Backwaters Of Kummarakom

Location: 16 km away from Kottayam town, Central Kerala.

The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and are a fascinate the visitors.

An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom offers visitors many other leisure options. Boating and fishing facilities are available at the Taj Garden Retreat, a sprawling old bungalow-turned-resort.

Waterscapes, the backwater resort of the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has independent cottages built on stilts, set amidst coconut groves and panoramic view of the backwaters. Holiday packages involving houseboats, traditional Kettuvalloms (rice barges) offer great experiences.

A calendar of the snake boat races of Kerala from July to September

• Champakulam Moolam Boat Race

• Aranmula Uthrattadi Vallamkali

• Payippad Jalotsavam

• Nehru Trophy Boat Race (Squads of rowers compete for the Nehru Trophy)

• Available for backwater cruises in the lake.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 16 km. 
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 76 km from Kottayam town.