Hightlight
- Backwater Stays
Ashtamudi Lake is the second largest lake in Kerala that is 16 km long and ranked as one of the large and deep wetland ecosystems in Kerala. It derived its name from its topography of having 8 channels called “eight hair braids”. This lake is extremely famous for its backwater and houseboat rides here. Cruises here offer an unmatched experience of feeling the enchanting ambience of the backwaters and the landscape on its banks. This water body which is called the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala has the peculiarity of having the shape of a palm (also described as octopus-shaped) surrounded by dense green trees and waving coconut palms. A typical boat trip takes around 8 hours to have a complete overlook of this beautiful area. A large variety of boats including luxury houseboats is available on this lake. In addition to the house boats, the traditional gondolas are a main mode of transportation on the lake. The locals who live at the edges of the lake depend on the same lake for transportation- be it going to shops or going to school, etc. The Chinese fishing nets- called cheena vala in Malayalam- and their use by the fishermen is a mind blowing scenery for tourists to witness. Poets and writers have always found the Ashtamudi kayal and the life that surrounds it fascinating. This serene lake merges with the sea at the Neendakara estuary- the beautiful glimpse that attracts tourists from all parts of the world. After the Ramsar Convention reported on the sustainable use and conservation of the lake, it has been added to the list of wetlands of international importance.
Nearby Attractions include:
The famous Munroe island otherwise called the Munroe thuruthu is a cluster of eight tiny islands in this lake.
Chavara South Island is a village that is rich in minerals, naturally. It boasts highly equipped factories set up for extraction of minerals.
The Thekkumbhagom island cum village is a significant part of literature because of Azhakath Padmanabha Kurup- the composer of the first epic poetry in Malayalam.
As 1000 years old temple and a 200 years old church.
History
The importance of Quilon, Kollam, and inevitably Ashtamudi lake dates back to the days of the Romans and the Phoenicians. There are linkages with Persia (9th century), Chinese invasions in 1275 AD, Portuguese in 1502 AD, and the Dutch& British in 1795 AD recorded in history. As per historians, Velu Thampi organized the rebellion against the British from this place.
Contact Details :
Ph: +91 474 2745625, 2750170
Website: www.dtpckollam.com
Getting there :
Nearest railway station: Kollam Junction, about 2 km
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 70 km