The place
A cluster of islands on Vembanad — India's longest lake — Kumarakom is where the backwaters turn resort-elegant: heritage lake houses, coconut groves reflected in still water, and herons lifting off at first light.
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is the draw for birders: egrets, darters, herons and teal, and between November and February, Siberian cranes on their winter visit. Sunset on the lake, ideally from a slow boat, is the region's finest hour.
— Herons lifting off still water at first light.
Plan a trip to Kumarakom
