Beyond the Backwaters: Exploring Kumarakom’s Hidden Gems with Garggi Kumarakom Homestay

by Garggi Homestay | Mar 15, 2025 | Kumarakom Homestay Blog

Kumarakom is famed for its mesmerizing backwaters and bird sanctuary, but there’s a quieter, less-trodden side to this Kerala gem waiting to be uncovered. From Garggi Kumarakom Homestay, a cozy retreat nestled along the serene waterways, you’re perfectly positioned to venture beyond the houseboats and into the heart of local life. Here, ancient temples whisper history, bustling markets hum with color, and artisan workshops reveal Kerala’s timeless crafts. These hidden gems offer an authentic slice of Kumarakom, far from the usual tourist trails. Let’s explore some of these treasures, complete with directions and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

1. Vellavali Temple – A Spiritual Retreat

Tucked away amid paddy fields and coconut groves, the Vellavali Temple is a serene Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna. Unlike the grander temples of Kerala, this modest sanctuary exudes a peaceful charm, its traditional architecture featuring sloping roofs and intricate wood carvings. Locals believe the temple’s idol has miraculous powers, and its annual festival (usually in February or March—check locally for 2025 dates) draws villagers in vibrant processions.

• Directions: From Garggi Kumarakom Homestay, head northwest along the main Kumarakom road (Kumarakom-Kavanattinkara Road) for about 2.5 kilometers. Turn left at the small junction near the Vellavali bus stop—look for a narrow lane flanked by banana trees. The temple is a 5-minute walk down this path, roughly 10–15 minutes total from the homestay by auto-rickshaw or bike (available for rent from Garggi’s hosts).
• Insider Tip: Visit at sunrise (around 6:00 AM) to catch the morning aarti—oil lamps flicker, bells chime, and the air fills with the scent of jasmine offerings. Bring a small token like flowers or coconut (available at nearby stalls) to join the locals in prayer. Photography is allowed outside, but ask permission before snapping inside.

2. Kumarakom Local Market – A Sensory Delight

Forget the polished souvenir shops—Kumarakom’s local market, near the village center, is where the real pulse of the community beats. This daily bazaar brims with fresh catches from Vembanad Lake—karimeen (pearl spot fish), prawns, and crabs—alongside mounds of spices, handwoven mats, and toddy (fermented coconut sap). It’s a chaotic, colorful affair, perfect for immersing yourself in Kerala’s everyday life.

• Directions: From Garggi, travel east along the Kumarakom road for about 1.5 kilometers toward the village hub (ask your hosts for the exact turn-off, as signage is minimal). The market is near the Kumarakom boat jetty, a 5–10-minute auto-rickshaw ride or a 20-minute walk if you’re up for a scenic stroll along the canal.
• Insider Tip: Arrive by 8:00 AM when the fish sellers are at their liveliest—bargaining is expected, so brush up on your Malayalam phrases (or a smile works too). Try a glass of fresh toddy from a vendor (around INR 20–30); it’s sweet if unfermented, mildly buzz-inducing if aged a day. Pair it with a hot kappa (tapioca) snack from a nearby stall for a true local breakfast.

3. Coir-Making Workshops – Crafting Kerala’s Heritage

Kumarakom’s artisans have long turned coconut husks into gold—coir, the versatile fiber used for mats, ropes, and more. Small family-run workshops dot the village, offering a glimpse into this sustainable craft passed down through generations. These off-the-beaten-path spots let you watch (or even try) the process—from soaking husks to spinning them into threads on traditional looms.

• Directions: Head south from Garggi along the canal-side path for about 2 kilometers until you reach Cheepunkal, a quieter hamlet. Ask locals for “coir units” (pronounced “koy-yer”); one reliable spot is near the Cheepunkal jetty, about 15 minutes by bike or auto-rickshaw. Garggi’s hosts can arrange a visit if you ask in advance.
• Insider Tip: Visit mid-morning (9:00–11:00 AM) when artisans are most active. Bring a small gift like sweets (INR 50–100 worth from the market) to thank your hosts—they might let you spin the wheel or weave a mini mat to keep. Wear comfy shoes; the workshops are often muddy from the husk-soaking pits.

4. St. John’s Jacobite Syrian Church – A Historical Haven

Perched on a gentle hillock, this lesser-known church in Kumarakom dates back centuries, its whitewashed walls and red-tiled roof a testament to Kerala’s Syrian Christian heritage. Inside, faded frescoes and carved wooden altars hint at its past, while the surrounding graveyard offers a quiet spot to reflect. It’s a peaceful detour from the water-centric attractions.

• Directions: From Garggi, take the Kumarakom road north for 3 kilometers toward Kavanattinkara, then veer right at the fork near the school. The church is about 500 meters down this lane, a 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride or a 30-minute walk with views of paddy fields en route.
• Insider Tip: Visit on a Sunday morning (services around 8:00 AM) to hear hymns in Malayalam and see the congregation in traditional attire—women in white sarees with gold borders, men in mundus. The church is open daily, but mornings are quietest for exploration. Respect the sanctity by dressing modestly (shoulders and knees covered).

5. Pottery Workshops in Aymanam – Clay and Creativity

Just across the Meenachil River from Kumarakom lies Aymanam, a village immortalized in Arundhati Roy’s *The God of Small Things*. Here, potters shape red clay into pots, lamps, and figurines, their wheels spinning in open-air sheds. These workshops are a hidden gem, blending art with the earthy scent of wet soil.

• Directions: From Garggi, head east to the Kumarakom jetty (1.5 km), then take a 10-minute ferry across Vembanad Lake to Aymanam (INR 20–30, runs hourly—check with Garggi’s hosts). From the Aymanam jetty, it’s a 1-kilometer walk or a quick auto-rickshaw ride (INR 50) to the pottery cluster near the village center.
• Insider Tip: Go in the late afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM) when the heat dips and potters are finishing their day’s work—they’re more likely to chat or let you try the wheel. Buy a small clay lamp (INR 50–100) as a memento; light it with oil back at Garggi for a cozy evening vibe.

Why Garggi Kumarakom Homestay?

Garggi is more than a place to sleep—it’s your launchpad to these hidden treasures. Its waterfront location keeps you close to the backwaters’ allure, while its warm hosts act as local guides, sharing tips and arranging transport (auto-rickshaws or bikes, INR 100–200 per trip). After a day of exploration, return to unwind with a home-cooked Kerala meal—perhaps fish curry and appam—served on the veranda as the sun dips below the horizon.

• Getting Around: Rent a bicycle from Garggi (ask your host; INR 100–150/day) for a leisurely pace, or hire an auto-rickshaw for convenience. Roads are narrow and signage sparse, so a local map app (like Google Maps) or a quick chat with your host ensures you don’t miss a turn.
• Best Time: March 25, 2025, falls just post-monsoon—expect lush greenery and pleasant weather (25–30°C), though mornings and evenings are coolest for outdoor adventures.

Beyond the backwaters, Kumarakom reveals a tapestry of culture and craft, faith and flavor. From Garggi Kumarakom Homestay, these lesser-known attractions beckon with the promise of discovery—quiet moments in a temple, the buzz of a market, or the tactile joy of clay and coir. Step off the beaten path, and let Kumarakom’s hidden gems weave their magic around you.

Birdwatching Paradise: Discovering Kumarakom’s Avian Wonders from Garggi Kumarakom Homestay

by Garggi Homestay | Mar 10, 2025 | Kumarakom Homestay Blog

Nestled along the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom, Garggi Kumarakom Homestay is your front-row seat to one of India’s most enchanting birdwatching destinations. Surrounded by the lush greenery of Vembanad Lake’s shores and just a stone’s throw from the famed Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, this homestay offers nature lovers and bird enthusiasts an immersive escape into a world of fluttering wings, vibrant plumage, and melodic calls. Here, the air hums with life, and every glance reveals a new feathered marvel. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, Garggi is the perfect base to explore Kumarakom’s avian wonders.

Bird Species: A Symphony of Feathers

Kumarakom’s unique ecosystem—spanning wetlands, mangroves, paddy fields, and canals—makes it a magnet for over 180 bird species, both resident and migratory. From Garggi, you’re poised to encounter a dazzling array of avian life, especially with the bird sanctuary nearby.

• Resident Stars: The locals are a year-round delight. Picture the Malabar Trogon, a secretive forest dweller with a fiery red belly and emerald back, flitting through the trees. The White-throated Kingfisher, with its electric-blue wings and chestnut head, perches boldly near the water, scanning for fish. Little Cormorants and Indian Darters (snakebirds) dry their glossy black wings on branches overhanging the canals, their slender necks weaving through the air like living calligraphy. Purple Herons stalk the shallows, their slate-gray elegance mirrored in the still water, while Brahminy Kites soar overhead, their white heads and chestnut wings a striking contrast against the sky.
• Migratory Marvels: From November to February, Kumarakom transforms into a winter refuge for birds fleeing colder climes. The Siberian Crane, a rare and majestic visitor, graces the wetlands with its snow-white plumage and graceful dance. Pintail Ducks and Garganey Teals ripple the water in flocks, their subtle browns and greens shimmering in the sunlight. The Paradise Flycatcher, with its long, ribbon-like tail trailing behind, darts through the foliage—an ethereal flash of white or rufous. And don’t miss the Whiskered Tern, hovering above the lake before plunging for prey, its black cap a seasonal crown.

Birdwatching Tips: Making the Most of Your Adventure

To fully immerse yourself in Kumarakom’s avian spectacle from Garggi, a few tips can elevate your experience:

• Timing is Key: Dawn (5:30–7:30 AM) and dusk (4:30–6:00 PM) are prime birdwatching hours—birds are most active, and the soft light enhances visibility. Migratory season (November–February) is ideal for rare sightings, while June–August showcases breeding residents in full splendor.
• Gear Up: Bring binoculars (8×42 or 10×50 recommended) for close-up views and a camera with a zoom lens (200mm+) to capture fleeting moments. A field guide, like Birds of Southern India by Grimmett and Inskipp, helps identify species on the spot.
• Stay Silent and Still: Birds are skittish—move slowly, avoid sudden gestures, and keep noise low. Wear muted colors (greens, browns) to blend into the surroundings.
• Explore by Boat: Book a canoe or shikara ride from Garggi’s hosts to glide through narrow canals. The water-level perspective brings you closer to aquatic species like herons and kingfishers, undisturbed by foot traffic.
• Use the Sanctuary: The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, just minutes away, offers trails and watchtowers. Start at the entrance trail for forest birds, then climb the second tower (a 2-km walk) for panoramic views of wetland flocks.
• Listen First: Tune into the soundscape—cuckoos’ haunting calls, kingfishers’ sharp trills, or the rustle of wings can guide you to hidden gems before you see them.

Proximity to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A Birder’s Dream

Garggi Kumarakom Homestay sits enviably close to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a 14-acre haven on Vembanad Lake’s banks, roughly 2–3 kilometers away (a 5–10-minute drive or a scenic 30-minute walk). This proximity means you can roll out of bed and be among the birds before the day heats up. The sanctuary, once a rubber plantation under British colonist Alfred George Baker, is now a protected paradise managed by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. Its trails wind through mangroves and forests, while canals and the lake host waterfowl and waders. From Garggi, you can arrange a quick trip to the sanctuary’s entrance, where a modest fee (around INR 50–100) grants access to its riches. The homestay’s hosts often coordinate boat rides directly from their waterfront, linking you seamlessly to this avian hotspot.

Stunning Bird Photography: A Visual Feast

While I can’t provide photos, let these descriptions transport you:

• Kingfisher Moment: A Pied Kingfisher hovers mid-air, its black-and-white pattern stark against the canal’s green fringe. It dives, a blur of motion, emerging with a silver fish glinting in its beak as water droplets scatter like diamonds.
• Heron Serenity: A Grey Heron stands statue-still in the shallows near Garggi, its slate-blue feathers blending with the dawn mist. The rising sun gilds its reflection, creating a perfect mirror image on the lake.
• Migratory Magic: A cluster of Siberian Cranes wades in the sanctuary’s wetlands, their white forms glowing against the muddy browns. One stretches its wings—eight feet wide—revealing black-tipped feathers in a fleeting ballet of grace.
• Forest Flash: Deep in the sanctuary’s trail, a Malabar Parakeet erupts from the canopy, its green body and red beak a vivid streak against the dark leaves, leaving a trail of squawks in its wake.

From Garggi Kumarakom Homestay, Kumarakom’s avian wonders unfold like a living gallery—each bird a brushstroke on nature’s canvas. With the sanctuary’s proximity, expert tips in hand, and a kaleidoscope of species to discover, this is more than a stay; it’s a pilgrimage to a birdwatcher’s paradise. Pack your binoculars, step into the quiet, and let the wings of Kumarakom carry you away.

Taste of Kumarakom: Authentic Kerala Cuisine at Garggi Kumarakom Homestay

by Garggi Homestay | Mar 6, 2025 | Kumarakom Homestay Blog

At Garggi Kumarakom Homestay, the kitchen isn’t just a place to cook—it’s a gateway to the soul of Kerala, where every dish tells a story of the land, the water, and the people. Nestled along the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom, this homestay offers more than a stay; it’s a culinary journey steeped in local flavors, crafted with ingredients plucked from nearby gardens, canals, and markets. Here, food is an experience—an invitation to savor the authentic tastes of Kerala, spiced with tradition and served with love.

Traditional Dishes: A Feast for the Senses

The day at Garggi begins with the aroma of breakfast wafting through the air—think Puttu and Kadala Curry, a beloved Kerala classic. Puttu, a steamed rice cake layered with grated coconut, arrives in cylindrical molds, its texture light and fluffy, paired with a hearty kadala curry made from black chickpeas simmered in a coconut-infused gravy with hints of turmeric and chili. Lunch might feature Karimeen Pollichathu, the iconic pearl spot fish caught fresh from the backwaters, marinated in a fiery blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled until succulent. The smoky, tangy flavors meld with the fish’s natural sweetness, making every bite a revelation.

Come evening, the table groans under the weight of dishes like Meen Moilee, a creamy fish curry cooked in coconut milk with subtle notes of ginger and green chilies, or Kerala Prawn Curry, where juicy prawns swim in a spicy, tangy broth spiked with kudampuli (Malabar tamarind) and mustard seeds. Vegetarians aren’t left out—Thoran, a stir-fry of seasonal vegetables like beans or cabbage with grated coconut and curry leaves, brings a fresh, earthy crunch to the meal. And for dessert? A bowl of Payasam, a sweet pudding of rice or vermicelli cooked with jaggery, coconut milk, and cardamom, topped with golden-fried cashews and raisins.

Recipes to Bring Kumarakom Home

Want to recreate the magic of Garggi’s kitchen? Here are two simplified recipes rooted in Kumarakom’s culinary traditions:

Local Spices: The Heart of the Flavor

Kerala’s nickname, “Land of Spices,” comes alive at Garggi, where the cuisine hinges on a symphony of local seasonings. Coconut, in all its forms—grated, milk, or oil—is the backbone, lending richness and a subtle sweetness that balances heat. Black pepper, grown in Kerala’s hills, adds a sharp, lingering bite, while turmeric brings earthy warmth and golden hues. Mustard seeds, popped in hot oil, release a nutty zest, and curry leaves infuse a citrusy, aromatic depth. Then there’s kudampuli, a souring agent unique to Kerala’s coast, delivering a tart punch that elevates seafood dishes. These spices, often sourced from nearby farms or the hosts’ own garden, aren’t just ingredients—they’re the essence of Kumarakom’s terroir, tying the food to the land and water around it.

A Culinary Experience to Savor

Dining at Garggi isn’t just about eating—it’s about connection. Meals are served family-style, often on the veranda overlooking the backwaters, where the hosts share tales of fishing for karimeen or harvesting coconuts. The cooking demonstration, a guest favorite, lets you grind spices or stir a simmering curry under the guidance of the homestay’s matriarch, her hands deft from years of perfecting these recipes. Every dish is a celebration of Kumarakom’s bounty—fish from the canals, prawns from Vembanad Lake, and spices from the soil—crafted with care to reflect Kerala’s vibrant culinary heritage.

At Garggi Kumarakom Homestay, the taste of Kumarakom isn’t just food on a plate—it’s a sensory voyage through Kerala’s backwaters, where local flavors, traditional dishes, and warm hospitality create memories as lasting as the spices themselves. Come hungry, leave inspired.

Unwind in Kerala’s Backwaters: A Day in the Life at Garggi Kumarakom Homestay

by Garggi Homestay | Mar 3, 2025 | Kumarakom Homestay Blog

Tucked along the tranquil banks of Kerala’s backwaters, Garggi Kumarakom Homestay offers a sanctuary where the pace of life slows to the gentle rhythm of water and wind. This charming retreat, blending traditional Kerala hospitality with modern comforts, promises an immersive escape into nature and culture. Here’s what a typical day might unfold like, steeped in tranquility and rich with authentic experiences.

Morning: Breakfast by the Water

Your day begins around 7:30 AM as the first rays of sunlight pierce through the canopy of coconut palms, casting a golden glow over the canal beside the homestay. The air is cool and fresh, laced with the scent of wet earth and distant spices. You’re welcomed onto the lush, flower-fringed lawn or a shaded veranda, where a wooden table awaits with a hearty Kerala breakfast. Expect a spread of soft, lacy appams paired with a fragrant coconut-based vegetable stew alongside crispy dosas with sambar and chutney—perhaps a zesty coconut and green chili blend. A steaming cup of filter coffee, poured from a steel tumbler into a saucer, warms your hands as you sip it slowly, gazing at the still water where a lone egret stands poised. The hosts, warm and attentive, might share a story or two about life in Kumarakom as you eat, setting the tone for a day of connection and calm.

Mid-Morning: Boat Ride Through the Backwaters

By 9:30 AM, the sun climbs higher, and it’s time for a boat ride—a highlight of any backwaters stay. At Garggi, the hosts arrange a traditional canoe or shikara, waiting at the homestay’s edge where the lawn meets the water. You step aboard, the boat swaying slightly, and settle under a thatched roof as the boatman paddles into the labyrinth of canals. The world transforms into a serene expanse of green and blue—palm-fringed banks, patches of floating hyacinth, and the occasional flash of a kingfisher’s turquoise wings. The water mirrors the sky, broken only by the ripples of your boat and the darting of fish below. You pass villagers in wooden canoes, some fishing with nets, others ferrying goods, their lives unfolding in quiet harmony with the water. The gentle rocking and the soft splash of the paddle lull you into a meditative state, the tranquility wrapping around you like a warm blanket.

Afternoon: Village Walks and Cooking Demonstration

Returning around 11:30 AM, you’re ready to explore on foot. The hosts lead a leisurely village walk, starting from the homestay’s gate and winding along narrow paths beside the canal. The air hums with the buzz of dragonflies and the rustle of leaves as you pass spice gardens—nutmeg, pepper, and ginger—and modest homes with tiled roofs. Villagers smile and nod, some weaving coir or mending nets, offering glimpses into Kumarakom’s timeless rhythm. You might pause to watch a fisherman cast his line or a woman pluck fresh curry leaves, the simplicity of it all grounding you in the moment.

Back at Garggi by 1:00 PM, a light lunch awaits, perhaps karimeen fry (pearl spot fish) with rice and a tangy mango curry. Then, around 2:30 PM, the kitchen beckons for a cooking demonstration. The host, often a skilled home cook, invites you to join her at a rustic counter. She grinds fresh coconut and spices on a stone mortar, showing you how to craft a fish moilee or a thoran of seasonal vegetables. You try your hand at tempering mustard seeds in coconut oil, the sizzle and aroma filling the air, and laugh as you fumble with a ladle. It’s an intimate, hands-on dive into Kerala’s culinary soul, leaving you with both a recipe and a memory.

Evening: Relaxation Under the Kerala Sky

As the afternoon softens into the evening around 5:00 PM, you’re free to unwind. The homestay’s garden offers a hammock strung between palms or a cushioned bench by the water, perfect for reading or simply soaking in the peace. The sky shifts to hues of orange and pink, reflecting on the canal in a breathtaking display. Garggi’s proximity to the backwaters means you might hear the distant call of a water bird or the faint hum of a passing boat, but otherwise, silence reigns. If you’re lucky, the hosts might light a small bonfire on the lawn, the flickering flames adding a cozy glow as the temperature dips.

Dinner arrives at 7:00 PM, served family-style on the terrace or indoors if you prefer. It’s a feast of prawn curry, spiced with red chilies and tamarind, alongside rice and a cooling payasam dessert of rice and jaggery. Afterward, you linger with a cup of herbal tea—perhaps lemongrass from the garden—chatting with the hosts or fellow guests about the day. By 9:00 PM, the stars emerge, and you retreat to your room, perhaps a river-facing hut or treehouse, its wooden interiors and netted bed enveloping you in comfort. Sleep comes easily, lulled by the soft lap of water and the rustle of palms outside.

At Garggi Kumarakom Homestay, a day isn’t just a passage of time—it’s an immersion into Kerala’s backwaters, where every activity, from boat rides to village strolls, weaves you into the fabric of this tranquil world. It’s a place to breathe deeply, savor slowly, and let the water’s stillness and the hosts’ warmth renew your spirit.

Best Homestay in Kumarakom for Families: GARGGI Kumarakom Homestay

by Garggi Homestay | Feb 24, 2025 | Kumarakom Homestay Blog