12 Kms from Kottayam, Kerala, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is situated on the banks of the Vembanand Lake. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is known for its varied avian population. Local varieties such as waterfowls, cuckoos and owls, as well as the migratory Siberian Cranes can be viewed here.

Sprawling over 101 acres of enchanting wooded land and lake, the Kumarakom Tourist Complex, which was built around the 50-year-old 'Baker's Mansion', has been renovated in grand style by the Taj Kerala Resorts Ltd. Earlier this complex was a small hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC).

Sightseeing at Kumarakom -

The Avifauna : The main attractions are local birds like the water fowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, heron and the water duck, as well as the migratory Siberian cranes.

Parrots, teal, larks, flycatchers, wood beetle, and other birds are seen here during their respective migratory seasons.

Park Trips : Houseboats and motor boats are available on hire for bird watching cruises on the lake. 

Best Season to Visit : The best time to bird watch is between June and August. To watch Migratory birds, November to February is the best time. 

Reaching Kumarakom -

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.