The magnificent Neendakara-known for its fresh fish market and seafood-is a fish harbor where you can admire Chinese fishing nets hanging in the sky like sentinels of the past, and witness the hard work of the fishermen. As the name implies, Neendakara is Kollam district’s longest shore. It is approximately five kilometers from Ashta. Although not a well-known tourist destination, the view of Ashtamudi lake converging with the Arabian sea is a must-watch at this point. This place is reachable via the newly-widen NH47 that crosses right over Ashtamudi Lake, giving a fascinating glimpse of the harbor as you cross over. The mesmerizing confluence of the Ashtamudi Lake and the sea is viewable from the Neendakara Bridge. Along with the boat cruises, it is renowned for the confluence of the Kallada river with the Ashtamudi Kayal here- the deepest estuary of Kerala with a maximum depth of 21 ft.
Come as the sun sets, let the cool breeze and Chinese Fishing Nets cool you off as the sky darkens. Taking in the final visuals of the day is an excellent way to finish the day. The port is an important location for mechanized fishing vessels, which is seen sailing out and re-entering frequently. There is also an auction house for fish, which is an extremely busy port. The sight of the fishermen bringing their nets in and bartering for fish is well worth seeing. In this photographers’ paradise, women sell fishes in their bowls to locals while birds circle for titbits.
Things to do
- An arch bridge that connects two landmasses near Shaktikulangara allows one to view the Ashtamudi delta slowly draining into the Arabian Sea at Neendakara.
- In St. Sebastian church, built during the Dutch era, a magnificent annual festival is held every year when the statues of the saint are paraded amid fanfare.
- Neendakara Beach is another site that is attractive because of its golden sands and mesmerizing sunsets.
It will be crowded at the harbor during the early morning and evening hours since many boats will be arriving with fish. There will be lots of people selling fish in bulk and also resellers selling small quantities. This is an abundant source of fish food for Kerala.
History
During the early 16th century, Portuguese traders settled in Kollam (then Quilon), passing their ships through Neenadakara Bar (now Neendakara Bridge), which connects the village to Sakthikulangara across Ashtamudi Lake.
Best time to visit- quiet and peaceful months of October through February.
Getting There:
Nearest railway station: Kollam, about 9 km away
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport is around 66 km away