When you need nature to heal you, Kumarakom is undoubtedly the most rejuvenating and fascinating paradise in Kerala. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a small cluster of islands on the banks of this largest freshwater lake which borders Alleppey, Kottayam and Ernakulam.
Slender swaying coconut trees, never ending paddy fields and meandering lagoons create a restorative sight and helps renew the mind with new inspiration for life.
Its economy relies mainly on fishing, agriculture and tourism. The crisscrossing waterways and canals which irrigate the farms and the backwaters that are covered with hyacinths provide an enchanting spectacle, ideal for tourists to experience. The bird sanctuary in Kumarakom attracts a lot of migratory species like the Siberian Crane, waterfowl, egret, cormorant and moor hen.
The pristine landscape of Kumarakom has lots to offer you. Here are a few things for you to indulge in.
Stay in a houseboat or the therapeutic resorts
When in Kumarakom a stay on the houseboat is an absolute must. The houseboats come with all comforts of a cozy bedroom, living room, air-conditioning, and en-suite bathrooms. A stay here will reward you with a surreal sunset over the horizon and some delicious traditional Kerala cuisine.
Apart from the quintessential houseboat, one can also opt to relax in the many traditional homestays hosted by the locals and are nestled in the villages around the backwaters. These homes are a perfect way to explore more about Kerala, its culture, food, tradition and hospitality. A canoe ride from one of these resorts can take you to the bird sanctuary and visit the enchanting life on the banks of the splendid lake.
Witness a thrilling boat race
Kumarakom hosts the exciting boat race which is a spectacle to watch. The Sree Narayana Jayanthi Boat Race is organised to commemorate the visit of Sree Narayana Guru, a great social reformer; whereas the Kavanattinkara Boat Race is held during the Onam festival.
The biggest canal here becomes a vibrant setting for the regatta of the snake boats or Chundan Vallams that take part in these races. This race brings to you the fervour of the locals of Kumarakom towards their culture and lets you peep into their age old customs and traditions.
Enjoy a Kathakali performance
One of the most attractive features of Kerala is its opulent dance forms and Kathakali is one of them. Known for its unique mudras, incredible facial expressions, painted faces and swift martial art moves, this dance will leave you in awe.
Stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata provide the content of most Kathakali plays and traditional music lends to the vibrancy of the dance. Dive into the mystical tales through the complex yet stunning moves of Kathakali.
Relax your senses at a spa
Lose yourself in the relaxing world of spas that Kerala has to offer in abundance.
The serene wonder of Kumarakom is where you can experience the unwinding of mind, body, and soul. Apart from immense natural beauty, spas in Kumarakom offer health treatments and therapies based on the principles of Ayurveda.
As you listen to the gentle sound of the backwaters, treat yourself to massages and other treatments that not only address your aches and concerns, but help you let go, de-stress and bring in a fresh dose of energy into your soul.
At Worldwide Adventures, we work with an ethos of responsible tourism. We conduct various activities that help us minimise social, economic and environmental hazards in Kumarakom, and it generates greater economic benefits for the locals, and promotes a spirit of sustainability and conservation.
