Tucked away in the heart of Kerala’s backwaters, Ashtamudi Lake Tour is a breathtakingly beautiful and serene waterbody in Kollam. Named after its eight arms or channels (“Ashta” means eight and “Mudi” means branch in Malayalam), this lake is the second-largest in Kerala, after Vembanad Lake.
Known as the Gateway to the Backwaters, Ashtamudi Lake is famous for its scenic houseboat cruises, traditional fishing villages, coconut groves, and abundant birdlife. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat away from the crowds of Alleppey and Kumarakom, Ashtamudi is the perfect destination for nature lovers, honeymooners, and adventure seekers.
This Ashtamudi Lake Tour covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, accommodations, must-visit places, travel routes from Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, distances from major cities, and local cuisines.
How To Reach Ashtamudi Lake? 🚗🚆🚤
Ashtamudi Lake is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible from Kollam, Kochi, and Thiruvananthapuram.
By Road 🛣️
Ashtamudi Lake is located in Kollam district, and NH 66 passes through it.
- From Kollam City (5 km) – A 10-minute drive via NH 66.
- From Thiruvananthapuram (70 km) – A 2-hour drive via NH 66.
- From Kochi (140 km) – A 4-hour drive via NH 66.
Regular KSRTC buses, private taxis, and auto-rickshaws are available from Kollam and nearby towns.
By Train 🚆
The nearest railway station is Kollam Junction (QLN), which is well-connected to Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Bangalore, and Chennai. Major trains stopping here include:
- Trivandrum–Mangalore Express
- Kerala Express (Delhi–Trivandrum)
- Rajdhani Express (Trivandrum–Delhi)
From Kollam Railway Station, take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to Ashtamudi Lake.
By Water 🚤
One of the best ways to reach Ashtamudi Lake is by houseboat or ferry from Kollam, offering a scenic journey through Kerala’s backwaters.
By Air ✈️
The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (70 km). From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Kollam and then to Ashtamudi Lake.
Best Time To Visit Ashtamudi Lake ☀️🌧️
Ashtamudi Lake enjoys a tropical climate, but some seasons are more favorable for travel than others.
| Season | Months | Weather | Best Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | November – February | Cool & Pleasant (20°C–30°C) | Houseboat Cruises, Birdwatching, Photography |
| Summer | March – May | Hot & Humid (25°C–35°C) | Sunset Cruises, Ayurvedic Spa Treatments |
| Monsoon | June – September | Heavy Rainfall (22°C–30°C) | Rainy Houseboat Stays, Greenery, Waterfalls |
Best Time to Visit: November to February is the ideal time for backwater cruises, sightseeing, and enjoying Kerala’s pleasant weather.
Ashtamudi Lake Hotels & Resorts 🏨🌿
Ashtamudi Lake Tour offers a range of luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly homestays, ensuring a relaxing stay by the water.
Luxury Resorts & Boutique Stays 🌳
- The Raviz Ashtamudi – A five-star luxury resort with houseboat stays, infinity pools, and Ayurvedic spa.
- Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort & Spa – A lakefront retreat with private cottages and scenic views.
- All Seasons D’Fort Ayurvedic Resort – A boutique resort offering authentic Kerala treatments.
Budget & Homestay Options 🏡
- Ashtamudi Villas – A budget-friendly stay offering homely comforts and canoe rides.
- Ashtamudi Lake Homestay – A peaceful family-run homestay with stunning backwater views.
- Nila Houseboat Stay – Experience traditional Kerala houseboat living on Ashtamudi Lake.
For a unique experience, opt for a houseboat stay or an eco-resort on the lake’s banks.
Best Places To Visit In Ashtamudi Lake 🌊🏞️
1. Houseboat Cruise on Ashtamudi Lake
A must-do experience, offering a slow and peaceful ride through the backwaters, mangroves, and fishing villages.
2. Munroe Island
A hidden gem, perfect for canoe rides, village walks, and birdwatching.
3. Thangassery Lighthouse & Fort
A 144-ft historic lighthouse, providing stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Kollam city.
4. Palaruvi Waterfalls
A beautiful 300-ft waterfall, great for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
5. Thenmala Eco-Tourism Center
A UNESCO-listed eco-tourism spot, offering trekking, butterfly parks, and boating.
6. Rameshwaram Temple
A 13th-century Shiva temple, famous for Dravidian architecture and religious festivals.
7. Kakkathuruthu Island
A tiny, scenic island in the lake, perfect for sunset views and peaceful retreats.
Ashtamudi Lake from Kochi 🚗
Ashtamudi Lake is just 4 hours from Kochi, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
- Distance: 140 km
- Travel Time: 4 hours
- Route: Kochi → Alappuzha → Kollam → Ashtamudi Lake
2-Day Itinerary from Kochi
- Day 1: Drive to Ashtamudi, check-in at a luxury resort. Enjoy a houseboat cruise.
- Day 2: Visit Munroe Island & Thangassery Lighthouse before returning.
Ashtamudi Lake from Thiruvananthapuram 🚗
Ashtamudi Lake is just 2 hours from Thiruvananthapuram, making it a quick getaway.
- Distance: 70 km
- Travel Time: 2 hours
- Route: Thiruvananthapuram → Varkala → Kollam → Ashtamudi Lake
1-Day Itinerary from Thiruvananthapuram
- Start early (7 AM) from Thiruvananthapuram.
- Visit Ashtamudi Lake for a backwater cruise.
- Enjoy a local seafood lunch & explore Munroe Island before returning.
Ashtamudi Lake Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kollam | 5 km | 10 min |
| Thiruvananthapuram | 70 km | 2 hrs |
| Kochi | 140 km | 4 hrs |
Ashtamudi Lake Local Cuisines 🍛🐟
Ashtamudi Lake Tour offers delicious seafood-rich Kerala cuisine, featuring freshly caught fish, coconut, and spices.
Must-Try Dishes 🍽️
- Karimeen Pollichathu – Grilled pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf.
- Meen Curry – Spicy red fish curry with tapioca.
- Prawn Roast – A backwater specialty.
Final Thoughts 🌊🌿
Ashtamudi Lake is a hidden paradise in Kerala, offering a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Whether you want to cruise through the backwaters, explore scenic islands, or enjoy Kerala’s famous cuisine, Ashtamudi Lake promises an unforgettable experience.
So pack your bags and explore the magic of Ashtamudi Lake! 🚤✨
