Located in 'God's own country', as the state of Kerala is otherwise known, Kumarakom is a unique destination that epitomises the natural beauty of the region. Kumarakom comprises a small town sitting on the edge of a collection of small islands that are connected by what’s known as the backwaters of Kerala. These interconnecting waterways feature canals, lakes and rivulets that are rich in natural life and provide picturesque scenery, as well as supporting a large collection of wildlife species.

Birds are what Kumarakom is perhaps most famous for, with an entire area designated a protected reserve and large numbers of indigenous and migratory species available for viewing. Boat trips offer visitors the chance to get closer to the habitats of these birds without destroying anything of their delicate ecosystem.

The small town has its very own beach resort, which is just perfect for relaxing on days when the weather’s a bit hot to do anything else. Nearby, is the town of Kottayam, famous for its religiously diverse population, comprised of Syrian Christians, Hindus, Moslems and Buddhists. The town features a number of interesting religious structures, including several churches, Hindu temples and a mosque.

Daytrips on the popular Kettuvallam cruisers are an essential part of any Kumarakom holiday, allowing visitors to see some of the wider beauty of the state of Kerala, while observing the daily lives of fishermen and village people. Shorter boat trips on smaller vessels are also available around Kumarakom’s immediate area.

The town does not suffer from the same extremes of heat that some other Indian destinations experience, making it a pleasant destination to visit throughout the year; although it’s widely accepted that the period from November through till March is the most the appropriate time climatically for most visitors.

A small visitor infrastructure provides accommodation and necessary services and amenities for tourists without spoiling the traditional integrity of the area. Hotels include budget accommodation as well as big-name establishments.

Kumarakom can be a little tricky to get to as its location sometimes necessitates a combination of transport including plane, train and boat. Kerala state has three international airports from which access to Kumarakom is possible, if not a little short of smooth.

Kumarakom is a minor destination comprised of a collection of small islands in the state of Kerala. Before its popularity as a tourist town, Kumarakom was an area located near a marshy mangrove on the edge of the Vembanad lake. In 1878, George Alfred Baker, a missionary from Essex, England, set about clearing the mangrove and replacing it with coconut plantations. Baker was so taken aback by the beauty of Kumarakom that he decided to make it his home and in doing so he became the catalyst for development in the area.

‘Development’ however, is a term used very loosely because the greatest appeal of the area is perhaps its underdevelopment or its lack of masses of manmade constructions that might otherwise spoil its tremendous natural beauty. The potential of Kumarakom’s bird sanctuary has of course been realised; strict laws prevent the destruction of this area and hence maintain its strict natural integrity.

Kumarakom can be found in Kerala, a state that wasn’t officially established until November 1956. The region’s early history saw settlers such as the Negrito people focused in three areas, then known as: Malabar, Cannanore and Kasargode. The Negrito people still inhabit the mountainous areas in the south of the country today. After the Negritos came the Austriches and then the Dravidians; the latter still having a significant effect on modern culture in Kerala.

After the Portuguese discovered the route to India from Europe by sea, a wave of visitors arrived, some settling permanently into the area and contributing to Kerala’s mix of followers of Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. Keralites celebrate the official recognition of the state on 1 November every year, a day they refer to as Kerala piravi meaning the 'Birth of Kerala'.

Kumarakom’s climate is moderate on account of its proximity to the ocean, with temperatures rarely falling below 16ºC and rarely climbing higher than 38ºC, which in the latter case is somewhat cooler than the 40-plus degrees that some parts of India experience in the summer season.

Kumarakom’s summer temperatures are generally no higher than 35°C while its winters see top temperatures of 25°C. Fortunately the coastal location provides a cool breeze throughout the year, making even the hottest days agreeable. The summer season is short, peaking in the months of March and April and beginning to peter out in May.

The monsoon season follows the summer and is quite short compared to that of other regions, seeing an end sometime in August; although mild spells of precipitation can be expected until at least the beginning of November. The cool, dry season follows and is the most popular period for tourists as temperatures are the most bearable and chances of rain are extremely low. The winter season lasts from November through till March.

Whatever season you choose to visit it’s wise to bring appropriate clothing, bearing in mind that skimpy outfits not only risk overexposure to the harmful effects of the sun but also risk offending locals who are devoutly religious and observe strict codes of moral conduct. It’s far better to bring light cotton clothing of the long-sleeved and long-legged variety if you intend on spending any amount of time in the sun; otherwise a high SPF sunscreen is essential if you intend on exposing arms and lower legs.