Ashtamudi Lake - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 2 km from Kollam Railway Station, Ashtamudi Lake is a beautiful lake situated in the Kolla district of Kerala. It is the southern gateway to the backwater of Kerala, and among the most visited tourist places in Kollam.

Spread over an area of 16 km, Ashtamudi Lake is the second largest lake in Kerala, after Vembanad Lake, which has found its way into the sea through the Neendakara estuary. The 8 arms or channels of the Ashtamudi Lake are what gave it its name. The lake resembles the shape of a palm conifer or an octopus.

Surrounded by lush green trees and swaying coconut palms, Ashtamudi Lake is famous for its panoramic views. Boating is offered in the lake by The Kollam Boat Club. It is the entrance to the famous backwaters of Kerala and the houseboat rides here are extremely famous. The Kollam to Alappuzha route is considered among the best in the backwaters. A lot of tourists come here to experience boat rides, which gives a glimpse of village life, natural habitat, and abundant flora as part of Kollam sightseeing packages.

Besides, Ashtamudi Lake is known for its unique ecosystem and varied offerings. Shrouded with evergreen coconut groves and other scenic floral species, this alluring lake is a natural home to more than 50 different avifauna species and around 97 aqua fauna species. Adding more to the beauty and charm of this Ashtamudi Lake is the cluster of tiny islets. The banks of the lake are also famous for the Chinese fishing nets. It is one of the best places to visit near Trivandrum for backwater cruises in Kerala.