Kumarakom is mostly about the water — the lagoons and channels of Vembanad Lake on which most of the area is built. The classic visit is a houseboat cruise, but the bird sanctuary, a sunrise paddle in a country canoe, and a visit to a coconut-fibre cooperative are all worthwhile. The whole place is small and walking is fine for shorter distances; for the more spread-out sights, hire an auto-rickshaw or a bike.