Vembanad Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala and is the longest in the country. Spanning an area of 230 square kilometers, the lake is located in Alappuzha district and stretches from Kochi in the north to Kuttanad in the south. The lake is fed by several rivers and canals, including the Meenachil, Manimala and Pamba, and it drains into the Arabian Sea through a network of backwaters.
The lake is a major tourist attraction in Kerala and is popular for its scenic beauty and diverse ecosystem. The annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a major cultural event in Kerala and attracts tourists from all over the world to cheer and rejoice on the banks of the lake. A boat ride while in Kumarakom, therefore, is a must do. It was suggested to me that the State Transport Water Development boats that ply every hour between Kumarakom and Muhamma would be a good and cheap way to enjoy the lake and the backwaters.
The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is the outcome of the passion and vision of Raji Punnose. Various fossilised rosewood driftwood depicting animals, birds, serpants, humans and, even, Jesus Christ is part of the precious collection. Encomiums, recognition and awards have been heaped on Raji, who conducts you around enthusiastically with narrations and commentary non-stop.
For the foodies there are any number of restaurants and hotels serving local delicacies, including sweet toddy. Kilikoodu is one of the favourites in the area, going by the patronage.
Kumarakom 22 April 2023
Photos and text courtesy: Suresh Joseph Sir
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* Must Visit
* Kerala Trails
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