Kumarakam, the backwater paradise and upcoming destination on the world tourist map, gives the tourist an out of the world experience in a rural backdrop. The village of Kumarakam is a cluster of little island on the Vembanadu Lake. Being a part of the Kuttanad region, Kumarakam offers spectacular views. The destination with unending paddy field is called the Rice Ball of Kerala.The main highlight of this spot on the shores of the vast and enchanting Vembanadu Lake is the bird sanctuary spread over 14 acres. Taking a boat trip round the island is the best way to watch the bird here. The country cuisine rich with sea and backwater fishes especially the ‘Pearl Spot’ is just irresistible along with the toddy or the coconut beer.This backwater destination offers its visitors many other options like sightseeing, boating, fishing part from the house boat stays. It is located 14km away from Kottayam and easily accessible by road and rail.

Sight Seeing Places:-

Cheriyapally

There are two churches in Kottayam dedicated to St Mary, this one having been built and consecrated in 1579 by the Portuguese with the assistance of a local Hindu raja. The architecture is therefore unsurprisingly, a blend of Portuguese and Hindu influences. Notable features of the temple include the suspended lamps of the halls, the murals on the interior walls created out of vegetable dyes, and the granite pillars.

The God of Small Things

The novel entitled The God of Small Things by Indian writer Arundhati Roy, is set in Ayemenem village which is adjacent to and adjoining Kumarakom. A building referred to as the History House in the book is the focal point of the story and, contrary to its state of ruins in the novel; it has been restored by the Taj group and is now a popular visitor centre. The Ayemenem House, in which Arundhati Roy spent some years of her childhood, is also open to visitors.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

It might be more accurate to refer to this location as a nature sanctuary, since this protected area is home to a huge selection of different species of flora and fauna. Birds however, are especially prevalent and of particular interest, there being a mix of both indigenous and migratory species. A boat trip around the sanctuary is the ideal opportunity to see not only birds but plant and marine life also.

Thazhathangady Juma Masjid

Kottayam is located very close to Kumarakom and is home to a large collection of interesting religious buildings. With construction occurring over a millennium ago, this mosque is considered to be one of the oldest in the country and is notable for its magnificent architecture as well as the beautiful carvings in wood which adorn its interior. The mosque is the product of the efforts of followers of the prophet Mohammad from back during their early visits to Kerala.

Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple

This Hindu temple in Kottayam is located in the middle of the town centre and was dedicated to Lord Shiva after being built at the beginning of 16th century. The then Raja of Thekkumkur was responsible for construction of the temple, which illustrates a definite conforming to the typical Kerala style. Murals on the temple’s interior walls tell epic Hindu tales while an annual festival is known to attract large numbers of Hindu worshippers.

Valiyapally

Also dedicated to St Mary, Valiyapally is the older of the two churches, having been constructed in 1550. Among Kottayam’s largest churches, it is famous for its two 8th century Persian crosses, both of which feature ancient inscriptions, suggesting that they date from some of India’s earliest Christian days.