Top Family-Friendly Places to Visit in Kumarakom and Around Kumarakom, Kerala

Kumarakom, a tranquil village in Kerala’s Kottayam district, is a haven for families seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure. Nestled along the banks of Vembanad Lake, it’s already famous for attractions like the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and backwaters. However, the surrounding areas within a 50 km radius offer additional gems that are perfect for family vacations. Below is a comprehensive list of family-friendly places to visit near Kumarakom, including previously mentioned attractions and new additions, all optimized for a memorable trip. Each destination is accompanied by details on why it’s great for families and how to find photos on Wikimedia Commons for inspiration.

Complete List of Family-Friendly Attractions in Kumarakom

1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Location: Kumarakom, on the banks of Vembanad Lake
Why Visit: Spanning 14 acres, this sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers, hosting migratory birds like Siberian cranes and local species such as kingfishers and herons. Families can enjoy guided nature walks or boat rides to nearby Pathiramanal Island.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Birdwatching, nature trails, and short boat rides engage all ages.
Timings: 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 50–100
Best Time: November to February for migratory birds
Tip: Bring binoculars and wear comfortable shoes for walking trails.

2. Vembanad Lake

Location: Kumarakom
Why Visit: Kerala’s largest lake offers serene houseboat rides amidst lush greenery and coconut palms. It’s a relaxing way to experience the backwaters.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Houseboat cruises, photography, and the Nehru Trophy Boat Race in August.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM for boat rides
Entry Fee: Varies (starting at INR 500/hour for small boats)
Best Time: September to March
Tip: Book a family-friendly houseboat with air-conditioned rooms and meals.

3. Kumarakom Backwaters

Location: Kumarakom
Why Visit: A network of canals and lagoons, the backwaters provide tranquil boat rides through picturesque landscapes, ideal for family bonding.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Scenic cruises and a peaceful atmosphere.
Timings: Available throughout the day
Entry Fee: No fee for access; boat ride costs vary
Best Time: September to March
Tip: Opt for a shikara boat for a more intimate experience.

4. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall

Location: Near Kumarakom, amidst rubber plantations
Why Visit: This waterfall is a refreshing spot for picnics and light treks, with the nearby St Mary’s Church adding a cultural touch.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Picnicking, short treks, and exploring nature.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time: September to March
Tip: Pack a picnic basket and visit early to avoid crowds.

5. Pathiramanal Island

Location: Vembanad Lake, accessible by a 10-minute boat ride from Kumarakom
Why Visit: Known as the “sand bar in between,” this island is a serene retreat for birdwatching and relaxation.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Birdwatching and peaceful walks.
Timings: Throughout the day
Entry Fee: No fee; boat ride costs apply
Best Time: November to February
Tip: Combine with a visit to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

6. Kumarakom Beach

Location: Kumarakom, on Vembanad Lake
Why Visit: Offers water sports and relaxation, with nearby museums adding cultural value.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Water sports like jet skiing and beach relaxation.
Timings: Throughout the day
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time: September to March
Tip: Check with resorts for kid-friendly water sport packages.

7. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

Location: 11 km from Kottayam, approximately 25 km from Kumarakom
Why Visit: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva features 16th-century murals and wood carvings, offering a cultural and educational experience.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Exploring architecture and learning about history.
Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time: Year-round
Tip: Dress modestly and explain the temple’s significance to kids.

8. Kumarakom Craft Museum

Location: Kumarakom
Why Visit: Showcases over 2,000 traditional Kerala artifacts, providing an educational glimpse into the region’s craftsmanship.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Interactive displays and cultural learning.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (check locally)
Entry Fee: Nominal, varies by season
Best Time: Year-round
Tip: Combine with other Kumarakom attractions.

9. Vaikom Beach

Location: 35 km from Kumarakom
Why Visit: A quieter alternative to Kumarakom Beach, ideal for peaceful strolls, picnics, and sunsets.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Relaxed atmosphere and scenic views.
Timings: Throughout the day
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time: September to March
Tip: Bring beach games for a fun family day.

10. Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park

Location: 12 km from Kumarakom
Why Visit: This park promotes sustainable agriculture with over 4,800 plant species, offering hands-on activities and educational experiences.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Learning about eco-tourism and engaging activities.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 100–200 (check locally)
Best Time: September to March
Tip: Wear comfortable clothing for farming activities.

11. Alappuzha Beach

Location: Approximately 40 km from Kumarakom
Why Visit: Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alappuzha Beach features a long stretch of golden sand, a 150-year-old pier, and a historic lighthouse. It’s a popular spot for picnics and sunset views.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Picnicking, beach walks, and exploring the lighthouse.
Timings: Throughout the day
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time: September to March
Tip: Visit the nearby Vijaya Beach Park for additional family entertainment.

12. Backwaters of Alappuzha

Location: Approximately 40 km from Kumarakom
Why Visit: Alappuzha’s backwaters are famous for their intricate network of canals and lagoons, offering houseboat cruises and country boat rides through lush landscapes.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Houseboat stays, scenic boat rides, and photography.
Timings: Available throughout the day
Entry Fee: Varies based on boat type
Best Time: September to March
Tip: Choose a family-friendly houseboat with amenities like air-conditioned rooms.

13. Kerala Album Art Gallery

Location: Kumarakom
Why Visit: This gallery showcases a collection of paintings and art, offering a cultural and educational experience for families interested in Kerala’s artistic heritage.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Exploring local art and cultural traditions.
Timings: Check locally for hours
Entry Fee: Nominal, varies
Best Time: Year-round
Tip: Combine with other Kumarakom attractions for a full day.

14. Old Curiosity Shop

Location: Kumarakom
Why Visit: A haven for antiques and handicrafts, this shop showcases Kerala’s craftsmanship with items like wooden artifacts and traditional jewelry.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Shopping for souvenirs and learning about local crafts.
Timings: Check locally for hours
Entry Fee: Free to browse
Best Time: Year-round
Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds.

15. Bay Island Driftwood Museum

Location: Kumarakom
Why Visit: This unique museum displays sculptures made from driftwood, highlighting artistic creativity and nature’s beauty.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Viewing driftwood sculptures and learning about eco-art.
Timings: Check locally for hours
Entry Fee: Nominal, varies
Best Time: Year-round
Tip: Check museum hours in advance.
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16. Vaikom Shri Mahadeva Temple

Location: 18 km from Kumarakom
Why Visit: One of Kerala’s oldest temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Family-Friendly Highlights: Exploring architecture and learning about history.
Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time: Year-round
Tip: Dress modestly and explain the temple’s cultural significance to children.

Why These Places Are Ideal for Families

These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from nature and adventure to culture and education. Their proximity to Kumarakom (all within 50 km) makes them easily accessible for day trips or extended visits. The mix of outdoor activities, like beach outings and boat rides, with indoor experiences, such as museum visits, ensures that both kids and adults stay engaged. Many of these spots also provide educational value, teaching children about Kerala’s heritage, art, and sustainable practices.

Planning Your Family Trip

Best Time to Visit: September to March offers pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities. November to February is particularly great for birdwatching due to migratory bird arrivals.
How to Reach: Kumarakom is approximately 74 km from Cochin International Airport and 14 km from Kottayam Railway Station, accessible by taxi, bus, or auto-rickshaw. Alappuzha is about 40 km away, reachable by road.
Accommodation: Opt for family-friendly resorts like The Zuri Kumarakom or Taj Garden Retreat, which offer amenities like pools, game rooms, and organized tours.
Activities for Kids: Look for resorts offering water sports, cultural shows, or cooking classes. Fishing experiences with nets or angling are also popular.
Local Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Kerala dishes like appam, puttu, and fish curry at local restaurants or KTDC-run floating restaurants.
Packing Tips: Pack light clothing, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent. Comfortable shoes are essential for treks and nature walks.

Table of Distances and Key Features

Place	Distance from Kumarakom	Key Family-Friendly Features
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary	0 km	Birdwatching, nature trails, boat rides
Vembanad Lake	0 km	Houseboat cruises, scenic views
Kumarakom Backwaters	0 km	Boat rides, photography
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall	Within Kumarakom	Picnics, light treks, nature
Pathiramanal Island	0 km (boat ride)	Birdwatching, peaceful walks
Kumarakom Beach	0 km	Water sports, relaxation
Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple	25 km	Cultural exploration, architecture
Kumarakom Craft Museum	0 km	Artifact displays, cultural learning
Vaikom Beach	35 km	Picnics, sunsets, relaxed atmosphere
Mango Meadows Agricultural Park	12 km	Eco-tourism, hands-on activities
Alappuzha Beach	40 km	Picnics, lighthouse, sunset views
Backwaters of Alappuzha	40 km	Houseboat rides, scenic canals
Kerala Album Art Gallery	0 km	Art exploration, cultural education
Old Curiosity Shop	0 km	Antique shopping, craftsmanship
Bay Island Driftwood Museum	0 km	Driftwood sculptures, eco-art
Vaikom Shri Mahadeva Temple	18 km	Historical architecture, cultural learning

photo Credit : Vis M – Own work

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Top Family-Friendly Places to Visit Near Kumarakom, Kerala