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| Vembanad Lake |
Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," is home to several famous and scenic lakes, many of which are known for their tranquil beauty and unique ecosystems. Here are some of the most famous lakes in Kerala, along with details and how to reach them:
1. Vembanad Lake
- Location: Vembanad is the longest lake in Kerala, situated in the Alappuzha (Alleppey) district, stretching through the districts of Kottayam and Punnamada Lake.
- Significance: Vembanad is an important backwater lake and a key part of Kerala’s famous backwater tourism. It is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene atmosphere. The lake is also famous for its Vembanad Wetland and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a major migratory bird site.
- Activities: Houseboat cruises, bird watching, and boat races (such as the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race) are popular activities on the lake.
How to Reach:
- By Road: From Kochi, it is about 50 km to Alappuzha and Kumarakom by road.
- By Train: Alappuzha Railway Station is the nearest railhead.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 85 km away.
2. Alleppey (Alappuzha) Backwaters
- Location: Located in the Alappuzha district, this is an extensive network of interconnected lakes, lagoons, and canals that make up the famous Alleppey Backwaters.
- Significance: Alappuzha is considered the Venice of the East due to its picturesque waterways. The area offers a unique experience of Kerala's rural life, with small villages, lush paddy fields, and traditional houseboats.
- Activities: Boat cruises, houseboat stays, exploring the scenic villages along the waterways.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Alappuzha is well connected by road from Kochi (approximately 60 km) and Kottayam.
- By Train: Alappuzha Railway Station serves the town, with trains available from major cities in Kerala.
- By Air: Cochin International Airport is about 75 km from Alappuzha.
3. Punnappra Lake
- Location: Situated in the Alappuzha district, near the town of Punnappra.
- Significance: This lake is known for its backwater experiences and is less commercialized compared to other lakes. It is also famous for its historical significance as the site of the Punnappra-Vayalar uprising in 1946.
- Activities: Boating, enjoying rural Kerala’s landscapes, and exploring nearby attractions.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Punnappra is about 12 km from Alappuzha.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Alappuzha Railway Station.
- By Air: Cochin International Airport is approximately 80 km away.
4. Sasthamcotta Lake
- Location: In the Kollam district of Kerala, about 29 km from Kollam town.
- Significance: Sasthamcotta Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala and is an important water source for the region. It is surrounded by beautiful hills and lush green landscapes.
- Activities: Boating, bird watching, and enjoying the tranquil environment.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Sasthamcotta is around 29 km from Kollam and easily accessible by road.
- By Train: The nearest major railway station is Kollam Railway Station.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, about 60 km away.
5. Vellayani Lake
- Location: Situated in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala.
- Significance: Vellayani Lake is a freshwater lake known for its scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings. It is the largest freshwater lake in the Thiruvananthapuram district.
- Activities: Boating, nature walks, and exploring the nearby areas of Vellayani and Neyyar.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Vellayani Lake is about 16 km from the city center of Thiruvananthapuram.
- By Train: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is the nearest station.
- By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is the closest airport, about 15 km away.
6. Punnappra Lake
- Location: In the Alappuzha district of Kerala.
- Significance: Punnappra Lake is part of the extensive backwaters of Kerala. It is a calm and serene spot, often visited for its picturesque beauty.
- Activities: Boating and exploring the surrounding rural villages.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Alappuzha is around 50 km from Kochi, and Punnappra is about 10 km from Alappuzha.
- By Train: Alappuzha Railway Station is the nearest station.
- By Air: Cochin International Airport is approximately 75 km away.
7. Kumarakom Lake
- Location: In the Kottayam district, along the banks of the Vembanad Lake.
- Significance: Kumarakom is a famous destination for Kerala’s backwater tourism. The area around Kumarakom Lake is home to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a popular bird-watching destination.
- Activities: Houseboat cruises, bird watching, and enjoying the peaceful backwater environment.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Kumarakom is about 14 km from Kottayam and can be accessed by road.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Kottayam Railway Station.
- By Air: Cochin International Airport is about 85 km away.
Conclusion:
Kerala’s lakes are not just natural wonders but also important cultural and recreational spots. Whether you’re interested in boat rides, houseboats, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, these lakes offer a range of experiences. The best time to visit is typically from October to March when the weather is most favorable. Each lake is well-connected by road and train, and most are easily accessible from Kochi or Thiruvananthapuram, the major transport hubs in Kerala.
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