Nestled along the tranquil backwaters of Vembanad Lake in Kerala’s picturesque Kumarakom village, the Chamber of Vembanad Hotels and Resorts (CVHR) stands as a vital pillar of the region’s burgeoning tourism ecosystem. Established as a collective voice for local hospitality providers, CVHR represents an association of hotels, resorts, and homestays dedicated to elevating Kumarakom’s status as a premier eco-tourism destination. This organization not only fosters collaboration among its members but also plays a proactive role in sustainable development, cultural preservation, and community upliftment.
CVHR was formally founded on July 5, 2006, amid Kumarakom’s growing reputation as a serene escape from the hustle of urban life. The village, with its lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and the expansive Vembanad Lake—the largest freshwater body in Kerala—had long attracted nature lovers and birdwatchers. However, as tourism surged in the early 2000s, local stakeholders recognized the need for a unified body to address challenges like infrastructure gaps and environmental pressures. Under the leadership of figures like Salim Das, who has served as president, and secretaries such as K. Arunkumar and Arun Kumar, CVHR quickly evolved from a simple advocacy group into a dynamic force for responsible growth.
Dear Friends and Fellow Travelers,
It is with immense pride and heartfelt warmth that I, Salim Das, President of the Chamber of Vembanad Hotels & Resorts (CVHR), extend a gracious welcome to you on behalf of our vibrant community in Kumarakom.
Vembanad Lake in the heart of Kerala’s enchanting backwaters, Kumarakom is more than a destination—it’s a symphony of serenity where emerald paddy fields sway in the gentle breeze, coconut palms whisper ancient tales, and the lake’s azure waters cradle the souls of migratory birds in the nearby sanctuary.
Since our founding in 2006, CVHR has been the steadfast guardian of this paradise, uniting over a dozen premier hotels, resorts, and homestays to craft unforgettable experiences that blend luxury with the unspoiled rhythms of local life. Whether you’re drifting on a traditional houseboat at dawn or unwinding with an Ayurvedic ritual under the stars, Kumarakom invites you to rediscover the art of mindful escape.
At CVHR, our commitment runs deeper than hospitality—it’s a pledge to sustainable stewardship that ensures Kumarakom’s timeless allure endures for generations. From our pioneering 2019 carbon-neutral initiatives and plastic-free zones to the joyous bicycle rallies that celebrate World Tourism Day, we champion eco-conscious practices that empower our local artisans, fishermen, and families.
As we look ahead in this vibrant 2025, we invite you to join us in this harmonious journey: explore the hidden coves, savor authentic Kerala flavors, and let the backwaters weave their magic into your story. Kumarakom awaits with open arms—come, and let us create memories that linger like the evening mist on Vembanad.
Warm regards, Salim M Das, President, Chamber of Vembanad Hotels & Resorts (CVHR)
Consultant, ILLIKKALAM Lakeside Cottages, Kumarakom.
đź“ž 90741 43303
H R - Administration Manager,
Backwater Ripples, Kumarakom.
đź“ž 95393 32777, 90741 43303
General Manager, Gokulam Grand Resort And Spa Kumarakom
đź“ž 98469 17060, 90741 43303
General Manager, Royal Riviera Hotels And Resorts
đź“ž95627 36000
Kottayam Club (Kumarakom Annexe)
đź“ž 99953 58903
At its heart, CVHR’s mission is to promote Kumarakom as a model of sustainable tourism while ensuring economic benefits ripple through the local community. The chamber advocates for eco-friendly practices, lobbies government bodies for enhanced amenities—like improved roadways, waste management, and tourist facilities—and organizes events that highlight the area’s natural and cultural treasures. Key activities include:
CVHR’s efforts have profoundly shaped Kumarakom’s appeal. Once a quiet fishing hamlet transformed by British missionary Alfred George Baker in the 19th century—who reclaimed lake lands for agriculture—the village now draws global travelers seeking immersive experiences. Thanks to the chamber’s advocacy, attractions like the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (home to over 180 migratory species) and Vembanad’s houseboat safaris thrive alongside modern upgrades. Tourism, which forms the backbone of the local economy, generates jobs in hospitality, guiding, and crafts, with CVHR ensuring equitable distribution.
In an era of overtourism concerns, CVHR’s commitment to balance—merging luxury with legacy—positions Kumarakom as a beacon of responsible travel. Whether it’s a sunset kayak on the lake or a driftwood art tour at the Bay Island Museum, visitors leave inspired by a destination where nature, culture, and community harmonize seamlessly. As CVHR continues to pedal forward (literally, with its cycling events), Kumarakom remains a testament to thoughtful stewardship.