Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

» Location :	Kumarakom, 13 km from Kottayam
» Area Covered :	14 acres
» Major attraction :	Siberian Cranes
»Best time to visit :	November to February

About the Sanctuary
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, 12 km from Kottayam is known for its varied avain population. Situated on the banks of Vembanand Lake, this bird sancturay is an ornithologist’s paradise. Mangrove forests, swaying palm and coconut groves along the enchanting waterways and canals add to the beauty of Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary all the more. Spreading on 14 acres of lush wooded land, one can see a variety of colorful migratory birds in their nests chirping and taking flight every now and then. The sanctuary harbours some of the much sought after birds who flock in thousands, some from the Himalayas and also even from as far as Siberia.


Avifauna
Migratory Siberian cranes are the main attraction of the sanctuary at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Bird lovers can see about 91 species of resident birds and around 50 rare species of migratory birds here. Resident birds include water fowls, cuckoo, owl, egret, heron, water duck, parrots, teal, larks, flycatchers, wood beetle and kingfishers. Bird watching cruises along the Vembanand lake is the best way to experience the beauty of the sanctuary.


Nearby Attractions
Kumarakom is a happening backwater destination. It is a small village, 12 km west of Kottayam. It is a part of Kuttanad region where farming is done below sea level. The Vembanad Lake is the venue for spectacular snake boat races and house boat cruises. The Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls is a beautiful picnic spot with numerous rubber plantations. The Pathiramanal Island is an enchanting island on the Vembanand Lake and can be accessed by boat only. On your visit to Kumarakom, don’t miss sunrise and sunset cruise in a Kettuvallam, offering close look at a delightful rustic life.

How to Reach
By Air : The nearest Airport is at Cochin at a distance of 70 kms. from the Muhamma boat jetty. Another airport is at Trivandrum(171 km).

By Rail : The nearest railhead is at Kottayam and local and Express trains connect the city with the rest of India.

By Road : Kottayam is 12 km from Kumarakom and is well connected by a good network of roads.