Ashtamudi Beach Resorts: Beachfront Bliss in Kerala's Backwater Paradise

Hidden in the heart of Kerala’s lush landscapes, where time seems to slow down and nature whispers secrets to the wind, lies Ashtamudi, a mesmerizing destination where backwaters and beachside serenity coalesce. Often overshadowed by Alleppey or Kumarakom, Ashtamudi offers a more tranquil, untouched charm that’s just as rich in natural splendour and cultural depth. From floating cottages to silent canals winding through dense mangroves, Ashtamudi Beach Resorts offer the ultimate escape for those seeking both comfort and authenticity.

The Magic of Ashtamudi Lake:

Ashtamudi, translating to "eight braids" in Malayalam, is named for the eight creeks branching out like arms from its vast expanse. It’s Kerala’s second-largest lake and a gateway to its legendary backwaters. What sets Ashtamudi apart is its unhurried rhythm, houseboats gently bobbing in the water, flocks of migratory birds cutting across the skies, and fishermen casting their nets as they have for generations.

Designated as a Ramsar wetland, Ashtamudi is more than a scenic wonder; it's an ecological treasure trove. The lake is fringed with palm-lined shores, thick mangroves, and clusters of traditional fishing villages. Its biodiversity and tranquil ecosystem provide a perfect backdrop for a regenerative travel experience.

Why Choose Ashtamudi for a Beachfront Getaway?

Unlike the crowded beach belts of Goa or the tourist-heavy trails in Alleppey, Ashtamudi’s resort scene thrives on subtlety and sophistication. Here, comfort doesn’t scream, it soothes. Resorts are designed not to dominate the landscape, but to blend into it. They offer uninterrupted views of the water, the soft rustle of palms, and the lulling sound of the backwater tide.

Whether you’re watching the sun dip below the horizon from your private deck or sipping fresh tender coconut water after a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage, each moment is dipped in the kind of serenity only Ashtamudi can deliver.

Club Mahindra Ashtamudi: Floating Elegance

Among the crown jewels of the area’s hospitality scene is Club Mahindra Ashtamudi. What makes this resort exceptional isn’t just its five-star service, it’s the experience it curates. Built in the traditional Nalukettu architectural style, the resort in Ashtamudi features laterite stone walls, sloping tiled roofs, and wide verandahs that invite the lake breeze into every room.

What truly captures visitors’ hearts are the floating cottages, Lavish suites that literally sit atop the water. Imagine waking up to gentle waves below, stepping onto a balcony that opens to the endless blue of the lake, and soaking in your private views of nature's grandeur. These cottages combine rustic charm with modern comforts, plush bedding, ambient lighting, rain showers, and air conditioning, all while making you feel connected to the lake's rhythm.

The resort offers a range of accommodation options, including hotel units, cozy studios, and spacious one-bedroom apartments with private balconies. It’s family-friendly, yet equally romantic for couples. Guests can enjoy access to a swimming pool, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and the signature floating seafood restaurant, Dine at Finz. There’s also a wellness spa that specialises in authentic Ayurvedic treatments, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Experiences and Activities at Club Mahindra Astamudi:

Club Mahindra Ashtamudi is more than a place to stay; it’s an invitation to explore.

• Boating & Canoeing: Take a houseboat cruise or paddle through narrow canals that wind through coconut groves and villages.
• Sunset Watching: The lake transforms into molten gold as the sun sets, best viewed from a kayak or the resort’s private deck.
• Village Tours: Visit local fishing communities and learn about coir-making, toddy tapping, and traditional net fishing.
• Cultural Evenings: Enjoy performances of Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, or Kalaripayattu arranged on special nights.

Beyond the Resort: Places to Explore Nearby

Ashtamudi isn’t just a destination, it’s the heart of Kollam district, where water meets tradition and every corner whispers a story. Step beyond the comforts of the resort and discover the raw, unfiltered charm of the region:

1. Munroe Island: A labyrinth of backwaters and swaying coconut groves, Munroe Island offers canoe rides through narrow canals and an authentic taste of village life. 
2. Sambranikodi: A true off-the-grid escape, this peaceful island is ideal for long nature walks, birdwatching, and soulful solitude. It’s untouched, quiet, and far from the usual tourist trail.
3. Thangassery Lighthouse & Beach: Just a short drive from Ashtamudi, this 190-year-old lighthouse stands tall over the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Time your visit for sunset, it’s magical.
4. Asramam Adventure Park: Families and nature enthusiasts will enjoy this riverfront park, home to a boardwalk through mangroves, eco-friendly activities, and serene views of Kollam’s backwaters.
5. Thirumullavaram Beach: A peaceful, less-commercialised beach where golden sands meet calm waves. Ideal for morning walks or a quiet escape.
6. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary: Nature lovers can venture inland to this lush rainforest reserve, known for its rich biodiversity, trekking trails, and the picturesque Thenmala Dam.
7. Palaruvi Waterfalls: Roughly an hour’s drive away, these “stream of milk” waterfalls cascade from 300 feet, surrounded by dense forest. A scenic picnic spot and a refreshing dip await.
8. Temples Around Ashtamudi Lake: Visit age-old temples dotting the lake’s perimeter, where intricate architecture meets spiritual tranquillity. The serene ambiance is perfect for quiet reflection.
9. Thevally Palace: A regal riverside structure from the Travancore era, Thevally Palace is a slice of Kerala’s royal heritage, with colonial charm and lake views that echo the past.

Eco-Friendly and Local Experiences:

Ashtamudi is not just about scenic beauty, it's also a story of preservation and responsible tourism. Resorts in this region, particularly Club Mahindra, emphasize sustainability. Waste management, water conservation, and energy-efficient practices are integrated into daily operations.

Moreover, resorts collaborate with local artisans and fishermen, ensuring that tourism supports, not displaces, the surrounding communities. Guests can purchase local crafts, taste farm-to-table cuisine, and even attend cultural workshops led by village elders.

Tips for Travelers:

• Best Time to Visit: The most pleasant months are October to March, when the weather is cool, the skies are clear, and the sunsets over the backwaters are unforgettable.
• What to Pack: Keep things breezy and practical, light cotton clothing, comfortable sandals, swimwear, mosquito repellent, and sunblock will keep you comfortable and protected.
• Ideal Stay Duration: A stay of 3 to 4 nights lets you truly unwind, soak in the backwater serenity, and explore nearby gems without feeling rushed.
• Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on Karimeen Pollichathu, Appam with stew, and fresh seafood, Ashtamudi’s flavours are as rich as its scenery.
• Support Local Experiences: Opt for village canoe tours, local handicraft shopping, or a homestay visit to connect with the culture and support the community.

Other Places Worth Exploring:

While Ashtamudi enchants with its peaceful backwaters, several nearby destinations offer unique landscapes, cultural experiences, and a taste of Kerala’s diverse soul:

• Thenmala: Tucked in the Western Ghats, Thenmala is India’s first planned eco-tourism hub. It’s a haven for adventure seekers, with forest treks, ziplining, butterfly parks, and even a light-and-sound musical fountain in the evenings.
• Sasthamkotta Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Kerala, Sasthamkotta is surrounded by gentle hills and sacred groves. It’s perfect for a tranquil morning stroll, photography, or spotting migratory birds in winter.
• Kollam Town: A short drive from Ashtamudi, Kollam is a historical port town that was once a key trade link with ancient Rome and China. Visit its bustling fish markets, colonial churches, old clock towers, and sun-kissed beaches.
• Pathanapuram: This lush and lesser-known town is ideal for slow travel. With serene village lanes, traditional temples, and green paddy fields, Pathanapuram offers a window into everyday rural life in Kerala.
• Alleppey (Alappuzha): A bit more popular on the backwater circuit, Alleppey is worth a day trip for its famed houseboat cruises. Glide through scenic canals, past paddy fields and floating markets, to experience Kerala’s water-world from a different angle.

How to reach Ashtamudi Beach Resorts:

Whether you're arriving by air, rail, or road, reaching Ashtamudi is both convenient and scenic. Here’s how you can plan your journey:

By Air: The nearest airport to Ashtamudi is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), about 70 km away. A taxi or private car ride from here takes approximately 3 hours.

Another option is Cochin International Airport (COK), around 150 km from Ashtamudi. The drive from Cochin takes roughly 5 hours, passing through lush green countryside.

By Rail: Kollam Junction (QLN) is the closest major railway station, well-connected to cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Bangalore, and Chennai. Once you arrive, Ashtamudi Beach Resorts are just a short 45-minute taxi ride away.

By Road: Ashtamudi is well-connected by road to nearby cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. You can drive from Trivandrum (3 hours) or Cochin (5 hours) via NH66. Buses and private taxis are also available from major cities to Kollam or directly to Ashtamudi.

Ashtamudi Beach Resorts encapsulate what travel should truly be about, escape, renewal, and connection. Whether you're drifting in a canoe, enjoying a spa treatment overlooking the lake, or simply breathing in the salt-and-sweet scent of the water, Ashtamudi invites you to slow down and savour.

At Club Mahindra Ashtamudi, every element, from the floating cottages to the flavour of a freshly prepared karimeen pollichathu, reflects Kerala’s timeless elegance and the serenity of its waters. It’s more than a vacation spot; it’s a gentle reminder that paradise isn’t always far away.