What's the best way to explore Kumarakom Lake? Best routes, fares, details

Tourists have been preferring the transport boats owned by the Kerala Water Transport Department (KWTD) to enjoy the scintillating views of the mighty Vembanad Lake in Kumarakom. KWTD’s transport boats offer tourists in Kumarakom an incredible opportunity to enjoy lake rides without burning a hole in their pockets. The ticket costs only Rs 16 per person for a 45-minute ride through the beautiful backwaters; the return trip costs Rs 32. 

A group of 55 members comprising teachers and students from Maharashtra recently enjoyed a boat trip from Kumarakom to Muhamma and back the other day. 

KWTD’s boats also run services to the Pathiramanal island from Muhamma. Smaller groups of three or four may not be able to hire private boats for lake rides, as it can be expensive. So, tourists have been preferring government boats for rides at lower rates. Not just domestic tourists, but foreigners too choose these boats to explore the mesmerising backwaters. Tourists can see rural life in the hamlets on both sides of the boat path. Besides, they can also watch inland fishing and mussel harvesting in the Vembanad Lake. 

Best routes
As the tourism season is already on in the state, many foreign and domestic tourists can be seen roaming the streets of Kumarakom. They also hire private houseboats, shikara boats, and speedboats to enjoy rides on the lake. Kottayam–Alappuzha and Muhamma–Kannankara–Maniyaparambu water routes offer a chance to see and experience the real lives of villagers in the countryside. 

Besides, tourists are also drawn to the incredible natural beauty of the backwaters. While tourists can enjoy a boat ride on the cool breeze and dancing waters of the lake on the Kumarakam – Muhamma route, the other routes offer a glimpse of the picturesque villages on the banks. The tickets cost Rs 29 per person on the Kottayam–Alappuzha water route, Rs 21 on the Muhamma–Kannankara–Maniyaparambu route, and Rs 9 from Cheepunkal to Maniyaparambu.