Kerala’s backwaters come alive each monsoon with vast fields of water lilies turning paddy lands into seas of pink and white. In Kumarakom and Kottayam District, this seasonal wonder draws travelers for its quiet beauty and eco-friendly adventures. From the famous Malarikkal to lesser-known spots like Kollad and Panachikkad, these blooms cover thousands of acres, supporting local communities and wildlife. With 2025’s extended rains sparking early and vibrant displays, now is the time to plan a trip. This guide covers key locations, travel details, best times, activities, stays, and tips based on recent reports and local insights.
Why Visit Water Lily Blooms in This Region?
Kottayam District, including Kumarakom, hosts some of Kerala’s largest water lily fields due to its network of backwaters, rivers like the Meenachil, and Vembanad Lake. The lilies (Nymphaea stellata, or Ambal) thrive in flooded paddies post-monsoon, blooming from June to October. They symbolize renewal in local culture and boost tourism, generating revenue for villages. In 2025, blooms started in mid-June, with peaks in August-September. Expect dragonflies, birds like purple herons, and serene boat rides. These spots are low-impact, community-led, and perfect for photographers or nature seekers.
Key Locations and Details
Here’s a breakdown of top spots, grouped by area for easy planning. Distances are from Kottayam town unless noted.
1. Malarikkal: The Iconic Pink Sea
Malarikkal, in Thiruvarpu grama panchayat, spans nearly 3,000 acres of paddy fields turned lily havens.[39] It’s the region’s star, with blooms in Thiruvaykkari paddy polders (850 acres) and J Block (1,850 acres).
- Location: Bordering Kottayam municipality, near Kumarakom (about 15 km from Kumarakom center).
- Best Time: June-October 2025; early (July 5-15), peak (August 5-September 15), late (September 16-30). View from 6-10 AM before flowers close.
- How to Reach:
- From Kottayam: Cross Kanjiram bridge to the fields (20-30 min drive).
- From Kochi Airport: Cab/train + auto (2.5 hours).
- From Alleppey: Taxi (1.5 hours).
- From Kumarakom: Auto + boat (1 hour).
- Google Maps: Search “Malarikkal Kottayam.”
- Activities: Boat safaris in vallams (shared ₹150-200/30 min, private ₹400-500/hour). Country boat rides through Upper Kuttanad (₹1,000/hour for 5-8 people). Birdwatching, paddy walks, cultural shows like Nadan Pattu on weekends. Buy lily bouquets (₹30) or seeds (₹100) from locals. Attend Ambal Fest at peak season.
- Travel Tips: Book boats in advance. No drones near birds; carry insect repellent and reusable bottles (plastic ban). Paid parking available.
2. Kollad / Kollad Kizhakkupuram: A Quiet Alternative
This less-crowded spot offers 210 acres of blooms near Kottayam town.
- Location: 5-7 km from Kottayam, near Kizhakkupuram paddy fields and Thrikkel temple.
- Best Time: July-September 2025; 6:30-7:30 AM for open flowers.
- How to Reach: From Kottayam: Kanjikkuzhi – Devalokam Road – Kollankavala – Kollad – Kizhakkupuram Road.[43] Or to boat jetty on Kanjikuzhi-Kollad Road, left to Thrikkel temple.
- Activities: Boat rides , photography, village tours with farmers.
- Travel Tips: Bring water and snacks (few shops); avoid litter. Ideal for short trips from Kottayam.
3. Panachikkad, Ambattukadavu: Floral Carpets Close to Town
A compact 110-acre bloom in Pranthan Pathankeri fields.
- Location: 12 km from Kottayam.
- Best Time: Current season (August-September 2025 implied).
- How to Reach: Kottayam – Chingavanam – Paruthumpara – Panachikkad Temple Road – Eravinalloor Road. Alt from Manarcad-Puthuppally: Via Puthuppally-Thengana, then Eravuchira to Eravinalloor-Panachikkad.
- Activities: Viewing the lily blanket; walking paths.
- Travel Tips: Choose route based on starting point for ease.
4. Kumarakom, Mutherimada: Backwater Blooms
300 acres in Pathupanku fields, blending with Kumarakom’s lake vibes.
- Location: 15 km from Kottayam.
- Best Time: Monsoon end (July-October 2025).
- How to Reach: Kottayam – Illikkal – Kannadichal – Narakathara Bridge – Mutherimada Bridge. Alt: Kottayam – Kumarakom – Attipeedika – Bazar Junction – Thekkukara Temple – Mutherimada. Boat to bund.
- Activities: Motor or country boat rides through lilies; birdwatching.
- Travel Tips: Book boats ahead; combine with Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
5. Puthukari, Aymanam: Serene Village Charm
Near Kumarakom, with blooms in canals and fields (up to 600 acres in broader area).
- Location: Aymanam village, 10-15 km from Kumarakom.
- Best Time: Mid-late October 2025, post-monsoon.
- How to Reach: From Kumarakom: 20-30 min drive or boat via backwaters. From Kottayam: 20 km to Aymanam, then canoe.
- Activities: Canoe paddles, birdwatching, rural walks.
- Travel Tips: Dawn visits for mist; offline maps for spotty signal.
General Travel Logistics
- By Air: Cochin Airport (90 km; 2-2.5 hours cab, ₹2,500-3,000).
- By Train: Kottayam Station (then auto/taxi ₹300-400).
- By Road/Bus: NH from Kochi/Trivandrum; buses from Kottayam (₹50-100).
- Local Transport: Autos, taxis, or boats (₹500-800/hour).
- Budget: 2D/1N: ₹5,000-8,000/person (stay, boat, meals).
Essential Tips
- Pack: Sunscreen, hat, boots (leeches in wet spots), reusable bottle.
- Eco-Notes: No picking flowers; support locals (90% revenue stays local).[42]
- Health/Connectivity: Offline maps; check weather—rain extends blooms.
- Extend Your Trip: Pair with Vaikom backwaters or Alleppey houseboats.
These blooms are fleeting—head out before October’s end. Share your photos below!
Happy wandering