Located in the center of the Kerala backwaters, Kumarakom provides tourists with its unique beauty and history. This place of tourist interest is located on the shores of Vembanad Lake, and it has an exotic combination of nature and tradition. Kumarakom is one such place that offers solitude and hence could be preferred for relaxation with little commercialization.
The Kumarakom tour travel packages are popular among domestic and foreign travelers looking forward to the gateway to explore one of the finest backwater destinations of Kerala. These selected packages are all about wide-ranging tastes and encompass everything, from the luxurious houseboat trip to a homestay search; therefore, there is something for everyone. If you are interested in wildlife, archaeology, or history or are planning a quiet vacation, Kumarakom offers something unique.
At tourwings.com, we are proud to provide an extensive list of packages that offer you a wonderful Kumarakom tour within your means. These tailor-made itineraries will ensure that you have a safe and responsible tour that is memorable and culturally immersed in Kerala. Beginning with your arrival right up to your departure, we take responsibility for all the arrangements so that you can fully enjoy the awesomeness of Kumarakom.
Best Time to Visit Kumarakom
Winter Season (October to February)
The Cozy weather of winter marks the most appropriate time to visit Kumarakom as per the general notions. In this season, the temperatures are comparatively low, and the climate is also dry, with average temperatures around 18°C to 32°C. It has a clear sky and good weather, and it is perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and cruising along the backwaters in a houseboat. Summer is also a popular season for tourists, so prepare to be charged more and meet many people at the tourist sites.
Summer Season (April to May)
The climate of Kumarakom in summer can be provincial and dry with a higher tendency of humidity and temperature between 28°C and 35 °C. This is not perhaps the best time for hiking and trekking by natural means, but you get the cheapest rates on the side of accommodation. Daylight still falls early in the morning and in the evening; thus, it is fine for one to engage in various activities, while for the hot moments, you can still take a dip in the lake. This season is also ideal for bird watching as a considerable number of birds are always seen migrating to the sanctuary throughout the season.
Monsoon Season (June to September)
Actually, the climate of Kumarakom is tropical, and the area is very green during the monsoon season because of the rain. It may be a time when some of the outdoor engagements are restricted, but it is incredible to be on a boat cruising the backwaters. The rain makes the place somewhat mystical, and fewer tourists are even better – it is much more serene. A lot of tourists regard the monsoon period as suitable for receiving ayurvedic treatments and various sorts of replenishing programs. The weather is cooler, and while it may rain from time to time, it is likely to be an excellent time for the adventurous traveler to visit.
Top Attractions in Kumarakom
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
The first destination of interest for any visitor to Kumarakom is the Kumarokam Bird Sanctuary. This sanctuary is spread over 14 acres of land and comprises different bird species, native and migrational. Those visiting the park can also see several birds, including Egrets, darters, herons, and the Siberian stork.
Vembanad Lake
Vembanad Lake in Kerala is the biggest lake in the state, and it has a very significant role in both the state's environmental and economic perspectives. The place is well known as a home of different types of birds and harbors a complex of flora and fauna. Boat trips or kayaking within Vembanad Lake is a common tour activity usually incorporated in Kumarakom tour packages, and tourists can engage in bird watching, fishing, and the like within the area.
Bay Island Driftwood Museum
Thus, it is noteworthy for art lovers: on Bay Island, there is the Driftwood Museum. This museum displays a number of sculptures and other art pieces made out of driftwood obtained from different regions of Kerala. These pieces of wood have been masterfully carved by Raji Punnoose, the artist who created these items in the form of animals, birds, or human figures.
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
Close to Kumarakom, about 2 km away, is the Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall, where travelers are offered a change of view as it is not another backwater site. Housing the Waterfall with rubber plantations has become a favorite spot for trekking and picnicking as well. Although this waterfall is not a very popular tourist attraction, some Kumarakom tour packages do offer sightseeing of this waterfall, particularly after the monsoon.
Kumarakom Backwaters
Kumarakom's backwaters are, in fact, the city's pride since they are composed of a series of interconnected lakes, canals, and lagoons. A tour on a houseboat through these waters is a must, where one can enjoy and hope to come across the serene side of the country and its life on the banks of the water. Houseboats are a significant feature of Kumarakom tour packages; most tourists spend at least one night on the ‘kettuvallams.’
Activities and Experiences in Kumarakom
Houseboat Cruises
Boating, especially on houseboats, is a unique experience for Kumarakom. These small boats have been turned into houseboats, thus providing a rather interesting method of getting around the backwaters. Almost all the Kumarakom tour packages include a houseboat stay, covering from a few hours to several days.
Ayurvedic Treatments
Kerala is widely known for its ayurvedic treatments, and Kumarakom has many world-class ayurvedic resorts and treatment points. Some of the most popular adventure tours also offer Ayurveda, where travelers can get a pressed massage or a full-fledged Ayurvedic treatment. These treatments embrace conventional restores using plant parts and techniques aimed at restoring and boosting bodily and mental health. The beauty of the surrounding area of Kumarakom makes the ambiance of these treatments perfect.
Village Tours
A village tour is recommended for tourists to get a feel of Kumarakom, other than a houseboat. Most tour companies use leading walking or bicycle tours of the local villages so that people gain some knowledge of how traditional Keralites live. There will be the chances to communicate with the locals, for instance, weavers, and you will be able to observe the making of coir as well as learn about the agricultural practices in the specific area of the country.
Water Sports
For those willing to be a little risqué and exciting, a number of water sports are available in Kumarakom. The activities that you can engage in while in Vembanad Lake include Kayaking, Stand-up paddle boarding, and water skiing, depending on the prevailing weather and season. Many tour packages are designed with an optional water sports activity, allowing you to put some excitement into your backwater voyage.
Fishing
The villagers of Kumarakom take fishing very seriously, as it is an essential part of their lives; in any case, the numerous packages include fishing packages for tourists. Trying spearfishing and following the area's fishermen in their catching activities is possible.
Accommodation Options in Kumarakom
Luxury Resorts
For tourists who are particular about the quality and standards of the hotel, many luxury hotels in Kumarakom are designed in the traditional style of Kerala houses but are equipped with all the modern comforts of life. These resorts are typically large villas with large rooms, private swimming pools, spas, dining rooms, or fully equipped restaurants.
Boutique Hotels
Small-scale or independent hotels are also available in Kumarakom; these are usually fewer in number and may be in converted ancestral homes or built in a traditional architectural manner. Such accommodations typically provide the design of rooms and common areas, focus on hospitality, and a deep interest in architectural and cultural surroundings. Some specialized hotel chains work with separate tour operators and can sell customized packages with excursions.
Homestays
If you plan to spend a few more days in the country, you can also lodge in a local homestay. All these establishments provide an opportunity to get an authentic feel for the Kerala family business and its routine lifestyle. Accommodation in Kumarakom is not a constraint, and many tour packages offer homestays for interested tourists who would love to be hosted in traditional Keralite homes.
Houseboats
This analysis shows that houseboats are used as places to stay and transport; as mentioned earlier, people use them to explore the backwaters. These floating hotels start in low-end/generic accommodation and stretch to luxury floating accommodation depending on the owner’s request and the market demand.
Culinary Delights of Kumarakom
Traditional Kerala Cuisine
Kumarakom is a real gastronome spree, as it procures the food culture of Kerala in a precise form. Pulse crops such as rice and coconut are common ingredients, and so is a variety of spices. Some must-try dishes include:
-
Other specialties include freshwater fish preparations like Fish in Banana Case (Karimeen Pollichathu) etc.
-
Kerala-style Fish Curry
-
These are generally stir-fried vegetables prepared with coconut, such as the Vegetable Thoran.
-
Appam with Stew
Some of the many tour packages offer opportunities for cooking demonstrations or even for participants to take cooking classes and learn to prepare the local dishes of Kerala.
Seafood Specialties
Kumarakom is especially famous for fresh seafood because of its location at Vembanad Lake. Local restaurants and resorts present a great number of dishes of fish and seafood, from grilled fish through dishes with spices to spicy prawn curries. Tour packages offered at the place usually feature seafood meals, which is a fitting way to enjoy Kumarakom’s aquatic offerings.
Toddy Shops
However, the most local experience one could have is in a toddy shop. These outlets prepare toddy, a low-alcoholic drink produced from palm tree sap, more so when coupled with spicy food. Not for the faint-hearted, a visit to a toddy shop is good for understanding the drinking culture of the local population and food, too.
Planning Your Kumarakom Tour
Choosing the Right Package
Picking a Kumarakom tour package depends on the interest, budget, and the amount of time one has at his or her disposal. Some factors to consider include:
-
Duration of stay
-
Nature of house (resort, home-stay, houseboat)
-
Included activities and experiences
-
Meal plans
-
Transportation options
Tourwings. com provides various Kumarakom tour packages to suit every traveler’s interests and wallet; the tours are secure and exciting for everyone.
Transportation
Kumarakom is well connected by road transport to other parts of Kerala. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport which is located 85 kilometer from the campus. Most of the offered tour packages come with airport shuttles as well as ground transportation means.
Packing Essentials
When packing for your Kumarakom tour, consider the following essentials:
-
Light, breathable clothing
-
Hat, sunglasses, and sun lotion.
-
Insect repellent
-
Comfortable walking shoes
-
Purdah for the women and simple dressing for men during the visits to Temples
-
Binoculars for birdwatching
-
Cameraman to shoot beautiful sceneries.