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Showing posts from May, 2025

Ashtamudi Lake: A Kerala Backwater Paradise

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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...

Puttenahalli Lake, Yelahanka

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Puttenahalli Lake, also known as Yelahanka Puttenahalli Lake, is a remarkable 10-hectare natural water body situated near Yelahanka, a suburban region in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This lake stands out as an exceptional bird-watching destination, offering a serene and isolated natural landscape amidst the rapidly urbanizing environs of Bengaluru. Its ecological importance is underscored by the rich diversity of bird species it hosts, including numerous local and migratory birds, some of which are rare and endangered. Location and Area Puttenahalli Lake is located on the outskirts of Yelahanka, which itself is approximately 30 kilometers north of Bengaluru city centre. Spanning roughly 10 hectares, the lake forms part of the region’s natural wetland ecosystem. The relatively undisturbed natural landscape, coupled with its isolated position away from the hustle and bustle of city traffic, makes Puttenahalli Lake an ideal refuge for diverse birdlife. The area surrounding the lake includes ...