Places To Visit In Kumarakom

Top 5 Sightseeing Places in Kumarakom

Kumarakom is known to be a masterpiece of nature, and it fascinates visitors. A perfect blend of Kerala’s natural beauty and rich culture, these are some of the best places to visit in Kumarakom that would spoil you for good.

1. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls

This waterfall is about 20 minutes from Kumarakom and flows between big trees and rubber farms. During monsoons, the water falls strongly and people like to take short walks around it. There’s a small church nearby too. Locals often bring food here for a picnic. It's one of the peaceful sightseeing places in Kumarakom to enjoy nature.

2. Thanneermukkom Bund

This long wall (bund) splits the Vembanad Lake into saltwater and freshwater. People come here in the evening to walk and watch the sunset. You’ll see many birds like kingfishers and herons. Small shops nearby sell local snacks like boiled peanuts and banana fritters. It's a simple yet meaningful tourist point in Kumarakom that shows how locals live close to water.

3. Mango Meadows

Located near Kaduthuruthy, Mango Meadows is an eco-friendly park with over 4,800 plants, fish ponds, and small gardens. You can see rare trees, walk through spice farms, and even try simple activities like cycling or fishing. There’s a small cafe where they serve local Kerala food on banana leaves. Great for both kids and adults.

4. Toddy Shop Backwater Stop

While on a houseboat ride, many locals and tourists stop at toddy shops by the water. Toddy is a soft drink made from coconut sap, and people here often drink it with spicy food like karimeen fry (pearl spot fish) and tapioca. These stops are not fancy, but they give you a true Kerala taste. This is where you feel the real backwater life.

5. Jatayu Rock Viewpoint

Around 1.5 hours from Kumarakom, this spot is known for a huge bird statue of Jatayu from Ramayana. There’s a ropeway (cable car) that takes you up the hill. On top, you can see far-off villages, green hills, and a wide sky. It’s a good day trip if you want a break from the water and want to see Kerala’s hills too. There’s also a small restaurant and souvenir shop at the top.

Top 7 Attractions in Kumarakom 

1. Kottur Backwater Stretch

This peaceful stretch of water near Kumarakom is less crowded than the main backwaters. You can take a small boat ride, watch locals fishing, and enjoy calm views of coconut trees and tiny homes by the water. It's perfect for people who want quiet time in nature. One of the underrated famous places in Kumarakom.

2. Aymanam Village

Known from the book The God of Small Things, Aymanam is full of narrow canals, paddy fields, and old Kerala houses. Locals are friendly, and you can enjoy home-cooked food if you stay with a family. Small canoes take you into hidden water paths — a true tourist point in Kumarakom if you want to feel village life.

3. Vaikom Ferry Route

This slow local ferry ride connects small islands and gives you a real look at daily life in Kerala. You’ll pass through narrow canals, see temples on the shore, and watch kids waving from the banks. It’s not fancy, but it’s very real. The Vaikom Shiva Temple at the stop is also worth a visit.

4. Illikkal Kallu Trek

About 2 hours from Kumarakom, this spot is a favourite for people who enjoy short hill treks. The top has a natural rock that looks like it's split in two. On clear days, you can see faraway hills and mist rolling in. Morning is the best time, and roadside tea stalls offer hot snacks after your walk.

5. Kallara–Payippad Route

This route between two small villages is green and scenic, especially during Onam when boat races happen in the nearby river. You can cycle here or take an auto ride through coconut farms and old temples. It’s a great route for quiet photography or just slow exploring.

6. Edayazham Mangrove Trail

This walkway runs through a dense mangrove forest, where you can walk above the water on wooden planks. You’ll see fish jumping, birds flying overhead, and thick roots coming out of the water. It’s shady, calm, and a good stop for families or nature lovers.

7. Panachikkad Saraswathy Temple

This temple is dedicated to the goddess Saraswathy, who is worshipped for knowledge and learning. During ‘Vidyarambham’, children are brought here to write their first letters on rice. The idol is covered in tulsi and creepers instead of walls, which gives it a very earthy, local feel. It’s a quiet but meaningful stop.

Peaceful backwaters, quiet villages, and hidden mangrove trails—the best locations in Kumarakom let you slow down and truly explore. Whether it’s a ferry ride through coconut groves or a walk by a quiet bund, the charm here is in the little things.