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Kerala, often referred to as ‘God’s Own Country,’ has tranquil backwaters and picturesque lakes. The longest lake in Kerala is Vemband Lake, which is a top choice to discover nature, complete houseboat cruises, enjoy traditional fishing, and join the colourful culture. The lake’s ecology is home to a variety of flora and fauna, bolstering eco-tourism. Moreover, the surrounding villages offer an insight into the local heritage of the cuisine and crafts, making it an ideal place for adventure, relaxation and photography.
Quick Details
Length: 96 kilometers
Area: 2033 square kilometers
Districts Covered: Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam
Famous Spots: Kumarakom, Pathiramanal Island
Nearby Rivers: Meenachil, Pamba, Manimala
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
Vembanad Lake spans over Alappuzha, Kottayam and Ernakulam districts, a total of 2033 sq km. It is located on NH 66, reachable through the Kumarakom and Thanneermukkom bund roads. Landmarks nearby include the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and the Thanneermukkom Barrage. This longest lake in Kerala plays a crucial ecological role while connecting with the Arabian Sea via Kochi. Kumarakom, which is on the eastern bank, is a popular entry point, and the surrounding paddy fields and fishing villages lend to Kuttanad’s charm.
How To Reach
Photo: रोहित साव27 / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Kochi International Airport is located at a distance of 75 km from Kumarakom; taxis and renting services are available for direct transfers.
By Train: The nearest major stations are Kottayam, about 15 km, well-connected to major cities and Alappuzha, about 40 km, accessible via express and local trains.
By Road: Well connected through NH 66 and state highways; many government as well as private buses are available from Kochi, Trivandrum and Kottayam. Taxis and autorickshaws are available from neighbouring towns.
By Water: Houseboats, motorboats and public ferries from Alappuzha and Kumarakom for a scenic route through the backwaters.
Things To Do
From fishing to boating and birdwatching, there are many things to do in the longest lake in Kerala.
1. Houseboat Cruises
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
A floating cruise on the Vembanad Lake is a peaceful and memorable experience. Drift along bucolic backwaters, sugar cane fields, coconut plantations and quaint villages. Houseboats vary from luxurious with modern facilities to pots and kettuvallams with rustic, natural beauty. Relish Kerala-style food and food made out of fresh seafood during the cruise. You can also see beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the wide surface of the lake.
2. Birdwatching At Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Deepak1628 / Wikimedia Commons
Kumarakom houses a sanctuary, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, along Vembanad lake banks, and it’s undoubtedly the highlight for bird lovers. The 14-acre sanctuary welcomes several migrating birds, such as Siberian cranes, herons, and egrets. Birdwatching is best in the early morning, and the sanctuary bridges can be traversed either on foot or by boat. The calm waters and surrounding wetlands provide an ideal environment for native and migratory populations alike. Bring binoculars and a camera to frame the vivid birdlife, set against the idyllic backdrop of Vembanad Lake.
3. Experience The Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Photo: Varghesepunnamada / Wikimedia Commons
The unique, exhilarating Nehru Trophy Boat Race takes place on Vembanad Lake every year. This famous event includes teams of over 100 rowers paddling in unison to traditional songs and snake boats (chundan valleys) racing across the lake. The spirit and fervour surrounding the event draw thousands of local and international spectators. The flurry of synchronised rowing and the party atmosphere are unforgettable. The race pays tribute to Kerala’s maritime heritage and is typically held on the second Saturday of August.
Places To Visit Around Vembanad Lake
After exploring the longest lake in Kerala, visit the following places nearby for a unique experience.
1. Pathiramanal Island
Photo: VU3SBF / Wikimedia Commons
The Pathiramanal island, which translates to ‘Sands of Midnight,’ is a small and remote place that you can only reach by boat from Muhamma or Alappuzha. Nestled within verdant greenery and calming backwaters, the place is a birdwatcher’s dream, home to many migratory birds like herons, egrets and cormorants. Nature walks, photography and boating are ideal on the island. Without any commercial establishments, it provides a peaceful sanctuary in nature. With calm waters surrounding the island, it is perfect for short boat rides or kayaking.
Distance From Vembanad Lake: 4 km
Timings: 24*7
2. Thanneermukkom Bund
Photo: Kondephy / Wikimedia Commons
Thanneermukkom Bund is the largest mud regulator in India, erected across the longest lake in Kerala to prevent saltwater intrusion from the Arabian Sea. It separates brackish- and freshwater zones in the lake, allowing for year-round farming in Kuttanad. The bund has sublime views over Vembanad Lake, as it does at sunrise and sunset. You can enjoy strolls or cycling along the stretch to the backdrop of traditional Chinese fishing nets in full action. It’s also a favourite place for photography, which usually includes the scenic beauty of the lake with local fishermen along with their boats adding a touch of charm to the landscape.
Distance From Vembanad Lake: 13 km
Timings: 24*7
3. Alappuzha Lighthouse
Photo: Virtualshyam / Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1862, the Alappuzha Lighthouse is a historical landmark with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding backwaters. You can climb to the top through a spiral staircase, which offers beautiful aerial views of Alappuzha town and Vembanad Lake. The Lighthouse Museum, housing some maritime antiques, is where history meets natural beauty. The lighthouse has surroundings that are ideal for a casual walk and great to stroll around at sunset. It is a favourite location for photographers and history buffs.
Distance From Vembanad Lake: 40 km
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
4. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in Kerala, with its traditional architecture and spiritual significance. The temple complex covers several acres, with ancient pathways and large ponds surrounding it. It attracts devotees and tourists who come to see the peaceful ambience and join in the rituals of the temple. Vaikom Ashtami attracts visitors from far and wide, as the festival is celebrated with grandeur. The temple is also historically significant for its connection with the Vaikom Satyagraha, a major movement in Kerala’s freedom struggle.
Distance From Vembanad Lake: 21 km
Timings: 4 AM – 12 PM and 5 PM – 8 PM
5. Marari Beach
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
Duck away from the crowds and head to Marari Beach, which lies next to the backwaters of Vembanad Lake and is a quiet, less commercial beach with its golden sands and palm trees swaying. The beach is ideal for a balance of rest and local atmosphere, with swimming, beach walks, and seafood prepared at one of the shacks along the shore. You can also witness traditional fishing and interact with local fishermen here. Its proximity to the beach and ayurvedic spas and yoga retreats have made it an increasingly popular destination for wellness seekers. Thanks to its beauty and peaceful sunset, this beach is a great destination for families or solos.
Distance From Vembanad Lake: 30 km
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: നിരക്ഷരൻ / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For an upscale experience, Kumarakom Lake Resort and Coconut Lagoon, priced from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per night, feature waterfront cottages and traditional Kerala-style villas with modern comforts. Mid-range options include Lakesong Resort and Abad Whispering Palms, ranging from ₹6,000 to ₹15,000 a night, that have comfy, lake-facing rooms. Budget travellers can choose homestays such as Vembanad House or Illikkalam Lakeside Cottages, where crackling fireflies light up the grounds at night and rooms range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 a night. Packages can include houseboat stays and Ayurvedic spa services.
Where To Eat
Photo: Nishant Kumar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A meal around Vembanad Lake combines the rich flavours of Kerala with fresh seafood. Ettukettu Restaurant at Kumarakom Lake Resort, where a meal costs from ₹2,000, offers traditional Kerala sadya and other seafood delicacies in a fine dining setting. There is Currymeen Restaurant in Alappuzha whose spicy Karimeen Pollichathu is available for around ₹800 to ₹1,500. More mid-range options from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per meal, such as Lime Tree at Zuri Resort, serve Indian and international cuisine. At local toddy shops, which serve fresh seafood and tapioca, meals are ₹500 to ₹800.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
For 3 days, 2 nights, budget for stays, food and transport. Accommodation can cost ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per night (budget hotels) ₹6,000 to ₹15,000 per night (mid-range hotels) ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per night (luxury hotels). For food, budget around ₹500 to ₹3,000 a day, from affordable eateries to fine dining. Calculate for Houseboat Cruise around ₹7,000 to ₹15,000 per day for shared and ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 for private. Transport can cost you about ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 for a car rental so the average total can be around ₹15,000 to ₹50,000 (per couple for 3 days).
Tips For Travellers
In peak season, book your houseboats and resorts well in advance because they get filled very quickly. Carry enough cash on hand, as some local vendors and boat services deal in cash only. Safety is always necessary so always wear life jackets on boat rides. Don’t use plastic on the way and support eco-friendly tourism. For comfort, carry light cotton clothes, sunglasses and sunscreen. It is suggested that you learn a few Malayalam words and phrases to make your stay more enjoyable.
Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in Kerala, is more than a destination; it is the perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Whether you are going on houseboat cruises, birdwatching or enjoying the local cuisine and other traditions, everything is unique. The peaceful backwaters, dense green surroundings and colourful local life guarantee an amazing trip. Plan a trip with TripXL and transform your journey to the Vembanad Lake into a memory for life.
Cover Photo: niladrilovesphotography / Shutterstock
