Kumarakom

15 km West of Kottayam.Kumarakom is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a noted bird sanctuary where many species of migratory birds visit. The Vembanadu Lake, the largest backwater in Kerala, is habitat for many marine and freshwater fish species and it teems with Karimeen Pearl spot, shrimp (chemmeen in the local language) and prawns.

The Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom

Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals which empty in to the great expanse of water called the Vembanad Lake. One of Asia's largest freshwater lakes, the Vembanad Kayal, as it is locally known, is a giant reservoir and a major ecological resource.The serene Lake comes alive during Onam with a spectacular water regatta the Snake boat races. The dense vegetation on its banks is a wonderful sight. The boats that ply on the lake vary from the large cargo carriers with mat-roofs to the houseboats.

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (Open 0600 – 1800 hrs)

The Kumarakom bird sanctuary, an ornithologist’s paradise, is a favorite haunt of migratory birds. June to August is the breeding season of resident wetland bird like Siberian stork,Cormorants,darter ,white ibis,egret,darter,heron,and teal.Between November and May is the season of migratory birds like pain tailed duck,garganey teal, spot billed duck,osprey,marsh harrier,steppy eagle etc.