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Kumarakom
is situated 15 km from Kottayam on the Vembanad lake
is best described as a picturesque clean village like
most places in Kerala. Lake, an enchanting picnic spot
and a fast developing backwater tourism destination,
provides boating, fishing and sight seeing experiences
that are truly exhilarating.
Kerala
is known for its panoramic backwater stretches, lush
green paddy fields, highlands and beaches. Kumarakom
slumbers on the banks of the famous Vembanad Lake. The
Vembanad Lake with its majestic canals, streams and
distributaries along its banks weave an intricate and
enchantingly beautiful web. The gorgeous green of the
fringed palms ripple in the blue waters and blend into
wavelets.
The entire state of Kerala is blessed
with plenty of rivers and the resources of many are
still untapped. The waterways of Kerala play a main
role in the economy of the state, links remote villages
and islands with the main land. The water ways provide
a cheap and economical mode of transport. It is incredibly
different experience to cruise in the backwaters in
country boats, absorbing the beauty of Kerala villages.
The scenery flashes up vivid contrasts of breath-taking
greens and deep blues. Boat rides, houseboat cruises
and holiday
packages are available for tourist and others at nominal
rates. The bird sanctuary here spread across 14 acres
of any ornithologist's paradise. This enchanting backwater
destination offers visitors many leisure options. From
wandering into the depths of its wildlife sanctuary
to cruising down the back waters and fishing, Kumarakom
is perfect for a lazy and laid back holiday. The best
way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is
a boat trip round the islands, as hundreds of swaying
verdant coconut palms lining the rivers lean to brush
the tops of your heads. Kumarakom is an example of nature
at her best in the fragrant flowers, the riot of multi
coloured birds, the surrounding greenery and the clear
waters.
The serene lake comes alive during Onam
with a spectacular water regatta-the snake boat races.
It is indeed amazing to watch oarsmen, at least a hundred
in one boat, slice their way through the waters to the
rhythm of their own full throated singing. The Bird
Sanctuary: A water-bird sanctuary lies at the edge of
the grounds of an old estate where a profusion of all
kinds of birds can be observed. Domestic birds such
as cuckoo, wild duck, egrets, darters, herons, teal,
and water fowl can be seen in abundance here, as much
as can the Siberian storks which migrate to this area
each year. Thekkady, a major wildlife center lies 114
km from here, and Sabarimala, a Hindu pilgrim center
is 134 km from Kottayam. The charmingly un-kept coastal
town of Alappuzha, lies close by. With its labyrinth
of canals, bridges, silver beaches, and cheerful people
it makes for a memorable holiday.
T he
nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport,
which is about 76 kms from Kottayam town. Kottayam is
the nearest railhead to Kumarakom, about 16 km away
and provides a link to all major cities in Kerala and
India with numerous trains plying its route daily. The
nearest bus terminal, is also at Kottayam. Kumarakom
is located on the Southern coast of India enjoys a well-balanced
tropical climate. The lowest and highest temperatures
recorded are 16.10 C and 37.80 C. There is always a
cool, fresh breeze, which makes even the warmest weather
readily agreeable. The South West monsoon is from early
June to early August. However, slight drizzles persist
till early November. Average rainfall is 1100 mm per
year. The peak tourist season is from November to March.

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