The Vembanad Lake is one of the largest and most majestic lakes in the country. It is into this picturesque water body that all the rivers and canals that meander through Kottayam connect to.

Also known locally as the Vembanad Kayal the lake is spread over an area of 2,033sqkm across Alappuzha and Kottayam districts and is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala. A prominent backwater destination in the state, the Vembanad Lake is the lifeline to the locals living in the area. Formed from four rivers – the Meenachil, Achankovil, Pampa, and Manimala, the lake also has an outlet to the Arabian Sea in the west. The third largest river in Kerala, the Pamba river plunges into the Vembanad at several different points through its branches. 

The charm of the Vembanad lake is multifaceted. In the water, along its shores fringed with coconut palm trees that stand proud and tall like sentinels lie houseboats. A ride on one of these traditional boats also known locally as ‘kettuvalloms’ is the best way to explore and enjoy the lake. These kettuvalloms were once used for the transportation of goods like spices and rice from Kuttanad and Kumarakom to neighbouring areas. Today these have been converted into luxury houseboats that offer visitors an authentic taste of the cultural and natural heritage of the place. 

The Vembanad Lake area is filled with fishing communities. A visit to these areas will give you a first hand experience of traditional fishing techniques. Much more than just a canvas for human activity, the lake is also a thriving ecosystem teeming with bio diversity. The labyrinthine network of canals, lagoons and backwaters that flow into the massive lake provides a sanctuary for a myriad of flora and fauna. The mangrove forests that line its edges offer refuge to countless species of birds including the elusive osprey and majestic kingfisher. 

The lake is also where the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located. A haven for birdwatchers, this area that is spread across 14 hectares is home to numerous migratory birds that travel all the way from Siberia and the Himalayas. The Little Cormorant, Indian Darter, White Ibis, several species of kingfishers waterfowl, cuckoo, owl, water duck, Siberian Cranes, parrots, teal, larks, flycatchers and wood beetles are all birds that are commonly sighted here. 

Pathiramanal or midnight sands, a small lonely island on the lake is yet another attraction here. Renowned for its scenic beauty, this island is a favourite haunt of migratory birds. It is believed that this area is home to a total of 91 species of local birds and 50 species of migratory birds. Indian Pond Heron, Little Egret, Bronze-winged Jacanas, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Whistling Duck, Pintail Ducks, Common Teal, Night Heron, Cormorant, Darter, Indian Shag, Purple Heron, Cattle Egret and Whiskered Tern are some of the birds found here. 

Onam breathes a whole new life into these waters. Ceremonial water processions, beautiful water floats and most importantly, the legendary Nehru Trophy Boat Race during this season imbue the area with a vibrance and cheer of celebration like no other. 

The legendary snake boat race of Kerala that is set against these waters is a sight to behold wherein nearly 100 ft long boats compete against each other to the rhythm of age old boat songs.

The Vembanad Lake is accessible from Kottayam, Alappuzha and Kuttanad regions and each of them refers to it with different names ranging from Punnamada Lake to Vembanad Kol. Whichever name it may be referred to, this lake is a part and parcel of the cultural and natural legacy of the land.