Enchanting Kerala

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram

An emerging offbeat destination in Thiruvananthapuram, Vellayani Lake is the only freshwater lake in the district and is ideal for boating and bird watching.  It is a great place to be in if we wish to experience the serenity and tranquility of village life. Home to a unique ecosystem, the lake and its surroundings support abundant flora and fauna. Spread over 7.5 acres, the ‘Vellayani Kayal’ is an important water source for drinking purposes and irrigation.

The season of Onam ups the spirit of the region as it plays host to the annual Ayyankali boat race, which attracts people from far and near.

A small bridge on the lake shot to fame in 1989 with the release of the Mohanlal-starrer Malayalam movie ‘Kireedam’. Since then it has been known locally as ‘Kireedam Paalam’ and is a favourite photoshoot point.

The wetland in the region is a major birding hotspot of the capital district. A number of rare birds such as citrine wagtail, amur falcon, spot-bellied pelican, eurasia cuckoo, and grey-headed lapwing can be spotted during the seasons.

Vellayani is a perfect getaway to experience the beauty of village life. An early morning or evening walk amid the cool breeze, chirping birds and blooming lotuses is bliss to the visitors. The greenery, serenity and thick vegetation of the place will refresh and rejuvenate our minds.  

The village is also home to Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) from where we can buy seeds and saplings, and also visit the Crop Museum. After getting permission, we can visit the campus between 10 am and 4 pm on working days.

A 700-year-old temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is located at Vellayani. The Vellayani Devi Temple is known for ‘Kaliyoottu Mahotsavam’ which is held once in three years.  The world-famous Kovalam beach, Vizhinjam lighthouse, Kerala Arts & Crafts Village and Kuzhipallam Botanical Garden are some of the nearby tourist places.

If you want a quick look at Vellayani, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgmufdN7r-4 

Contact
DTPC
Thiruvananthapuram
Ph: +91 471 2315397

Getting There
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 10 km
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 15 km