Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, also popularly known as the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, is a breathtaking and beautiful bird sanctuary that is located at Kumarakom in the Kottayam district in the Indian state of Kerala.

Situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in the Kerala Backwaters, this bird sanctuary is a favourite destination for many native as well as migratory birds, which makes the place a dreamland full of ecstasy and delight for bird watchers and nature lovers.

The houseboats and motor boats that are available on rent to watch birds further enhance this enrichening experience.The walk through the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, jumping over the puddles and walking through the muddy paths is a unique experience in itself.

 The view of such a vast variety of birds pleases the heart, and tourists do not even realise how hours pass by as they just stand and watch the birds and capture them in their cameras.

Bird Watching at the Kumarakom 

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is the favourite haunt of many rare and beautiful birds. A visit to this sanctuary acquaints you to the variety of migratory birds that dwell here in bliss and peace.

 Some of these birds migrate here from the Himalayas to escape the chilly weather there during the winter season, while some travel from as far as Siberia.

The main attractions here are the local birds such as waterfowls, cuckoos, owls, egrets, herons, moorhens, darters, Brahminy kites, cormorants and the water duck.

 The Indian Cormorants are the most commonly found birds here and in fact around all the backwaters in Kerala.

Walking Trails and Butterfly Garden at Kumarakom 

Visitors have to walk for about 2 kilometres to reach the end of the trail, and then all the way back again since there is no exit gate at the end.

The trail begins at the interpretation centre/ticket office near the entrance. The Butterfly Garden lies in the way. This garden is a small garden, clearly marked by a board, and is home to a few butterflies.

Best time to visit Kumarakom

Undoubtedly, the best time to visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is in the months of November to February, when migratory birds from all across the globe come here for mating. The ideal time to visit the place for those who wish to spot local birds is from June to August.

How to Reach Kumarakom

The nearest railway station to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is Kottayam, which is about 13 kilometres away from your final destination,

while the nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, 94 kilometres away from the sanctuary. From both these places, you can easily hire a taxi to take you to the sanctuary.

Cost: 

Indians: INR 50,
Foreign Nationals: INR 100,
Parking Fee: INR 25

Open Time:

 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM