Back

Kovalam to Kumarakom by car

Travel from Kovalam to Kumarakom by private cab for Vembanad lake, the bird sanctuary and a quiet houseboat stay among the backwaters.

Kerala backwaters, Vembanad Lake, India
Distance
About 175 km by road
Drive time
4.5–5 hours one way
Pickup
Kovalam
Destination
Kumarakom, Kerala
Trip type
Same-day return possible
Vehicles
Sedan, SUV, tempo traveller, coach

About the trip

Kumarakom is a cluster of islands on the eastern shore of Vembanad lake, known for lakeside resorts, houseboats and a bird sanctuary in an old rubber estate. It is quieter than Alleppey and suits people who want a slow day on the water or a restful night stay. From Kovalam the drive goes north via Kollam and then inland to Kottayam.

What to see in Kumarakom

On the road

Take NH 66 to Kollam and then the MC road via Adoor and Kottayam, or the coast road via Alleppey. Leave by 5:30 am for a comfortable day trip.

A same-day plan

  1. 5:30 amPick-up in Kovalam and drive north
  2. 8:00 amBreakfast on the way near Adoor
  3. 10:30 amWalk through Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
  4. 12:00 pmLunch cruise on Vembanad lake
  5. 2:30 pmVillage canals by shikara
  6. 4:00 pmStart back to Kovalam
  7. 8:30 pmDrop at your hotel

Timings are a guide — tell us when you want to leave and what you want to see, and the driver will work around it.

Choose your vehicle

SedanEtios, Dzire or similarUp to 4 guests

Airport runs, couples and small families on short trips.

SUVInnova Crysta6–7 guests

The usual pick for family trips, ghat roads and long days on the highway.

PremiumInnova Hycross, Fortuner4–6 guests

Extra room and comfort for special occasions and senior guests.

Tempo Traveller12 to 18 seatsGroups

Extended families, pilgrimage parties and office outings.

Mini coach & coach32 to 50 seatsLarge groups

Weddings, school trips and temple tours with a big party.

Every car is air-conditioned and comes with an experienced driver. Our quote is all-inclusive — fuel, tolls, parking, interstate permit and driver batta — and is confirmed in writing before you book.

More car trips from Kovalam

Book a car for this trip

Send us the date, pickup point, number of people and whether you need a return. We reply with the vehicle and a single all-inclusive price.

Hi! I'm Robo — need help planning your trip?