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The beauty of some of the most beautiful Kerala lakes makes it certainly reputation worthy among the best places to visit in God’s Country, Kerala. Located amidst some lush greenery and water bodies, these serene water bodies provide that needed escape from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life. If you are looking to rest your hands by the lakes in Kerala, you will find it an enthralling experience whether you want a peaceful boat ride, a birdwatching opportunity, a homestay in a floating houseboat and so on. Let us have a look at the top lakes in Kerala to spend their holidays.
Top 10 Lakes In Kerala For A Scenic Retreat
Here are some of the most common lakes in Kerala, India for a rejuvenating and peaceful experience and boating.
1. Vembanad Lake
Photo: Brighton Pereira / Unsplash
Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in India and the epicentre of Kerala’s backwater tourism. The lake is spread over multiple districts and from where it offers priceless views and it is popular for houseboat cruises and the annual Nehru trophy Boat race. The backwaters with shade in the morning and lush green surroundings make it a must-visit destination for travellers looking for adventure and relaxation. Houseboats float on the calm gentle waters, giving visitors a chance to feel the local fishing culture, witness mesmerizing sunsets, and relish authentic Kerala cuisine.
Location: Kottayam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam districts
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Ashtamudi Lake
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
Famous for its palm-fringed shores and houseboat experiences, Ashtamudi Lake, a.k.a the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala, is an experience not to be missed. This lake is aptly named for its eight channels through which water pours into its tranquil body and a haven for migratory birds to also fly on tranquil boat rides. If you are a nature lover or a keen photography enthusiast, this makes an ideal destination. Kerala’s ecosystem relies heavily on the lake, which is essential for supporting a variety of aquatic life and fishing and tourism-dependent communities living alongside it.
Location: Kollam
Best Time To Visit: October to February
3. Sasthamkotta Lake
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
The purest and cleanest water is available in Sasthamkotta Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala. This lake is surrounded by hills and the house is surrounded by diverse flora and fauna, giving the chance of a peaceful getaway. The lake provides over 40 million people with drinking water, at the same time it is a clean environment kept through conservation efforts. Its shores make for long walks for visitors, it’s also a place to enjoy bird watching and just soak up the natural wonder.
Location: Kollam
Best Time To Visit: November to March
4. Pookode Lake
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Pookode Lake in Wayanad is a beautiful freshwater lake that is set amidst the Western Ghats. Vegetated around lush forests, it is a favourite destination for nature walks, boating, and bird watching. For those wanting serenity and tranquillity, the calm waters and scenic setting of this resort make it a perfect retreat. This lake has various kinds of freshwater fish, a home for the lotus flower, and lush greenery increasing its natural charm.
Location: Wayanad
Best Time To Visit: September to May
5. Periyar Lake
Photo: KannanVM / Wikimedia Commons
Sited in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is Periyar Lake which is famous for its unrepeatable wildlife sighting. Travellers can enjoy a boat safari on this lake and take in the sight of elephants, deer, and a thousand varieties of birds in their natural habitat. Dense forests surround the lake, meaning those in search of nature’s wonder can have an incredible experience here. This lake is a part of the sanctuary’s ecosystem and is important for sustaining various types of flora and fauna.
Location: Thekkady
Best Time To Visit: September to April
6. Vellayani Lake
Photo: Thejas Panarkandy / Wikimedia Commons
The serene backwaters of Kerala meet the vast expanse of the Arabian Sea in the unique lucid king inParavur Lake, which is thankfully a unique and ecologically significant lake. This place of such a great meeting of fresh and saltwater ecosystems is rich and diverse and suitable for many water life and many of the birds. This clarity creates a great evening strolling location near the city’s hustle, with picturesque views along with a relaxing walk along its banks.
Location: Thiruvananthapuram
Best Time To Visit: August to March
7. Paravur Lake
Photo: Arunvrparavur / Wikimedia Commons
The serene backwaters of Kerala converge into the vastness of the Arabian Sea to form Paravur Lake which is unique and significant, forming a stunning and dynamic landscape. Fresh and saltwater mix to produce a rich and diverse ecosystem in which aquatic life can flourish, and which also attracts different bird species. Compared to other more popular tourist destinations in Kerala, this particular lake becomes less crowded, which provides the visitors with a peaceful and intimate experience with nature.
Location: Kollam
Best Time To Visit: October to March
8. Akkulam Lake
Photo: Nidhin K S / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Akkulam Lake is a tranquil and picturesque extension of the bigger Veli Lake and a peaceful break away from the bustle of the city. Well-maintained areas make it a great site for families and friends to get together by the water’s edge with a nice, parklike area where it is an ideal location for a relaxed picnic. There is a special park for children to entertain themselves and there are boating facilities also where everyone can go for a nice and leisurely ride on the calm waters of the lake.
Location: Thiruvananthapuram
Best Time To Visit: September to February
9. Mananchira Lake
Photo: gaurav kumar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Mananchira Lake is a historically and culturally important man-made lake situated in the heart of Kozhikode that reflects the city’s rich heritage. The lake is situated in the middle of a well-kept park surrounded by the urban landscape. Well-laid pathways, benches for relaxation, and most of the time cultural events and performances take place in the park, it being a great hangout spot for locals and tourists. The lake and the lake’s surroundings, the park form a mixture of nature and heritage and a place of balanced reflection with the bustle of the city.
Location: Kozhikode
Best Time To Visit: October to March
10. Kuttanad Backwaters
Photo: A M / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Kuttanad, also known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Kerala’ is a region famous for its stunning backwaters, and an extraordinary geographical uniqueness of paddy fields which are lower than sea level. The sight of this astounding network of waterways, canals and rivers filled with lush paddy fields that extend to the horizon, generally defined by coconut groves and typical Kerala houses is a spectacle not to be missed. Kerala’s backwaters are something that can only be experienced in full swing, and that is when you go for a houseboat ride through Kuttanad.
Location: Alappuzha
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Lakes in Kerala are the best place where you can escape into nature’s lap, offering breathtaking views, adventure & tranquillity. Regardless of whether you are seeking a relaxed or a romantic houseboat ride, a wildlife safari or indeed a pleasant lakeside retreat, these scenic lakes will leave you spellbound. Plan a trip with TripXL and experience the serene beauty of Kerala’s water wonders.
Cover Photo: pavan sai thummala / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
