Kumarakom

On the shores of the Vembanad lake lies this cluster of islands, with crisscross canal, palm fringed paddy field and a very unique way of life. It's one of the main places to go to to explore the fames backwaters of Kerala. Once the area could only be accessed by boats but with the advent of bridges the navigation between the shores have changed but very little has changed in the way the people go about their lives. This is a great place to experience real life on the backwaters. Life in Kumarakom revolves around the water. Traditional fishing boats and canoes move through narrow waterways, while village communities continue age-old activities such as fishing, coir making, toddy tapping and rice cultivation. Exploring these waterways by canoe provides an intimate view of everyday life, far beyond the larger houseboat routes.The nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, attracting both resident and migratory birds. The surrounding Vembanad wetlands also support a remarkable variety of wildlife and plant life.