Ashtamudi Lake
Lake Scenic backwater lake with extensive houseboat and mangrove network
Kerala’s Ashtamudi Lake is a backwater system known for houseboat cruises, mangrove-lined canals, fishing communities, and birdwatching; Kollam serves as the main gateway for tours.
Ashtamudi Lake is a large estuarine lake in Kollam district, Kerala, India, and is the second largest lake in the state. It is noted for its extensive network of branching waterways and its role in Kerala’s backwater tourism.
The lake supports boating and houseboat services that connect Kollam with settlements and lagoons along the water. The name reflects the lake’s many channels and branches, and the waterways are used for fishing, transport and tourism.
Historically the Ashtamudi waterways have been important to local fisheries, coir trade and transport connecting inland communities with the Arabian Sea. The lake’s ecology and wetlands have attracted conservation recognition and tourism development since the late 20th century.
Geographically the lake lies on the Malabar Coast near the city of Kollam in southern Kerala, opening toward the Arabian Sea. The lakeshore includes urban areas, mangroves and small islands, and the lake connects to coastal estuaries and backwater canals.
- Ramsar site: Designated a Ramsar wetland in 2002, recognizing its importance as an estuarine ecosystem and habitat for migratory birds.
- Boating and houseboats: Known locally for its backwater cruises and houseboat services that run from Kollam, offering navigation through the lake's network of channels and canals.
How to Get to Ashtamudi Lake #
Kollam (Quilon) is the nearest major town; Ashtamudi Lake is a short drive from Kollam railway station and bus terminals. Houseboat services and local launches depart from Kollam’s lakefront.
Tips for Visiting Ashtamudi Lake #
- Take a houseboat cruise from Kollam (Quilon) to see the lake's inland canals and traditional life along the banks.
- Avoid the afternoon monsoon squalls from June through September; instead aim for early morning or late afternoon for calm waters and good light.
Best Time to Visit Ashtamudi Lake #
As an inland waterway system, Ashtamudi Lake is best enjoyed in the dry winter months when houseboat services and smaller launches run reliably.
Weather & Climate near Ashtamudi Lake #
Tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 23°C to 33°C. Heavy rainfall (2599 mm/year), wettest in June with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 23°C. The driest month with just 18 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is hot, feeling like 29°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is hot, feeling like 32°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm).
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April
April is the hottest month, feeling like 34°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (154 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is hot, feeling like 36°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (283 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (541 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Heavy rain (432 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Heavy rain (288 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (240 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (306 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (208 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 23°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
