Kumily, Kerala: 10 Must-Do Experiences and Must-Visit Destinations

When you think of Kerala, you might envision swaying coconut palms, misty hill stations, tranquil backwaters, and aromatic spice gardens. But tucked away in this God’s Own Country is the charming town of Kumily, a tapestry of unique experiences woven with threads of adventure, relaxation, and cultural richness.

Unlike the mainstream listicles that dish out touristy clichés, we dive into a colorful swirl of less-known facets that make Kumily a treasure trove for wanderers. So put on your explorer hat (or elephant-shaped cap if you prefer, more on that later!), because we’re venturing beyond the beaten path.

Table of Contents

List of the Top 10 Things to Do & Places to Visit in Kumily Kerala:

1. Find Solace in Thekkady Lake’s Serenity by…Kayaking! 🚣‍♀️

Skip the boat tours thronged by tourists, and opt for an intimate kayaking experience on Thekkady Lake. Why kayak, you ask? Not only do you relish the stillness of the lake, but you also have the chance to come face-to-face with wildlife that frequents the water’s edge.

Floating silently, you can get up close and personal with the local residents like the Indian bison and water birds. The lake, a patch of liquid sapphire, is surrounded by the forested hills, making the experience a tranquil meditation on nature’s beauty.

2. Move Over Starbucks, Kumily’s Tea Gardens Await! ☕️

If you’re a tea aficionado, Kumily’s tea plantations should top your list. But we aren’t talking about just any tour; become a tea harvester for a day. Don a sun hat and pick tea leaves with the local women, learning the art of selecting the perfect leaf.

Once your basket is full, visit the factory to witness the magical transformation of these green leaves into aromatic sips. And yes, your day culminates in tasting the freshest brew, made from the very leaves you picked.

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3. Spice Safari: A Journey Beyond Cardamom and Pepper 🌿

Kumily is renowned as a spice haven, but there’s more than meets the eye. Instead of a casual visit, opt for a spice safari where you trek through lush landscapes, identifying exotic herbs, fruits, and roots, which are the unspoken heroes of Indian cuisine.

Learn about the indigenous medicinal plants and end your journey with a cooking demo that incorporates these wild spices into local dishes.

4. Elephant Junction and Its Unique Experience 🐘

Sure, you can watch elephants from a distance in most places, but how about giving one a spa day? At Elephant Junction, participate in an ‘Elephant Spa Day’ where you can bathe, scrub, and even paint these gentle giants.

The experience is both thrilling and educational as you learn about the conservation efforts in place for these majestic creatures.

5. Embrace the Drama of Traditional Kathakali Performances 🎭

Kathakali is not just a dance form but a vivid storybook of mythology and history. Many places offer Kathakali performances, but Kumily’s shows are less touristy and more authentic.

The intricate costumes, elaborate makeup, and emotive eye movements tell stories that words alone can’t convey. Take a seat and get lost in the ancient tales, theatrically exaggerated and yet intensely human.

6. Parunthumpara: A Vantage Point Like No Other 🌄

Move over, viewpoints overcrowded with selfie sticks and hustling vendors. At Parunthumpara, it’s just you, the chilly wind, and panoramic views of forests and plantations stretching endlessly into the horizon.

A well-kept secret, this viewpoint is ideal for a romantic sunset or a tranquil sunrise, free from the noise of commercialized tourist spots.

7. Eco Trails: Not Just a Walk in The Park 🥾

Forego the guided, structured forest walks and opt for an eco-trail in Periyar National Park. Spearheaded by tribal guides from the Mannan community, this is a walk that honors and respects the sanctity of nature.

Forage for edible forest produce, track animal footprints, and learn how every element of the ecosystem coexists harmoniously.

8. Unlock Culinary Secrets with a Homestay 🏡

Living in a homestay doesn’t just give you a cozy bed and home-cooked meals; it offers the untold chapters of Kumily’s lifestyle.

Engage in cooking lessons where you learn the alchemy of spices in authentic Kerala cuisine. From coconut-rich gravies to banana leaf-wrapped fish, unlock culinary secrets that you won’t find on YouTube.

9. Nostalgic Nooks: Vintage Kerala Cinema 🎬

Explore Kumily’s quaint cinemas that evoke a sense of nostalgia with their vintage architecture and interiors. Forget the blockbuster hits; opt for a Malayalam indie film or a classic from yesteryears.

The buttery popcorn and creaky seats add an old-world charm that makes movie-watching a prosperous cultural dive.

10. Kalvari Mount: Spirituality Meets Adventure ⛰️

A pilgrimage to the mountaintop church is joint, but how about paragliding off Kalvari Mount post your prayers? Apart from being a spiritual destination, the mount also offers adventure sports.

Nothing screams liberation like soaring through the skies, overlooking the sprawling landscapes that Kumily proudly calls its own.

How to Reach Kumily, Kerala

Getting to Kumily, the delightful speckle on Kerala’s map is part of the adventure. Given its location, flanked by hills and forests, the town exudes a sense of seclusion, making the journey there a build-up to the beauty that awaits. Here’s your comprehensive guide to reaching this utopia, ensuring that your voyage is as seamless as a tranquil backwater cruise.

1. 🛫 By Air:

Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport, Tamil Nadu (140 km) and Cochin International Airport, Kerala (190 km)

Madurai Route: Once you touch down at Madurai Airport, you can hire a taxi or hop on a bus to Kumily. The drive is scenic and takes around 3-4 hours.
Cochin Route: Alternatively, you could land at Cochin International Airport and cover the 4-5 hour journey by taxi or bus.

Pro-Tip: If you’re in no rush, consider a stopover at nearby attractions. From Madurai, visit the iconic Meenakshi Temple, and from Cochin, indulge in the backwaters of Alleppey.

2. 🚉 By Train:

Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station (107 km)

Kottayam is the nearest major railway station to Kumily. Once you arrive, taxis and buses are readily available for the 3-hour journey through winding roads and verdant landscapes.

Pro-Tip: Kottayam is famous for its rubber plantations. If time permits, a quick tour will add another layer to your travel experience.

3. 🚌 By Bus:

Direct Routes from Major Cities

Kumily has good bus connectivity with cities like Cochin, Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, and Madurai. Both government and private buses operate frequent services. The bus journey, besides being economical, provides an opportunity to mingle with locals and soak in the scenery.

4. 🚗 By Road:

Drive Yourself or Hire a Taxi

If you’re up for an adventure, consider driving to Kumily. The road conditions are generally good, and the journey is sprinkled with viewpoints and eateries that make excellent pit stops.

From Cochin: Follow the NH183 and cover the 160 km in approximately 4-5 hours.
From Madurai: Take the NH85 and expect to reach Kumily in around 3-4 hours.

Pro-Tip: Whichever route you choose, the drive is filled with photogenic moments, so keep your camera handy!

5. 🚲 By Bike:

For the Thrill-Seekers

If you are a biking enthusiast, riding to Kumily can be a thrilling experience. However, it’s essential to be prepared for varying road conditions and the hilly terrain.

Pro-Tip: Always carry a basic toolkit, and make sure to check the weather forecast before embarking on your journey.

6. 🎒 Backpacker’s Way:

For Budget Travellers

Combining trains and local buses is not only cost-effective but also lets you travel like a local. This requires a bit more time and planning but offers an enriched experience.

So there you have it, 10 unconventional experiences and destinations in Kumily that make your trip more than a tick off a bucket list. Whether you’re an intrepid adventurer, a solitude seeker, or a culture vulture, Kumily wraps you in a warm embrace, much like the intricate folds of a Kathakali costume, waiting to tell you its untold stories.

Pack your bags, take the road less traveled, and let Kumily etch its indelible ink on the pages of your travel diary. 🌏✈️🌴

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5 Essential FAQs About Visiting Kumily, Kerala:

1. 📅 What is the Best Time to Visit Kumily?

Answer: Kumily is a year-round destination, but if you want to narrow it down:

Winter (October to February) is considered the best time for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities.
Monsoon (June to September) offers lush, misty landscapes and is perfect if you love the romantic ambiance of rains and mists.
Summer (March to May) is warm but less crowded, making it ideal for those who seek solitude.

2. 🌳 What Kind of Wildlife Can I Expect to See in Periyar National Park?

Answer: The Periyar National Park, one of the significant attractions in Kumily, is a biodiversity hotspot. You can expect to see:

Mammals like elephants, Indian bison, and occasionally tigers.
A variety of birds such as kingfishers, darters, and cormorants.
Reptiles including monitor lizards and different species of snakes.

The type of wildlife you encounter can vary depending on the season and the time of your visit.

3. 🍽️ What Are Some Must-Try Local Foods?

Answer: Kumily offers a gastronomic journey through Kerala’s culinary landscape. Don’t leave without trying:

Kerala Sadya: A vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf.
Meen Pollichathu: Fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves, then grilled.
Appam with Stew: A local bread served with a rich, coconut milk-based stew.
Malabar Parotta: A flaky, multi-layered bread paired often with beef curry.

4. 🎒 What Are the Best Souvenirs to Bring Back from Kumily?

Answer: Kumily is not just a feast for the senses but also a paradise for shoppers, especially those interested in local crafts and produce. Some must-buy items include:

Spices: Given Kumily’s reputation as a spice hub, spices like cardamom, black pepper, and cloves are great souvenirs.
Tea: The region’s unique climate produces high-quality tea that makes for an aromatic gift.
Handicrafts: Wooden artifacts, especially those featuring traditional Kerala designs and motifs, are popular.
Ayurvedic Products: Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, so Ayurvedic oils and herbal beauty products are excellent choices.
Kathakali Masks: These colorful and intricately designed masks are a cultural symbol and make for great home décor.

5. 📸 Are There Any Special Photography Guidelines in the Wildlife Reserves and Cultural Sites?

Answer: While Kumily offers endless photographic opportunities, there are some guidelines you must follow:

Wildlife Photography: In areas like Periyar National Park, flash photography is generally not allowed as it can disturb the animals. Always maintain a safe distance from the wildlife.
Cultural Sites and Performances: At places like temples or during Kathakali performances, photography might be restricted or require special permission. Always look for signs or ask authorities before you start clicking.
Public Spaces: While taking photos in markets or streets, it’s polite to ask for permission if you’re capturing locals or their property.