Ashtamudi Lake, an extensive estuarine system in Kerala is a thrilling experience. The second largest estuary in Kerala state, Ashtamudi Lake, gets its name from the eight arms or channels surrounding the lake. The lake is the entrance to the famous Backwaters of Kerala. It is famous for its houseboat rides and backwater resorts. A Ramsar Site, the lake, and the Wetlands is a fascinating encounter that will refresh your soul. With exotic views, and lush greenery, the heritage houseboats and the floating resorts will create an everlasting impression on your heart. Ashtamudi Lake’s grandeur will enchant you to plan a trip to Kerala to witness this tranquil experience near this lake.
History Of The Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi means “Eight hills or peaks” in the state’s local language. The name suggests the eight channels that form the lake. The lake is a heritage property of the state of Kerala. Located in the vibrant city of Kollam, the history of the lake dates back to the 14th century. Spread over a total area of 61 sq km, The lake serves as an entrance to all the other backwater lakes and activities. A Ramsar Site, the Lake is best explored on a houseboat. The houseboats will give you an exotic and panoramic view of the lake. Kallada River is the only body of water discharged into the lake.
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Flora & Fauna
Ashtamudi Lake is home to diverse species of trees. Lined with Palm, Coconut trees, this lake holds 43 species of Marshy and mangrove trees. The lake is also home to many endangered species. These flora species help to boost the ecosystem at this lake and promote tourism.
Apart from being home to diverse floral species, Asthamudi Lake also supports a diverse array of wildlife. 57 species of birds are found at the surroundings, out of which some are resident, while others are migratory. The lake is a habitat for many zooplankton, phytoplankton and insect species. While visiting, be a spectator to the alluring heritage of wildlife and charming view of the trees.
Boating At Ashtamudi Lake
The 16 km long Ashtamudi Lake is not less than a paradise for its visitors who come from around the world to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking splendour. The tourists visit the lake to experience houseboat rides at the Lake, get a sight of the village life of the locals, witness the beauty of the natural ecosystem and spend some leisure time to relax their nerves, at this pleasing lake in Kollam.
The boat ride here is under the supervision of the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), Kollam. The tourists often take boat rides from Kollam to Alappuzha.
This is the most preferred and longest cruise in the backwaters of Kerala. The captivating eight-hour journey takes you through appealing views of the coconut and palm trees, mangrove forests, red cliffs and more, which leaves an everlasting impression on your heart.
Suggested Read: Lakes in Kerala
Nearby Attractions To the Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi Lake is a paradise for nature lovers. Amidst the beautiful lake and backwaters. It has several other top destinations nearby that can be visited during your trip. The nearby sights include Thangassery Light House, Jatayu’s Earth Centre, Munroe Island, Thirumullavaram Beach and Palaruvi Waterfalls.
The famous Chinese Fishing net that is laid on the waters of the lake is another noteworthy attraction of the Ashtamudi Lake. The nets are called Cheena Vala, in the local Malayalam language. It is said that these nets have links with China. Experience the traditional style of catching fish on the waters of the lake. These wonderful, stunning spots will surely blow your mind and make your visit here even more fascinating.
Where To Stay In Kollam
Ashtamudi Lake has some of the best floating resorts and hotels that are surely going to make your stay at Kollam, more pleasant and relaxing. Some of the best hotels with prices are listed below:
- Samiira on Ashtamudi Lake: This stunning property provides free Wi-Fi and Breakfast as an added advantage to its guests. Prices start from Rs 3000 for a night stay.
- Ashtamudi Villas: This picturesque hotel is a heavenly abode for tourists. With a Pool and a Relaxing Spa, the hotel provides various other top-notch facilities to the guests in Kollam. Price starts from Rs 3500 per night stay.
- Club Mahindra Resort: The resort is a paradise for visitors in Ashtamudi Lake. With state-of-the-art amenities, the resort is all set to provide a luxurious stay to the tourists in Kollam. A five-star property in Kollam, the resort has a pool, spa and other leisure facilities to ensure a comfortable stay for the guests. Price starts from Rs 9000.
These are some of the most famous and budget-friendly hotels and resorts to stay when on a trip to this serene place. Book your stay as you plan a trip to Kollam to get a hassle-free and comfortable trip.
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How To Reach The Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi Lake is set in the Kollam district of Kerala. The nearest Airport is the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport ( 71 km), from where a rental cab will help you reach your destination. It can also be accessed via roadways, National Highway 47 runs close to the lake periphery. The lake is at a distance of 2 km from the Kollam Railway Station. The boats will further take you forward to the famous Paravur estuary and other Backwaters of Kerala, situated at a distance of 21 km from Ashtamudi.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Nelliyampathy
Now that you have the complete information about Ashtamudi Lake, its history, the houseboats, the ecosystem and the nearby attractions in Ashtamudi Lake, plan your trip to Kerala, and experience some of the most happening locations nearby that will refresh your body, mind and soul. Don’t wait any further. Book your tickets at the earliest and experience a rejuvenating journey away from the city lights.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Ashtamudi Lake
How many days are required for a complete trip to Ashtamudi Lake and Kollam?
The trip to Ashtamudi Lake and Kollam requires a minimum of 4-5 days, with an excursion to Ashtamudi Lake and other nearby attractions.
What is the best time to visit Ashtamudi Lake?
The best time to visit this picturesque setting in Ashtamudi Lake is during the months of August to September when the weather's neither too cold nor too hot.
How to book a boat ride in Ashtamudi Lake?
The boat rides in Ashtamudi Lake are managed by the District Tourism Promotion Council, Kollam.
What are the timings of a houseboat ride in Ashtamudi Lake?
The boat runs daily through the Ashtamudi Lake. The timings of the boat ride is 11 AM - 5 PM.
What is the ticket price for renting a boat in Ashtamudi Lake?
The ticket prices for a boat ride in Ashtamudi Lake start from Rs 400 for the lower deck and Rs 500 for the upper deck.
How to reach Ashtamudi Lake from Trivandrum Airport?
From the Trivandrum Airport, Take a taxi to the Ashtamudi Lake, which is a 2-hour drive away from the airport.
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