Kumarakom
16 kms from Kottyam, Kumarakom is a small backwater town.
Kumarakom, situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake is one the
world famous Backwater destinations of Kerala. Fishing, Boating
and visits to the countryside make this destination a unique place
to look forward to. Kumarakom also has a small bird sanctuary where
different species of birds can be seen. A boat cruise along the
Vembanad Lake is the best way to experience the serenity of the
enchanting backwaters. Luxury hotels situated in this area to make
your stay more relaxing and comfortable.
Excursion
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls
Pay a visit to the picturesque Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls Located 18km
from Kottayam town, 2 km down a mud lane from Kumarakom is this
beautiful picnic spot where streams tinkle as they make their way
through the landscape and waters roar as they cascade down the mountains
from a height of 100 ft.
Pathiramanal (sands of midnight), an enchanting island on the lake,
can be accessed by boat from here. This 10 acre island on the backwaters
is home to many rare varieties of migratory birds from different
parts of the world. According to mythology a young Brahmin dived
into the Vembanad Lake to perform his evening ablutions and the
water madeway for the land to rise from below. The island can be
accessed only by boat. A cruise along the Vembanad Lake is the best
way to experience the sanctuary.
Kottayam
Kottayam is an ancient town famous for its churches, especially
the 700 years-old churches, the Cheria palli ('small church') with
exceptionally lovely paintings over the altar and the Valia palli('Big
Church') perched on a picturesque hillock over a small cluster of
houses. In the St.Mary's Church Kuravilangad built in 355 AD there
is an old bell which bears a hitherto undeciphered inscription.
The mortal remains of the blessed Alphonsa and the Blessed Father
Chavara are entombed at the St.Mary's Church at Bharananganam and
the St.Joseph's Monastery Church at Mannanam respectively. Thousands
gather at these holy shrines during festive occasions. Pala town
and Kanjirappally, nourished by the Meenachil and Manimala rivers
respectively are centers of rubber plantations. The Ettumanoor Shiva
Temple 12 km north of town, has exceptionally beautiful wall paintings
and sculptures inside the temple. In the heart of Kottayam town
is the much venerated Thirunakkara Mahadeva temple.
Erumely
This is an important pilgrim centre for the Hindus and Muslims.
Sree Dharmasastha Temple here is an ancient temple dedicated to
Lord Ayyappa. Pilgrims going to Sabarimala alight here.
Aranmula
50km from Kottayam, Aranmula is the site of the splendid Onam festival
boat races, usually in early September. These races unlike the more
sporting Nehru Trophy race at Alappuzha in August are essentially
religious, based on a temple festival. Caparisoned elephants with
beaded umbrellas, processions of decorated floats, and highly ornate
boats make this a lovely event to witness. Aranmula is also the
centre of bell metal mirror crafts.
Vagamon
Vagamon, 64 km from Kottayam and 34 km from Pala, situated at an
elevation of 1100 meters above sea level is a trekker's paradise.
It is an ideal tourist spot surrounded by the greenery of tea gardens,
beautiful meadows and valleys. Other attractions: Thangal Para,
Indo-Swiss project, Kurisumala Ashram.
Elaveezha Poonchira
Elaveezha Poonchira is yet another picnic spot accessible from Pala
and located in the midst of beautiful hills.
Vaikom
40km from Kottayam, famous for the Shiva Temple. The festival in
November-December, last for 12 days and the 'Panchavadyam' is an
important musical performance.
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Getting There
The nearest airport is Cochin, which is 80 kms away and Kottayam,
16 Km away, is the nearest railway head, which is well connected
by trains from all major cities in India. It is easily accessible
by road also.
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Weather
Kumarakom enjoys a well-balanced tropical climate. The lowest and
highest temperatures recorded are 16.10 C and 37.80 C. There is always
a cool, fresh breeze, which makes even the warmest weather readily
agreeable. The South West monsoon is from early June to early August.
However, slight drizzles persist till early November. Average rainfall
is 1100 mm per year. The peak tourist season is from November to March.
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General Information & Accomdation info on Kumarakom city of Kerala - India
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