Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

The Kumarakom bird sanctuary is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala. Besides being home to migratory and native bird species, the sanctuary is also a refuge for endangered and rare species. Anyone who loves birds should check out this sanctuary. It's a heaven for bird-watchers, photographers and nature lovers alike, and its lush green wetlands make it easy to see birds in their natural habitat.

Visitors can observe birds in their natural habitat without disturbing them from numerous hides throughout the sanctuary. In the 1840s, Alfred George Baker reclaimed 500 acres of wetlands from the Vembanad lake to create the Kumarakom bird sanctuary. The sanctuary now spans over 14 acres on the eastern banks of the Vembanad Lake.

The sanctuary is just 16 kilometers from Kottayam and can be reached by road from Kottayam or Cochin. Kottayam and Cochin have public transportation. In addition to sightseeing tours, there are a few boats that take you around the sanctuary. Among the migratory birds in this sanctuary are the Siberian crane, waterfowl, cuckoo, teal, parrots, and a lot more. In November and December, when migratory birds are in abundance, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is the best time to visit. This is also the time when birds breed and the sanctuary is full of activity.

Check out our gallery for Kumarakom bird sanctuary photos