Mararikulam and Kumarakom City Information

Mararikulam is a tranquil beach village, celebrated for its palm-lined shores, traditional fishing culture, and peaceful ambience. Ideal for leisure seekers, it offers charming resorts, Ayurvedic therapies, and authentic village experiences. Unlike crowded beaches, Mararikulam offers a calm atmosphere, a relaxed pace of life, and the simple charm of a coastal village.

Meanwhile, Kumarakom—nestled along the banks of Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in Kerala—has emerged as a leading backwater destination purely through sustained tourism promotion. Known for its bird sanctuary and calm village setting, Kumarakom offers a harmonious blend of nature, serenity, and traditional Kerala hospitality.

Mararikulam

Mararikulam, also known as Marari, is a serene and relatively untouched fishing village nestled in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. This tranquil coastal village is primarily known for its pristine Beach, a tranquil stretch of golden sand fringed by swaying coconut palms. The laid-back atmosphere exudes a slow-paced, traditional Kerala village life. The calm environment makes it perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway and a chance to unwind, a welcome escape from bustling city life. The village's landscape is dotted with traditional fishing villages, lush green coconut palm groves providing shade and a quintessential tropical feel, and backwater canals, enhancing its charm as a peaceful retreat. Traditional Kerala-style houses are scattered throughout the village, often surrounded by small gardens. The villagers are generally friendly and welcoming, offering a glimpse into the authentic Keralan way of life. The area is known for resorts offering traditional Ayurvedic treatments and massages. Overall, it offers a peaceful escape with a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich heritage, a glimpse into traditional Kerala life, and opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. It was once recognised as one of the world's top "hammock beaches" for its laid-back vibe and natural beauty.

The best time to visit Mararikulam is from late December and March, when the weather is dry and pleasant. During these months, the weather is typically sunny and dry with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for enjoying the beach and exploring the surroundings. 

Three main ways to reach Marari:

By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), which is located 60 Kms away. It is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad through several airlines, including Air India, Indigo, Vistara, Emirates, and Etihad.

By Rail: Mararikulam has its small railway station – Mararikulam Railway Station (MAI) located in the town itself, closer to the beach. However, this station lies on the Ernakulam–Kayamkulam coastal line, with regular trains from Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Trivandrum, and Kollam. The second major railway station is Alappuzha Railway Station (ALLP), which is about 15-20 Kms away from Marari.

By Road: Marari is well-connected by road to other towns and cities in Kerala. National Highway 66 (NH66), a well-maintained road, passes here for easy access. But flyover extension work is progressing in this way, and it will take more time to reach the town, contingent on traffic conditions.

Important Sites in Marari: 

Marari Beach: This idyllic beach is located in Mararikulam, a charming fishing village, and is renowned for its peaceful ambience, pristine golden sands, and swaying coconut palms. The tranquil atmosphere of the beach is famed for its serene and laid-back environment, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquillity. The pristine beauty of the beach boasts clean, golden sands and is adorned with lush coconut groves, creating a picturesque and inviting landscape. The gentle lapping of waves from the Arabian Sea & an adjacent lagoon adds to its scenic charm. Marari offers an authentic local culture with the local way of life, where fishing is a primary occupation in a traditional fishing village. One can spectator fisherman setting out to sea in the early morning and witness their daily routines. Strolling or cycling through the neighbouring villages offers a chance to experience the slow-paced life and interact with the friendly locals. Many resorts and centres near Marari Beach offer traditional Ayurvedic wellness treatments, providing a rejuvenating experience for visitors. The peaceful ambience is less crowded than some of the other popular beaches in Kerala. The long sandy stretch is perfect for leisurely walks, especially during sunrise and sunset. Marari Beach is recognised as the top five hammock beaches in the world by National Geographic.

Mararikulam Sree Mahadeva Temple: The ancient & significant Hindu temple is located in Mararikulam, which is about 01 Km west of the NH-66 road and Mararikulam Junction. The primary deities are Lord Shiva (Mahadeva) and Goddess Parvathi, facing each other in the sanctum sanctorum, which is considered highly auspicious & a rare phenomenon in Kerala temples & it holds deep religious importance for its unique features & spiritual ambience. Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Vadakkanappan and Thekkanappan. The temple complex includes sub-deities, including Lord Subramanya, Lord Ayyappan, Sree Dhanwanthari Moorthy, Naga Kanyaka, and Yakshi. The temple showcases traditional Kerala architectural style with intricate wood carvings and possibly mural paintings. The temple is believed to be centuries old & was built around a self-originated (Swayambhu) stone lingam of Lord Shiva & an image of Goddess Parvathi found at the site. Lord Shiva is said to be in a 'Marari Bhava', a meditative state after the departure of his wife Sati Devi. The temple is believed to be a wish-fulfilment that grants the wishes of devotees who pray with sincere devotion. The temple is famous for its annual Arattu ceremony, where the deity is taken in procession for a ritual bathing in the Arabian Sea. This is a significant event attracting many devotees. It is a grand ten-day annual festival held in the Malayalam month of Kumbham with flag hoisting, special poojas, processions with caparisoned elephants, traditional music and dance performances like Kathakali and Chakyar Koothu, and fireworks & Arattu (holy bath) ceremony, where the deity is taken for a ritual bath in the sea.

Timings: Morning 05.00 AM to 12.30 PM & from 05.30 PM to 08.00 PM.

Please note that non-Hindus will not be allowed to enter the inner sanctum of the temple.

Chethy Harbour:  Chethy Harbour is a mini fishing harbour located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala. It lies along the Arabian Sea coast and is primarily known for supporting the livelihoods of local fishermen with fishing activities including boat launching, unloading catch, and fish trading. The harbour serves as a docking and operational hub for small to medium-sized fishing boats, contributing significantly to the coastal economy of the region. Basic infrastructure, such as jetties, auction platforms, and storage areas, has undergone modernisation efforts in recent years. The area has scenic views and could attract visitors interested in authentic fishing village experiences, while Chethy beach is known for its beautiful sunsets.

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Kumarakom – Kerala’s Backwater Paradise

Kumarakom is a tranquil and picturesque village nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake in Kerala’s Kottayam district. Kumarakom does not have the dense canal grid of Alleppey, but its location on the expansive Vembanad Lake, network of feeder canals, and developed houseboat tourism ecosystem have made it a backwater destination.

Rather than a single town, Kumarakom is a cluster of small, man-made islands reclaimed from the lake, forming part of the Kuttanad region—often called the ‘Rice Bowl of Kerala’ due to its vast paddy fields situated below sea level. The area is a mesmerising maze of shimmering canals, lagoons, and lakes, with Vembanad Lake being the largest in Kerala.

Fringed by mangrove forests, emerald paddy fields, and swaying coconut palms, Kumarakom is often described as a slice of paradise. It offers the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation, drawing nature lovers, honeymooners, and cultural explorers alike. Houseboat cruises here provide a unique opportunity to soak in the peaceful rhythm of village life while drifting across still waters.

Visitors are also treated to the region’s rich culinary heritage, especially local seafood delicacies such as Karimeen fry, prawns, and crabs, all infused with coconut and aromatic Kerala spices.

Kumarakom is more than just a destination—it’s an experience of soulful serenity. With its breathtaking sunsets, immersive natural beauty, and authentic charm, this floating haven crafted by Mother Nature captivates every traveller and leaves them yearning to return.

Best Time to Visit Kumarakom: The most pleasant weather is typically from September to February / March, making it the peak tourist season.

Three Main Ways to Reach Kumarakom:

By Flight: Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest airport, which is approximately 75 Kms away. It is easily accessible to important destinations within India and also Overseas with several airlines. The Second nearest is Trivandrum International Airport, which is about 180 Kms away.

By Train: Kumarakom do not have its railway station, However, Kottayam Railway station (KTYM) is the closest major railhead, located 16 Kms away & with good connectivity to various cities across India like Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, etc.

By Road: Kumarakom is well-connected by road to Kottayam and other major towns in Kerala through National Highway (NH) 544 and other state highways.

Important Sites in Kumarakom: 

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A Haven for Avian Life - The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, also known as the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, is a significant ecological hotspot situated in Kumarakom village on the banks of the scenic Vembanad Lake in Kerala. It is a renowned paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Spreading across 14 acres, this sanctuary is a haven for a diverse array of both resident and migratory bird species & a picturesque part of the lush Kerala backwaters ecosystem. It is a rich avian diversity, estimated to be over 180, including both indigenous and migratory birds. It's home to a wide variety of local birds year-round. Common sightings include waterfowl, cormorants, darters (snakebirds), egrets, herons (pond heron, night heron), moorhens, kingfishers, cuckoos, owls, and the majestic Brahminy kite. June to August is the breeding season for many of these native species. The sanctuary truly comes alive during the migratory season (typically November to February/March). Birds from distant regions like the Himalayas and Siberia make it their temporary home. Key migratory visitors include various species of teal like Pintail Ducks, Garganey Teal, flycatchers, larks, parrots, and potentially Siberian storks (though sightings are rarer now). The Scenic Landscape is nestled within lush greenery, featuring mangrove forests and backwater channels, which provide an ideal habitat for the birds. The most recommended way to experience the sanctuary is by taking a boat trip (houseboat, motorboat, or traditional canoe) on Vembanad Lake or through the adjacent canals. This provides excellent vantage points for spotting waterfowl and birds near the banks, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when bird activity is highest. There is a well-laid path within the sanctuary itself for those who prefer to explore on foot and observe terrestrial birds amidst the greenery. The sanctuary was initially developed from a rubber plantation by an Englishman named George Alfred Baker in the late 19th century and was formerly known as Baker's Estate. There is a "Baker's Mansion" in the sanctuary, which is 50 years old. The mansion is managed by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation.

Timings: 06:00 AM to 03:00 PM.

Entrance fee: For Foreigners – Rs.250 / per person & For Indians – Rs. 100 / per person.

Boating Charge: Rs 1600 for 02 Hours (up to 05 Pax / per boat )

Camera fee: No Charge. 

Vembanad Lake: The lake is situated in the heart of Kerala, and it stretches across several districts, including Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam. It spans over 96.5 kilometres in length and reaches a maximum width of around 14 kilometres. It is also known by various regional names like Punnamada Lake and Kochi Lake, and is a vital and iconic water body in Kerala, holding the distinction of being the longest lake in India and the largest in the state. This expansive and ecologically significant water body forms a crucial part of the Kerala Backwaters, a network of brackish lagoons and canals parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. Spanning across the districts of Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam, this expansive lake is an integral part of Kerala's backwater network and a significant ecological and tourist hub. This gateway to backwaters forms the heart of the famous Kerala backwaters, a labyrinthine network of lagoons, canals, and estuaries that are a major attraction for houseboat cruises and traditional inland navigation. Vembanad Lake is a prime destination for tourism in Kerala. Houseboat cruises on the tranquil waters are a major attraction, offering visitors a unique way to experience the scenic beauty and local life along the shores. A prominent cultural event, the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, a thrilling snake boat race, is held in a part of Vembanad Lake near Alappuzha, drawing large crowds during the Onam Festival.

Pathiramanal Island: A Secluded Avian Haven in Vembanad Lake - Pathiramanal is a small, yet enchanting island situated in the heart of vast Vembanad Lake, straddling the border between Alappuzha and Kottayam districts in Kerala. The name 'Pathiramanal' literally translates to 'Sands of Night,' adding a touch of mystique to this serene spot. Spanning approximately 10 acres, this emerald green haven is a significant point of interest for nature lovers and a significant stopover for numerous bird species. The island is accessible only by boat. Travellers can take a motorboat from various points like Muhamma boat jetty, Alappuzha, or Kumarakom. It's a common stop for houseboats and motorboats cruising in Vembanad Lake. The boat journey itself offers scenic views of the backwaters. The tranquil ambience of the island offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, with opportunities for peaceful walks and enjoying the natural beauty. Besides the rich birdlife, the island also supports diverse flora, including some rare and medicinal plants, as well as various species of butterflies, spiders, and fish in the surrounding waters. Overall, Pathiramanal offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, observe diverse birdlife, and enjoy the tranquillity of the Kerala backwaters.

Timings: 06.00 AM to 06.00 PM  

Entry Fee: No 

Bay Island Driftwood Museum: The Bay Island Driftwood Museum is a unique and captivating institution that showcases the transformative power of nature and art. The red-brick building, off the main road at Chankarapadi, near Kumarakom, is not easy to miss. This one-of-a-kind museum is dedicated to displaying exquisite sculptures created from an impressive collection of art pieces of driftwood and roots collected primarily from the shores of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, carried by the ocean currents and deposited on the shores. The unique collection of the museum houses a remarkable collection of driftwood sculptures, each piece a testament to the shapes and forms naturally sculpted by the sea and further enhanced by human artistic vision. The visionary founder of the museum is the brainchild of Mrs. Raji Punnoose, a retired schoolteacher who, inspired by the unique shapes of driftwood, began collecting and transforming them into works of art. The museum houses over 140 exquisite driftwood sculptures, which often resemble birds, animals, reptiles, and other forms, and are not only aesthetically pleasing but also offer a unique insight into the artistic potential found in natural objects. The museum encourages imagination and creativity. The museum has gained recognition for its unique concept and collection, being featured in various publications and earning mentions in records like the Limca Book of Records. It is considered a significant attraction for art lovers and tourists. Unlike many museums, the Bay Island Driftwood Museum often allows visitors to touch and feel the exhibits, providing a more intimate connection with the art. The museum has received awards like the "Most Innovative Tourism Project in Kerala," acknowledging its contribution to the tourism industry.

Timings: 11.00 AM to 05.00 PM – From Tuesday to Saturday & Sunday – the timing is from 11.30 AM to 05.00 PM. 

Holidays: Monday 

Entrance fee: Rs.50 / per person. 

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple: The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a renowned and ancient Shiva temple located in Ettumanoor about 12 Kms from Kottayam & 24 Kms from Kumarakom. The temple is known for its rich history, striking architecture, and unique treasures, it attracts devotees and art enthusiasts alike. The presiding deity in the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Ettumanoorappan. The current temple structure was rebuilt around the 16th century (1542 AD) and showcases traditional Kerala temple architecture with a striking double-storied gopuram (tower). It is considered one of the oldest temples in Kerala, its origins are steeped in mythology, with beliefs of worship by the Pandavas and sage Vyasa. The temple showcases a beautiful blend of traditional Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles, evident in its structure, gopuram (temple tower), and the surrounding fortress. The roofs are covered with elegant copper plates and feature ornamental tops. The temple is particularly famous for its exquisite mural paintings adorning the walls inside and outside the main entrance. The fresco of the Pradosha Nritham (the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva) is a celebrated masterpiece of Kerala mural art. The temple is most famous for its seven and a half golden elephant sculptures, known as Ezharaponnana. This is the temple's most famous offering and a major attraction of its annual festival. These seven larges and one smaller golden elephant statuettes, made of jackfruit wood covered in gold, are displayed for public viewing only once a year during the festival. They are believed to have been donated by a Travancore Maharaja. The temple's main festival is celebrated on a grand scale for ten days in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February-March), culminating in the 'Arattu' ceremony on Thiruvathira day. The annual ten-day Arattu festival, usually held in February-March, is the main festival. The highlight of this festival is the ceremonial procession and public display of the Ezharaponnana on the eighth and tenth days, drawing a large number of devotees. An ever-burning, large traditional lamp at the temple entrance is a significant feature. Devotees continuously offer oil to this lamp, which is believed to have been lit for centuries. Thulabharam is an important ritual performed at the temple where devotees offer items ranging from gold to fruits in balance against their weight or the weight of a loved one, as a thanksgiving for favors received.

Timings: From 04:00 AM to 12:00 PM & from 05:00 PM to 08:00 PM.

St Mary’s Church in Cheriapally: St. Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church, also known as Kottayam Cheriapally, is a historically significant and architecturally unique church located in Kottayam, which is about 18 Kms away from Kumarakom. Despite its name, which translates to "small church," it is a large and ancient structure that stands as a testament to the rich Christian heritage of the region. Founded in 1579, Cheriapally is one of the oldest Christian churches in Kerala. Its establishment is linked to a split within the local Christian community and the grant of land by the then-ruler, Thekkumkoor Raja. It served as the headquarters of the Malankara Metropolitans for a period before the establishment of the Old Seminary in 1815. The church showcases a remarkable blend of Kerala and Portuguese architectural styles. Influences of traditional Kerala temple architecture are evident in elements like the thick laterite walls, the 'Anappalla' (elephant belly) style compound wall, and the use of granite pillars. Portuguese influence can be seen in the facade, European-style galleries, cornices, pediments, and particularly in the vibrant mural paintings. Niches in the walls once held hundreds of oil lamps. The timber work inside also reflects Kerala style. These murals depict various biblical themes, including significant events in the life of Jesus Christ and the Mother Mary, as well as some non-biblical subjects. The paintings exhibit a fusion of Oriental and Western artistic styles and are a major attraction, drawing art enthusiasts and historians. The church observes several important feasts, with the Feast of St. Mary on January 15th being particularly significant. Known as "Vithukalude Perunnal" (Festival of Seeds), it is celebrated to seek blessings for agricultural prosperity. The Feast of the Assumption of St. Mary on August 15th is another major occasion, marked by the procession of the Holy Girdle. It's a major spiritual center for the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church and an important pilgrimage site for Syrian Christians in Kerala. It stands as a testament to the faith and history of the community.

Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Thazhathangadi Mosque (Jama Masjid): Thazhathangadi Mosque, also known as Jama Masjid, is a historically significant and architecturally unique mosque situated in Thazhathangadi, Kottayam, which is about 13 kms away from Kumarakom. The mosque is considered one of the most ancient in India, which was constructed around the 9th century CE (some sources suggest 824 CE) & makes it a vital monument of Islamic heritage in the region. It is believed that Habib Dinar, son of Malik Dinar, who introduced Kerala to Islam, constructed the mosque. There are two graves in the mosque, that of Malik Ibn Dinar and of the mason who constructed the mosque. Unlike typical mosques with domes and minarets, Thazhathangadi Juma Masjid showcases the traditional Kerala style of architecture, resembling a temple or a royal mansion ('Nalukettu'). This makes it a unique architectural marvel. The mosque is predominantly built of wood, featuring exquisite and intricate teak wood carvings on its windows, ceilings, and pillars. These carvings often depict floral and geometric patterns, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the era. A striking feature is the absence of traditional Islamic architectural elements like domes and minarets, further emphasising its unique Kerala identity. Within the mosque complex is a large water tank carved out of a single block of stone. This tank was traditionally used for ritual ablutions before prayers and is a testament to the engineering skills of the time. The courtyard of the mosque also features an old sundial (Nizhal Khadikaram) that was historically used to determine prayer times based on the sun's position. In a significant step, the mosque opened its doors to women devotees in 2019 on specific days, allowing them to enter and offer prayers, which was previously not a common practice in this particular mosque. Recognising its historical and architectural value, the Government of Kerala has declared the mosque a protected monument.

Mosque timings: 07:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Activities in Kumarakom: 

Responsible Tourism Program: Kumarakom is a cluster of small, picturesque islands around the Vembanad Lake. The village is well acclaimed for its backwaters, delicious cuisine and greenery. This tourist destination, over the years, has become one of the most-visited in Kerala. Our journey will begin at Kavanatinkara after a briefing session. You will be accompanied by a guide who will familiarise you with the picturesque landscapes and the lush green surroundings of Kumarakom.

STOPOVER 1: SHIKHARA BOAT: Your journey begins in a Shikhara boat. Proceed over a lake flanked by greens to the Manjira village. Get a grand reception from villagers.

STOPOVER 2: AT THE TOP OF A COCONUT TREE: Learn how the times changed, as Ajeesh shows you two ways of climbing a coconut tree laborious traditional way using a thalappu and the modern way using the latest instruments. Celebrate the end of class by treating yourself to fresh tender coconut.

STOPOVER 3: TASTE OF TENDER COCONUT: Enjoy the beauty of lush green paddy fields at Sabu’s house. In his coconut grove, you will get to taste some sweet coconut water and tender coconut. Then you head to Ajeesh’s home.

STOPOVER 4: TODDY TAPPING: Proceed across paddy fields to reach the next stopover coconut grove. Taste the famed Kerala beverages, toddy, and fresh out of the pot. Watch Toddy tapping done nearby, and learn about unique plants and spices.

STOPOVER 5: GOWRI’S HOME: Gowri takes you through the art of weaving coconut leaves. Then she lets you try your hand at it.

STOPOVER 6: NET FISHING: Suresh, a skilled fisherman of Manjira, will teach you some tried-and-true fishing tips. Watch in awe as he casts a net and catches a few with ease. We then proceed to Latha’s home in a little boat.

STOPOVER 7: LATHA’S HOUSE: Latha’s home is where you get to watch the fascinating process of coir-making. Check out the various steps involved and try your hand at coir spinning. 

STOPOVER 8: WORLD OF SCREW PINES: Learn from omana how screw pine products are made. Don’t forget to buy the one or two that catch your fancy.

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