Nestled in the heart of Kerala, the picturesque village of Aymanam stands as a testament to the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Just 25 minutes from Kumarakom, Aymanam gained international recognition when it was featured in Arundhati Roy’s Booker Prize-winning novel, “The God of Small Things”. Already charmed by Cochin our visit to this enchanting village as part of Kerala Tourism’s Responsible Tourism Walk offered a unique blend of nature, tradition, and community living.
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The Serene Setting of Aymanam
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Aymanam is not just a village; it’s an experience. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil backwaters, this village made it to Condé Nast’s list of 30 best places to visit in 2022. Our journey began with a peaceful boat ride through Lake Vembanad, the largest lake in Kerala, setting the tone for a day filled with relaxed discovery and wonder.
The Village Walk: A Dive into Sustainable Living
The Responsible Tourism Walk in Aymanam offers an immersive experience into the daily lives of the village folks and their sustainable practices. Here are some of the highlights:
Exploring Plant Products
Our walk commenced with an introduction to the flora of Aymanam. The villagers grow a variety of plants, including betel leaves and medicinal herbs, which are used to make natural products like soaps. Witnessing the process of soap-making from these plants was fascinating, showcasing the resourcefulness of the local community.
The Art of Rope Making
Next, we observed the meticulous process of rope-making from jute. Using only their hands and locally developed techniques, the villagers convert jute into sturdy ropes without any heavy machinery or electricity. We even got to try our hand at this craft, which was both fun and enlightening.
Climbing Coconut Trees
One of the most intriguing demonstrations was the traditional method of climbing coconut trees using a palm climber. This ingenious device allows climbers to scale tall trees effortlessly. Bedabrata attempted this feat, adding a bit of adventure to our walk.
Mat Making with Dried Leaves
A short boat ride took us to a neighboring area where we witnessed the art of mat-making. A local woman skillfully wove dried tree leaves into mats, demonstrating a sustainable use of natural resources. She kindly taught us the technique, emphasizing the village’s commitment to zero-waste living. We were fascinated and to carry back a bit of the magic, we bought a mat for home!
Fishing in the Backwaters
Fishing is a vital part of life in Aymanam. We experienced how villagers catch fish using traditional fishing nets, and we were invited to try our hand at it. This hands-on experience deepened our appreciation for their way of life.
Tasting Toddy
No visit to Kerala is complete without sampling toddy, a traditional beverage extracted from the sap of coconut and palm trees. The process of harvesting toddy requires skill and precision. We tasted pre-made toddy, which had a sweet and mildly pungent flavor, adding a delightful end to our village walk.
Also Read: The Perfect Guide For 2 Days In Kochi
How to Reach Aymanam
Aymanam is conveniently located near several major transport hubs:
- Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (approximately 85 km away)
- Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station (around 13 km away)
- By Road: Aymanam is well-connected by road and can be easily accessed from major cities in Kerala.
Best Time to Visit Aymanam Village
The best time to visit Aymanam is during the cooler months from October to February. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and village walks. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains, which, while beautiful, might hinder some outdoor experiences.
Rest of the year is ok but very humid.
Other Places of Interest Near Aymanam Village
Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” offers numerous attractions near Aymanam:
- Kumarakom: Famous for its backwaters, bird sanctuary, and houseboat cruises, Kumarakom is a must-visit.
- Alleppey (Alappuzha): Known for its network of canals and houseboat stays, Alleppey is a short drive away.
- Kottayam: Explore the cultural and historical sites in Kottayam, including churches, temples, and markets.
- Vembanad Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, and bird-watching in and around this vast lake.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kerala and Aymanam Village
- Weather: Pack light cotton clothes for the hot and humid climate. Carry rain gear if visiting during the monsoon.
- Health Precautions: Stay hydrated, use mosquito repellent, and avoid drinking tap water.
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
- Sustainable Practices: Support local businesses and eco-friendly practices. Avoid plastic and minimize waste.
- Booking Tours: The Responsible Tourism Walk in Aymanam can be booked through Kerala Tourism’s official website.
Kerala Travel Mart – KTM 2024
KTM 2024 (Kerala Travel Mart), one of India’s largest B2B travel events, is set to take place from 26th to 29th September 2024 in Kochi, Kerala. This prestigious event highlights Kerala as a must-visit destination for travelers and tourists worldwide. Known for its diverse culture, food, and hospitality, Kerala continues to grow as one of India’s top tourist destinations, and KTM plays a pivotal role in promoting the state on the global stage.
The Kerala Travel Mart Society, founded in 2002 with the goal of promoting tourism in the state, established KTM as a platform for travel agents from across the globe to connect with local service providers. This collaboration has not only enhanced tourism in Kerala but has also introduced a more professional approach to the state’s tourism industry. What makes KTM stand out is its unique focus on a single state, setting it apart as a specialized travel mart.
KTM 2024 will bring together buyers and sellers from India and abroad, providing a platform for networking, forging new connections, and taking Kerala’s travel and tourism industry to new heights. If you’re involved in the travel business, this is the event to attend.
Conclusion
Our village walk in Aymanam was one of the most memorable parts of our trip to Kerala and we thank KTM – Kerala Travel Mart Society for this unique experience. The blend of nature, tradition, and sustainable living left a lasting impression on us. The villagers’ hospitality and their commitment to preserving their way of life were truly inspiring. If you’re looking for an authentic and responsible travel experience, Aymanam Eco Village should definitely be on your list.
P.S. This post is in collaboration with Kerala Travel Mart Society, Kerala Tourism, the Government of Kerala, and Incredible India. Our wholehearted thanks for the riveting experiences.
I would love to see Aymanam one day. I’ve always been fascinated by sustainable living practices and how they fit into the modern world.
You are correct in observation that this area is by no sense primitive
This was such an insightful read! This post beautifully showcases how we can explore and enjoy nature while preserving traditions and supporting local communities.
Thank you for sharing this adventure to Aymanam. I love places that are ecologically responsible and have lots of cultural and outdoor activities.
Very holistic approach to tourism in Kerala
What a beautifully detailed post about Aymanam Eco Village! Your description makes me feel like I’m right there, immersed in nature and tradition. The tips on local experiences are super helpful too. Thanks for sharing this gem!
Aymanam Eco Village offers a perfect blend of sustainable living, rich cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for those who cherish nature and tradition. Thanks for sharing!
Please share your experience if you visit Kerala.
Nnniicccceeee….rope-making is something I’ve wanted to witness, for a long time now. I am even jealous of you, having visited the eco-village!
You must visit Kerala in India.
WOW, what a great post about Aymanam , I would love to visit, and I know me. I would try just about everything especially climbing coconut trees. That seems like so much fun!!
Yes, that was fun and way easier than it looked.
Yes, that was fun indeed!
Aymanam sounds like a wonderful place. So calm serene and beautiful. Its so good to know how sustainable it is . All the activities and crafts are a credit as its keeping the culture alive at the same time making the place sustainable and supporting peoples livelihood.
Yes – the cottage industries ensure local employment.
Yes, the traditional practices are like a live museum.
Aw, it is such a cute place! I don’t know if I’ll ever visit Aymanam village but I’m glad there is such an authentic and interesting place.
Authentic is the word!
It sounds lie you had a fun experience there. Not sure I’d climb coconut trees. Seeing soaps being made must have been interesting.
This was a first time attempt in climbing coconut or any tree. But with that contraption, it was fun 🙂
Haha .. climbing the tree looks way more scary than it actually is 🙂