In the history of Ashtamudi Lake, there is a mention of the importance of Ashtamundi Lake and its port, Quilon, in world history. The world-traveling Moroccan Ibn Battuta described Quilon as one of the five essential ports for Chinese trade during his 24-year stay. Apart from this, the mention of Ashtamudi Lake is also seen in the history of Chinese Mandarin, Portugal, and Persian.
At the time of 1795, this site was in the possession of the Dutch and British. Velu, associated with India’s independence, is also known to have started a rebellion against the British from Thampi Lake.
Attractions Of Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi Lake Islands – The Ashtamudi Lake Islands have been formed in the geographical structure of Ashtamudi Lake and its vast expanse. Many different small islands have been built in it. It includes the names of three main islands namely Kumbaghom Island, Chavara Island and Munro Island. Tourists enjoy making their trip memorable by seeing the three major islands of Ashtamudi Lake.
Kumbaghom Island – Let me tell you that Kumbaghom is said to be a rural island. Tourists enjoy taking a very rustic experience at that place. Here tourists can also roam in this village. One can see and experience the life of the fishermen and village farmers of that site very closely. Along with it, travelers see ancient and thousand year old temple and two hundred year old church on the island.
Chavara Island – This beautiful Chavara island is said to be an industrial island. Tourists can see some factories here. The island is a rich island because of the rich minerals found on the island.
Monroe Island – Travelers can see a group of eight small islands on Monroe Island. All those islands appear to be full of rich, tropical trees and shrubs. Where tourists go round them during their visit to the houseboat.
Flora, Fauna & Aqua Life at Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi estuary is famous for a large variety of mangroves. The site here is home to two endangered species. Those species help to develop marine bio-repositories. They get the scope of eco-tourism from conservation. The species is becoming endangered due to the high rate of conversion of wetlands into paddy fields. 57 species of birds can be seen in the lake and 6 migratory species can be seen in it. Terns, plovers, cormorants and herons are the most popular birds dependent on wetlands.
The lake as a biosphere supports 45 species of insects. It has 26 butterflies and the water body is home to many fish and clams. Thousands of families here depend on fish for their livelihood. It is the second major fish-landing center after Vembanad Lake. The waters of Ashtamudi Lake are home to nine different types of phytoplankton. It creates balance in the water body. Ashtamudi Lake makes various contributions to the environment. It should be enjoyed while caring for and protected.
Chinese Fishing Nets and Backwaters
Chinese fishing nets have been used here to give Ashtamudi lake a different look. Tourists can see many beautiful views on the Ashtamudi lake coast. You can go here with your family and friends. Because it is an ideal place for the weekend. All tourists can go to the backwaters of the lake. But the traveler has to hire a boat. Tourists can take motorboats ranging from two seater to fourteen seater according to their requirement. All the eight branches of Ashtamudi have different names. They are Kanjirottu Lake, Kandachira Lake, Thevali Lake, Thekkumbagham Lake, Kuripuzha Lake, Perumon Lake, Kallada Lake and Kumbalathu Lake.
The Traditional Houseboats of Kerala
You can go to Kerala’s traditional houseboats. Ashtamudi Lake is said to be a biosphere in itself. Because one can see the flora and fauna around the lake. All are being done to make it an eco-friendly tourist destination. Houseboat rentals provide boats to the travelers according to the budget and requirement of the individual. If travelers do not want to rent a houseboat. So can take a boat ride near the lake. Private motor boats are also available here along with government motorboats.
It is a must to hire a houseboat for a night to enjoy the lake well. The boat has a captain and a cook. One who prepares food for the traveller. He cooks seafood and Kerala cuisine. Even the smallest boats have a room and a shared area that opens towards the sky at the front of the boat. You can enjoy the calm water. Boats can accommodate two to fifteen people. Spending a holiday on a houseboat is one of the unique and peaceful experiences.
FAQ
Q. Where is Ashtamudi Lake?
Ashtamudi Lake is the second-largest lake in Kerala and is located in the Kollam district.
Q. Where is Ashtamudi Lake located?
Ashtamudi Lake is located in the Kollam district of the state of Kerala.
Q. What is Backwater Lake?
The Kerala Backwaters are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes located parallel to the Arabian Sea coast (Malabar Coast) of the state of Kerala in southern India.
Q. Is Ashtamudi lake a freshwater lake?
Ashtamudi lake in the Kollam district of Kerala is not a freshwater lake.
Q. What is the best time to visit Ashtamudi?
Tourists can visit Ashtamudi Lake at any time.