Discovering the Charm of Kumarakom A Must-Visit Tourist Attraction in Kerala
The Charm of Kumarakom is undeniable. Each corner of the divine State of Kerala in the south of India is picturesque, but nothing can be more captivating than the village of Kumarakom located in the backwaters. Kumarakom – an exquisite backwater destination is located on the Vembanad Lake and provides tourists with the scopes of experiencing the unchanged village lifestyles of Kerala. This post expounds on why Kumarakom remains one of the most popular tourist attractions and how Bay Island Museum could improve your tourist experience in this enchanting area.
A Glimpse of Kumarakom :
Kumarakom is a group of small islands on the Vembanad Lake which is well famous for back water tourism. There, one can find beautiful views of the mangrove, coconut plantation and huge rice farming lands. People visit the park for bird watching, other natural activities, as well as for those who seek quiet and beautiful environment. But, Kumarakom backwater is one of those beautiful networks of water bodies which give the state its unique identification.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary :
The most famous of tourist spot in Kumarakom is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary covering an area of 14 acres. It is a bird lover’s delight and is home to many species of birds that migrate to this place from as far as Siberia including the Siberian storks, herons, egrets, darters, teal, etc. Cycling is allowed in the grounds and there is also boat ride through the sanctuary although birds are the main attraction, the setting is serene.
Houseboat Cruises :
Houseboat cruises are one of the major attractions for tourists and travelers visiting Kumarakom. Holidays on Kettuvallams that are traditional boats elegantly changed into floating cottages, can be an enjoyable way to discover the backwaters. People can opt to have a day cruise or a night cruise where you can be wowed by the calmness of the place and the spectacular view of the sunset and indulge on mouth-watering Keralan dishes on the boat.
Vembanad Lake :
One of the largest lakes in Kerala, Vembanad is the largest happen to be the lifeline of Kumarakom. It runs through several districts and provides a number of leisure facilities including; boat riding, fishing among others and even tours. The first prospect, which entails a holiday, is a perfect ten; the waters of the lake, combined with the greenery around it, are indeed perfect for a holiday. The boat race happens during Onam and is quite colorful; many people attend and watch the race every year.
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall :
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall is another sight seeing or tourist hotspot identified approximately 18km from Kumarakom. It flows over rocks that border rubber plantations and results to the creation of the attractive scenery of a waterfall. As a matter of fact, it is highly recommended for trekking and nature walks that give a break to step into the natural world.
Bay Island Museum’s Role :
Thus, the Bay Island Museum serves as the way to the discovery of the unique cultural and natural history of Kerala, such as Kumarakom. Education and promotion of history, culture and bio-diversity of the region improves the exposure level of the tourists. By physical and audiovisual aids like models and documentaries, one can observe the features of the environment of Kumarakom and the lifestyle of people and the importance of backwaters.
Local Culture and Cuisine :
Kumarakom is not only picturesque but has a lot of cultural facets as well to propose. The village comprises of the traditional architecture houses known as Kerala houses; temples; and colorful festivals. Here people can see the performance of the Kathakali, a type of dance-drama tradition originating from Kerala and characterized by ornate make-up and costumes. Local food is delicious and something special which is seafood, coconut and spices. Famous local dishes are curry prepared from pearl spot fish which is locally known as Karimeen, Appam which is a rice pancake and Toddy which is an alcoholic drink extracted from the coconut palm tree.
Eco-Tourism and Responsible Travel :
It can be rightly said that Kumarakom is one of the best models of responsible tourism found in Kerala. There are measures put in place to ensure traces of environmental Impact are kept to the barest minimum. To support this viewpoint of Responsible Tourism practice in Kumarakom the local community should be involved hence benefiting the region’s economy and also appreciate and uphold the cultural value of the region. Acts and measures legal for tourists include being inclined to ecological tourism, including staying at eco-resorts, applying biodegradable products, and taking part in CBT programs.
Best Time to Visit :
The ideal period to visit Kumarakom is from September to March as, during this period, the climate is comparatively cooler and is good for enjoying outdoors. The weather is also characterized by a monsoon period between June and August where the entire area becomes a green paradise for nature enthusiasts. But as it grossed its emissivity through the intense rainfall; some activities may be restricted.
Accommodation Options :
Kumarakom is provided by various standard of accommodation and it is possible to find a suitable one for everyone. For the seekers of luxury there are many luxurious resorts to choose from and for the vintage travellers there are many heritage hotels from where they can choose. Most of the facilities are constructed in a way to give people comfort while at the same time giving them a taste of the Keralan architecture.
Activities and Attractions Nearby :
In addition to the attractions within Kumarakom, there are several interesting places to explore nearby:In addition to the attractions within Kumarakom, there are several interesting places to explore nearby:
Alleppey (Alappuzha) :
Alleypee is said to be the Venice of the east owing to the popularity of backwaters and houseboat tourism. It is a place situated at a distance of 32 Kms from Kumarakom and it has the similar ambiance with a difference in the arenas it encompasses.
Kottayam :
Kottayam famous for its literacy prevails at a distance of approximately 13 kilometers from Kumarakom. It consists of old churches, temple and the huge rubber estate plantations.
Pathiramanal Island :
Kumarakom is a cluster of small islands set in Vembanad Lake and it is a houseboat destination and it can be reached by boat only. The park is particularly a beautiful destination of bird-watching and nature lovers.
Vaikom:
Famous for Vaikom Mahadeva Temple one of the oldest and largest temples in Kerala. It is some 35kms from Kumarakom.
Practical Information for Travelers
How to Reach:
Kumarakom has road transport, rail transport and it is also an Airways station. The nearest airport to the location is the Cochin International Airport which is about a 85 km drive away. Nearest railhead is at Kottayam which is approximately 13 kilometers from the spot. From other parts of the state, there are normal buses and taxis to get to the destination as is with all parts of the state.
Local Transport :
These include auto rickshaws for short distances such as within the town, taxis for mediate distances and bicycles for the last mile transport. Tourist boats as well as private boats are also provided to navigate through the backwaters.
Travel Tips :
• It is advisable to pack light comfortable clothing, hats, and perhaps useNumerous creams to guard against the tropical sun.
• Unfortunately, there is no effective way to avoid them, thus using repellent spray/ointment is a must, especially in the evenings.
• There are certain taboos or rules that one must observe when taking pictures of individuals and or their property, one should therefore always ask for permission.
Conclusion :
Kumarakom: the backwater country, its wildlife and its cultural tourism site forms a part of this crown jewel of the God’s own country. Kumarakom can indeed be enjoyed by various types of people such as the nature lovers, the bird watching enthusiasts, the gourmet and even the ‘me time’ seekers. Thus, regardless of the chosen destination and beautiful nature the travelers are interested in, their demand becomes a catalyst for the development of the economy and environmental preservation.
More to the enchanting tourism of Kumarakom, the Bay Island Museum prompting all tourists to get to know the alluring part of the island. Moreover, owing to the natural and the cultural monuments of the place along with its eco-friendly tourism policy, Kumarakom provides an unmistakable experience that tends to linger with the tourists long after they have left the place.
