Vembanad Lake, one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia, is 12km west from Kottayam. Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals, which empty into the great expanse of water called Vembanad Lake.
The lake, an enchanting tourist spot and a fast developing Backwater Tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating.
Vembanad, the beautiful reservoir stretches across the verdant lands of Kerala. The lake has been the reason for the flourishment of the flora and fauna in this region.
Vembanad Kayal, as it is called in the regional language, is a tank that acts against the floods. The local people in their attractive clothings are found searching for the tasty Karimeen fish.
The Kumarakom Tourist Village offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages. One can take a boat for cruises around the lake. There are houseboats that take one across the lake, making one's trip memorable.
How To Get There
By AirKumarakom, the jetty landing, is accessible from Cochin Airport.
By RailKottayam Railway Station is 15 km from Kumarakom.
By RoadKerala State Road Transport Corporation buses have good service from Cochin, Thrivananthapuram Calicut.
Local TransportOne can also travel by boat, right from Cochin. There is regular boat service from Cochin Boat Jetty to Kumarakom.
Places To Stay
Kumarakom Lake Resort.
Casino Hotel, Kumarakom, built in traditional Kerala style.
The Taj Garden Retreat, Kumarakom.
Guest House of the Department of Tourism, Kumarakom Tourist Complex (KTDC).
General Information
Location Kottayam District, Kerala
Unique Features Largest Fresh Water Lake In Asia
Main Attraction Water Bird Sanctuary
Shasthamcotta Lake, the fresh water lake set in picturesque surroundings and surrounded by hillocks on three sides is the largest of its kind in Kerala.
An ancient Sastha Temple on its shores, with resident tribes of monkeys, adds sanctity to the waters.
The majestic size of the lake is by itself a spectacular sight. The ancient Sastha Temple, which lends its name to the town, is an important pilgrim centre.
Covering an area of approximately 375 hectares, Shasthamcotta Lake does not get frozen in winter and fresh water is available 365 days a year. This large lake is totally devoid of any flora and there is no plant growth in the waters of the lake.
A larva called "Cavaborus" abounds in the lake. They eat up the viruses and bacteria in the water thus contributing substantially to the high degree of purity of the water.
Shasthamcotta Lake supplies drinking water to approximately 10 million people including the population of the Municipality of Kollam. This project was undertaken and completed by Indo-Norwegian consortium.
How To Get There There are frequent bus services from Kollam. Places To StayAccommodation is available at the PWD Rest House.
General Information
Area 375 Hectares
Main Attraction Sastha Temple
Location 19 Kms From Kollam Town, Kerala
Punnamada, a true copy of the ancient architecture and ambience rejoining here to welcome the most modern amenities and thus to produce a wonderful, luxurious resort for total relaxation, for the mind, the body and the soul. The resort enjoys an ever-refreshing climate. Spread over 10.5 acres with the water frontage expending over a kilometer, the breeze carries with it the warmth of the sun and the coolness of the lake. The days are vibrant with glorious sunshine and the frenzied crescendo of the waves, and nights balmy with subtle rhythm of tiny waves meeting the banks. Emerald paddy fields and the historic lighthouse of Munroe island basking in the sun just meters away from the resort could inspire the Van Gouge in you.
Alappuzha is considered as a prime area of backwater tourism and angling. The town has several canals and lakes fit for boat cruise. A journey by boat through the lakes is a memorable experience. The watercourses are flanked by coconut trees, which leave and swing to the tune of gush. A ride by boat or by country craft from Changanassery to Alappuzha through Punnamada Lake will provide an unforgettable sight of some of the paddy fields and stretches of coconut palm groves.
Pookot Lake, a natural fresh water lake surrounded by evergreen forests and rolling hills is located 3 kms from south of Vythiri town.
Pookot Lake, about 13 kms from Kalpetta, is undoubtedly the most beautiful tourist spot in the whole of Wayanad. The lake nestles in the lap of mountains surrounding it.
Boating in the Pookot Lake is a memorable experience. Tall trees and dense forests that line along the pathway around the lake provide a visual treat. A freshwater acquarium with a large variety of fish is an added attraction.
Tourists can also avail of boating facilities, to enjoy the serene waters of the enchanting lake. A children park and a shopping centre for handicrafts and spices are some of the few attractions of the region, providing recreational facilities to the visitors.
How To Get There
By Air Nearest airport is Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode about 63 km
By RailNearest railway station is at Kozhikode about 63 km.
General Information
Best Time August To May
Main Attraction Fresh Water Acquarium
Location 3 Kms South Of Vythiri Town (Kerala)
The Scenic and Calm Ashtamudi Lake is located in the Kollam district of Kerala. One of the biggest Backwaters of Kerala, this lake boasts of a magnificent view.
The Ashtamudi Lake, which covers a major portion of Kollam district in the south, is the second largest lake and is considered the gateway to the Backwaters.
The backdrop of Chinese fishing nets lends an oriental ambience. The quiet town of Kollam is situated on the edge of this lake.
The exceedingly beautiful Ashtamudi Lake is fringed with coconut groves and palm trees. Some picturesque promontories extend from the north side. One can hire boats for cruising through the placid lake, from the Kollam Boat Club.
Backwater Cruising on this lake from Kollam to Alappuzha lulled by the lapping waters and the shade of swaying palm fronds is an enthralling experience. The famous 'Cheena Vala' or Chinese fishing nets dot the waterline along the cruise.
SignificanceGateway To The Backwaters
General Information
Location Kollam District, Kerala
Main Attraction Kollam Boat Race
Akkulam Lake is situated 3 kms away from Ulloor junction, in Thiruvananthapuram city. Boating facilities are provided in the lake. The children's park here is one of the biggest in Kerala.
There is a tranquil picnic spot on the banks of the Akkulam Lake. Akkulam is a place of great scenic beauty with a picturesque lake. There is a boat club with over dozens of boats, available for joy riders.
Lazing on the cool banks or boating on the placid waters are good ways to spend a holiday. There is also a children's park. Akkulam is one of the first picnic spots in the suburbs of Thiruvananthapuram City.
This place is only 10 kms away from the Central Railway Station. The spot is developed on the banks of Aakkulam Kayal (lake), which is an extension of the Veli Kayal (lake).
The calm and serene atmosphere and its unique natural beauty is fascinating for the tourist. The village consists of the Boat Club, Swimming Pool, Children's Park, an Anthurium Project and a Snack Bar.
General Information
Main Attraction Children Park
Picnic Spot
Location 3 Kms From Ulloor, Kerala
