Juma Masjid, Kumarakom

Visitor Information

  • Famous for: religious institution, architecture, history
  • Entrance Fee: No entrance fee
  • Visiting Time: 6 am to 6 pm (subjective to change depending on the rituals and timings of worship)
  • Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours

The beauty of Kerala is not only in her scenic abundance, but also in her heterogeneous culture- a melting pot of numerous identities and ethnic varieties. Almost 2000 years ago, as part of granting a religious space for those visiting merchants in the soil of Kerala, the Cheraman Juma Masjid is believed to have been constructed under the auspices of the then Cheraman rulers of Kerala. It still stands with its head held high- a symbol of the cultural and ethnic harmony in God’s Own Country. 

Traveller Tips

  • You need to pack accordingly to the season.
  • You must remember that the islet is a plastic free zone and you cannot leave behind any waste or hazardous materials. Remember that it is your responsibility to preserve the delicate balance of the land.
  • Make sure you pack your binoculars and cameras. Trust me you are going to need it a lot. There are plenty to click in this little piece of heaven.
  • Carry handy medicines and a first-aid kit which is a must especially if you have kids or elderly people with you.

Things to Do

  • Make sure you have your binoculars with you because the architectural prowess of this ancient monument is unparalleled.
  • Don’t forget your camera; you will need to capture this architectural wonder set amidst scenic abundance.
  • You can revel in the calming aura the place instils in you.
  • You can take a dip in the surrounding cool waters of the Vembanad Lake after you have had your fill of spirituality and architecture.

Availability of Guides

Being a famous tourist hub it is no doubt that there will be plenty waiting to guide you through the wonders of Kumarakom. But it is always best to hire someone from the Official Tourism Office at Kumarakom, so that you will be in the safe hands of an expert.

Best Time to Visit

Kerala is one of those places which have the best climate in the country, throughout the year. It doesn’t matter when you come; the place always succeeds in offering you something in return. If I have to suggest a time, then I would advise you to come here in the summer. The special tinge, the summer sun gives to the green blanket which covers Kerala is unparalleled in its beauty.

How to Reach

Kumarakom is the pride of Kerala’s tourism and it is frequented by public and private transportation facilities. You can get down at Kottayam Railway Station and hire a boat to reach Kumarokom which hardly takes 30 minutes.

Interesting Facts and Trivia About Juma Masjid

  • Known among the natives as the ‘Thazhathangadi Mosque’
  • It is also known as ‘Cheraman Juma Masjid’
  • The mosque is famous for its architectural beauty.
  • One of the oldest mosques in India, it claims to be at least 2000 years old.
  • The antiquity of the mosque is still debated.
  • The windows and doors of the mosque is adorned with numerous wood carvings each unique and original from the other.

Nearby Attractions

  • Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
  • Thazhathangadi Market
  • Pathiramanal Islet
  • Bay Island Driftwood Museum
  • Vembanad Lake
  • Alleppey Town
  • Alleppey Beach

Nearby Restaurants

  • Pearlspot Restaurant
  • Tharavadu
  • Bar-be-que Nation
  • Vinca Lake House
  • Cruise N’ Lake
  • Dubai Hotel
  • Vembanad Sea Food Bar
  • Currymeen
  • Easy Lounge
  • Open Restaurant

One often wonders as to how so many different cultural varieties exist together in such peace and happiness. The Juma Masjid in Kumarakom is visited by thousands, irrespective of its religious identity. It is a cultural heritage site and is preserved and revered as an ancient monument. The building is a perfect blend of regional and foreign varieties of architectural elements and this aspect has succeeded in contributing to the beauty of the place. A religious haven and an ancient site bragging the pride of a bygone era, the Juma Masjid in Kumarakom has withstood the test of hard times. 

About Rohit

An architect by profession, Rohit Agarwal is a curious traveller, seeking out the minutest detail about the places he travels to, and that’s what one will find in his writings. His writings have appeared in various blogs, he’s currently trying to bring forth as many different places a traveller who shares the same level of curiosity like him would like to visit through his writings.

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