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Kumarakom known as the rice bowl of India, is a must visit place if you are planning a vacation in Kerala. Located at a distance of 13 kilometers from Kottayam, the place has a plethora of flora and fauna. The cool breeze from the backwaters, the wobbling Vembanad Lake and the food varieties are sure to mesmerize you and your loved ones. The place is a good choice to enjoy a holiday in a houseboat in Kerala. Apart from enjoying the lake with a cup of tea, you can have exclusive experiences like fishing, boating, bird watching etc. Each piece of the land has an artistic touch. The national geographicmagazine had selected Kumarakom as ‘one of the must visit places of a lifetime’. Though September and February is the best time to visit Kumarakom, you can also come here during the rainy season to have a sight of the downpour into the blue green lake.
History
Kumarakom, which was initially a part of Vadakkan core kingdom, was conquered by the king of Travancore Marthanda Varma in 1750. The area was under content threat with conflicts and competitions between kings. For security reasons, there were soldiers appointed on duty in various parts. Some areas of Kumarakom have still ‘pada’(war) in their names such as ‘Padakkalam’, ‘Padanilam’ etc. The ‘Chundanvellams’ and ‘veppuvellams’ that are seen for boat races were initially used for wars then. These boats were designed for swift motion and to fight off the enemy faster. This small village developed into what it is now after the arrival of an English farmer named Alfred George Baker. He bought about 500 acres of land and developed it into paddy fields. The bakers built their family house there and settled in India for four generations. The ‘Baker house’ was renovated and made into a luxury hotel by Taj later on.
People
The local villagers are peace loving and hospitable. Dressed up in traditional attires, they are conscious about hygiene and keep their surroundings clean. Rice and fish are the staple foodhere and many of the people take up paddy or fish farming as occupation. While men go for fishing or rents houseboats, women are skilled at catching fish with bare hands. They also live by collecting shells and making handicrafts out of them. There is an overall influence of Syrian christianism in their culture. From frog legs and donkey stew, the cuisine here includes many dishes made out of fish.
Geography of Kumarakom
Located at 5,249 feet above sea level, all through the year, Kumarakom has a moderate climate .The average rainfall comes to about 1,100 mm. The tropical climate and the natural vegetation have made it a home to a number of rare birds. The royal VembanadLake is rich in life with a variety of fishes like Pearl Spot (Karimeen), Shrimp and poovalanchemeen.
Tourism
Declared as a special tourism zone by the government of Kerala, Kumarakom has won many awards like the UNWTO Ullysisaward, best responsible tourism award and Grand award for environment. If you are a person fond of backwater cruises in Kerala, Kumarakom has a lot to offer. Apart from that, there are a number of places you can visit here. Kumarakom Bird sanctuary, spread across a vast area of 14 acres is an iconic habitat to many exotic species of birds like Kingfishers, Siberian storks, wood beetles, waterfowls, flycatchers etc. It is possible to get a boat to Pathiramanal from the sanctuary. But with the current pandemic, there are some restrictions imposed. The sanctuary is open from morning 6:AM to evening 6:PM . The entry fees for Indians is Rs 50/- and for Non-Indians is Rs 100/-. Aruvikuzhiwaterfall, surrounded by acres of rubber plantations is an ideal picnic spot. There are options for hiking and trekking near the falls and the roaring waterfalls with the scenic beauty makes it a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers. There is no entry fee to visit the falls .Vembanad lake, being a joining point of 10 rivers is the largest lake of Kerala. With an amazing view amidst the swaying coconut and palm trees, it would be bliss to enjoy a holiday near this backwater. The most popular Nehru Trophy boat race happens in this lake. The lake is open from 10: AM in the morning to 6: PM in the evening.Thannermukkam bund separates one side of a lake from another. With two colourgradients, blue and green, the bund was built to avoid salt infiltration. Kumarakom Beach is both a best place for nature lovers and adventure junkies. You may spend the day watching the sunset or go for watersports like surfing, water skiing, parasailing etc. The beach is open from 12: PM to 12:00 AM. If you are in a mood to see the artistic innovations of the place, you may visit the Bay island driftwood museum where you can see intricate works made from driftwood retrieved from water. As a small idea sprouted in the mind of a local School teacher, this museum has grown its significance as an artistic temple. You can also visit the 1000 years old Juma Masjid.Kumarakom is best known for its iconic houseboat rides. Tourists from all parts of the world come here exclusively to enjoy this experience in the backwaters. The houseboats are made revoking the traditional kettuvallams. The best houseboat in Kerala, without a doubt is the backwater luxury cruise houseboat, promoted by Niche stays. With all necessary amenities, top class services and delicious food, your holiday experience would be elevated to another level.
