Stretch across an area of about 14 acres of land on the banks of the famous Vembanad Lake, situates the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary providing a home to a wide variety of resident birds as well as migratory birds.

Initially developed as a bird sanctuary in a rubber estate by an Englishman George Alfred Baker, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is now a favourite haunt of bird watchers and nature lovers. It was formerly known as Baker's Estate and was set up to preserve the coconut trees and mandrakes which are the natural habitat of birds. The setting of the sanctuary overlooking the Vembanad Lake which is considered as the largest lake in India and the Kavanar River, makes it a picture-perfect location. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is definitely the ideal place to conduct a bird-watching tour.

Speciality

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is considered as the heaven of Ornithologists.
• Migratory birds like the Siberian stork, heron, egret, darter, and teal finds Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary as their favourite haunt.


• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is admired as the "Pearl of India's Ecological Crown".

Flora and Fauna

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is set amidst a rubber estate and is rich in exotic flora and fauna. It offers shelter for numerous local as well as migratory birds. Brahminy kite, parrots, woodpeckers, flycatchers, teal, larks, wood beetle, owl, moorhen, cuckoo, darter, cormorant, egret, waterfowl, water duck, and heron are the local birds found in Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The place welcomes more than 60 species of migratory birds including Siberian Cranes from the Himalayas and Siberia during their migratory season.

Nearest Tourist Places

• Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls: The Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls is a scenic picnic spot that attracts a lot of tourists as well as photo fanatics.
• Vembanad Lake: The sprawling Vembanad Lake with lush sceneries is an ideal spot for houseboat cruise.
• Kumarakom Beach: Kumarakom Beach is a captivating beach location situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake.
• Bay Island Driftwood Museum: Bay Island Driftwood Museum is a storehouse of various driftwood articles that are beautifully carved out into various captivating shapes and designs

Activities

Best time to visit

November to February and June to August.

Way to Reach

 By Air - Kochi International Airport is the nearest airport to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 71.8 Km.

 By Rail - Kottayam Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 15.3 Km.

 By Road -  Kottayam Bus Station is the nearest bus station to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary which is situated at a distance of 16.2 Km.

FAQs:

What are the most common bird species found at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary?

At Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, you can spot resident birds like the Brahminy kite, waterfowl, cuckoos, owls, egrets, and herons. During the migratory season (November to February), birds like the Siberian stork, darter, teal, and other migratory species can be seen. The sanctuary is also a breeding ground for wetland birds during the monsoon (June to August).

How can I explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary?

Visitors can explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary by taking a birdwatching tour on houseboats or motorboats that cruise along the Vembanad Lake. Alternatively, visitors can take a peaceful walk along the trails in the sanctuary, where they can observe birds in their natural habitat. Guided tours with naturalists are also available for a more immersive experience.

What are the main attractions near Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary?

Apart from birdwatching, visitors can enjoy the stunning views of Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in India, and explore the surrounding paddy fields, coconut groves, and mangrove forests. The nearby village of Kumarakom is known for its backwater cruises, making it an ideal spot for eco-tourism.

What accommodations are available near Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary?

There are numerous eco-friendly accommodations available near Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, ranging from budget-friendly lodges to luxurious resorts. Many of these options offer scenic views of the backwaters and easy access to the sanctuary for birdwatching tours.

Why the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is called the "Pearl of India’s Ecological Crown"?

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is often referred to as the "Pearl of India’s Ecological Crown" due to its lush greenery, diverse bird population, and the pristine beauty of the surrounding Vembanad Lake. The sanctuary’s rich biodiversity and serene environment contribute to its reputation as a natural treasure.