Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

South India is fast becoming a hot spot for ornithologists and tourists, with more than 500 species of birds. After Periyar, it is Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary that plays a vital role in providing a home for these birds. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is at Kumarakom village, just 15 km from Kottayam. It is a paradise for bird lovers. Located along the banks of Vembanad lake, this bird sanctuary is spread over 14 acres of land and is highly scenic.

Attractions

Birds

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is the home of hundreds of native birds like waterfowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, heron, cormorant, moorhen, darter, brahminy kite and duck. Apart from this, more than 60 species of migratory birds come here from Himalayas and Siberia. The major species are siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. You can also witness a large number of parrots, flycatchers, wood beetle and larks during their respective migratory seasons in this bird sanctuary. Hornbills woodpeckers and king fishers also increase the majesty of this place.

Mammals

The spot is also popular for several species of species like bears, elephants, civet cats, lion-tailed macaque, deer, monkeys, tigers, nilgiri tahr, wild pigs, leopards, squirrels and malabar giant squirrel.

Amphibians

Near the shoreline, you can find a variety of mudskippers, crabs and turtles. Kumarakom is also known for a few species of fish and crocodile.

Reptiles

There are many kinds of snakes like Python, Cobra, Ciper, Rat Snake, Iguana and a few varieties of wild lizards too.

Despite being a small park, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a renowned tourist spot.

Activities

Bird watching is undoubtedly the most wonderful activity here. Apart from this, feeding the forest birds is great fun. If you are on a long trip, you can enjoy exploring the forest on foot. Just hire a Houseboat or go for a Motorboat Cruise for a remarkable journey. A boat Cruise on the Emerald Green Backwaters of the Vembanad Lake is one of the best experiences at kumarakom and a good way to explore the bird sanctuary as well.

There are several hotels, guest houses and resorts in the vicinity.

Best Time To Visit

June to August is considered the best time to visit the Kumarakom Bird sanctuary, but if you are a bird lover November to February is the appropriate time for migratory birds.