Kumarakom--the heart land of lagoons
Situated 10 kms from Kottayam, Kumarakom, better known as Coconut Lagoon, is in the heart of the backwaters. It is a tiny hamlet on the banks of a lagoon formed by the Vembanad lake. Only a narrow strip of sandbar separates the sea and the lagoon. An unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white lilies. It is a picturesque world of backwaters, thatched houseboats, cormorants, Chinese fishing nets and swaying palms.

Calm, emerald backwaters reflect hundreds of thousands of gently swaying palms. And engulf this seemingly rustic, 14 acre settlement of ivory cottages with high ceilings and sloping rooftops. A habitat that could inspire romantic novellas by the dozen. One can watch the beautiful sunset from the lovely Kettuvallam boats. Another attraction here is the gigantic kettuvallams that has been converted into beautiful houseboats.

Kumarakom is described as Kerala's heartland of lagoons, palms and paddy fields. In a landscape to this state, hundreds of interlinked canals spill into palm-fringed lakes. The water here abounds with special varieties of fish. And in this small town of Kumarakom, the Golden Waters Resort offers some fun and a bit of adventure for the lovers of water sports, which are offered in plenty.
The primary attraction however, is its lazy ambience, where the best way to spend time is to laze around after an ayurvedic massage, to go for a swim and then retire for a tasty meal. There is a bird sanctuary nearby for bird-watchers too. At the end of the day, for a change, spend the night in a traditional rice boat, refitted with some modern amenities. The joy of riding in those small boats in Kumarakom cannot be got in the discotheques or even in a roller coaster. The whole exercise is sure to refresh you from a fast, urban lifestyle. Spread over a vast area of 17 acres of waterfront, the resort is landscaped with an intricate lacework of canals running under or beside 28 elegantly built and appointed cottages, the entire architecture is truly reflective of the Kerala style.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, situated on the banks of the Vembanad lake is known for its varied avian population. An ornithologist's paradise, it is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. Other common varieties like the woodpecker, skylark, crane, water hen and parrots can also be spotted here. Local varieties such as waterfowls, cuckoos and owls can be viewed here. The best time to bird watch is between June and August. To watch migratory birds, November to February is the best time.