Kadamakkudy, The Kerala Village That Left Anand Mahindra Spellbound
When India’s top industrialist Anand Mahindra calls a place “one of the most beautiful villages on earth,” it’s time we all paid attention. His recent admiration was directed at Kadamakkudy — a cluster of emerald-green islets nestled in the backwaters near Kochi, Kerala. With its idyllic charm and off-the-beaten-path appeal, Kadamakkudy is quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for slow travelers, photographers, and anyone looking to escape into nature.
✨ What Makes Kadamakkudy So Special?
Located just 10–15 km from Kochi, Kadamakkudy is made up of 14 small islands, each connected by narrow bridges and crisscrossed by serene canals. Time seems to slow down here — a welcome change from the hustle of city life.
Scenic Splendor – Kadamakkudy Islands – Village Tourism
Imagine sunrises painting the backwaters gold, reflections dancing across lush paddy fields, and the soft calls of migratory birds echoing through the mist. That’s everyday life in Kadamakkudy.
Rich Birdlife
The islands are a paradise for bird watchers. Keep your binoculars ready for glimpses of herons, egrets, kingfishers, and even the occasional painted stork.
A Glimpse Into Village Life
Kadamakkudy is more than just scenic beauty — it’s a living, breathing slice of Kerala’s rural culture. Watch locals tapping toddy from coconut palms, crafting coir ropes, or operating traditional Chinese fishing nets. You might even spot prawn farmers wading knee-deep through the water channels.
🚗 How to Reach Kadamakkudy Islands – Village Tourism
Getting to Kadamakkudy is quite straightforward:
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From Ernakulam, take a bus to Varapuzha and get off at SNDP Junction.
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From there, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the islands.
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Travel time from Kochi: 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic.
The journey itself is worth it — narrow bridges, waterlogged paddy fields, and glimpses of daily village life greet you at every turn.
🛏️ Where to Stay
While Kadamakkudy doesn’t yet have mainstream hotels or resorts, that’s part of its untouched charm. Most visitors choose to:
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Stay in Kochi or Varapuzha and visit Kadamakkudy as a half-day or full-day trip.
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Opt for nearby homestays and eco-resorts that offer a peaceful retreat into Kerala’s lush countryside.
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Houseboats aren’t common here like in Alleppey, but backwater tours from Kochi can include Kadamakkudy in their routes.
If you’re after an immersive local experience, book a stay in a traditional Kerala homestay, enjoy home-cooked meals, and wake up to the sounds of nature.
📸 Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Kadamakkudy is from October to March, with December being particularly delightful. The weather is cool and perfect for early morning walks, birdwatching, and photography. Avoid the peak summer months (March–May), when the heat can be harsh and the greenery less vibrant.
💬 Final Thoughts
Anand Mahindra’s endorsement of Kadamakkudy shines a spotlight on a hidden gem that truly deserves it. In a world obsessed with fast-paced travel and Instagram hotspots, Kadamakkudy invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature and tradition.
Whether you’re planning a winter trip to Kerala or looking for a weekend getaway from Kochi, make Kadamakkudy part of your travel story. It’s not just a place — it’s a feeling.