Kottayam, Kerala – In an unexpected and delightful turn of events, the famous pink water lilies of Malarikkal have begun to bloom as of mid-June 2025. An early flush of the vibrant Aambal (Nymphaea stellata) has been reported in the paddy fields near the Valiyaveettil Devi Temple, offering a premature glimpse of the region’s celebrated floral spectacle.
While this initial bloom is currently localized, it heralds the start of the season. The main, expansive bloom that carpets vast stretches of the backwaters is still expected to peak during its traditional window from late July to October. The annual Malarikkal Water Lily Festival is also anticipated to run from August through mid-October.
This early appearance provides a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the beginning of this natural marvel before the peak season crowds arrive. For those wishing to see the current blooms and plan a trip for the main event, here is a comprehensive guide on how to reach.
Location of Early Blooms: The current June 2025 blooms are concentrated in the paddy fields near the Valiyaveettil Devi Temple, Malarikkal.
A Visitor’s Guide: Experiencing Malarikkal’s Early Bloom from Valiyaveetil Devi Temple (June 2025)
Name: Valiyaveettil Devi Temple (വല്യവീട്ടിൽ ദേവി ക്ഷേത്രം) Address: GFRV+GQW, Thiruvarpu, Kerala 686003
A delightful surprise has emerged from the backwaters of Kottayam! As of mid-June 2025, an early bloom of the famous pink water lilies has carpeted the paddy fields surrounding the serene Valiyaveetil Devi Temple in Malarikkal. While the main, expansive bloom across the entire region is still expected from July to October, this localized spectacle offers a rare and intimate opportunity to witness the magic before the peak season.
If you’re planning to visit, using the temple as your starting point is the perfect way to experience this natural wonder. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it.
Step 1: Navigate to the Epicenter – Valiyaveetil Devi Temple, Malarikal
Your destination is the Valiyaveetil Devi Temple, a well-known local landmark.
- Using Maps: Simply enter “Valiyaveetil Devi Temple, Malarikkal” into Google Maps or your preferred navigation app. The location is accurately pinned and will guide you through the rural roads directly to the site.
- Reaching the Temple: As you get closer, you will see canals and flooded fields lining the roads. Parking is generally available along the roadside near the temple, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends. An early arrival is your best bet.
Step 2: Choose Your Viewing Experience
Once you arrive at the temple, you have two primary ways to view the stunning pink carpet of lilies.
Option A: Viewing from the Temple Banks (The Free & Easy View)
The temple grounds and the adjacent bund roads (raised pathways) offer a fantastic, elevated vantage point.
- The View: From here, you can gaze upon the expanse of pink lilies against the green landscape. It provides a wonderful panoramic view, perfect for landscape photography.
- Best Spot: Walk along the narrow road beside the temple. The fields directly in front of and next to the temple are where the current bloom is most concentrated. You can see the vibrant pink stretching out into the distance.
Option B: The Canoe Ride (The Ultimate Immersive Experience)
This is, without a doubt, the most recommended way to experience the bloom.
- Why It’s a Must-Do: A canoe ride takes you from being a spectator to being a part of the scenery. You’ll glide through narrow channels cleared by the boatmen, with lilies at eye level. The photographic opportunities are unparalleled, allowing for stunning close-ups and unique perspectives.
- Finding a Boat: Local villagers and boatmen will be waiting near the main viewing points by the temple, especially from dawn till mid-morning. You won’t have to look for them; they will find you!
- Cost & Duration: Expect to pay a nominal fee of approximately ₹200 – ₹300 per person for a ride. Prices are informal, so a little polite bargaining might be possible. The ride typically lasts for about 30-45 minutes, which is ample time to explore the lily-filled canals. Remember to carry cash.
Step 3: Time Your Visit to Perfection
The Golden Window: 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM
Timing is everything. The water lilies are at their most magnificent in the cool, soft light of the early morning.
- 6:00 AM – 7:30 AM: The “golden hour” for photographers. The light is soft and warm, the air is cool, and a gentle mist may be rising from the water, creating a truly magical atmosphere. The crowds are also at their thinnest.
- 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM: The flowers are still fully open and vibrant. This is still an excellent time to visit, though you can expect more people to start arriving.
- After 10:00 AM: As the sun gets stronger and the day heats up, the lilies begin to close. Visiting later in the day will likely lead to disappointment.
Pro-Tips for Your Visit
- Photography: Bring a wide-angle lens for landscapes from the bank and be ready with your phone or a prime lens for incredible close-ups from the canoe.
- What to Wear: Wear light, comfortable clothing. Choose footwear you don’t mind getting a little muddy, as the banks can be damp and slippery.
- What to Bring: A bottle of water, snacks, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent (a must for the early morning near water).
- Respect the Location: This is a place of natural beauty and religious significance. Do not pluck the flowers. Be mindful of the local community and dispose of any trash responsibly.
Visitor Advisory for June 2025:
- Localized Blooms: Be aware that the current bloom is an early, localized event. For the breathtaking sight of endless pink fields, a trip during the peak season (August-September) is recommended.
- Best Viewing Time: The universal rule for lily viewing applies: go early. The flowers are at their best in the soft morning light.
- Boat Rides: Local villagers offer canoe and small boat rides through the canals, which is the best way to get up close to the flowers for photography and a truly immersive experience. These services are available at the site.
. Note: these are simple country crafts; fares are roughly ₹100+ per person for a half-hour ride (the village panchayat sets a nominal fee of ~₹100 per hour). Boatmen know the best lily patches and can manoeuvre close to the blooms, so don’t hesitate to ask for photo stops. Life jackets are not always provided, so families should supervise youngsters carefully on board. Bring waterproof bags or coverings for cameras, and keep phones/dry snacks in a safe, dry place.
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Logistics: Boats operate from before sunrise. If you arrive well before 6 AM, you’ll beat the crowds. Inform the boatman you want the route via Valiyaveettil Devi Temple (they often know this spot) – it’s a sacred grove with 300+ acres of lilies.
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What to expect: The temple pond and fields flood in June–Oct, creating a “lily lagoon.” Look for pink, white and crimson blooms all around you – they blanket the water like a floral carpet. Some boat tours charge extra (~₹1000) for extended trips covering deeper canal, but shorter shared rides are ideal for families and casual photographers.
Getting There from Kumarakom
If you’re already in Kumarakom, Malarikkal is a short drive. Head northwest on the main Kumarakom–Thiruvarppu road, turn at Illikkal, then proceed as above. An auto-rickshaw from Kumarakom town will deliver you to the fields in ~30 minutes. Alternatively, you can incorporate a scenic detour by boat: many homestays and houseboats offer early-morning shikara tours that pass the Bird Sanctuary and Thanneermukkom bund on Lake Vembanad before docking near Illikkal.
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Scenic photo stops: Just after sunrise, capture the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (watch for herons and kingfishers) or cruise along Pathiramanal Island (a bird-watchers’ haven). The Thanneermukkom bund is especially photogenic at dawn when light reflects off the calm lake.
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Family tip: Children will love spotting birds and butterflies. Consider a short break at the Bird Sanctuary entrance (on NH183 near Kumarakom Boat Jetty) – it has toilets, a small cafe, and shaded viewpoints.
Photo Highlights & Family Tips
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Sunrise Magic: Aim to arrive by dawn. The golden sun raking over pink blossoms is truly Instagram-worthy. The still water often mirrors the flowers and sky – experiment with reflections.
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Lily Close-ups: Carry a macro lens or use portrait mode. Local flower vendors sometimes pick a bloom for you (a few rupees) if you ask – a great souvenir photo.
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Wildlife: Keep an eye out for dragonflies, kingfishers and tiny fishes among the lilies. On the boat, your children will delight in the tranquil eco-scene – it’s an outdoor classroom on nature’s cycles.
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Practicalities: Wear sunhats and sunscreen. In case of rain (monsoon can bring showers in July–Oct), pack umbrellas and plastic bags. Bring bottled water and light snacks. Expect basic field toilets near the parking; larger facilities are back in Kumarakom/Kottayam.
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Crowd Avoidance: Malarikkal is increasingly popular. For fewer people in shots, visit on a weekday and early. With some planning, you’ll have these quiet waterways mostly to yourself.
Where to Stay in Kumarakom: Lakeside Luxury and Homely Cottages
Kumarakom on Vembanad Lake is studded with resorts, homestays and cottages – a perfect base for families and photographers alike. Many properties offer lake views, kayaks and guided bird walks. Among them, the ILLlKALAM Lakeside Cottages stand out for budget-friendly comfort and a prime backwater setting. Each cottage here has a private sit-out or balcony facing the lake, so you can watch the sunset drift across the palms. The ILLIKKALAM website touts “lakefront rooms with modern amenities” and private balconies overlooking Vembanad Lake, blending local charm with clean, airy rooms.
Beyond ILLIKKALAM, other family-friendly options include: houseboat cruises (you can overnight on a moving houseboat!), boutique resorts like Abad or Taj (for full-service luxury), or cozy homestays in Kainakary and Thanneermukkom. Many places organize their own backwater boat trips. No matter where you stay, Kumarakom’s village atmosphere, friendly locals and evening boat cruises make it easy to unwind after a day in the fields.
Why ILLIKKALAM: In our experience, this family-run lakeside lodge offers an ideal mix of tranquility and access. From your room’s porch you hear only lapping waves and birdcalls – yet the Malarikkal fields are a quick drive away. Guests praise its “affordable lakeside stay” and friendly service. Whether you choose ILLIKKALAM or another cozy place by the lagoon, you’ll sleep well knowing the lilies await at first light.
In sum, Malarikkal’s 2025 bloom promises a feast for the senses. With some advance planning – watching the updated peak dates, arranging a morning boat, and booking a family-friendly stay in Kumarakom – your trip will be both smooth and unforgettable. Enjoy the quiet pink mornings, village hospitality, and the feeling of gliding amid lilies in God’s Own Country.