Geo details -
Coordinates : 9.5, 76.52
Location : Kottayam, Kerla, India
Area : 14 acres

Introduction -
Picturesque backwaters avifaunal kingdom at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an ornithologist's paradise. Though small as compared to other national parks and sanctuaries in India, this sanctuary is a diamond in India's ecological crown and a tourists' hotspot. Located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary provides habitat to various species of resident birds. Besides this, it is also the favourite haunt in winter seasons for various migratory birds including rare Siberian Cranes.

The sanctuary is spread over 14 acres on the southern bank of the Kavanar River. Dusk and dawn are the best time for bird watching when the avian population leave their nests and fly over the lake. To get more out of Vembanad lake and the sanctuary exploration, houseboat cruise is the best way that too provides a lifetime experience.

Flora -
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is formed by the backwaters of Vembanad lake and Kavanar river. Hence, the sanctuary is replete with mangrove forests, paddy fields and coconut groves. In the waters, blooming lilies simply amplify the beauty of the sanctuary.

Fauna -
Apart from large species of resident birds, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is the favourite abode of some migratory birds from the Himalayas, Central Asia and Siberia. Among local birds, the main attractions are waterfowl, heron, cormorant, owl, egret, cuckoo, moorhen, darter, Brahminy kite and duck. The migratory birds include Siberian crane, lark, flycatcher etc.

Nearby Tourist Destinations -
Neighbouring Areas for Spotting Birds

• Kaipuzha Muttu

• Pathirmanal

• Narakathara

• Thollairam Kayal

• Poothanpandi Kayal

Driftwood museum at Chakranpadi

Best Time to Visit -
The climate at Kumarakom Bird sanctuary remains favourable throughout the year. The best time to visit the sanctuary is the months between June to August to watch the resident birds. However, for migratory bird watching, the period between the months of November and March is preferable.

How to Reach -
Air : Nearest airport is the Kochi Airport at a distance of 106 km.

Rail : Nearest railway station is the Kottayam railway Junction at a distance of 15 km.

Road : Kumarakom is 14 km from Kottayam on State Highway No. 1, which leads to Kochi and Thiruvanthapuram in opposite directions.