Kumarakom Holiday Guide: Discover Kerala’s Backwaters, Wildlife and Culture

Sumeet Chopra
Sumeet Chopra
October 3, 2026 · 6 min read
Kumarakom Holiday Guide: Discover Kerala’s Backwaters, Wildlife and Culture

Kumarakom is a unique place to visit in Kerala because of its many benefits.

Kumarakom is a beautiful backwater village in Kottayam district of Kerala, on the banks of Vembanad lake. It is located amidst coconut trees, canals, wetlands and paddy fields, providing a tranquil ambiance for those who wish to know Kerala in a relaxed manner.

It is a region with natural beauty and traditional village life, which is suitable for families, couples, photographers and nature lovers. A holiday in Kerala can be spent at several places in Kumarakom which can be visited for pleasure starting from boat cruises to bird watching.

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What is Kumarakom renowned for?

The main attractions of Kumarakom are the backwaters, the Vembanad lake, houseboat and the bird sanctuary. The system of canals and waterways give a glimpse into the traditional life of Kerala.

It's also close to a number of smaller islands, and is famous for its rich vegetation. People can have a day-trip or just take a lazy day by the sea.

Vembanad Lake: the beautiful lake of Kumarakom

There is no visit to Kumarakom without experiencing Vembanad lake. The sprawling lake is fringed by rich greenery and communities, the scenery of which is among the most iconic in Kerala.

There is opportunity to take visitors out on a houseboat or smaller boat across the lake, which offers a view of coconut palms, fishing boats and rural communities.

For those who want a relaxed evening after a day out sightseeing a sunset cruise may be an ideal experience.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a place for nature lovers.

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of the favorite places of the wildlife and bird lovers. The sanctuary is situated close to the Vembanad Lake ecosystem and is a natural home for various birds.

Birds can be seen amongst the vegetation and wetlands while the area can be walked. Many birds migrate seasonally and contribute to the interest in other seasons also.

For nature enthusiasts, there are numerous chances for wildlife and landscape photography at the sanctuary and its waterways, so it's time to pack the camera.

What are you able to see at Pathiramanal Island?

Pathiramanal is a small island situated in Vembanad lake which can be visited by boat. It is a popular tourist destination for those exploring the backwaters of Kumarakom, with its serene ambiance and natural surroundings.

Bird watching and tranquility are major attractions on the island.

A visit to Pathiramanal is also an excellent choice to include in a Kumakom sightseeing tour that includes a boat cruise.

The Backwater LifeStyle is an experience of Kerala.

The creeks around Kumarakom are intimately linked to routine activities. One can see boats transporting, fishing and fishing in local activities and a number of homes and villages are located around the canals.

A smaller boat ride can take travellers to more tranquil waterways and offer a more intimate look at village life.

It is not a typical sightseeing spot but for many visitors, this is among the most memorable spots to visit in Kumakom.

Explore the rural side of Kumakom

The villages of Kumakom give an up-close view of another aspect of Kerala. A truly rural atmosphere is formed by coconut plantations, paddy fields, traditional houses, and small waterways.

They can get information about local crafts and local occupation like fishing and coir related work.

An exploration of a village can be especially rewarding to those who wish to have a holiday that is not just sightseeing, but also cultural.

Visit the Bay Island Driftwood Museum!

Another place to see on your trip to Kumakom is the Bay Island Driftwood Museum. It has art pieces made from driftwood and naturally formed pieces.

The museum is an experience different from the lakes, canals and nature attractions in the region.

It can be included in a sightseeing tour if you want to get a taste of some of Kumarakom's cultural and artistic side.

What activities are there for you to enjoy in Kumarakom?

Kumarakom has some things to offer other than sightseeing. Depending on your interests, you can:

Take a houseboat cruise through the backwaters and explore Vembanad lake; take a boat trip to Pathiramanal Island; visit nearby villages; try traditional Kerala cuisine; learn about local crafts and traditional activities; photograph the backwaters and countryside;

Several of these activities will make for a well-rounded tour without being too rushed.

When to arrange a trip to Kumarakom?

October to March is a nice season to visit Kumukom, particularly for those who are visiting for boating and outdoor sightseeing.

Rains are common during the monsoon months with the formation of a lush green landscape. Visitors should be aware of the weather conditions when making their travel plan during these times and when booking boat rides and outdoor activities.

If watching birds is a key part of your itinerary, it is advisable to see what type of bird activity you can expect during the season before you go.

How many days would you need to spend in Kumakom?

Most people stay at least one day (or two days) to see the big sights.

In 1 day visitors can visit the Bird sanctuary and enjoy a boat trip and time around Vembanad lake. Additional days are provided on two day stay to explore and relax the village of Pathiramanal and the Island.

Kumarakom can also be used for longer tours in Kerala such as Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady and Alleppey.

So, why include Thekkady in your Kerala tour?

Thekkady can be a completely different scenery and set of experiences if added to the trip to Kerala with the inclusion of Kumarakom.

The Tourist Places in Thekkady are related to Forests, Wildlife, Spice Plantations and the Periyar region. There are nature-based attractions and visitors can enjoy the cooler atmosphere of Western Ghats in Kerala.

Kumarakom and Thekkady are thus contrasting experiences—backwaters and wetlands, and forests and hills in both.

The escape plan for Kumarakom is outlined below:

Kumarakom is a breath of fresh air in terms of nature, culture and leisurely travel. Its beautiful waterways, bird sanctuary, islands, and village scenery make it more than merely a stop on the Kerala trip.

If you're traveling to the backwater side of the state, then visiting places to visit in Kumakom can be a rewarding experience. The Tourist Places in Thekkady can be added in later in the holiday in Kerala, thus adding forests, wildlife, and spice plantations to the holiday.

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