Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Situated on the banks of the Vembanand Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is known to the entire world for its avian population. Kumarakom is also an enchanting backwater destination. It is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enhancing water ways and canals adorned with white lilies. You can catch a bewildering array of special birds among the general bird population.

Flora & Fauna
Fauna
The fauna of the sanctuary mainly include the avian species both resident as well as migratory birds. Migratory birds which visit the sanctuary every year are Siberian Cranes, Egrets, Darters, Herons, Parrots, Larks, Flycatchers, Wood Beetles and Teals. Resident bird species include Waterfowls, Cuckoos, Owls, Egrets, Herons and the water duck.

Flora
The bird sanctuary is an amazing paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves. The landscape interspersed with interesting waterways and canals has added beauty of White Lilies.

Straight Stuff
Location: Kottayam, Kerala
Total Area: 14 acres
Declared As: A National Park in 1982.
Visiting Season: November to February
Baits: Water Fowls and Siberian Cranes.
Entry Fee: Rs. 2 Indians and Rs. 15 foreigners.
Accommodation
The Kumarakom Tourist Complex, sprawling over 101 acres of enchanting wooded land and lake, was built around the 50-year-old 'Baker's Mansion', which was earlier a small hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC).

How To Roll In
Air : The nearest Airport is The Cochin International Airport which is 70 kms. away from the Muhamma boat jetty. The Trivandrum International Airport is 171 kms away.
Rail : The nearest Railway station is at Kottayam and regular local and Express trains connect the city with rest of India.
Road : Kottayam is 14 kilometer from Kumarakom and both State highway and National Highway links it with the rest of the country.