Ashtamudi Lake

Ashtamudi's estuary is well known to have a huge variety of mangroves, 43 to be exact out of which two species are believed to be endangered. These species help in developing the marine bio-reserve. The preservation of these species provides a scope of eco-tourism. The species are getting endangered because of the high rate of conversion of the wetlands into paddy fields.

The lake provides for 57 species of birds, 6 of which are migratory. Most of these birds are wet-land dependant birds. Terns, plovers, cormorants and herons are the most popular birds in this region. As a biosphere, the lake supports 45 species of insects, out of which 26 are butterflies. The water body is home to numerous fish and clams.

Thousands of families depend on the fish for a livelihood. It is infact known to be the second largest fish-landing centre after Vembanad lake. Ashtamudi lakes water is also home to 9 different types of phytoplanktons. This help maintain the balance in the water body and keep replenishing it from time to time. Ashtamudi Lake contributes to our environment in so many ways that it needs to be preserved and enjoyed with absolute care.

The huge size of the lake and its geographical structure has led to the formation of many tiny islands. There are three major recognised islands - Munroe Island, Chavara Island, Thekkumbhagom Island. Munroe is a cluster of eight small islands. They are mainly filled with rich, tropical trees and bushes. They haven't been habituated due to how small they are. Houseboats circle around them during their voyage though.

Chavara is an industrial island which has a few factories located on it due to the rich minerals found here. Thekkumbhagom is a rural island with a very rustic feel. It has a historic importance as the epic Malayalam poetry, Ramachandrvilasam was composed here. You can visit this village and experience the village life of fishermen and coconut farmers. A 1000 year old temple and 200 year old church are located on this island. They truly bring out the yester year feeling in anyone who visits them.

Ashtamudi Lake is a biosphere of its own. Flora and fauna around the lake have been studied, and constant measure is being taken to make it an eco-friendly tourist spot. Numerous houseboat rentals provide various houseboats depending on the person's budget and requirement. In case you don't want to rent a houseboat, you can take a boat ride across the lake for a short period. These are very reasonable, and you can find both government motorboats as well as privatised motor boat facilities.

To enjoy the lake to its fullest, you should hire a houseboat for at least a night. The boat comes with a captain and a chef who makes food according to specifications of the customer. They specialise in seafood and unique Kerala delicacies. Even the smallest of the boats have a room and a common area that opens up to the sky towards the front of the boat. You can enjoy the calm waters and experience the boat glide through the fresh air. The boats can host from 2 to 15 people. There are also boats that come with swimming pools and game rooms.

A vacation on a houseboat is one of the unique and peaceful experiences anyone can have. The banks of the lake also host many resorts and villas, in case you're looking for other options. You can find 5-star hotels as well as Airbnb accommodations, and there are a lot of choices to pick from. Some of these hotels also put up shows that display the classical dances of Kerala. Theatre performances and dances such as Mohiniattam and Kathakali leave the audience perplexed and in awe.

The importance of Ashtamundi Lake and its port, Quilon has been mentioned throughout world history. Ibn Battuta, the Morrocon scholar who travelled the world, in his 24-year sojourn mentioned Quilon to be one of the five essential ports for Chinese trade. The lake has also been recorded in Persian, Chinese mandarin and Portugal history and linked with Dutch and British occupation in 1795 AD. The lake also has an importance in the Indian Struggle for Independence as Velu Thampi, and the revolutionary freedom fighter is known to have started a rebellion against the British from here.

Though Ashtamudi lake is a pleasant site to visit at any time, the best time to visit the place is during sunset. The place gets a different look altogether and is worth experiencing.

The nearest railway station which lies near the lake is Kollam Junction which is approximately 2 km away. Trivandrum International Airport is the one lying nearest to the lake at a distance of about 70 km. One can further book a cab or use the local transport like autorickshaw to reach the lake.