Nestled in the serene backwaters of Kerala, EspySoul Heritage Homestay is your gateway to Kumarakom’s cultural treasures, natural wonders, and spiritual landmarks. From ancient temples to hidden waterfalls, here’s your guide to the top attractions near EspySoul, along with tips on how to reach them and what makes each spot unforgettable.
1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Distance from EspySoul: 5 minutes (2 km)
How to Reach: Walk, cycle, or take a short auto-rickshaw ride.
Why Visit:
- Spot migratory birds like Siberian storks and kingfishers in their natural habitat.
- Enjoy serene boat rides through mangrove forests.
- Perfect for sunrise walks and photography.
2. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple
Distance: 20 minutes (12 km)
How to Reach: Hire a taxi or drive via NH66.
Why Visit:
- One of Kerala’s oldest Shiva temples, famed for its Kerala-style architecture and spiritual aura.
- Witness the annual Vaikom Ashtami festival (Oct–Nov).
- Peaceful surroundings with a sacred pond.
3. Houseboat Cruise
Starting Point: Kumarakom Boat Jetty (5 minutes from EspySoul)
Why Experience:
- Glide through Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in India, on a traditional kettuvallam.
- Enjoy Kerala meals cooked onboard while soaking in backwater views.
- Sunset cruises and overnight stays available.
4. Maravan Thuruth (Island of Trees)
Distance: 30 minutes (18 km)
How to Reach: Drive to Muhamma Jetty, then a 10-minute boat ride.
Why Visit:
- A secluded island with dense coconut groves and tranquil vibes.
- Ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and picnics.
- Escape the crowds and embrace nature.
5. Thanneer Mukkam Bund
Distance: 25 minutes (15 km)
How to Reach: Taxi or auto-rickshaw via Kottayam-Kumarakom Road.
Why Visit:
- A scenic water regulator offering panoramic views of Vembanad Lake.
- Popular for sunset photography and peaceful walks.
6. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple
Distance: 30 minutes (20 km)
How to Reach: Drive via NH183.
Why Visit:
- Ancient temple with 16th-century murals and a golden dhwaja stambham (flagstaff).
- Famous for the annual Ettumanoor Festival (Feb–Mar) with elephant processions.
7. EspySoul Lake View Point
On Property: Exclusive to EspySoul guests!
Why Visit:
- Uninterrupted views of Vembanad Lake from a private deck.
- Perfect for morning yoga, evening tea, or stargazing.
8. Malarikkal Ambal Fest (Water Lily Bloom)
Distance: 40 minutes (25 km)
Season: Aug–Oct (blooming season)
Why Visit:
- Witness millions of pink water lilies carpeting the paddy fields.
- A surreal, Instagram-worthy landscape unique to Kerala.
9. Marari Beach
Distance: 1 hour (45 km)
How to Reach: Drive via NH66.
Why Visit:
- Pristine, uncrowded beach with golden sands and coconut palms.
- Try local seafood shacks and Ayurvedic massages by the shore.
10. Ilaveezha Poonchira
Distance: 2 hours (85 km)
How to Reach: Taxi or self-drive through Kottayam.
Why Visit:
- A hidden valley surrounded by three majestic hills (Mankunnu, Kudayathoor, and Thonippara).
- Legendary sunrise views and trekking trails.
11. Areekkal & Marmala Waterfalls
Distance:
- Areekkal: 1.5 hours (50 km)
- Marmala: 2 hours (70 km)
Why Visit:
- Areekkal: Tiered falls amidst dense forests, ideal for swimming.
- Marmala: Kerala’s “Jewel in the Rainforest” with a 60-meter cascade.
12. Kochareekkal Caves
Distance: 1.5 hours (55 km)
How to Reach: Drive to Erattupetta, then a short hike.
Why Visit:
- Mysterious caves believed to be hideouts of mythological characters.
- Adventure trek through rocky terrain.
13. Cherai & Alappuzha Beaches
Distance:
- Cherai: 1.5 hours (60 km)
- Alappuzha: 1 hour (40 km)
Why Visit:
- Cherai: Blend of backwaters and sea, perfect for dolphin spotting.
- Alappuzha: Historic “Venice of the East” with lighthouse views and houseboat hubs.
14. Kumbalangi & Kadamakudy Ecotourism
Distance: 1.5–2 hours (70–80 km)
Why Visit:
- Kumbalangi: India’s first eco-tourism village with mangrove kayaking.
- Kadamakudy: Interact with local fishermen and try crab farming.
15. Spiritual Stops
- Arthungal Basilica: 1 hour (40 km) – A Gothic-style church with annual feast celebrations.
- Alphonsamma Tomb: 30 minutes (20 km) – A pilgrimage site for devotees of Sister Alphonsa.
How to Plan Your Trips
- Nearby (Under 30 mins): Bird Sanctuary, Houseboats, EspySoul Lake View.
- Half-Day Trips (1–2 hours): Temples, Waterfalls, Beaches.
- Full-Day Trips: Ilaveezha Poonchira, Kochareekkal Caves.
