Vembanad Lake - Kerala - India

Vembanad Lake, also known as Vembanad Kayal, is the largest lake in Kerala and one of Asia's largest freshwater lakes. Sprawling over an area of 200 sq km, the lake lies at sea level, separated from the Arabian Sea by a narrow barrier island. 

The lake surrounds the islands of Pathiramanal, Perumbalam and Pallippuram and is a popular backwater stretch in Kerala. Vembanad Lake is the longest lake in India and the largest lake in the state of Kerala. It is also one of the largest lakes in India. It is known by different names in different localities, such as Punnamada Lake in Kuttanad, or Kochi Lake in Kochi.

Vembanad Lake in Kerala is astonishingly surreal, sealed with tranquility and a rare element of the 21st century, oxygen. Spread over the three districts of Alappuzha, Kottayam and Ernakulam.

The lake is  divided into 2 halves by a saltwater barrier and you can see the difference between the brackish  and fresh water. It was constructed to prevent intrusion of sea water. Just cruising along the lake can make your trip worthwhile, as you can see parts of 3 districts which surround the lake.

The lake looks amazing during Onam with the famous snake boat races. The rhythmically moving snake-boat, being rowed by expert rowers, carries around 100 people.

Also, one can visit the nearby attraction, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located on the banks of Vembanad Lake. The place is a paradise for bird lovers as they can watch wide variety of Birds. 

Tourists spend their leisure time in the lap of nature and refresh their soul.  Apart from sightseeing, the lake also allows for outdoor activities like boating and fishing.

How to reach

By Air: The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, situated 16 km away.

By Rail: The closest railhead is the Ernakulam Railway Junction in Kochi.

By Road: You can avail of a bus, cab or auto-rickshaw to reach Vembanad Lake by road from Kochi.

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