

Speaking through a translator, she told the ABC the disappearance of the men was an "atypical, exceptional case".

"We have a tourist influx and a similar case has not occurred," she said.

Three people — two brothers, and a 23-year-old woman romantically linked to one of them — were arrested earlier this week.

The woman was allegedly found with a mobile phone belonging to one of the missing Australians, local police said.

All three of the people arrested allegedly had drugs on them when they were detained. A pick-up truck belonging to one of the arrested trio had been seized, Ms Ramírez said.

"We have a substantial amount of evidence and are conducting a comprehensive investigation," Ms Ramírez told the ABC on Friday, local time.

"However, we have not uncovered any clues that could indicate their survival."

Callum, 33, is a successful lacrosse player who has played with several American teams. Jake, 30, is a doctor working in Perth, who had travelled to the US to visit his older brother.

Family and friends have been using social media to appeal for help finding the men. They said their lack of recent contact was out of character. 

Their parents Debra and Martin Robinson said on Friday they were "heading to the US/Mexico to be as close as possible to the area where they were last seen".

"Callum and Jake are beautiful human beings," they said in a statement to media.

"We love them so much and this breaks our heart.

"Our only comfort right now is that they were together doing something they passionately loved."

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