Explore The Many Marvels Of Kumarakom
Bounded on one end by the majestic mountainous terrain of the Western Ghats
, from which snake down dozens of rivers and waterfalls that flow into the silvery coasts of the Arabian Sea that draws the regions boundary on the other side, the Kerala backwaters are one of the most scenic landscapes in India. Ranked among the top 50 destinations of a lifetime by the National Geographic Traveller, the backwaters are home to a massive irrigation system of canal-linked lakes and lagoons, framed by deep green fronds of palm, lush golden bowls of ripe paddy and quaint fishing villages lining the canal banks.
Kumarakom is a tranquil village getaway secreted within these backwaters, in the series of small islets cradled at the bosom of Vembanad Lake, which is the largest of its kind in the state of Kerala. The village is a centralized ferry ride away from the districts of Ernakulam, Alappuzha and Kottayam, all of which intersect the lake and hold their own charms and allures. The Vembanad Lake is not only one of the most significant irrigators of the low-lying Kuttanad paddy fields, known for flourishing beneath sea-level, but its shores are home to one of the largest water-fowl populations in the country.
It is not only for its water-fowls that Kumarakom is famous. Near the lake, on the south shores of the Kavanar River, is found the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a bird-haunt that plays host to thousands of migratory avian species who fly here in the summer from places as far north as Siberia and the Himalayas. From Siberian cranes and paradise flycatchers to larks and herons, this ornithologists paradise is a nationally-protected sanctuary for some of the most exotic birds in the land. The nearby island of Pathiramanal is also well worth a visit when enjoying a boat cruise on the lake, as it is also a well-known convening point for migratory avian species. The sight of thousands of birds taking to the skies in the enchanting light of early morning is one of the most rewarding images that tourists who book a scenic Vembanad Lake Cruise can expect to see.
Cruises really are one of the best ways to explore the water-logged beauty of this area. The hyacinth-carpeted canals, palm-fringed shores opening on to the silvery sea coast horizons and game-rich waters are ideal for fishing and boating, while the small islets are picturesque picnic spots.
Picnic spots in general abound in and around Kumarakom; one of the most favoured of these is the Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls. Located a scant 2 kilometre trek from Kumarakom past the thick-canopied rubber plantations, these majestic cascades hurtle down from a 100 foot high precipice and flow down in small rivulets and tinkling streams that serve as a curious percussive serenade for onlookers.
There are many fascinating religious and cultural sites within 12 kilometres of Kumarakom. Among these are the Siva Temple of Thalikotta, the shrine of the old royal family of Thekkumoor, the 16th century Thazhathangadi Valiapalli famous for its murals and unique Indo-Portuguese architecture, and the thousand year old mosque Juma Masjid Thazhathangadi, believed to be one of the oldest of its kind in India.
The best time to take in the sights and sounds of this Kerala holiday haven is indubitably between the months of August and September, when it plays host to the Onam Festival, also known as the National Festival of Kerala. The region comes alive in cultural pageants, dances and high-energy traditional competitions such as Snake Boat racing, as the locals prepare to welcome and feast the demon king Mahabali, who is said to spread joy and prosperity among the populace.
All this is just scratching the tip of the iceberg when it comes to discovering the many marvels of Kumarakom. Those staying in a
Kerala resort should make it a point to explore this beautiful region. Those looking for nearby accommodation would do well to consider the Zuri Kumarakom Kerala Resort & Spa, which is a
Kumarakom resort reputed for its fine lodgings and stellar service.
by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe
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