Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, 7:00 PM to 7:45 PM
Suggested Duration:1 day approximately
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Kollam junction railway station, 15 km away
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, 81 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: KSRTC Bus Station Kollam,14 km away
Located in Kollam, Ashtamudi Lake is one of the most picturesque lakes in Kerala and is renowned for its unique eight-armed shape and one of the top places to visit in Kollam. It connects various rivers and serves as a gateway to the tranquil backwaters. It is fed by the Kallada River and eventually drains into the Arabian Sea. Visitors can explore the scenic beauty of the region through traditional Kerala houseboats, known as kettuvallams or the houseboat cruises. These houseboat cruises are equipped with modern amenities, offering a luxurious and peaceful way to experience the landscape, spot local fishermen, and enjoy the peaceful backwater environment.
The lake has a rich biodiversity and is home to various bird species like kingfishers and herons, further enhancing its appeal. The annual President's Trophy Boat Race which is held on November 1 is a major highlight for tourists. Historically, the lake was an important trading hub with Kollam serving as a key port. The region is also known for its traditional coir industry, where visitors can observe the making of coir products. Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine, rich in seafood which includes popular dishes like karimeen pollichathu, prawn curry, and fish molee.
