Kumarakom is a great place to explore because of its calm backwaters, lush scenery, and the chance to connect with local life in a genuine way. Its small villages, bird sanctuaries, and tranquil waterways make it an ideal spot for unique tours that go beyond the usual. We particularly love the sunset and sunrise cruises for their peaceful views, and the village tours for a peek at local daily life. For example, the Sunset Cruise offers a serene way to end your day, while the Village Tour in Aymanam immerses you in rural Kerala. Whether you’re into scenery, culture, or food, Kumarakom’s tours deliver authentic experiences.
Quick Overview
Our list features two cruises—one for sunrise and one for sunset—both offering culture and scenic beauty (Sunrise Cruise and Sunset Cruise). We also include a half-day village tour in Aymanam, known for its natural charm and friendly locals, plus a cooking class that turns you into a Kerala meal expert (Meals Preparation Class). Each offers a different slice of Kumarakom life, suited to various interests and schedules.
1. Kumarakom: Sunset Cruise with Village Life and Local Food
At number one, the Sunset Cruise with Village Life and Local Food is a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. For $68 per person, you’ll float along Kumarakom’s backwaters in a traditional canoe, enjoying tea and watching the sky change colors over the lake. This cruise emphasizes authentic culture, as it brings you close to local village life and the myriad of bird species that frequent the waterways.
What makes this tour special is its intimate setting, with personalized service that prioritizes relaxation. As you glide through narrow canals, you’ll witness daily routines of villagers and perhaps catch sight of herons, kingfishers, or cormorants. The scenic sunset creates a peaceful backdrop, making it a wonderful experience for couples or anyone craving serenity. Many reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to connect with local culture without the crowds.
Bottom line: this cruise offers a tranquil, authentic experience that’s perfect for those wanting a quiet evening with scenic beauty and cultural insights. It’s an excellent value for the intimate service and stunning views.
2. Kumarakom: Sunrise Cruise With Village Life and Local Food
Starting the day with a Sunrise Cruise with Village Life and Local Food is a great choice for early risers and nature lovers. For $68 per person, you’ll set out in a traditional wooden canoe, which can navigate the narrow canals that larger boats can’t access. The calm morning hours offer pristine views of the rising sun, and the chance to see early-morning bird activity.
This tour offers a unique opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their routines at the start of the day. The cruise concludes with a traditional Kerala breakfast, which is a lovely way to experience regional flavors and culture firsthand. Reviewers mention that the boat’s quiet glide through the canals makes for a peaceful, almost meditative experience, especially if you enjoy birdwatching or photography.
The focus on local food and community interaction makes this tour ideal for those who want to combine scenic beauty with cultural learning. The only potential downside is that early mornings might not suit everyone, but for nature and culture enthusiasts, this is a real highlight.
Bottom line: a perfect tour for early risers who want a peaceful boat ride, cultural interaction, and a taste of Kerala breakfast. It’s a quiet, contemplative experience that’s worth waking up for.
3. From Kumarakom: Half Day Aymanam Rural Village Tour
For around $175 per person, the Half Day Aymanam Rural Village Tour offers a deeper dive into Kerala’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. This tour starts with a visit to a local Hindu temple, giving insight into spiritual life, then continues with a scenic shikara boat cruise through Aymanam’s narrow canals. The village itself is famed for its lush landscape and friendly locals.
Exploring Aymanam by foot allows you to interact directly with villagers, see their daily activities, and witness how they live along the riverbanks. The guide will likely share stories about the area’s history and traditions. The boat cruise offers a comfortable, close-up view of rural life, and walking through the village reveals its distinct character and natural charm.
While the tour’s price is higher than the others, it compensates with cultural depth, authentic encounters, and scenic variety. Reviewers mention the natural scenery and friendly locals as major highlights, making it ideal for travelers seeking insight into rural Kerala beyond the waterways.
Bottom line: this tour is best suited for culturally curious travelers who want a comprehensive, hands-on look at village life and natural beauty in the Kumarakom region.
$175 per person
4. Kerala Meals Preparation Class at Kumarakom
For those interested in cuisine and local flavors, the Kerala Meals Preparation Class offers a fun, three-hour immersion into regional cooking for $84 per person. The class begins with a visit to a local market, where you’ll select fresh ingredients, then moves into a cooking session that covers spices and traditional methods. Afterward, you’ll enjoy the homemade Kerala meal together, accompanied by Sulaimani tea.
This experience is great for foodies or anyone wanting a hands-on cultural activity. The guide shares stories about regional ingredients and cooking traditions, making the session more than just a recipe exchange. Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated learning about Kerala spices and enjoying the meal they helped prepare—this isn’t just a cooking class, but a cultural experience.
While three hours is short, the class provides deep insight into Kerala cuisine and a tasty meal, making it excellent value. It’s best suited for travelers who love food, want to learn practical skills, or enjoy interactive experiences.
Bottom line: a lively and educational choice for food lovers who want to bring Kerala flavors home, or simply enjoy a delicious and authentic culinary experience.
$84 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Kumarakom
When selecting your Kumarakom tour, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re after peaceful scenery and cultural insight, the sunset cruise offers a relaxing evening on the water, perfect for couples or quiet reflection. For early risers, the sunrise cruise provides birdwatching and a taste of local morning routines.
For those wanting a deeper cultural dive, the Aymanam village tour combines walking, boat riding, and local interactions—ideal if you crave authenticity and natural beauty. And if your passion is food, the Kerala cooking class turns a meal into a memorable cultural activity.
Practical tips: book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time. Think about whether you want scenic relaxation, culture, or culinary skills—each experience offers a different taste of Kumarakom’s unique charm.
Kumarakom’s tours each provide a different window into the region, from tranquil waterways to lively villages and flavorful cuisine. For a peaceful sunset with birdwatching, the Sunset Cruise stands out. If you’re eager for a full cultural experience and natural scenery, the Aymanam Village Tour is a top pick. And for culinary enthusiasts, the Kerala Meals Preparation Class offers a delicious, hands-on adventure.
No matter which you choose, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic experiences. Enjoy your time in Kumarakom and make sure to dive into its relaxing waterways and welcoming villages!