Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary-A Bird lover’s paradise
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of India's prominent bird sanctuaries. Attracting a wide variety of birds from various parts of the globe and housed in scenic natural settings with famous Kumarakom Backwaters located not too far away, it offers a dual attraction of bird watching with memorable holiday experience.
Located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, it is also known as Vembanad bird sanctuary. With a total length of 14 acres, Kumarakom bird sanctuary is one of the smallest in India. However, despite its relatively small size, the wide variety of birds that are found here is truly exceptional, making it a bird watchers paradise. Apart from a big population of resident birds, the reserve welcomes arrival of migratory birds like egret, Siberian stork, heron, darter and teal who visit from faraway places both within the country (Himalayas) and without (Siberia).
Another prime attraction of Kumarakom bird sanctuary is its location. Visitors are treated with pleasant views of enchanting backwater life, enhancing the bird watching experience. Pathrimanal which is an exotic island is just a short boat ride away which again houses a wide variety of birds both resident and migratory. The Kumarakom sanctuary itself offers a few exciting modes of bird watching. Boat cruises may be taken to explore the sanctuary which is recommended as it tends not to frighten and scare away the birds. The pleasant boat slowly cruising along the shallow waters is added benefit. Optionally, visitors may also enjoy the one and a half hour trekking trips to explore the reserve.
The wide variety of Bird species including rare ones, some exciting ways of exploring the sanctuary and one of the best backwater destinations nearby combine to make Kumarakom a must visit for everyone.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (Avifauna)
The resident bird species include cuckoo, waterfowl, egret, owl, water duck and heron. Migratory birds include Siberian cranes, teal, parrots, wood beetle and flycatchers. A large variety of fish, crabs and shellfish are found here apart from numerous butterflies and moths flutter around the park.
Flora
Green paddy field, mangrove forests and coconut groves exists, covering the entire area under a blanket of green.
Best time to visit
Resident birds : June to August is the ideal time to observe resident birds.
Migratory birds : November to February is when a large numbers of migratory birds flock the sanctuary.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (How to reach)
By Air: The nearest airport is at Cochin, at 106 km
By Rail: Kottayam railway station is just 15 km away from the sanctuary.
