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Backwaters, Kumarakom Overview
The Vembanad Lake forms the pleasing Kumarakom’s backwaters. These backwaters are situated 17 kilometres from Kottayam in the everlasting state of Kerala, India. These backwaters are known around the whole world for their magnificent experience. This destination is by far the most flawless and unique destination for a family as well as couples. You can capture beautiful moments such as the ducks swimming in the lake, birds flying around the backwaters giving the sky an aesthetic look and the paddy fields which make the scenery look even more beautiful. This place will make sure to give you the most vibrant and enthusiastic experience.
The boat tours in Kumarakom start at the Vembanad Lake and go in full Allepey. Kumarakom was called as the Baker Estate. The now known Rubber estate is a place for all the species of fauna and flora. You will find all sorts of trees, grass and shrubs here that will take you to a whole new place.
If you wake up early, you should check the dew drops. They shine so brightly, giving you the most lively experience. The mist formed will make you feel so alive and happy that you would want to stay there and watch these little things for hours. The boat rides are one of the most precious and memorable experiences you’ll have in the backwaters. The Kumarakom backwaters are known all around the world for its nature and rich heritage. You can have the best experience by choosing to live in the houseboats instead of hotels. This will give you the chance of witness locals do their work and viewing the beautiful sunset.
More on Backwaters
Vembanad Lake
The biggest lake in Kerala is the Vembanad Lake. It is also the second-largest lake in India which makes this lake of high importance. The lake is over 2000 square kilometre huge and spreads to different districts of Kerala. This lake is known by a variety of names, like Lake Vembanadu in Kottayam, Lake Kochi in Cochin and Lake Punnamada in Kuttanad. Pamba, Manimala, Periyar, Meenachil, Muvattupuzha and Achenkovil are the six important rivers of Kerala which feed the lake Vembanad. There are so many gorgeous islands situated around the lake which enhance the view. This lake comes under the National Wetlands Conservation Programme. The government has classified this lake as the Vembanad Wetland.
Kumarakom Backwaters Houseboats
If you’re going to live in Kumarakom, the houseboat stay will offer you the best experience you can have. Living on the serene waters and enjoying with your friends and family is an extraordinary experience. Not only this, but you will have the best viewing experience as you see the sun go down. If you are coming for a short trip, you can stay at one of the hotels and explore boat tours in the morning as well. You can also be provided with delicious meals on the cruise, which will enble you to enjoy a wholesome experience.
You can choose a houseboat according to your needs from the vast range of boats. These houseboats are designed to give the tourist a comfortable and relieving experience. These tours start at a price range of INR 3500 and go up to INR 21,000 for a single person per night. These houseboats take you to every edge of the gorgeous backwaters giving you a very authentic experience. The tour packages also include the food and other services making this journey very convenient for you. You can book in advance as well, so you don’t have to worry about not finding a houseboat. Be it a family trip or couples trip; you can now have an exquisite experience with the different packages you will be provided with.
Most of these boats are Kettuvellam Houseboats and Punting houseboats with 1/ 2/ 3/ 4 bedrooms. These perfectly fit the tourist’s necessities. These boats are made from coconut fibre and jackfruit logs. Few of the boats even come with air-conditioning giving you an exclusive experience. The sun decks allow you to take in the views. Almost all the houseboats run on an engine. Nevertheless, few others use a boatsman who sails the boat with oars. These boats are classified as Gold Star, Silver Star and Green Palm. Different boats provide different features.
Things To Do in Kumarakom Backwaters
Day Boat Tours: Day boat tours are the most appealing and enjoyable. If you do not want to spend the night on a houseboat, this is the best tour for you. The trips start from Kumarakom to Alleppey. You will reach back to Kumarakom in a day. You will come across the pleasing paddy fields on the way to Alleppey. You can stop and buy tasty snacks giving an end to a beautiful encounter.
Night Boat Tours: the night boat tours start in the midday. You will be provided with snacks and fresh meals if you require. You will also be provided with beverages and water for drinking. This tour stops at the pit stop at the backwater market to buy the products for preparing meals. The travellers can watch all the activities around the town as the sunsets. You can have a soothing dinner experience with low lighting and lakeside sightseeing.
Boat Race: During the Onam festival, the boat races are a must. They are enjoyable to watch as well as row. The IruttuKuthi needs 59 oarsmen and is a once in a lifetime experience which you shouldn’t miss.
Photography
Photography is permitted.
Best Time To Visit Backwaters
You should explore the backwaters of Kumarakom in between September and March. The climate is very satisfying around this time.
Tips For Visiting Backwaters
1. Since buses are no allowed at the backwaters, you can take taxis which are available almost everywhere in Kumarakom.
2. Wear sunscreen for protection and light clothing, which will help you sweat less.
3 Remember to drink water. You will find coconut water stalls everywhere. Drink water and coconut water to stay energetic
4. You can take the Ayurvedic massages and treatment for a soothing experience.
How to Reach Backwaters
You have to reach the Kottayam Railway station for the train journey. There are boats available from Muhamma which is located near Alappuzha to Kumarakom Jetty. If you’re travelling by road, you will have to travel for 16 kilometres. You can take the locals buses or taxis, whatever is convenient for you.
