Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers in Kerala. Located on the banks of the picturesque Vembanad Lake, this sanctuary is home to a variety of local and migratory birds. Spread over 14 acres, the sanctuary is situated in the Kumarakom village of Kottayam district in Kerala. The sanctuary is popular among tourists for its diverse bird species, tranquil backwaters, and lush greenery.
History: The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary was initially a rubber plantation that was later converted into a bird sanctuary in 1991. The sanctuary was established as a part of the national bird sanctuary project aimed at conserving the rich bird diversity of India. The sanctuary has been an essential bird habitat ever since its inception and has received several recognitions and awards for its conservation efforts.
Flora and Fauna: The sanctuary is a blend of a variety of ecosystems like wetlands, forests, and meadows that support a wide range of flora and fauna. The bird sanctuary is primarily known for its avian diversity, with over 180 species of birds. The sanctuary is home to both resident and migratory birds, including the Siberian crane, egret, heron, kingfisher, teal, owl, cuckoo, and others. Apart from birds, the sanctuary is also home to several other species of fauna like the python, water snake, and many species of fish.
Tourist Attractions: Apart from bird-watching, the sanctuary has several other attractions that are worth exploring. Some of the popular tourist attractions include:
- Backwater Cruise: A visit to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is incomplete without a cruise through the scenic Vembanad Lake. The lake is an ideal spot for boating, fishing, and bird-watching, and tourists can also explore the surrounding paddy fields and coconut groves.
- Pathiramanal Island: This small island in Vembanad Lake is a popular destination for bird lovers. The island is known for its diverse bird species and is accessible only by boat.
- Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls: This magnificent waterfall is situated about 2 km from the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and is a popular tourist destination. The waterfall cascades down from a height of 100 feet and is surrounded by lush green forests and streams.
- Bay Island Driftwood Museum: This unique museum in Kumarakom showcases a rare collection of driftwood sculptures that have been carved from the root systems of trees uprooted by the 2004 tsunami.
- Kumarakom Beach: The serene and secluded Kumarakom Beach is an ideal spot for relaxing and unwinding amidst nature. The beach is an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing, and tourists can also indulge in a range of water sports activities.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is from November to February, during the winter season when several migratory birds visit the sanctuary. The weather during this time is pleasant, and tourists can enjoy the bird-watching experience without any hassle.
Entry Fee: The entry fee to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 100 for foreign nationals. The boat ride charges for the backwater cruise may vary, depending on the season and the type of boat.
How to Reach: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is easily accessible by road and is situated about 85 km from Cochin International Airport. The nearest railway station is Kottayam, which is about 16 km from the sanctuary. Tourists can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the sanctuary from the railway station.
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