Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in the state of Kerala, is one of the most sought after picnic spots in Kerala. There are many activities that tourists can indulge in when they are. Boating, fishing and sight-seeing are some of the noteworthy things to do for tourists coming to Vembanad Lake. Though this lake covers many districts, the portion of the lake that covers Kottayam’s Kumarakom is the one that witnesses high footfalls every year. This lake is known by different names in different places.

The wetlands of Vembanad are maintained very well by the State Government of Kerala under the project, National Wetlands Conservation Programme. Vembanad Lake is one of the major contributors for the tourism industry of Kerala backwaters. All along the shores of the Vembanad Lake, there are hundreds of houseboats and resorts for the benefit of tourists.  Backwaters are highly preferred by foreign tourists as well, which explains the huge revenues that pour into the state’s exchequer through Vembanad Lake.

How to Reach

By Air

Cochin International Airport, at a distance of 85km from the lake, is the nearest airport.

By Rail

Kottayam Railway junction is the nearest to Vembanad Lake, as it is just about 16km far from the place.

By Road

Kumarakom is one of the top tourist destinations of Kerala. Therefore, it is well-connected with all the important cities of the state and neighbouring states.

Climatic Conditions and Best time to Visit

The period between September and March is the best for visiting Kumarakom as the climate is cool and pleasant then, just after the monsoon season. The area experiences tropical climate all through the year. Except the summer season (March to May) and monsoon season (June to September), the place can be visited anytime of the year. During winters (November to February), the temperatures sometimes dip to 18 degrees Celsius too making it really cold and exciting for tourists.

Cruises from Vembanad Lake

There are various packages of cruises that start from Vembanad Lake. The most famous one is the life tour package that lasts for about 4 hours. In this cruise, tourists are taken around in impressive houseboats along the backwaters. As you go along the placid waters, you will get a first-hand feel of the way the locals go about their daily life routines. The lunch that is served at the houseboat in this package contains some of the best local delicacies that cater to your gastronomical needs. You will also get to enjoy the exciting flora and fauna found along the backwaters of the lake.

Prime Attractions

Some of the important and must-see places near Kumarakom’s Vembanad Lake are the following:

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

This sanctuary that is set on a sprawling area of 14 acres is the abode of hundreds of varieties of birds like parrots, larks, kingfishers, cuckoos, waterfowls, wild ducks, wood beetles, egrets, Siberian storks, herons, teals and darters.

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple was built as early as 15th century AD. Legend has it that the author of Mahabharata, Ved Vyas and the most important characters of the epic, Pandavas offered their prayers at this temple.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall

Located at just about 2km from Kumarakom, this place should never be missed by people coming to Vembanad Lake. Waterfalls here from a height of 100 feet and the beauty of the place are aggravated further because of the presence of sprawling rubber plantations. Many tourists come here for having a wonderful time with their friends and family.