Punnamada Lake

Punnamada Lake or Punnamada Kayal is a part of the Vembanad Lake and is situated in the Kuttanad region of the Alappuzha district of Kerala. The lake is known for its scenic beauty and it is surrounded by large coconut and areca nut trees. Punnamada Lake is also famous for hosting the Nehru Trophy Boat Race which takes place during the Onam festival and attracts many tourists from all over the world.

There are numerous resorts located around the lake and most of them offer stunning lake views. The sunset at Punnamada Lake is particularly breathtaking with the main attraction being boat rides. The lake offers an abundance of houseboat facilities with varying budgets. Visitors have the option of hiring a houseboat or a Shikara (small boat) at a cost of approximately 2400 rupees per boat for a three-hour ride, regardless of the number of passengers. Alternatively, travelers can use the government ferry service, which charges INR 50 for a one-way trip from one point to another within the lake.

Houseboats are typically available from 1 PM and have a checkout time of 10 AM the next day. These boats are furnished with comfortable bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, a kitchen, and even a balcony. Authentic Kerala cuisine, including “Karimeen” fish fry, can be enjoyed on board. Visitors can also have the opportunity to enjoy the speed boat rides on the lake which is available from INR 300 per person. One of the best experiences is taking a canoe ride on the lake while savoring a local toddy and listening to traditional folk melodies.

Punnamada Kayal is more crowded on weekends and holidays so it would be a good idea to make reservations before you reach. The ideal time to visit Punnamada lake is from October to February if you prefer having an experience with pleasant weather. If you are traveling with a large group, you can enjoy the lake and its offerings at a lower cost and there are shops situated around the area where you can buy fresh fish, prawns, and crabs at affordable pricing.

The views around the lake are incredibly refreshing, making it a highly recommended destination for a day trip to unwind and relax from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The cool breeze, stunning natural scenery, and traditional Kerala cuisine all contribute to the overall experience and make it even more enjoyable. The Punnamada lake is conveniently located near Alappuzha Beach, Pathiramanal Island, the bus stand, and the railway station. The nearest railway station is at Alappuzha and the closest airport is Cochin International Airport.

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