Vembanad Lake

Spanning across three coastal districts with an expansive water surface covering over 2,000 square kilometers, Vembanad Lake in Alleppey is the longest lake in India and the beating heart of Kerala backwater tourism. Known locally as Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha and Kochi Kayal further north, this internationally designated Ramsar wetland supports thriving aquatic ecosystems, traditional fishing communities, and world famous houseboat voyages.

Truth is, drifting along the emerald waters of Vembanad as morning mist clears over coconut palms is the quintessential Kerala travel experience. The lake receives freshwater discharge from ten major rivers including the Pamba, Manimala, and Meenachil, creating a unique brackish lagoon network separated from the Arabian Sea by narrow barrier islands.

The lake is the grand arena for the world famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race held annually on Punnamada Lake. Massive hundred foot long snake boats (chundan vallams), rowed by over a hundred synchronized oarsmen singing rhythmic Vanchipattu boat songs, slice through the water in a striking display of athletic power. Travelers regularly combine lake cruises with visits to Pathiramanal Island and Kuttanad Backwaters.

Houseboat Cruises and Village Kayaking

Cruising Vembanad Lake on a traditional kettuvallam (thatched houseboat constructed from Anjili wood and coir ropes) offers pure tranquility. Modern houseboats feature air conditioned bedrooms, glass walled viewing lounges, open sundecks, and private onboard chefs preparing authentic Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaves).

For an intimate glimpse into local backwater life, narrow country canoe and kayak tours glide into shallow village canals. You can watch toddy tappers climbing swaying palm trees, duck farmers herding thousands of birds along the waterways, and women weaving coir mats outside thatched cottages before traveling to Marari Beach.

Pathiramanal Island and Avian Diversity

tucked into the middle of Vembanad Lake lies Pathiramanal Island (meaning Sands of Night), an uninhabited 10 acre bird sanctuary accessible only by boat. The island is an ecological great place for over ninety species of local waterfowl and fifty species of migratory birds, including darter herons, egrets, kingfishers, and Siberian storks.

Mind you, early morning between 6:00 AM and 8:30 AM is the prime time for birdwatching when flocks gather along the water hyacinth clusters. The reflection of golden sunrise rays on the tranquil water surface creates picture perfect photography conditions.

Thanneermukkom Bund and Below Sea Level Farming

An engineering marvel across Vembanad Lake is the 1.4 km long Thanneermukkom Saltwater Barrier, which divides the lake into a fresh water southern sector and brackish northern lagoon. This barrier enables farmers in the adjoining Kuttanad Backwaters region to cultivate rice up to 2.5 meters below sea level.

Houseboats moor along tranquil canal banks at sunset, allowing travelers to savor quiet starry skies undisturbed by road traffic. Combine your lake itinerary with visits to Alappuzha Houseboats and historical heritage at Krishnapuram Palace.