The beautiful Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, situated on the banks of the
Vembanad Lake in
Kumarakom, is an ideal place for backwater cruises. This ornithologist's paradise is a habitat of migratory birds like Siberian stork, Egret darter, Heron and Teal. One can also see different varieties of local birds like waterfowl, wild duck, cuckoo, owl, and water duck here.
This sanctuary is situated 12 km from
Kottayam. It is open from 10:00 to 18:00 hrs. The best time to watch birds are between June and August. Migratory birds arrive between November and February.
The renovated Kumarakom Tourist Complex spanning over 101 acres of charming wooded land and lake, was built around the 50-year-old 'Baker's Mansion', which was earlier a small hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC). House boats and motor boats are available on hire for bird-watching cruises on the lake.
