Kumarakom Backwaters & Bird Sanctuary Day Tour
Explore Kerala's backwaters, birds, and waterfalls in a day.
Start your day with a pickup at Kottayam railway station at 9 AM. Drive east to Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, a lovely spot to stretch your legs. Then head west to the Bay Island Driftwood Museum, home to unique driftwood sculptures. After lunch, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary for a peaceful walk and birdwatching. Later, enjoy a boat ride on the Vembanad backwaters. End the day with a drop back at Kottayam by 7 PM.
The driver will meet you at Kottayam Railway Station at 9:00 AM.
- Visit the serene Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls
- Explore the unique driftwood art at Bay Island Museum
- Walk through the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Enjoy a boat ride on the Vembanad backwaters
- Convenient pickup and drop at Kottayam
Your Day, Stop by Stop
Want a change? Tap the pencil on any stop. We re-plan the timings and drives around it.
The plan below changes to match your arrival.
- 1
9:00 AM
Kumarakom city centre
Your driver meets you at your hotel or a central point in Kumarakom at 9 AM. Board the private cab and start your day trip exploring Kumarakom and nearby attractions.
- 2
9:30 AM15 min, 5 km drive
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
A haven for birdwatchers, this sanctuary is home to migratory birds like Siberian storks and local species. Walk along the trails and observe the birds in their natural habitat. The best time to visit is early morning, so you may still catch some activity.
- 3
11:00 AM10 min, 3 km drive
Bay Island Driftwood Museum
This museum showcases unique sculptures made from driftwood collected from the backwaters. The collection includes figures of animals, birds, and abstract forms. A quick visit gives you a glimpse of local artistry.
- 4
12:30 PM5 min, 2 km drive
Lunch near Bay Island Driftwood Museum
Stop for lunch at a local eatery near the museum. Enjoy Kerala cuisine, perhaps some fish curry and rice.
- 5
2:00 PM5 min, 2 km drive
Kumarakom Backwaters
Enjoy a boat ride on the Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala. Glide past traditional houseboats and fishing villages. The calm waters and scenic views make for a relaxing experience.
- 6
3:30 PM10 min, 3 km drive
Kumarakom Shiva Temple
Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its serene atmosphere and traditional architecture. The temple is open in the afternoon, so you can offer your prayers and soak in the spiritual vibe.
- 7
5:00 PM15 min, 5 km drive
Kumarakom city centre
Return to your hotel or central point in Kumarakom by 7 PM, with memories of a wonderful day in Kumarakom.
Good to Know
Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather and migratory birds.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is some walking involved.
- Carry a hat, sunscreen, and water bottle for the boat ride and sanctuary.
- Modest dress is recommended for temple visits, though none are included in this itinerary.
- The bird sanctuary is best visited early morning or late afternoon; midday can be quiet but still enjoyable.
- Keep some cash for entrance fees and lunch, as not all places accept cards.
Package Price
One private vehicle for your group, for the whole day. The price is per vehicle, not per person.
- Up to 4 PersonsDzire / Toyota Etios₹3,999
- 5 PersonsErtiga / Kia Carens₹4,999
- 6 PersonsToyota Innova / Mahindra Bolero₹5,999
- 7 PersonsToyota Innova Crysta / Mahindra Scorpio₹6,999
- 8 to 12 Persons12 Seater Tempo Traveller₹8,999
Package Inclusions
- Local sightseeing for 1 day as per the agreed itinerary.
- Pickup and drop from a nearby railway station, bus stand, hotel, residence, or any other location within 20 km of the city centre.
- Private vehicle according to the selected group size, with driver, fuel, tolls within the city and parking.
Important Terms and Conditions
- Pickup and Drop: Complimentary pickup and drop are available within a 20 km radius of the city centre. Additional charges may apply for locations beyond this limit.
- Air Conditioning Policy: AC may be switched off while driving through hilly roads, steep gradients, narrow mountain roads, or other difficult terrains to ensure vehicle safety and prevent engine overheating. The driver may make the final decision based on road conditions.
- Difficult Terrain and Special Locations: For certain destinations involving difficult terrain, steep roads, remote locations, or restricted vehicle access, the vehicle category and package price may vary depending on local operating conditions.
- Vehicle Availability: The listed vehicles are indicative options. The actual vehicle provided may vary depending on availability, destination-specific restrictions, road conditions, and local transportation regulations.
- Sightseeing Duration: The package covers one day of local sightseeing from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, according to the agreed itinerary. Additional hours, extended sightseeing, or extra kilometres may attract additional charges.
- Booking Confirmation: The final vehicle type, itinerary, pickup location, sightseeing duration, and applicable charges will be confirmed at the time of booking.
Payment Policy
Pay ₹499 online now to reserve. The ₹499 is adjusted in your final payment, and the full balance is paid on the tour day.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the trip: your ₹499 is refunded in full to the same account in 5–7 working days.
Child Policy
The price is per vehicle: children do not pay extra, but each child takes a seat in the vehicle.
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