15 Best Places to Visit in Kumarakom for an Unforgettable Trip

Kumarakom is a location where you don’t want to hurry between attractions. It is situated on the banks of the stunning Vembanad Lake in Kerala. The peaceful village is located in the middle of coconut trees, canals, paddy fields, and tranquil backwater areas.

For many travellers, Kumarakom is best known for its backwaters and houseboats. However, spend some time in this area, and you’ll realise that there’s a lot more to explore.

It is possible to observe migratory birds in a sanctuary on the lake, go on a boat trip to the tiny island, go to an intriguing driftwood museum, go to ancient places that are sacred, or just enjoy a relaxing spot by the lake to watch the sunset.

Contrary to other crowded tourist spots in Kerala, Kumarakom has a slower and more laid-back character. It’s part of what makes it appealing.

If you’re thinking of an excursion to Kerala and want to know more about the best places to visit, here are a few of the most popular places to go in Kumarakom, which are worth a visit.

1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of the spots you must go to if you love wildlife and nature.

The sanctuary covers about 14 acres on the bank of Vembanad Lake; the sanctuary hosts a wide variety of birds that are resident and migratory. Herons, egrets, darters, kingfishers, and various other wetland birds can be observed in the sanctuary, and the migratory species are seen during certain time periods.

The best way to discover the nature reserve is to do so at a slow pace. Mornings in the early morning are especially pleasant, as the surroundings are less crowded and the activity of birds is greater.

For birdwatchers who want to be serious, the lake around is also worth a visit, and boat excursions can offer a different view of the wetland.

• The best time to visit is June through August for breeding and resident birds; November-February for birds that migrate.
• Distance from Kumarakom within the Kumarakom region.
• Entry fee: Pay for admission; verify the rate of entry before you go.
• Perfect for birdwatching, nature walks, and photography

2. Vembanad Lake

You won’t be able to fully enjoy Kumarakom without spending some time at the lake or Vembanad Lake.

This lake forms the focal point of the region and is linked to Kumarakom’s backwater tourism. The tranquil waters are covered with coconut trees, villages, canals, and patches of green.

One of the most effective ways to enjoy the lake is to take the traditional houseboat or a smaller country boat. It is a slow cruise that lets you take note of the small details that are easily missed when driving: fishermen working or chasing birds on the water, small homes on canals, locals cruising via boat.

Sunset is another great moment to spend time at the lake. The long stretch of water provides stunning scenery when the sky’s colour changes.

• The best season to go: from October through March
• Entry fee: No general entry fee; boating charges vary
• Perfect for boat excursions as well as sunsets, photography, and a relaxing time.

3. Kumarakom Backwaters

The backwaters are probably the main reason why people travel to Kumarakom.

Instead of being a single attraction, the Kumarakom backwaters are actually a series of waterways, canals, and lagoons linking the village to Vembanad Lake. Houseboat cruises allow you to travel through the area in a relaxed manner and pass paddy fields, coconut groves, and traditional villages.

You can go on an entire day of houseboating or an overnight stay or a shorter canoe or motorboat trip based on the budget you have set and your timeframe.

If you’re planning to visit Kumarakom in the very first instance, do not make the mistake of interpreting the boat ride as an additional item on your list of things to do. Make time to sit outside and enjoy the beauty of the area.

• The best time to visit is from October through March
• Entry fee: There are no fees for entry. Boat and houseboat prices differ.
• The perfect place for couples and family members, photography, and a restful Kerala experience

4. Pathiramanal Island

Pathiramanal is a tiny island that lies on the shores of Vembanad Lake. Its name is usually translated to “sands of midnight”.

The island is only reached by boat, making the trip an integral and essential part of the experience. Once you’re there on the island, you’ll find a serene natural setting, surrounded by greenery and water.

Pathiramanal is particularly attractive to birders due to the fact that the wetlands and island are home to a wide variety of migratory and resident birds. Kerala Tourism notes that the greater area is home to a variety of bird species, such as herons, cormorants, egrets, kingfishers, and migrants.

There aren’t many tourist attractions to visit here, which is precisely the purpose. You can visit for the beautiful scenery as well as the birds and peaceful atmosphere.

• The best time to visit: November through February for birds that migrate.
• Distance from Kumarakom: accessible via boat
• Fees for entry: Boat costs apply; verify current local arrangements.
• Great for nature lovers: photography and birdwatching

5. Bay Island Driftwood Museum

Are you looking for something distinct from the standard Kerala water experience? It’s the Bay Island Driftwood Museum, which is worth a trip.

The museum exhibits unusual pieces of driftwood gathered in and around the Andaman as well as the Nicobar region. Natural wood pieces were shaped by decades of exposure to saltwater. These pieces are arranged into shapes that resemble animals, birds, and other forms.

The museum is small in comparison to the major museums in cities, and that’s the reason for its appeal. It’s personal and unique and not formal.

It’s an ideal option if you’re travelling with kids or just need to break up a day of sightseeing and boating.

• The best time to visit is morning or late afternoon.
• Distance from Kumarakom within the Kumarakom region.
• Fee for entry: Entry fee paid. Check the fee and timetable.
• Great for art, family fun, unique attractions, and photography

6. Kumaramangalam Temple

Kumaramangalam Temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Kumarakom for those who want to discover the region’s spiritual aspect.

The temple is surrounded by a tranquil environment and regularly hosts celebrations and rituals. The Thaipusam celebrations that occur annually are especially significant and add activities for the temple.

A visit to this place is not about completing the tourist attractions and more about taking in a peaceful area of life.

If you are visiting the temples of Kerala, wear appropriate attire and observe the rules of footwear and photography, as well as entry.

• The best time to visit is either in the morning or evening.
• Entry fee: Usually, there is no charge for general admission to regular darshan.
• Ideal for: Spirituality, architecture and culture

7. Kumarakom Houseboat Cruise

Even though a houseboat cruise is more of an experience than a tourist attraction, it is worthy of an appearance in every Kumarakom itinerary.

The traditional Kerala houseboats, also known as kettuvallams, provide the opportunity to take a leisurely cruise through the waters. Based on the type of boat you prefer, the cruise you choose can be a one-hour cruise, either a day trip or an overnight stay.

A stay on a houseboat overnight is memorable. When the daylight is gone, the waterways are less crowded, and the overall experience shifts from sightseeing to taking in the scenery.

If you’re travelling with your partner, an exclusive houseboat may make the experience feel extra unique. Families might prefer bigger vessels with more space.

• The best time to visit: from October through March
• Entry fee: There is no charge for entry; rates for houseboats depend on the boat, the season, and length.
• Perfect for: couples, families, and those who are first-time visitors to Kerala

8. Thanneermukkom Bund

Thanneermukkom Bund is a significant engineering structure constructed across a portion of Vembanad Lake’s system.

The area was designed to limit saltwater intrusion into the Kuttanad region and to support agriculture. It is also popular for its views over the waterways as well as the surrounding countryside.

The bund is an excellent alternative if you’re exploring the greater Kumarakom region on the road. The scenery changes based on the time of year, and the stark contrast between the river and the green landscape makes it a worthy stop for photography.

• The best time to visit is from October through March
• Distance from Kumarakom is around 20 km, depending on your departure point.
• Entry fee: Usually free
• Perfect for photography, exploring, and getting a better understanding of Kerala’s waterways

9. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall

If you’re looking for a break from Kerala’s backwaters, then consider an excursion to Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall.

The waterfall is situated close to Kumarakom. The waterfall is covered with vegetation and is stunning both during and after monsoons, when the water levels are higher.

The landscape around it makes it a great choice to go on a nature walk for a few minutes. It also gives visitors the opportunity to view an entirely different aspect of Kerala, away from the lakes and canals.

Be cautious around slippery rocks, especially in the rainy season.

• The best time to travel: the monsoon and right after the monsoon, subject to weather conditions.
• Distance from Kumarakom: About 10 kilometres from Kumaramangalam Temple
• Fees for entry: Usually minimal or free, based on the entry point
• Ideal for nature photographs, short excursions

10. St Mary’s Church, Cheriapally

Kumarakom and the areas around it are rich in Christian history, and St Mary’s Church is one of the holy sites worth visiting.

The church adds a new dimension to the richness of the area. The church’s historic architecture and tranquil surroundings make it a worthy visit for those looking to learn about the history of the area and its traditions.

Kumarakom’s attractions don’t stop at the natural world. Exploring its temples, churches and other religious sites helps you learn about the communities that have shaped the area over generations.

• The best time to visit: morning or late afternoon
• The fee for entry is free.
• Great for: Architecture, History and Culture

11. Thazhathangady Juma Masjid

If you’re able to go further than Kumarakom, Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, close to Kottayam, is a worthwhile tourist destination.

The mosque is famous for its distinctive Kerala architectural style and lengthy history. The mosque is part of Kerala’s varied cultural heritage and offers another perspective on the development that is central to Kerala.

It is possible to include it in the larger sightseeing itinerary in Kumarakom, Kottayam.

• The best time to be there: During the daytime and in a respectful way to respect the prayer times
• Distance from Kumarakom is approximately 15 km, based on the route.
• Entry fee: No standard entry fee
• Great for: architecture, history and exploration of the culture

12. Thazhathangady Valiyapalli

Another famous tourist spot close to Kottayam, Thazhathangady Valiyapalli, reflects the long-standing Christian practices in central Kerala.

Its church, as well as its environs, should be considered if you are interested in the architecture of the past rather than just beaches and backwaters.

This Incredible Travel Guide to India features Thazhathangady Valiyapalli along with other important sacred sites that are part of the overall cultural experience of Kumarakom.

The best time to visit is in the morning or afternoon.
Distance from Kumarakom: About 15-20 km
The fee for entry is free.
Perfect for: architecture, heritage and culture

13. Aymanam Village

Aymanam is an excellent destination for those who want to experience the rural side of Kerala far from the tourist-oriented parts of Kumarakom.

The region is covered by coconut trees, waterways, paddy fields, and traditional houses. Instead of navigating a set itinerary, you could take a stroll through the village or explore the waterways on a boat.

Aymanam is also connected to the work of Arundhati Roy, The God of Small Things, which brought attention to the villages and landscape around the region of Kerala.

For those who prefer long drives, this might become one of the most satisfying moments close to Kumarakom.

• The best time to visit is from October to March.
• The fee for entry is free.
• Great for village experiences, photography, and slow travel

14. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

About 30 kilometres from Kumarakom, Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a major Shiva temple that is a very popular place of pilgrimage in Kerala.

The temple is a long-standing landmark and is notable for those who worship Lord Shiva. Its ancient architecture and sacred ambience make it a fascinating option for a Kumarakom excursion for those who want to explore the temples of Kerala.

Every year, the Vaikom Ashtami celebration is a major event in the state and draws devotees from all over the state.

• The best time to visit is either in the morning or in the evening.
• Distance from Kumarakom is approximately 30 km.
• Entry fee: Generally, there is no cost of entry for regular darshan.
• Ideal for: Spirituality, history and architecture

15. Kottayam

Kottayam is situated about 15-20 km away from Kumarakom and is an easy add-on to a trip that is longer.

The town has a range of temples, churches, and markets, as well as old neighbourhoods and access to the countryside. It also serves as a transportation hub and has Kottayam railway station, serving as one of the primary railway stations for travellers heading towards Kumarakom.

If you’re blessed with the time, a day to explore Kottayam could give you more knowledge of central Kerala rather than restricting your visit just to backwaters.

• The best time to visit: from October through March
• The distance from Kumarakom is about 15-20 km.
• The entry fee is based on the attraction.
• Great for: shopping, culture, food, heritage and cuisine

Best Time to Visit Kumarakom

The ideal timing to go to Kumarakom is typically between October and March, as the weather is more than ideal for sightseeing, boating and other outdoor activities.

The months of November through February are particularly ideal for travellers who wish to take advantage of the backwaters without the heat.

The monsoon period, which lasts between June and September, delivers heavy rain but also changes the landscape. The vegetation gets lusher, the waterways appear dramatic, and the waterfalls in the region get more active.

Birdwatchers need to plan their trip based on the type of bird they wish to observe. The Kerala government says that June-August is an ideal time to observe resident and breeding birds. The period from November through February is ideal for birds that migrate.

How Many Days Are Enough for Kumarakom?

It is possible to experience the principal sights of Kumarakom easily in two to three days.

An easy itinerary can be like this:

Day 1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – Vembanad Lake – Sunset – Overnight stay

Day 2: Houseboat cruise – Kumarakom Backwaters – Pathiramanal Island

Day 3: Bay Island Driftwood Museum Day 3: Bay Island Driftwood Museum Kumaramangalam Temple – A nearby attraction like Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall or Vaikom

If you have time, you could blend Kumarakom along with Kottayam, Alleppey, or other locations located in central Kerala.

Final Thoughts

Kumarakom isn’t an area that requires a full itinerary. Actually trying to do everything in the shortest amount of time may ruin what makes this place unique.

The backwaters are definitely the main draw. However, don’t just end there. Start your day early for an early bird watch, go on an excursion on a boat ride to Pathiramanal Island, visit a traditional temple, take a tour of the unique driftwood museum, or just spend the afternoon looking at the wildlife along Vembanad Lake.

What makes Kumarakom unforgettable is the mix of greenery, water, and wildlife. It is also a place where you can experience daily village living. It is not a typical tourist destination and is more like an area where you can feel like experiencing a more relaxed lifestyle.

If you’re planning a Kerala vacation and are looking for a place that is tranquil, picturesque, and simple to explore on your own, Kumarakom deserves a place on your travel list.