If you are on the lookout for a relaxing vacation away from the busy city life, Kumbalangi is one place to consider. At a distance of about 12 km from Kochi, this quaint island village comprises an area of only 16 square km, giving you much-needed solitude. 

However, there is no reason to believe that Kumbalangi is a desolate place with nothing to do. From boating and canoeing to fishing and hiking, you can enjoy various activities on that small island. 

See also: Best places to visit in January in India

What is the best time to visit Kumbalangi?

Autumn and the winter season are the best times to visit the island village, as the weather is pleasant then. You can plan a trip anytime from mid-October to the end of February to make your holiday season memorable. Even if you are visiting in March-May, you will find the place way cooler than other neighbouring regions. 

And if you love rain, monsoon will be the best time to enjoy an adventurous trek through the water-lodged moors. It can get a little risky, though, because of the storms that may hit the island during this season, but the adventurous spirit in you will be satisfied. 

How to reach Kumbalangi?

By air: The Cochin International Airport, which connects all major cities in India and abroad, is located only at a distance of 45 km.

By rail: It is at a distance of 12 km from the Ernakulam Junction, a major halt in the district. 

By road: The island village is only a 15-minutes drive from Kochi. There are many buses and public transport facilities to take you to the spot. 

Kumbalangi resorts where you can stay to enjoy your vacation

Although mostly a solitary place, Kumbalangi and its nearby areas have some popular hotels and resorts with all modern facilities to make your stay comfortable and memorable at the same time. Some of these Kumbalangi resorts that you should shortlist for your upcoming vacation are:

Aquatic Island Resort 

Source: Aquatic Island Resort 

3-star resort

Prices: Rs 7,113/night onwards

Check-in: 2 PM

Check-out: 12 PM

Also referred to as the Aquatic Floating Resort, this gorgeous village resort has the perfect setting for a relaxing vacation in the Kumbalangi village. Surrounded by the backwaters and lush green paddy fields, the resort highlights responsible tourism and represents sustainability. 

However, the striking fact of this resort is its below-water-level bedrooms that cannot be found anywhere else in India. It also has India’s first floating infinity pool and a plethora of aquatic activities to keep you busy. Perfect for family gatherings, business trips and honeymoons, the resort offers no dearth of facilities for a luxury village holiday. 

Reasons to stay:

• Unique, floating villas that have made the best use of buoyancy
• Mesmerising views of the backwaters, paddy fields, mangrove forests and coconut trees
• Body immunisation therapy, rejuvenation therapy, yoga and meditation classes 
• In-house stress-management therapies 
• Eco-friendly ambience, perfect for responsible travellers
• Extensive food menu, specially prepared by qualified chefs 
• Paid transfers on request

Note: Unmarried couples are not allowed accommodation at this property. Also, children below 18 years cannot book a room in this resort unless accompanied by adults. 

Heritage Methanam 

Source: Heritage Methanam 

3-Star property

Prices: Rs 4,000/night onwards

Check-in: 12 PM

Check-out: 12 PM

One of the most sought-after luxurious Kumbalangi resorts, Heritage Methanam offers its guests a stress-free vacation without compromising on modern facilities. From air-conditioned rooms to a huge swimming pool and fully-equipped business centre, the resort has all the facilities and amenities required for your trip. 

It doesn’t matter what your purpose is for a visit; the Heritage Methanam will cater to your requirements perfectly. It is also Wi-Fi-enabled, so you need not be cut off from the world during your stay. Further, the in-house dining facilities include the most delectable traditional dishes, giving your taste buds a taste of heaven. 

Reasons to stay:

• Tranquil and stress-free with all kinds of modern facilities
• Delicious local cuisines, the best in the area
• Spacious, royal suite to experience regal-level luxury
• Complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi
• Fully-equipped business centre for meetings and conferences

Kallancherry Retreat 

Source: Kallancherry Retreat 

2-star property

Prices: Rs 2,800/night onwards

Check-in: 1 PM

Check-out: 11 AM

A homestay resort that aims to make its guests feel at home, the Kallancherry Retreat is located in the Vembanad Area of Kumbalangi. The rustic natural beauty around the place is one of its biggest attractions for tourists who look for solitude and peace amidst nature. 

From one of the rooms of the exquisite cottages, you can view the mesmerising backwaters and surrounding mangrove forests. Private and sparse, this resort is also a perfect place for honeymoon couples to spend some quality time. Are you a solo traveller? This can be your best bet for a relaxing and quiet vacation. 

Reasons to stay:

• One of the most peaceful Kumbalangi resorts with a natural ambience 
• Well-managed, themed cottages with mesmerising views 
• Luxury family cottages for big families with children
• Range of activities, from boating to crab farm visits and village walks
• The exclusive traditional menu that cannot be found anywhere else in India
• Best spot for holding destination weddings and similar events
• Only 11 km from the Maritime Museum, a tourist hot spot, and the Santa Cruz Basilica. 

Things to do in Kumbalangi

As it is an island village, boating and canoeing are common tourist activities in Kumbalangi. However, the one thing that makes this place famous is the extensive village walks/tours that the resorts organise for their guests. 

It is a significant ecotourism venture that is supported by the Government of Kerala and well-arranged by the private resorts in the area. On this tour, you can learn about fish farming, and Chinese net fishing, as well as watch the village ladies weaving coconut leaves as a fun life activity. 

You can witness their artistry up close and talk to them, as they are quite enthusiastic, friendly people. Then you can also participate in crab farming and catch a few with your hands under the guidance of the village folk. 

If you are into artistic stuff, watching the villagers weave baskets from coir and their pottery art can be quite awe-inspiring. 

FAQs