Ashtamudi Lake: A Kerala Backwater Paradise

Ashtamudi Lake, a prominent and premier backwater lake in the Kollam district of Kerala, is a captivating testament to the state’s rich ecological diversity and breathtaking natural beauty. This enchanting water body, with its distinct wetland ecosystem and unique octopus or palm-shaped structure, is the second largest in Kerala, surpassed only by the famed Vembanad estuary. Often called the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala, Ashtamudi Lake is a haven for tourists, renowned for its serene houseboats, picturesque backwater resorts, and vibrant biodiversity. Etymology and Geography The name "Ashtamudi" aptly describes the lake's distinctive form. Derived from the Malayalam language, " Ashta " means eight, and "mudi" signifies coned. This refers to the lake's eight prominent arms or channels branching out, resembling a palm tree or an octopus. The lake is fed by the Kallada River, a lifeline formed by the confluence of the Kulathupuzha, Chenthur...