
Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Kottayam, Kerala, India
1. Kumarakom Beach
Tranquil beach nestled in the backwaters of Kumarakom, offering serene ambiance and unique houseboat stays.
- Houseboat Stay: Offers a traditional Kerala experience on floating accommodations.
- Bird Sanctuary Nearby: Surrounded by the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, home to diverse migratory birds.
- Fishing Opportunities: Permits fishing for a unique catch-of-the-day experience.
2. Vembanad Lake
India's longest lake and the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, offering boat rides, birdwatching, and local cuisine.
- Boat Rides: Enjoy boat rides to explore the picturesque backwaters and nearby islands.
- Birdwatching: Popular destination for observing a wide variety of migratory birds throughout the year.
- Fishing Village Experience: Visit traditional fishing villages and learn about local fisheries.
3. Kavalam Kottayam Boat Club
Boating club offering a range of water sports activities and fishing trips on Vembanad Lake.
- Water Sports Activities: Offers waterskiing, wakeboarding, and banana boat rides for thrill-seekers.
- Fishing Trips: Organizes fishing trips to help visitors catch their own fresh fish.
- River Cruises: Enjoy scenic cruises through the tranquil backwaters of Kottayam.
4. Kumarakom Backwaters
A labyrinth of waterways filled with lush greenery and traditional houseboats, providing a serene getaway.
- Houseboat Stays: Experience life aboard traditional houseboats for an authentic Kerala backwaters experience.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the lush greenery and serene waterways.
- Birdwatching: Home to a wide variety of migratory birds, making it a popular destination for bird enthusiasts.
5. Poonjar Boat Club
Boating club offering boating, fishing, and picnic facilities on Punnamada Lake.
- Boating: Offers motorboat rides for sightseeing and exploring the lake.
- Fishing: Organizes fishing trips to catch local freshwater fish species.
- Picnics: Provides picnic spots for a relaxing day by the lake.
6. Kottayam Boat Race
Annual boat race event showcasing traditional Kerala boat building and racing skills on Vembanad Lake.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique insight into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
- Boat Racing: Witness traditional boat racing techniques and competitive spirit.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy local Kerala cuisine during the festivities.
7. Kumarakom Boat Race
Annual boat race event held in Kumarakom showcasing traditional Kerala boat building and racing skills.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
- Boat Racing: Witness traditional boat racing techniques and competitive spirit.
- Scenic Beauty: Takes place amidst the picturesque backwaters of Kumarakom.
8. Kumarakom Kayaking
Guided kayaking tours through the serene backwaters of Kumarakom for a unique perspective.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers a peaceful way to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the backwaters.
- Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides who share local insights and stories.
- Birdwatching: Provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching in the surrounding mangroves.
9. Kumarakom Nature Reserve
A nature reserve located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, home to diverse flora and fauna.
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including rare birds and reptiles.
- Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides who share local insights and help identify wildlife.
- Eco-Friendly Activities: Promotes eco-friendly activities to preserve the delicate ecosystem of the reserve.
10. Kumarakom Village Walks
Guided walking tours through traditional Kumarakom village showcasing local life and culture.
- Cultural Insights: Provides an in-depth look into the daily lives and traditions of the locals.
- Local Cuisine: Opportunities to taste authentic Kerala cuisine prepared using local ingredients.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the village and its lush surroundings.
11. Kumarakom Fishing Village
Traditional fishing village offering insights into the local fishing industry and daily life.
- Fishing Activities: Opportunity to learn about traditional fishing techniques and observe the locals at work.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala's fishing communities.
- Local Cuisine: Taste fresh, locally-caught seafood prepared using traditional methods.
12. Kumarakom Backwaters Houseboat Stays
Overnight houseboat stays on Vembanad Lake for an authentic Kerala backwaters experience.
- Authentic Experience: Offers a unique, traditional way to experience the beauty of the Kerala backwaters.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of the lush greenery and serene waterways throughout your stay.
- Local Cuisine: Experience delicious, authentic Kerala cuisine prepared on board.
13. Kumarakom Backwaters Canoeing
Canoeing tours through the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom for a serene and peaceful experience.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers a peaceful way to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the backwaters.
- Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides who share local insights and stories.
- Birdwatching: Provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching in the surrounding mangroves.
14. Kumarakom Backwaters Sunset Cruise
Sunset cruise through the serene backwaters of Kumarakom for a romantic and memorable experience.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the stunning beauty of the sun setting over the tranquil backwaters.
- Romantic Experience: Offers a romantic and memorable experience for couples.
- Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides who share local insights and stories.
15. Kumarakom Backwaters Morning Fishing Trips
Early morning fishing trips on traditional boats to learn about local fishing techniques.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a unique glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the local fishermen.
- Fishing Activities: Learn about traditional fishing techniques and try your hand at catching fish.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the peaceful, serene beauty of the backwaters as dawn breaks.