Best Places to Visit in Ashtamudi: Discover the Ultimate Joy of Exploring This Gem in Kerala

For some people, going on a family holiday is all about meticulous planning and having a well-planned itinerary. They may have a list of things to do, places to explore, restaurants to eat at, and everything noted in a diary, which they like to tick off. Then, another class of travellers likes to be free-spirited. They avoid planning and like to just chill on vacation. 

If you are from the latter, one of the best destinations in India you will rejoice in visiting is Ashtamudi. A quaint town located near Kollam in Kerala, 'The God's Own Country,' Ashtamudi is scenic and is perfect for an idyllic vacation. Known to offer the backwater experience that Kerala is known for, Ashtamudi is the place where you can relax peacefully in the lap of nature and rejuvenate. 

About Ashtamudi

The Ashtamudi town gets its name from the Ashtamudi Lake, which is the second-largest lake in Kerala and is about 16 km long. In the local language, Ashtamudi literally means eight branches, which is a reference to the 8 branches of the lake that flow through the Kollam district and eventually meet the Arabian Sea.

Best Places to visit in and around Ashtamudi

While you laze, enjoy the stunning scenery of the place, and soak in the serenity, don't miss the chance to explore the town. There are many amazing places to visit in Ashtamudi, and each of them is better than the other. So, without any further ado, let us look at some of the best attractions that you must not miss seeing. 

• Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
• Thangassery Light House
• Thirumullavaram Beach
• Ashtamudi Lake
• Munroe Island
• Palaruvi Waterfalls
• Punalur

• Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

If you are a wildlife enthusiast or a true-blue nature lover, then Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is your haven. The sanctuary is home to more than 1200 species of unique, and some of the rarest species of flowering plants, and about 250 species of local and migratory birds thrive here. 

A major attraction inside the sanctuary is the scenic artificial lake that is surrounded by lush greenery on all four sides. It is a wonderful spot to relax, have a peaceful time with your loved ones, and enjoy the serenity with only the occasional sounds of the birds. 

The sanctuary also has a couple of trekking trails, and you can trek through the thick cover of greenery and, along the way, spot some colourful birds. One of the best places to see in Ashtamudi is the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, which perfectly captures the beauty of the region. 

• Thangassery Light House

Across the vast coastline of Kerala, you will find plenty of lighthouses near the famed beaches in the state. But, Thangassery Light House deserves a special mention, and for a good reason. Firstly, it is the second-highest lighthouse in Kerala. Secondly, it has a rich history dating back to the 1900s, and it is a colonial structure. Lastly, the lighthouse has stunning architecture, which is a cynosure to the eyes. 

While you can be in awe of the beauty of the lighthouse, once you climb to the top of the structure, the view below is even better. You get the most amazing panoramic view of the beach below. You can watch the waves hitting the shores and fishing boats in the distance. The best time to visit the lighthouse is during the evening, as you get the breathtaking view of the sunset. 

• Thirumullavaram Beach

If you like beaches and relaxing while enjoying the sound of the waves and basking in the sun, you must visit Thirmullavaram Beach. Located about 8 km from the floating cottages, it is a lesser-known and quiet beach in the region. However, its pristine beauty makes it one of the top Ashtamudi sightseeing attractions. 

• Ashatamudi Lake

Undoubtedly the star tourist attraction in Ashtamudi, this Lake's beauty is incomparable. The lake is the gateway to the famous backwaters, houseboat rides, and stay experiences. Surrounded by a thick cover of lush greenery, with swaying palm and coconut trees on either side of the shore, apart from a popular tourist spot, the lake is an important water source in the region. 

People worldwide visit the lake to glimpse this natural paradise, experience the local rural life, take a boat ride, and witness the rich flora and fauna. If you are looking for the best Ashtamudi places to visit, this lake must be right at the top of your list. 

Whether you are visiting the lake with your family or your beloved partner, you will surely enjoy the time here. The azure waters of the lake, the thick green cover around, and the serene vibe provide a perfect setting to spend some quality time together, click some stunning pictures and create awesome memories that you can cherish for the rest of your life. 

• Munroe Island

Located about 25 km from Kollam is Munroe Island, a hidden and one of the best places to visit near Ashtamudi. A peaceful spot by the backwaters, the island is an ideal picnic location. Since the island has not yet quite gained the popularity it deserves, you will not find too many tourists here, making it the perfect place for a romantic date with your special someone.

Here, you can just sit on the edges of the waterbody and spend hours admiring the scenic beauty in front of you. You can also indulge in some activities like kayaking over the azure backwaters and enjoy the view of the surroundings. 

As the cool breeze ruffles your hair and the sweet sound of the birds chirping in the distance, you, and of course, the beautiful setting of the lake, cannot help but feel like you are in a Bollywood song. As you kayak over the water and keep your eyes on the trees, you may spot several species of exotic birds that only add to the fun and overall experience. 

• Palaruvi Waterfalls

Palaruvi is Kerala's version of the famed 'Dudhsagar Waterfalls' located in Maharashtra. In the local language, Palaruvi literally translates to 'stream of milk.' The falls get its name because of the foamy white and the refreshingly cool water that gushes down from a height of about 300 ft, creating an illusion that a stream of milk is flowing down. 

A popular tourist spot in the region, it is frequented by both locals and travellers from all over the world. While the falls themselves are spectacular, the greenery surrounding them adds to the charm. Located deep in the jungles, to reach the falls, you have to walk through rocky terrain, and the walk to the falls can be an arduous task for some. But, once you make your way, the sight of the majestic falls will make all your pain and fatigue vanish immediately. 

• Punalur

Punalur is a small town located in the lap of the Western Ghats, about 38 km away from Ashtamudi. Known for its mind-boggling natural beauty, it is home to a wide range of flora species. As you explore the region, you will find plenty of pineapple and pepper trees around, and you can smell the aroma of the spice in the air and fill your heart and mind with great joy. 

Another reason why it is one of the best Ashtamudi sightseeing spots is that the village is also home to a bio-reserve known as Agasthyamalai, and it is also home to an age-old paper mill that dates to 1850. People come here to witness the untouched beauty of Kerala. 

Make your holiday to Ashtamudi better by staying at Club Mahindra Ashtamudi.

When you are going on a family holiday to a place as beautiful as Ashtamudi, you are definitely going to have the best time of your life. But there is always room to make your holiday better and more fun. Wondering how? By booking your stay at Club Mahindra Ashatmudi. It is one of the most premium resorts in Kerala and gives you the experience of living in a floating cottage over the luminous backwaters. 

The scenic beauty of Ashtamudi and its picturesque landscape comes right out of a fairy tale. And what better way is there to experience all that the place has to offer than by staying right in the midst of the paradise, the Club Mahindra Ashtamudi? 

At the resort, each of the cottages boasts the most luxurious amenities you can ask for and also features tastefully done aesthetics that reflect the local culture and flavour of Ashtamudi life. Here, the classical and rustic charm meets sleek amenities to create a one-of-a-kind and memorable holiday experience for you and your family.