Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary — Attraction in Kerala

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, also known as Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, is a renowned ecological treasure located in Kumarakom, Kottayam district of Kerala, India. Situated on the southern banks of the Meenachil River and bordered by the vast expanse of Vembanad Lake—the largest lake in Kerala—this sanctuary is a haven for both resident and migratory birds, making it a sought-after destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and eco-tourists.

History and Background The sanctuary's origins trace back to the mid-19th century when it was part of an estate owned by Englishman George Alfred Baker—hence the earlier name "Baker’s Estate." Baker preserved a portion of his rubber plantation as a bird habitat, inadvertently creating what would later become a bird sanctuary. Today, the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation manages the 14-acre sanctuary, ensuring its preservation and promotion as a key ecological site.

Location and Accessibility Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located about 14 kilometers from the town of Kottayam. It lies within easy reach of major cities like Kochi, which is approximately 60 kilometers away, connected by well-maintained roadways. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport at Nedumbassery, around 106 km from Kumarakom. Visitors can access the sanctuary via local buses, taxis, or by renting boats along the Vembanad Lake’s backwaters.

Biodiversity and Avian Life Home to roughly 180 species of birds, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is particularly famous for its diverse birdlife, including both local and migratory species. Resident birds include waterfowl, cuckoos, owls, egrets, herons, darters, brahminy kites, kingfishers, and paradise flycatchers. The sanctuary’s lush mangroves and backwater environment provide ideal breeding and nesting habitats.

Migratory birds travel from as far as the Himalayas and Siberia, with species such as the Siberian crane, pintail ducks, teals, terns, gulls, and storks gracing the sanctuary between November and February. This seasonal influx makes Kumarakom a prime birdwatching site during the migratory season.

Experience and Activities Visitors to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary can enjoy several activities:

Birdwatching: There are designated watchtowers and observation points within the sanctuary that offer excellent vantage points for spotting various bird species.

nature walks: Visitors can stroll along trails that wind through the sanctuary’s mangrove patches and backwater areas, allowing close encounters with the natural habitat.

Backwater cruises: Houseboats and motorboats are available for hire to explore the sanctuary from the water, providing a unique perspective to observe birds and the surrounding landscape.

Photography: The scenic beauty of the sanctuary combined with colorful bird species makes it a popular spot for both amateur and professional photographers.

The best time to visit for birdwatching is between November and February when migratory birds are present, while June to August marks the breeding season for resident birds.

Ecological Importance Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary plays a vital role in preserving Kerala’s rich biodiversity, particularly in protecting wetland and backwater ecosystems. The sanctuary supports the local economy through eco-tourism while promoting environmental education and conservation awareness.

Facilities The sanctuary offers basic amenities, including guided nature walks and boat tours. Several eco-friendly resorts and homestays in Kumarakom provide accommodation options for visitors, making it a perfect eco-tourism destination combining wildlife...

Beautiful view...Boating experience was good... They had good buffet options... It was raining the day we visited most of the time... Nice experience...

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (also known as Vembanad Bird Sanctuary) is situated at Kumarakom in Kottayam taluk of Kottayam district in the Indian state of Kerala, on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Set in the Kerala Backwaters, the bird sanctuary is a favourite haunt of migratory birds.

Developed in a rubber plantation as a bird sanctuary by Englishman George Alfred Baker, the sanctuary was formerly known as Baker's Estate.The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation currently manages the sanctuary.

The sanctuary is spread over 14 acres (5.7 ha) on the southern bank of the Meenachil River River. There is a system of paths for moving around within the sanctuary. Beyond the sanctuary, one can take a boat ride in Vembanad Lake or along the Meenachil River.

Kumarakom is 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) from Kottayam. State Highway No. 1 leads to Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram in opposite directions. Kochi International Airport at Nedumbassery is 106 km (66 mi) from Kumarakom.

Neighbouring areas such as Kaipuzha Muttu, Pathirmanal, Narakathara, Thollairam Kayal, and Poothanpandi Kayal are also good locations for spotting birds.

The main attractions are local birds like waterfowl, koel, owl, egret, heron, cormorant, moorhen, darter, and brahminy kite, as well as the migratory gull, teal, tern, flycatcher, and other birds are seen here during their respective migratory seasons. Some of the migratory birds come from the Himalayas, and a few from Siberia.

Sprawling across 14 hectares, and sitting by the banks of the river Vembanad, Kumarakom bird sanctuary is a vibrant hub of rare and numerous avian species. A multitude of migratory birds, from places as varied as the Himalayas to Siberia, flock to this wet land area. November to February is the ideal season to watch migratory birds. The other best option to visit the sanctuary is between June and August, which is also the breeding season of resident wetland birds such as Indian Darter, Little Cormorant, different species of egrets and herons, White Ibis and several species of kingfishers. Kumarakom bird sanctuary is located in Kottayam taluk in the district...

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is among the most popular bird watching spots in kerala. Vembanadu Lake side bird Sanctuary with an established trail system known for its domestic and migratory species. This eco friendly tourist destination is very much suitable for travel and trekking enthusiast including family and children. However it may not be enjoyable with small kids as the total walkable coverage is around 4kms.

From the entrance, there around 2km up distance to the side of Vembanadu lake, there are Rest place, Lake view points and two Bird watch towers. Walking through the natural pedestrian track through the forest is the main attraction, there we can feel and see different types of vegitation, plants, trees, living organism and birds etc. Birds are mostly seen in season which is in between March and September where in kerala it is Summer, Monsoon seasons. However the best season for trekking enthusiast is from November onwards where the crowd & rush will be less and climate is pleasant, but interest for bird watching to be dropped.

Short boat travel through the Canal and lake also will be an attraction, but prior booking may be required. There may have some chances of getting unauthorised proposal for local country boat travel, but it is not worth. However, the famous House boat package is totally different, covering one full day and advance booking is required.

Facility: Paid parking and Wash rooms near the Reception/Ticket counter. Local shops for light refreshment and drinks are available outside. Tourist guards are positioned in between the walkway for travelers' safety. No drinking water or snacks available in between the walkway, so travelers may keep those items if required.

Ticket Rs 100/- for bird Sanctuary visit from Ticket counter, no prior booking required. Additional parking fee for vehicle.

Visiting time 06.30 to 15.30

Location/Travel: This Bird Sanctuary is exactly at Kavanattinkara, the famous tourist destination at Kumarakom of Kottayam district. From Kottayam town around 19km, accessible with public transport (mainly private buses) or private vehicles. Kottayam is a well known town in Kerala and is well connected with State Highway...