A lake that resembles much to the shape of palm conifer or an octopus, Ashtamudi Lake or the
‘Gateway to Kerala Backwaters’ is a much coveted tourist attraction in Kerala. Flaunting its
enchanting beauty in Kollam, this awe-inspiring lake is a cult among all the backwater
destinations in God’s Own Country. It is in fact, the highest visited or sought after
backwater destination in the entire of Kerala.
A revered tourist destination in the state, Ashtamudi Lake is known for its unique ecosystem
and varied offerings. Shrouded with evergreen coconut groves and other scenic floral
species, this alluring lake is a natural home to more than 50 different avifauna species and
around 97 aqua fauna species. Visiting this magical lake in Kollam is no less than an
exuberant visual treat for the visitors!Adding more to the beauty and charm of this
Ashtamudi Lake is the cluster of tiny islets. The lake has a total of eight picturesque
islands, most of which are still untouched by the outer world. The lake is also a great host
to backwater cruises. we offering Best Kerala tour packages.Traditional houseboats or
‘Kettuvallams’ across this lake gets the visitors acquainted with the magical beauty and
magnificence of Kerala’s silent backwaters. Within these exciting tours, visitors not only
get to embrace the irresistible charm of the backwaters, but also get to witness a livelier
glimpse of Kerala’s traditional way of living!
1. By Road:
Being placed in Kollam, one can easily reach Ashtamudi Lake by road from across a number of tourist destinations in Kerala. Visitors can board the regular state-run or private buses, hire local taxis or autos from within the city limits to reach the lakeside.
2. By Train:
Kollam Railway Station is the closest railway station to reach Ashtamudi Lake by train. The station allows passage to a number of direct and via trains from major parts of the country.
3. By Air:
Kollam does not have its own airport. To reach Ashtamudi Lake by air, one can book tickets to the Trivandrum International Airport which is located around 71km from Kollam. On arrival at the airport, visitors can utilise the bus service or hire private taxis to complete the next leg of their journey to reach Ashtamudi Lake by road.
Winter (October – February) – Best Time:
As winter makes it way to the vicinity, temperature starts falling down with the ambience getting more serene and enticing. Within these months, Ashtamudi Lake gets adorned with a misty outlook with a crispiness that can infect the visitors within a blink of the eye. With all these climatic changes, winter also makes it for an ideal time to go for backwater cruises in the traditional Kettuvallams. For the honeymooners, winter serves as the most romantic and pleasant time to visit Ashtamudi Lake.
Monsoon (June – September) – Good Time:
Ashtamudi Lake experience high rainfall between the months of June to July end. Starting from August, amount of monsoon showers comes down significantly. Advent of the monsoon showers also causes the temperature to fall down and gets a fresh and magical look to the surrounding. Visitors searching for good time to visit Ashtamudi Lake, can plan their backwater tour during the monsoon season; especially between August and September.
Summer (March – May) – Not So Good Time:
Temperature during this period reaches the maximum point. Though Ashtamudi Lake has a short-lived summer, visitors might feel extremely uncomfortable as humidity also increases along with the mercury level. This makes summer a not-so-favourable time to visit Ashtamudi Lake.
Kollam Beach:
Also called the Mahatma Gandhi Beach, Kollam Beach is a hotspot among the beachgoers to Ashtamudi Lake. Prized as the first ‘Beach Wedding Destination in Kerala’, this surreal tourist spot is dotted with other tourist attractions.
Munroe Island:
This picturesque island is one of the must visit places around Ashtamudi Lake. Situated around 14km from the lakeside, Munroe Island’s location at the meeting ground of the lake and Kallada River, makes this island a wonderful place to join the revelry of Snake Boat Racing events.
Mayyanad:
A small town with a rustic charm, Mayyanad resonates the true meaning of universal brotherhood. This is one tourist place where all the religions thrive together.
Alumkadavu:
Located around 23km from the pristine locales of Ashtamudi Lake, this place is known for its prismatic offerings. Be it nature’s miraculous beauty or amazing leisure options, Alumkadavu offers them all!
Thevally Palace:
Built somewhere around 1811-1819, this piece of architectural genius is a must visit heritage attraction. Seating graciously on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake, this glorious palace is touted as the ‘Hallmark of Kollam City’.
Thirumullavaram Beach:
Kollam is fringes with quite a few pristine beaches; Thirumullavaram Beach is one among them! Located in Thirumullavaram, this beach has been listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by Discovery Channel.
