Top 10 places in Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a village situated on the shores of Lake Vembaden in the Indian state of Kerala. It is perfect for honeymooners and everyone who wants to relax away from the rigors of everyday life. Kumarakom is known for its beautiful backwaters, bird sanctuary, and green vegetation which allows the tourists to enjoy, some of the most unique experiences that this part of the country offers. While on a family vacation or a romantic getaway, it is safe to say that Kumarakom offers the right kind of activities for everyone. Let’s check the 10 most interesting places in Kumarakom:
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is recognized as one of the finest bird-watching sites in India. This 14-acre area attracts migratory birds and resident birds of many species. One can witness egrets, herons, kingfishers, and the distant Siberian cranes. As the water stretches out behind the backwaters of the bird sanctuary, one can hire a boat for bird watching. It is also recommended to go in the early morning and afternoon as this is when more birds are out.
Vembanad Lake
Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in India. It forms the nucleus of Kumarakom and is noted for its still waters and greenery that embraces it. Having a houseboat is one of the finest ways of enjoying Vembanad Lake and its beauty. You may rent a houseboat for a day or even overnight and cruise the backwaters, relishing delicious food from the Kerala region. You do not need to remind someone staring at the sun setting over the vast lake.
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall which is also known as a popular picnic spot is located around 18 kilometers away from Kumarakom and is more or less a secret treasure. The waterfall is approximately 100 feet high and makes the landscape look calm and adorable. It comprises plenty of features to make a perfect location for a small picnic or to go a short trek in the nearby rubber forests. In the rainy season especially, the waterfall looks very beautiful and will be one of the most sought places for nature photographers.
Kumarakom Beach
Kumarakom Beach has golden sands and calm waters that make it a great place to visit for those who want to relax near the sea. With this, the Beach is not crowded like beaches in the other areas of Kerala making it a good place to enjoy the view of the coastline without much disturbance. While there, one can take a stroll around the beach or water sports that aims at towing other sports vessels. The View of the beach during sunset is also one stunning view to behold.
Pathiramanal Island
Pathiramanal means ‘Sands of Midnight’ which makes Pathiramanal a small beautiful island located in Vembanad Lake. Due to its temporary nature and abundance, The island is ideal for bird lovers, making it a temporary residence of many rare migratory birds. A boat ride of 30 minutes from Kumarakom village will take you to the island. Once there, you have expansive views of the island’s calm and tranquil environment where you can appreciate the sights and sounds of the birds or just enjoy the peace.
Bay Island Driftwood Museum
In Kumarakom, there is the Bay Island Driftwood Museum exhibiting other forms of art made of driftwood. These sculptures are pieces of wood retrieved from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which have been carved out naturally by the sea. The
museum also has a large collection of captivating bird, animal, and fish sculptures, each of which has an interesting history. It is also a perfect place to relax for art lovers and people who appreciate eco-friendly art.
Thazhathangady Juma Masjid
A few minutes’ drive from Kumarakom is Thazhathangady, also one of the most ancient mosques in Kerala’s history which dates back to over a thousand years. The mosque has a range of ornamental wooden works as well as splendid architecture. It is a reminder of the cultural diversity that Kerala possesses.
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple
Located about 20 kilometers from Kumarakom, Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is among the most ancient and held in high esteem among the temples in the state of Kerala. The temple is a place which farmers and laborers take pride in as well as the exemplary Deviavyasakara style of Kerala architecture. Holidaymakers can also visit Vaikom town which is associated with several historical tales and further becomes more active during the festival of the Vaikom Ashtami.
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, located just 15 km away from Kumarakom, is yet another temple in Kerala devoted to Lord Shiva. Built in a Dravidian structural pattern, it is well known for the many paintings that adorn its walls, including the highly regarded painting of Nataraja. The temple is an ideal location for anyone wishing to delve deeper into the cultural tapestry of Kerala. Such pilgrims often visit the temple to receive the blessings of the deities and view the intricate artistry of the temples.
Thanneermukkom Bund
Thanneermukkom Bund is the biggest mud regulator in India which was built across Vembanad Lake. It was built to stop the mix of the salt water with the fresh water. The bund provides a nice view of the surrounding places where you can see fishermen working or other local people going about their businesses. It is a quiet place and perfect for those who wish to relax and enjoy the backwaters and village life in Kerala.
Kumarakom is a place where nature is combined perfectly with spirituality and culture. Starting from the tranquil backwaters and temples to bird watching and relaxed dwellers of the island, there is something for every kind of traveler. All these places are different from each other which makes Kumarakom an important tourist place in Kerala. If you are in Kumarakom for a short trip or a long stay, it will leave you with images of peace, beauty, and the great feeling of being amidst nature.