Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Darter at Kumarakam Bird Sanctuary
Kerala

              Introduction of Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

             Kumarakam Bird Sanctuary is one of  the most popular bird watching site in the country situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in Kottayam. Kumarakam  is a village in the region of Kuttanad, located in the Kottayam district of Kerala, and is about 14/16 Kms from the city of Kottayam. Area of this sanctuary spread out over 101 acres. One comes across numerous rare avian species in these parts.

                  Birds of Kumarakam Bird Sanctuary

             Kumarakam is well known for its avian population. It offers a range of bird watching spots for avid bird watchers. One gets to see a variety of migratory birds that flock in thousands, ranging from places like the Himalayas to Siberia. Local birds or birds that permanently live and dwell here is the waterfowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, heron and the water duck.  Migratory birds which visit the sanctuary every year is Siberian cranes. Parrots, teal, larks, Darters, flycatchers, wood beetle, and many other.

                    When to visit the Park 

             Most interesting  time to visit this sanctuary is when Siberian Cranes migrate here i.e the months between November and February. One can also visit between June and August which are the breeding time of wetland birds. The sanctuary is open daily and has an admission fee. Early morning is appropriate time  as the birds remain most active and the temperatures most bearable . Knowledgeable guides are available to hire at the sanctuary’s entrance. They can help to point out birds and provide invaluable information about the flora and fauna.

                    How to Reach Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary 

            Kumarakam can be reached in various ways from other parts of India
         Air :The Cochin International Airport is the nearest one, which is at a distance of 70 kms from the Muhamma boat jetty.
         Rail :The nearest Rail head is at Kottayam which is connected to all the major cities of India by several express trains.
         Road :Kottayam is 14 km from Kumarakam and connected to rest of the country of India by both State Highways and National Highways. From here taxis and auto rickshaws are available for reaching the sanctuary.