Kerala, the southern state of India, is well-known for its serene backwaters, coconut trees, and delicious cuisine. However, if you are looking for a break from the touristy hustle-bustle, Vagamon and Kumarakom are two of the best places to visit. In this article, we will explore these hidden gems of Kerala and discover why they should be on your travel bucket list.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Vagamon and Kumarakom
- How to Reach Vagamon and Kumarakom
- Vagamon: The Scotland of Asia
- Kumarakom: A Serene Backwater Destination
- Places to Visit in Vagamon
- Top Tourist Attractions in Kumarakom
- Outdoor Activities to Do in Vagamon and Kumarakom
- Best Time to Visit Vagamon and Kumarakom
- Where to Stay in Vagamon and Kumarakom
- Delicious Food to Try in Vagamon and Kumarakom
- Shopping in Vagamon and Kumarakom
- Safety and Precautions
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Introduction to Vagamon and Kumarakom
Vagamon and Kumarakom are two offbeat destinations in Kerala that offer a unique experience to travelers. Vagamon is a hill station located in the Idukki district of Kerala, while Kumarakom is a cluster of islands situated on the Vembanad Lake in the Kottayam district.
These destinations are not as popular as Munnar, Alleppey, or Kochi, but they have a charm of their own. With rolling hills, misty valleys, and lush greenery, Vagamon is often called the “Scotland of Asia”. On the other hand, Kumarakom is famous for its serene backwaters, exotic birdlife, and traditional houseboats.
How to Reach Vagamon and Kumarakom
Both Vagamon and Kumarakom are well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport to Vagamon is the Cochin International Airport, which is about 110 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Vagamon. The nearest railway station to Vagamon is Kottayam, which is about 64 km away. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Vagamon.
The nearest airport to Kumarakom is also the Cochin International Airport, which is about 85 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kumarakom. The nearest railway station to Kumarakom is Kottayam, which is about 16 km away. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kumarakom.
Vagamon: The Scotland of Asia
Vagamon is a small hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala. It is surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, and pine forests. The weather in Vagamon is pleasant throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a romantic vacation.
Vagamon is known for its meadows, valleys, and misty hills. One of the main attractions of Vagamon is the Kurisumala Ashram, which is a monastery that attracts visitors from all over the world. The ashram offers a tranquil atmosphere for meditation, yoga, and spiritual retreats.
Apart from the Kurisumala Ashram, Vagamon has several other tourist attractions, including the Vagamon Pine Forest, Thangal Para, and the Vagamon Lake.
Kumarakom: A Serene Backwater Destination
Kumarakom is a cluster of islands situated on the Vembanad Lake, which is the largest lake in Kerala. It is a popular backwater destination that offers a peaceful escape from the city’s chaos. Kumarakom is also known for its exotic birdlife and traditional houseboats, which are a must-try when visiting this place.
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of the top tourist attractions in Kumarakom. The sanctuary is home to various migratory birds, including Siberian storks, egret, darter, heron, and teal. The best time to visit the sanctuary is from November to February when the migratory birds flock to the lake.
Apart from the bird sanctuary, Kumarakom has several other tourist attractions, including the Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, Kumarakom Beach, and the Pathiramanal Island. You can also take a boat ride through the backwaters of Kumarakom and explore the traditional lifestyle of the locals.
Places to Visit in Vagamon
Vagamon is a paradise for nature lovers, and there are several places to visit here that offer a breathtaking view of the surroundings. The Vagamon Pine Forest is one of the top tourist attractions in Vagamon, where you can take a walk through the pine trees and enjoy the cool breeze. Thangal Para, a pilgrimage center for Muslims, is also a must-visit place in Vagamon.
Apart from these, the Vagamon Lake, the Mundakayam Ghat, and the Marmala Waterfalls are other tourist attractions that you can explore in Vagamon.
Top Tourist Attractions in Kumarakom
Kumarakom has several tourist attractions that offer a unique experience to travelers. The Kumarakom Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand that offers a picturesque view of the Vembanad Lake. The Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, located near Kumarakom, is a scenic waterfall that is surrounded by lush greenery.
The Pathiramanal Island is another popular tourist attraction in Kumarakom, which is accessible only by boat. The island is home to various migratory birds, and you can also indulge in fishing and boating activities here.
Outdoor Activities to Do in Vagamon and Kumarakom
Vagamon and Kumarakom offer several outdoor activities that are perfect for adventure enthusiasts. In Vagamon, you can go trekking, rock climbing, paragliding, and camping in the midst of nature. You can also go on a jeep safari and explore the offbeat trails of Vagamon.
In Kumarakom, you can take a boat ride through the backwaters and explore the traditional lifestyle of the locals. You can also go fishing, bird watching, and indulge in water sports activities like kayaking and canoeing.
Best Time to Visit Vagamon and Kumarakom
The best time to visit Vagamon and Kumarakom is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of these places. The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit Vagamon, as the hills turn lush green, and the waterfalls come to life.
Where to Stay in Vagamon and Kumarakom
Vagamon and Kumarakom have several options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. In Vagamon, you can stay at the Pine Valley Plantation Resort, the Green Hill Estate, or the Vanilla County Resort. In Kumarakom, you can stay at the Kumarakom Lake Resort, the Coconut Lagoon, or the Backwater Ripples.
Delicious Food to Try in Vagamon and Kumarakom:
Vagamon and Kumarakom are not only famous for their scenic beauty, but also for their mouth-watering cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes that you shouldn’t miss:
- Puttu and Kadala Curry – This is a popular breakfast dish in Kerala, which is made with steamed rice cake and spicy chickpea curry. You can find this dish in almost every restaurant in Vagamon and Kumarakom.
- Appam and Stew – This is another popular breakfast dish in Kerala, which is made with fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It is usually served with a vegetable or chicken stew.
- Fish Curry – Kerala is famous for its spicy fish curries, and you should definitely try one when you are in Vagamon or Kumarakom. The fish is cooked in a blend of spices and coconut milk, which gives it a unique flavor.
- Meen Pollichathu – This is a traditional Kerala fish preparation, where the fish is marinated with spices and wrapped in banana leaves before being roasted. The banana leaves impart a distinct flavor to the fish.
- Karimeen Fry – Karimeen, also known as Pearl Spot fish, is a popular fish in Kerala. It is marinated with a blend of spices and fried until crispy. It is usually served with steamed rice.
Shopping in Vagamon and Kumarakom:
Vagamon and Kumarakom offer a unique shopping experience to visitors. Here are some of the popular shopping items that you can buy:
- Handicrafts – Kerala is famous for its handicrafts, and you can find a variety of handcrafted items in Vagamon and Kumarakom. Some of the popular handicrafts include coir products, wooden toys, and bamboo products.
- Spices – Kerala is known as the “Spice Capital of India”, and you can find a wide range of spices in Vagamon and Kumarakom. Some of the popular spices include cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and clove.
- Tea and Coffee – Vagamon and Kumarakom are home to several tea and coffee plantations. You can buy freshly brewed tea and coffee, as well as packaged tea and coffee, to take back home.
- Clothes – Kerala is known for its traditional handloom sarees, which are made with cotton or silk. You can find a variety of handloom sarees in Vagamon and Kumarakom.
Safety and Precautions:
Vagamon and Kumarakom are generally safe for tourists, but it’s always better to take some precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:
- Be cautious when swimming in the backwaters. It’s better to stick to designated swimming areas and avoid swimming in the open waters.
- Be careful when trekking in the hills. It’s better to go with a guide or join a trekking group, as the trails can be steep and slippery.
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs. Dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection.
- Carry mosquito repellent, as the backwaters can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
- Always carry a first aid kit with you, as medical facilities may not be easily accessible in some areas.
Conclusion:
Vagamon and Kumarakom are two of the most beautiful destinations in Kerala, which offer a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and tradition. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or foodie, these destinations have something to offer for everyone. So, plan your trip to Vagamon and Kumarakom today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
- Q: What is the best time to visit Vagamon and Kumarakom? A: The best time to visit Vagamon and Kumarakom is from September to March when the weather is pleasant, and the temperature is moderate.
- Q: What are some of the popular outdoor activities to do in Vagamon and Kumarakom? A: Trekking, hiking, bird watching, and water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and boating are popular outdoor activities to do in Vagamon and Kumarakom.
- Q: Is it safe to travel to Vagamon and Kumarakom? A: Yes, Vagamon and Kumarakom are considered safe for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, it is advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
- Q: What are some of the popular dishes to try in Vagamon and Kumarakom? A: Some of the popular dishes to try in Vagamon and Kumarakom are appam, puttu, fish curry, karimeen fry, and kappa.
- Q: What are some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Kumarakom? A: Some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Kumarakom are Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal Island, and Bay Island Driftwood Museum.
- Q: What are some of the popular places to stay in Vagamon and Kumarakom? A: There are plenty of accommodation options in Vagamon and Kumarakom, ranging from budget to luxury. Some popular places to stay in Vagamon are Green Meadows Vagamon, Lake Palace Vagamon, and Thekkady Woods. In Kumarakom, some popular places to stay are Kumarakom Lake Resort, Zuri Kumarakom, and Coconut Lagoon.
