Kumarakom

A group of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a part of the Kuttanad area. The bird sanctuary here, which sprawls over 14 acres, is a chosen haunt of migratory birds and consequently an ecstasy for the bird lovers. Egrets, herons, darters, teal, cuckoo, waterfowl, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork that throng here are a major attraction for visitors. A boat trip round the islands is an ideal way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary. A charming backwater destination, Kumarakom offers its visitors several other leisure options. Boating and fishing facilities

Once an old rubber plantation, Kumarakom was subsequently developed into a Bird Sanctuary – and ranks today as one of the favorite tourist attractions in Kumarakom. Presently it is a leisure retreat, very popular among foreigners and Indians alike. A ride on Kerala’s houseboats, known as Kettuvalloms is an experience that cannot be missed at any cost. An Englishman Henry Baker, enthralled by the beauty of the place, settled here in the previous century. Having bought 104 acres of land from the then Maharaja of Travancore, he made Kumarakom his home. Baker’s bungalow has now been converted into the luxurious Taj Garden Retreat.