Vembanad Lake

Vembanad Lake or Vembanad Kayal is the largest lake in India and the largest in the state of Kerala, stretching over a length of 96.5 kilometers. The lake is a perfect picnic spot with a vast array of rivers and canals that empty into the lake, making it a beautiful sight to behold. The Vembanad lake is a fast-developing backwater tourism destination with beautiful scenery that attracts visitors from far and wide. The lake is also an eco-friendly diamond category backwater homestay, offering individual waterfront cottages that provide stunning views of the lush green flora and sparkling blue backwaters.

Vembanad lake is fed by four rivers – Meenachil, Achankovil, Pampa, and Manimala. The lake is bordered by the districts of Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam, and is situated at sea level, separated from the Laccadive Sea by a narrow barrier island. The lake is surrounded by several tourist destinations, including Kumarakom, which is known for its Vallam Kali or snake boat race, held annually in August, and the beautiful little islands called Pathiramanal and Kakkathuruthu, accessible only by boat, set to be developed as a prime tourist spot.

The most visited part of Vembanad Kayal is Kumarakom in Kottayam district which is located just 13 kilometers from Kottayam town and 36 kilometers away from Alappuzha, one can reach Vembanad Kayal easily by road. The nearest railway station to Kumarakom is Kottayam which is 14 kilometers away and the closest airport is Cochin International Airport which is located 81 kilometers away. One can visit Vembanad Lake throughout the year but it is recommended to avoid visiting the lake during monsoon; The ideal time to visit Vembanad Lake is from October to March.