Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Kerala |
| Famous For | Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam, Backwaters |
| Best Time to Visit | September to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Malayalam, English |
| Nearest Airport | Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), 70km from Kollam |
| Nearest Railway | Kollam Junction (QLN) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹8+ (varies) |
| Best For | all travellers |
Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Ashtamudi Lake, located in the Kollam district of Kerala, is the second largest lake in the state. It's known for its unique shape, resembling an octopus with its eight arms or channels, and its scenic beauty, attracting tourists seeking tranquility and natural landscapes.
Ashtamudi Lake offers a serene escape with its stunning backwaters, houseboat cruises, and opportunities for relaxation. While the lake can get crowded during peak season and some areas may suffer from pollution, the experience of gliding through the waterways and witnessing local life is truly rewarding. Kollam offers a more laid-back experience compared to Alleppey.
How to Reach Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Kollam Junction (QLN) — Main railway station in Kollam, connecting to major cities in India. Located in the heart of Kollam town.
- From Delhi: 30-35 hours (₹800-₹3000)
- From Mumbai: 24-28 hours (₹700-₹2500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), 70km from Kollam
- Delhi: 3.5 hours (₹4000-₹8000)
- Mumbai: 2 hours (₹3000-₹6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹1500-₹2000
- Uber/Ola: ₹1200-₹1800
- Bus: ₹150, 2 hours
directions_bus Bus to Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: Services & Timings
- From Trivandrum: 2 hours (₹100-₹200)
- From Kochi: 4 hours (₹200-₹400)
Trains more comfortable for long distances.
Best Time to Visit Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: September to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: September to March | 22-32 degrees C | The weather is perfect for exploring the backwaters, enjoying houseboat stays, a | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: April to May | 28-35 degrees C | You can find better deals on accommodation and houseboat rentals compared to the | The heat can be intense during the |
| Avoid: June to August | 24-30 degrees C | The monsoon season offers a unique charm with lush greenery and fewer tourists. | Travel during the monsoon season ma |
Peak season note: This is the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices for accommodation and houseboat rentals. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
2-Day Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Top Highlights
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Houseboat Cruise
A houseboat cruise is the quintessential Ashtamudi Lake experience. These traditional Kerala boats, equipped with bedrooms, living…
💡 Tip: Negotiate the price with the houseboat operator and confirm the itinerary beforehand. Consider an ov
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Munroe Island
Munroe Island, also known as Mundrothuruthu, is a cluster of eight small islands located at the confluence of the Ashtamudi Lake a…
💡 Tip: Visit during low tide to experience the coir making process. Support local businesses by purchasing
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Thangassery Lighthouse
The Thangassery Lighthouse, built in 1902, stands tall on the coast of Thangassery, a historic town with remnants of Portuguese, D…
💡 Combine your visit to the lighthouse with a stroll along the Thangassery beach and explore the local
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Amritapuri Ashram
Amritapuri is the headquarters of Mata Amritanandamayi Math, a spiritual organization led by the renowned spiritual leader Amma, a…
💡 Check Amma's schedule beforehand to see if she will be present during your visit. Participate in sev
Top Places to Visit in Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 📍 Houseboat Cruise | ₹8,000-₹20,000 (per night, whole boat) | 1-2 days | Check-in/Check-out times vary |
| 2 | 📍 Munroe Island | ₹200-₹500 (canoe tour) | 4-6 hours | Daylight hours |
| 3 | 📍 Thangassery Lighthouse | ₹20 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners) | 1-2 hours | 10:00-18:00 daily |
| 4 | 📍 Amritapuri Ashram | Free | 2-4 hours | Open daily |
| 5 | 🏖️ Sasthamkotta Lake | Free | 2-3 hours | Open daily |
| 6 | 🏖️ Kollam Beach | Free | 1-2 hours | Open daily |
📍 1. Houseboat Cruise
A houseboat cruise is the quintessential Ashtamudi Lake experience. These traditional Kerala boats, equipped with bedrooms, living areas, and kitchens, offer a unique way to explore the backwaters.
Honest take: Worth the splurge if you want a relaxing and immersive experience, but can be expensive.
📍 Getting there: Houseboat operators usually arrange pick-up from Kollam town
📍 2. Munroe Island
Munroe Island, also known as Mundrothuruthu, is a cluster of eight small islands located at the confluence of the Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River. It's known for its narrow waterways, coconut farms, and spice plantations.
Honest take: Worth visiting for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, but be prepared for basic facilities.
📍 Getting there: Ferry from Kollam or auto-rickshaw
📍 3. Thangassery Lighthouse
The Thangassery Lighthouse, built in 1902, stands tall on the coast of Thangassery, a historic town with remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British settlements. It offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline.
Honest take: Worth visiting for its historical significance and stunning views, but not suitable for those with mobility issues.
📍 Getting there: Auto-rickshaw from Kollam town
Food & Restaurants in Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Fish Curry, Appam with Stew, Puttu and Kadala Curry, Karimeen Pollichathu, Kerala Sadya
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Fish Curry, Prawn Masala | ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two) | Kollam Beach |
| Vegetarian Sadya, Herbal Teas | ₹₹₹ (₹1000-1500 for two) | Kollam Beach |
🛺 Street Food: Kollam Beach Area — Pazhampori (banana fritters), Bhel Puri, Ice Gola (₹50-100 per person)
Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-₹1500/night | ₹3000-₹5000/night | ₹6000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alleppey (Alappuzha) | 85 km | ~1.5–2 hrs | — |
| Varkala | 50 km | ~1–1.5 hrs | beach, cliff, ayurveda |
| Poovar | 100 km | ~1.5–2 hrs | — |
Hotels in Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Sea Bee
₹800-₹1500/night
Near Kollam Beach
The Quilon Beach Hotel
₹1000-₹2000/night
Near Kollam Beach
🏨 Mid-Range
The Raviz Ashtamudi
₹3000-₹5000/night
Ashtamudi Lake
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Bay Island, Kollam
₹2500-₹4500/night
Near Kollam Railway Station
⭐ Luxury
Aquaserene
₹6000+/night
Paravur
Club Mahindra Ashtamudi
₹5000+/night
Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Fake Guides: Be wary of unsolicited tour guides offering services at inflated prices. Hire guides from reputable agencies.
- ✓ Overcharging: Some auto-rickshaw drivers may try to overcharge tourists. Negotiate the fare or insist on using the meter.
- ✓ Light and comfortable clothing is recommended due to the humid climate. Pack modest clothing for visiting religious sites.
- ✓ ATMs are widely available in Kollam town.
- ✓ Airtel, Vodafone, and Jio offer prepaid SIM cards with good coverage. You'll need a copy of your passport and visa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam
How many days are enough for Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam. Day 1 covers Houseboat Cruise and Munroe Island, while Day 2 explores Thangassery Lighthouse and Amritapuri Ashram.
What is Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam famous for?
Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam is famous for Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam, Backwaters.
What is the best time to visit Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam?
The best time to visit Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam is September to March. Pleasant and dry weather with lower humidity makes it ideal for houseboat cruises and outdoor activities. The monsoon season has ended, leaving the landscape lush and green.
Is Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam worth visiting?
Yes, Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam is worth visiting for Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam, Backwaters. It is especially recommended for all travellers and can be combined with a visit to Alleppey (Alappuzha).
What is the budget for a trip to Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam?
A 2-day trip to Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-₹1500/night per night.