About Vembanad Lake
Prime Day & Hours: Morning and evening; weekends
Suggested Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station, about 14 KM
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK), about 77.2 KM
Nearest Bus Stop: Kumarakom Bus Stand, about 2 KM
Vembanad Lake, located in Kottayam, Kerala, is the longest lake in India, as well as the largest in Kerala. This lake offers the most majestic and ethereal views on both sides, following dense green forests, wildlife, and villages, and is one of the best places to visit in Kottayam. The lake is spread over an area of 2,033 sq km across Alappuzha and Kottayam districts.
Vembanad Lake is a popular backwater destination in Kerala, supporting nearby villages and wildlife. The lake is also a biodiversity hotspot and has various species of fish, birds, and plants, some of which are unique to the region. The shores of the lake are decorated with Coconut trees rising high along with houseboats. Visitors can ride these houseboats and explore the surreal beauty of this lake. Riding on these boats is known as "kettuvalloms", and these Kettuvalloms were once used for transporting goods and spices from other neighbouring areas.
During the festival of Onam, the lake looks so beautiful and fills the area with life as traditional ceremonies happen around and in the lake; also, the legendary Nehru Trophy boat race happens during this season.
Vembanad Lake Highlights
• Explore Vembanad Lake in Kottayam, the longest lake in India and the largest one in Kerala.
• Discover the rich biodiversity of this lake, a biodiversity hotspot, home to unique fish, bird, and plant species.
• Experience the vibrant local culture on traditional kettuvalloms while engaging in authentic fishing practices.
• Celebrate the grand Onam festival as the lake becomes the venue for the legendary Nehru Trophy Boat Race.
How To Reach Vembanad Lake
By car/taxi: Take a car ride of approximately 15 kms from Kottayam city center to Vembanad Lake, and taxis are also readily available at the Kottayam city center.
By bus: Take the city bus from the Kottayam city center to Vembanad Lake, which takes around 50 minutes.
Best Time To Visit Vembanad Lake
Peak Season (October to March)
- Weather Insights: Comfortable temperatures, minimal rainfall, clear skies.
- Things to Do: Houseboat cruises, birdwatching, exploring Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and experiencing Kerala's backwater culture.
Moderate Season (April to May, September)
- Weather Insights: Warm temperatures, occasional pre-monsoon showers (April-May), and post-monsoon showers(September).
- Things to Do: Canoe trips, fishing, village visits, and Ayurvedic treatments.
Low Season (June to August)
- Weather Insights: Heavy rainfall, high humidity, cooler temperatures.
- Things to Do: Ayurvedic massages, enjoying the scenic beauty of the rain-soaked backwaters, experiencing the monsoon season from a houseboat (with precautions).
Vembanad Lake Other Essential Information
Why visit Vembanand Lake?
- Vembanad Lake is the largest in Kerala, as well as the longest lake in India, and is heaven for people who are passionate about boating and fishing.
- Scenic views can be seen through the lake during the sunrise and sunsets, with birds flying over the lake.
- Being a biodiversity hotspot, the lake provides great chance to spot unique species of birds, fishes, and plants.
- The region provides great insight into South Indian culture to its visitors, where they can celebrate local festivals.
- Indulge in birdwatching activities, spot local and migrating birds as the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is just near the lake.
Know before you go
- Make sure you wear life jackets while exploring the Vembanad Lake.
- For the best experience, it is best to stay in a houseboat.
- For the best experience, you can plan your visit around Onam and the Snake boat race festival during August and September, if you wish to witness the festivals.
- To explore the backwaters, there are options available like canoe boats, houseboats, and public ferries for visitors.
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Witness Nehru Trophy Boat Race
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is conducted on the Punnamada Lake, other name for Vemband Lake. The race happens on the second Saturday of the lake every year. On the day of the race, the region becomes a sea of people, with around 2 lakh people gathered to witness this fascinating and unforgettable moment.
Stay in a houseboat
Spend your time on Kerala's traditional houseboat, and experience unmatched comfort while witnessing beautiful scenery and landscapes. A houseboat ride through the backwaters is all you need to relax and rejuvenate.
Engage in fishing and boating activities
If you enjoy fishing and boating activities, Vembanad Lake provides a great spot for the same. Many houseboats and resorts offer fishing as an activity, and boating too. The lake has diverse species of fish as well as marine life.
Spot unique bird species
The Vembanad lake is near Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, making the lake a perfect place for visitors to spot different species of birds like Siberian Stork, egret, and including the ones that migrated from different places around the world.
Tourism Board Alliances
Vembanad Lake FAQs
What is Vembanad Lake, Kerala, famous for?
Vembanad lake, Kerala is the largest in Kerala, and the longest lake in India. Along with this, the lake is also a biodiversity hotspot, serving views of unique species of birds and plants. This lake is also location to The Nehru Boat Race happening there annualy.
Is Vembanad Lake connected to the sea?
Yes, the Vembanad Lake is connected to the Arabian Sea, serving as a continuous water flow to the lake and providing habitat for marine animals. There are houseboats for visitors to embark on their visit to the lake and experience nature in its purest form.
Is visiting the Vembanad Lake a family-friendly activity?
Yes, the lake is family-friendly and a perfect place for kids and everyone to enjoy nature and its offerings. Offering many activities, this place is a must visit for you and your family. Visitors can enjoy the comfort of kerala houseboats while gazing at the beauty this lake has to offer.
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