Best Things to Do in Kumarakom: A Complete Guide to Backwater Experiences

Kumarakom is one of Kerala’s most beautiful destinations for experiencing the charm of backwaters, peaceful village life, lush landscapes, and traditional waterways. Set along the shores of the vast Vembanad Lake, this serene destination offers much more than a relaxing getaway.

From cruising through the Kumarakom backwaters and exploring narrow canals by canoe to watching migratory birds and enjoying spectacular sunsets, there are plenty of things to do in Kumarakom for travellers seeking nature, culture, and tranquillity.

Whether you are visiting for a weekend or planning a longer Kerala holiday, here is a complete guide to the experiences worth adding to your Kumarakom itinerary.

1. Explore the Kumarakom Backwaters

No trip to Kumarakom is complete without experiencing its famous backwaters. A network of canals, lagoons, and waterways connects the region to Vembanad Lake, creating a landscape where coconut palms, traditional homes, paddy fields, and local boats come together.

A backwater cruise allows you to slow down and appreciate Kumarakom at its most peaceful. As you move along the waterways, you can observe everyday village life, fishermen at work, traditional homes, and the natural beauty surrounding the lake.

For many travellers, exploring the Kumarakom backwaters is the highlight of their visit.

2. Enjoy Kumarakom Boating on Vembanad Lake

A boating experience on Vembanad Lake is among the most memorable things to do in Kumarakom. Depending on your preference, you can choose from different types of boat experiences, including traditional boats, motorboats, and leisurely cruises.

The vast expanse of Vembanad Lake offers beautiful views throughout the day. Morning cruises are ideal for enjoying the calm atmosphere, while evening rides provide an opportunity to watch the sky change colour over the water.

If you want to experience Kumarakom beyond its roads and resorts, getting onto the water is the perfect way to do it.

3. Take a Peaceful Canoe Ride Through the Canals

While larger boats are ideal for exploring the lake, canoeing offers a more intimate way to discover Kumarakom.

Traditional canoes can navigate the smaller waterways and narrow canals that larger boats cannot reach. The slower pace allows you to appreciate the details of the landscape—from coconut trees and water-side homes to local fishermen and birds along the banks.

Canoeing is particularly appealing for travellers looking for a quiet and immersive experience away from busy tourist routes.

4. Discover Local Village Life

One of the most rewarding places to visit in Kumarakom is not necessarily a single attraction but the villages surrounding its waterways.

A village experience offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of Kerala. Depending on the experience you choose, you may see local homes, small farms, traditional occupations, fishing activities, and the agricultural landscape surrounding the backwaters.

Walking or travelling through these communities helps you understand how closely everyday life in Kumarakom is connected to its waterways.

5. Go Bird Watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Nature enthusiasts should make time for the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Located along the banks of Vembanad Lake, the sanctuary is known for its rich birdlife and wetland environment.

The area attracts a variety of resident and migratory birds, making it a rewarding destination for bird watchers and photographers. Early mornings are particularly enjoyable, when the surroundings are quiet and bird activity is at its peak.

If you are interested in combining nature exploration with your backwater holiday, bird watching is one of the experiences worth including in your itinerary.

6. Enjoy a Sunset Cruise

Few experiences capture the beauty of Kumarakom quite like a sunset cruise.

As the sun begins to set over Vembanad Lake, the water reflects changing shades of gold, orange, and pink. A gentle boat ride during this time offers a peaceful way to end the day.

Whether you are travelling as a couple, with family, or on your own, a sunset cruise provides an opportunity to simply relax and enjoy the scenery without rushing from one attraction to another.

Keep your camera ready—the combination of open water, coconut palms, boats, and the evening sky can create some of the most memorable photographs of your trip.

7. Relax Beside the Backwaters

Not every Kumarakom experience needs to involve sightseeing.

Sometimes, the best way to enjoy the destination is to slow down and spend time beside the water. Sit back with a cup of tea, enjoy the view, read a book, or simply watch boats move across the lake.

The peaceful surroundings make Kumarakom an excellent destination for travellers who want to disconnect from busy routines and spend quality time in nature.

8. Experience Kerala Cuisine by the Water

A visit to Kumarakom is also an opportunity to explore the flavours of Kerala. Freshly prepared seafood, traditional vegetarian dishes, rice-based meals, and regional specialities form an important part of the local culinary experience.

Enjoying a traditional meal while surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the backwaters can make your stay even more memorable.

For an authentic experience, look for opportunities to enjoy local cuisine at traditional restaurants or during curated dining experiences.

9. Explore Kumarakom at a Relaxed Pace

One of the biggest advantages of visiting Kumarakom is that you do not need to fill every hour with activities.

Unlike destinations where sightseeing involves moving from one attraction to another, Kumarakom is best experienced slowly. Spend a morning on the backwaters, explore the villages in the afternoon, enjoy a sunset cruise, and leave some time simply to relax.

This slower pace allows you to experience the destination rather than just check attractions off a list.

The Best Time to Experience Kumarakom

Kumarakom can be visited throughout much of the year, but the experience can vary depending on the season.

The cooler months are generally comfortable for outdoor activities such as boating, canoeing, bird watching, and village exploration. The monsoon season brings lush greenery and a dramatic atmosphere to the backwaters, while the post-monsoon period offers refreshing landscapes and pleasant conditions.

If bird watching is a priority, it is worth considering the seasonal presence of migratory birds when planning your visit.

Make Your Kumarakom Stay Part of the Experience

Choosing the right accommodation can make it easier to experience the best of Kumarakom. Staying close to the backwaters gives you convenient access to boating, village experiences, nature walks, and other local attractions without spending too much time travelling.

A comfortable resort can also become part of the holiday itself—a place to relax after exploring the waterways, enjoy peaceful surroundings, and appreciate the natural beauty of Kumarakom.

Kalathil Lake Resort offers a convenient base for travellers looking to experience the charm of Kumarakom while enjoying a peaceful stay surrounded by Kerala's natural beauty. From exploring the backwaters to simply relaxing beside the water, the resort allows you to experience Kumarakom at your own pace.

Plan Your Kumarakom Backwater Experience

Kumarakom is a destination where the journey is just as memorable as the destination. Whether you choose a traditional canoe ride, a Vembanad Lake cruise, a village exploration, bird watching, or a peaceful evening by the water, each experience reveals a different side of Kerala.

So, when planning your next Kerala getaway, add these things to do in Kumarakom to your itinerary and give yourself enough time to enjoy the destination without rushing.

After all, the true charm of Kumarakom lies in slowing down, getting closer to nature, and letting the backwaters set the pace of your journey.