Kumarakom backwaters

The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands in the Vembanad Lake in Kerala, a state in India. Geographically, it is located at 9d35' North and 76d26' East.

Kumarakom is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is a noted bird sanctuary where many migratory birds visit. The Vembanad Lake is habitat for many marine species and it teems with 'Karimeen' (Pearl Spotted Fish ), shrimp (chemmeen in local language)and prawns. The bird sanctuary which spans 14 acres (57,000 m²), came into existence following preservation efforts from the government. It is a major tourist attraction now.

With mangrove forests and coconut trees decorating the canals and the banks of the water ways, Kumarakom resembles a paradise. With Christianity being the predominant religion, the area is dotted with beautiful churches.

Located 10 km from Kottayam and on the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a little village and offers Ayurvedic Massages, Meditation, Yoga, Boating and Fishing facilities. The Pathiramanal Island, near Kumarakom has a mythological significance to it. It is believed that the Island was formed when a young Brahmin dived into the Vembanad lake to perform his evening ablutions. Legend says that due to this water gave way for land to rise and thus this Island was formed.