8 Things To Do In Ashtamudi, Kerala

Ashtamudi has to be one of the most unique vacation spots in India. Due to the many activities to do in Ashtamudi, this scenic town has gained popularity among tourists in the last few years. 

This quaint little town near Kollam in Kerala houses a 55 km long lake. Ashtamudi is a less crowded and scenic option for a backwater experience compared to Allepey. 

So, if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway from the hustle-bustle of city life, Ashtamudi is the place to go. 

We have listed some of the amazing things to see and do in Ashtamudi. These will help you have a memorable trip. 

Here are 8 best things to do in Ashtamudi, India

1. Stay in Floating Cottages
2. Munroe Island Backwater Tour
3. Sunset at the Thangassery Lighthouse
4. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Thirumullavaram Beach Exploration
6. The Beautiful Palaruvi Waterfall
7. Temples Around Ashtamundi Lake
8. The Grand Thevally Palace

Here are 5 things you must do when you are in Ashtamudi. 

1. Stay in floating cottages

One of the most interesting things you can do in Ashtamudi is stay in floating cottages. Club Mahindra Ashtamudi resort offers this unique experience. Enjoy the gorgeous view of the sunrise and sunset from your cottage. Watch the reflection of the sun in the still water of the lake your cottage is floating on. Sounds straight out of a fairytale, doesn’t it? 

This is one of the best resorts in Ashtamudi that offers many experiences. The waves of the lake gently rock the floating cottages. The gentle bobbing of the cottages serves as a relaxant that no other stay can offer. Watch the sky change colours and the reflection of it in the lake. Every hour and every minute is a different scenery in this gorgeous location. 

There are many other water experiences that await you when you stay at Club Mahindra Ashtamudi resort. Take your family on a one-of-a-kind dining experience at the floating restaurant and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. The water cycle is also one of the exciting activities to do in Ashtamudi. Experience a memorable stay at the floating cottages in Ashtamudi.  

The town of Ashtamudi has a lot to offer for those who want to escape into nature and explore the culture of the locals. You can venture into town and take a walk amid the greenery of this quaint little town. The town is culturally charged, so you can also enjoy Kathakali performances. There are many other places to visit and things to do near the Club Mahindra Ashtamudi resort.

2. Take a Munroe Island Backwater Tour

Looking for relaxing things to do in Ashtamudi? This hidden gem, located approximately 25 km from Kollam, is the place to be.It’s a peaceful spot where you can rent a canoe or kayak and spend time in the backwaters. Feel the fresh breeze, hear the sound of the birds chirping in the distance and enjoy the magnificent view of the backwaters.

The canoe tour lasts about 3 hours where you glide through the backwaters. There are many exotic birds and trees around that you can learn more about on this tour. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Ashtamudi.

3. Enjoy the Sunset View from Thangassery Light House

Situated in Kollam, the Thangassery lighthouse is the second-highest lighthouse in Kerala. The lighthouse was built by the British in the 1900s and is 135 feet tall. This Light House should definitely be on your list of things to see in Ashtamudi.

The architecture of the lighthouse is simply magnificent and the view from the top is even better! Watch the waves break on the beach down below and the fishing boats in the distance. The sunset view from the lighthouse is breathtaking!

4. Witness Rich Wildlife at Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, then the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary should be one of the things to see in Ashtamudi. The sanctuary houses more than 1200 species of flowering plants and more than 250 species of birds.

The sanctuary also has a scenic artificial lake where you can spend some quiet time with your loved ones. You can trek across the sanctuary amid greenery and spot various exotic and migratory birds. Camping is another option for adventure enthusiasts to explore here.

5. Explore the Lesser-explore Thirumullavaram Beach

Exploring the Thirumullavaram Beach is among the best things to do in Ashtamudi. This is one of the most popular beaches in Kollam and is located approximately 8 km away from the floating cottages in Ashtamudi. It’s a quiet beach which is not very crowded. It’s a great spot to spend some quality time with your loved ones watching the sunset. 

Kerala is truly God’s own country, and Ashtamudi is proof of that. There are many resorts in South India, but no experience matches staying in the floating cottages in Ashtamudi. If you’re looking for an off-beat vacation where you want to stay close to nature, Ashtamudi should be next on your bucket list.

6. Look at the Magnificence of Palaruvi Waterfall

Palaruvi Waterfall is this amazing natural wonder just about 75 kilometres away from Kollam. Why visiting here is one of the best things to do in Ashtamudi?

Picture a breathtaking waterfall dropping from a whopping 300 feet in height! It's like nature's own spectacular show. It's not just a waterfall - it's surrounded by lush, dense forests. The spot is perfect for all you nature lovers, trekkers, and photography enthusiasts out there.

At the base of the falls, there's this inviting pool which is an ideal spot for a refreshing dip. Actually, the whole area around the waterfall is just perfect for picnics and relaxing with your loved ones.

7. Sacred Wonders to Visit Around Ashtamundi Lake

The vicinity surrounding Ashtamundi Lake and Kollam boasts an array of temples that represent the region's profound cultural and architectural heritage. Visiting these temples should be a part of your things to see in Ashtamudi.

Among these, the Anandavalleeswaram Temple stands dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing a harmonious synthesis of Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles. The meticulous blend of these distinct styles is a testament to the temple's historical and cultural significance.

Similarly, the Sasthamkotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, venerating Lord Ayyappa, distinguishes itself with a serene ambience that encapsulates visitors. Noteworthy are the temple's annual festivals, which contribute to the spiritual and cultural richness of the locale.

The Oachira Parabrahma Temple is distinguished by its unique absence of idols or structural embellishments, thereby accentuating the emphasis on the formless aspect of the divine. This distinctive feature sets the temple apart, offering a profound spiritual experience for those seeking a departure from traditional paradigms. 

8. Stand in the presence of Thevally Palace's Architectural Grandeur

Situated alongside the shores of Ashtamundi Lake, Thevally Palace is a remarkable historical tower that was erected in the 19th century under the patronage of Travancore King Gauri Parvathi Bayi. The palace boasts a unique fusion of Dutch, Portuguese, and British architectural styles, featuring elegant arches, ornate windows, and intricate woodwork.

Should you this a part of your activities to do in Ashtamudi, a guided tour stands ready to unveil the historical significance embedded within its walls. The grandeur of Thevally Palace extends an invitation, encouraging visitors to delve into its rich past and appreciate its architectural splendour. 

How to Reach Ashtamudi 

By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), located about 70 km away from Ashtamudi. You can take a flight to Trivandrum and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ashtamudi. 

By Train: The nearest railway station is Kollam Junction (QLN), which is just about 2 km away from Ashtamudi. You can take a train to Kollam and then hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi or take a bus to reach Ashtamudi. 

By Road: Ashtamudi is well-connected by road to other major cities in Kerala. You can either hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle to reach Ashtamudi. If you're coming from Trivandrum, take the National Highway 66 (NH 66) and follow the road signs to Kollam and then to Ashtamudi.