33 Best Lakes & Backwaters in Kerala

At a distance of 18 Kms from Kollam and 6 Kms from Varkala, Kappil Beach is a famous weekend gateway from Tivandrum.

Sprawls across 25 acres of land, the thin line of sand beach separates Edava-Nadayara Lake from the Arabian Sea. Swimming, water sports and Sun-bathing are famous activities at this spot. Boating is available in the backwaters of the lake at Priyadarshini Boat Club and Lake Sagar Boat Club near Beach. Dolphins are an added attraction on the Kappil Beach.

Kappil Beach is connected by bus service from Kollam, Varkala & Trivandrum.

...read more

At a distance of 41 Kms from Palakkad, Mangalam Dam is constructed on the river Cherukunnapuzha, a tributary of the river Mangalam. It is a popular picnic site from Palakkad.

The construction of the scenic dam was completed in the year 1956. The entire area is quite fascinating with beautiful parks and lawns.

Located on the Alathur - Vadakkanchery Highway, the reservoir is bounded with forest area which is home for wildlife like deer, elephants and a variety of birds.

...read more

At a distance of 68 km from Kollam, 39 km from Tenkasi & 73 km from Trivandrum, Thenmala Dam also known as Kallada Dam or Parappara Dam located in Thenmala village is built across Kalla River. It is situated very close to Kollam - Tenkasi road. The dam is located amidst picturesque location with beautiful surroundings at the foothills of the Western Ghats.

The surroundings of Thenmala Dam are developed under eco-tourism development activities. It is also selected by World Tourism Organisation as one of the best eco-friendly projects in the world. Thenmala means honey hill. Due to the peculiar floristic composition of the forest, the honey collected from Thenmala forest is famous for its medicinal values.

This place has facilities like winding pathways, sway bridge, amphitheatre and a musical fountain. You can also visit the traditional tree houses of the tribal of this area. There are also boating facilities in the reservoir. There is a rope bridge along with many trekking, mountaineering and biking opportunities.

...read more

At a distance of 20 km from Munnar, Kundala Lake is a picturesque lake situated on the way to Top Station from Munnar. It is one of the scenic places to visit in Munnar.

The lake is formed by Kundala artificial dam, which is a small dam in cured shape. The lake offer boating facility. The unique experience of boating in Kashmiri boats in this lake is a special attraction. These boats are also known as Shikara Boats. Kundala Lake is one of the best places for sightseeing in Munnar. The tea estates spread across Kundala are a real feast to the eyes.


There is also a golf course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd in Kundala village.

Boating Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM

Boating Fee (30 minutes): Shikara Boat - Rs 200 for 2 persons, Row Boats - Rs 150 for 4 persons, Pedal Boat - Rs 100 for 2 persons

...read more

At a distance of 39 Kms from Palakkad, Meenkara Dam is a lovely picnic spot amidst great scenic beauty.

This dam is built across the Gayathri River which flows into the Bharathapuzha River. This is a fascinating place with full of paddy & coconut fields and full of greenery.

Meenkara Dam can be access through Puthunagaram, Pallassana & Kollengode.

...read more

At a distance of 22 km from Thrissur, Peechi Dam is a picturesque dam situated at Peechi village near Thrissur. It is one of the scenic tourist places in Thrissur.

Built across the Manali River, the Peechi Dam was built in 1959. Ikkanda Warrier (1890-1977), the first Prime Minister of the then independent state of Kochi, India, was the architect of Peechi Dam. The dam was started as an irrigation project for the surrounding villages in the Thrissur district and caters to the drinking water needs of the population of Thrissur City.

The dam has a catchment area of nearly 3,200 acres. There is a nice botanical garden with cascading fountains near the dam which is an added attraction to the visitors. One can go boating in the reservoir during Thrissur tour. Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary situated near the dam is worth paying a visit. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Timings: 8 AM - 6.30 PM

Entry: Free

...read more

At a distance of 47 km from Coimbatore and 51 km from Palakkad, Siruvani Dam is a man-made reservoir located in the Palakkad district of Kerala. It is one of the beautiful places to vsit as part of Palakkad tour.

Siruvani Dam was constructed across the Siruvani River in the year 1927 to supply drinking water to the city of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. The location is in the state of Kerala, the project was executed by the Kerala Public Works Department using the funds made available by the Tamil Nadu Government. The location of the dam is in the state of Kerala and the project was executed by the Kerala Public Works Department using the funds made available by the Tamil Nadu Government. An agreement was executed between the state Governments for drinking water supply to Coimbatore town and neighboring areas from the Siruvani Dam.

The dam is 49.53 feet high and 878.5 meters above sea level with a water capacity of 650 million cubic feet. The water of Siruvani Reservoir is famous for its sweetness. Surrounded by Muthikulam Hill, the scenic beauty of Siruvani is simply enchanting. Pattiyar Bungalow, one of the most beautiful Inspection Bungalows of the Kerala Forest Department is situated on the banks of this reservoir.

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free

...read more

At a distance of 16 km from Kollam, Paravur is a beautiful place with a combination of Sea, Lakes, Rivers, Backwaters, and vast green fields. This is one of the fabulous places in Kerala and among the must-include places in Kollam tour packages.

Paravur town has a small lake that merges with the backwaters of Kerala. The mangroves standing along both sides of the lake intensifies its beauty, making it more attractive. This lake is popular and significant as it connects as a part of the Trivandrum-Shornaur Canal System to the Edava and Ashtamudi Kayal.

Another real fascination in the region of Paravur lake is the Priyadarshini watercraft club. This watercraft club uncovers immense boating choices in the realm where the Arabian Sea, river, and the Kappil backwater merge. With a thin stretch of narrow land dividing the sea and Pravur lake, the beach at Paravur is ideal to sit and gaze at the natural beauty.

...read more

At a distance of 18 km from Kovalam and 27 km from Trivandrum, Poovar is a small coastal town at the southern tip of Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala. Encompassed by a beautiful beach on one side and the backwaters on the other, it is one of the major Kovalam places to visit.

Situated close to the Neyyar River estuary, Poovar is one among the natural wonders where the Lake, River, Sea, and Beach meet the land. Poovar is a lovely island with long stretches of glowing sand, serene surroundings, and a refreshing gentle breeze. Poovar has been a trading center and port in ancient times where timber, sandalwood, ivory, and spices were traded. According to legends the port Ophir where King Solomon's trading ships landed is said to be Poovar. Another legend describes this as the place where Maharaja Marthanda Varma was given protection from his enemies by the powerful merchant, Moosa Marikkar.

Poovar is widely identified for its lovely beach which serves as a major attraction for tourists. Poovar Beach is situated at a short distance from Kovalam Beach separating the River Neyyar from the Arabian Sea and is quite breathtaking. It is an ideal destination for relaxing and cherishing the exotic beauty of the beach as part of Kovalam sightseeing packages. Swimming is allowed from October to May. The beach is not idle for any activities from June ...

...read more

At a distance of 36 Kms from Thrissur, Chimmony Dam (also known as Chimmini Dam) is a picturesque dam constructed across Chimmony Puzha. Located in Echippara village (2 Kms), near Varandarappilly town, the dam is surrounded by the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary.

Close to Peechi Dam and Mangalam Dam, the Chimmony Dam provided water supply for drinking and forming to the nearly by villages. Situated on Nelliyampathy slopes of Western Ghats, Chimmony Dam is a place with immense natural beauty. Boating is also available in the reservoir.

It can be reached via Varandarappilly & Palappilly from Thrissur. It has limited public transportation. Best way to reach the dam is to hire private vehicle from Varandarappilly.

...read more

At a distance of about 15 kms from Trivandrum Central Railway Station, Aruvikkara Dam is a beautiful dam constructed over Karamana River.

The dam is the main source of water to the city of Trivandrum. There is a small park laid out with an artificial waterfall. It is dangerous to take a bath in the dam because of the innumerable rocks that have huge curve-ins.

There is an ancient Bhagavathi Temple dedicated to Goddess Durga on the banks of Karamana River built on a rock.

...read more

At a distance of 18 km from Kumarakom, and 35 km from Kottayam, Vaikom is famous as a temple town in the Kottayam district of Kerala. Situated on the eastern side of Vembanad Lake, popular getaway to experience beautiful backwaters in Kerala, and among the must-visit Kumarakom tourist places.

Vaikom is well known for the ancient Mahadeva temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be built by Parasurama, the founder of Kerala. The temple has a huge courtyard spanning over 8 acres of land and four towers on each side of the temple. Other major attractions of the Mahadeva Temple include the Garbagriha, a golden Stupa surmounting Garbagriha, 19.5m tall golden staff, etc. The exterior walls of the Garbagriha exhibit several pieces of artwork.

This is the place that had made a significance in Indian history with the Vaikom Sathyagraham in 1924, i.e the movement against untouchability in Hindu society. Leader of the Indian Freedom Movement Mahatma Gandhi had participated in this struggle and with his interference, all Hindus irrespective of caste are allowed to enter the temples.

Backwater trip in Vembanad Lake is a famous activity for tourists who visit Vaikom as part of Kumarakom tour packages. Many tourists are coming to Vaikom to enjoy a backwater tour on traditional non-mechanized kettuvallam. Vaikom village is very authentic ...

...read more

At a distance of 70 Kms from Pathanamthitta, Kakki Reservoir is a scenic dam built across Pamba River. The reservoir is surrounded by valleys and forest of great natural beauty.

The forest surrounded by the reservoir has rich wildlife population, like Tigers, Elephants, Deers etc. January to May is the best time to visit this place.

There is very limited public transportation available to reach this place. It's advisable to hire private vehicle from Pathanamthitta.

...read more

At a distance of 40 km from Athirapally & 76 km from Kochi, Edamalayar Dam, also known as Idamalayar Dam located near Vadattupara is a picturesque location and one of the major reservoirs of Kerala.

The Dam is built across Edamalayar River which is merged into Periyar River. The forests around reservoir provide shelter for variety of wildlife. Edamalayar is a heaven for people interested in birding and trekking activities. You can find different species of birds in the forest around the reservoir.

Boating in the reservoir will leave a memorable experience.

...read more

At a distance of 11 km from Payyanur, 12 km from Kottappuram, 30 km from Bekal, 47 km from Kannur, and 49 km from Kasaragod, Valiyaparamba is a coastal island in the Kasaragod district of Kerala. It is one of the most picturesque destinations of Kerala backwaters, and among the prime places to visit near Kannur.

The island of Valiyaparamba is a long strip of land between the Kavvayi Backwaters and the Arabian Sea. This inhabited island is approximately 16 sq. km in size. Valiyaparamba Backwaters are fed by four rivers and the entire region is famous for a cluster of picturesque little islands. Though not popular as Alappuzha Backwaters, Valiyaparamba Backwaters are the largest backwaters in North Kerala and the third-largest backwaters in Kerala. A National Waterway passes through the island.

Blessed with lush green flora and picture-perfect sparkling blue backwaters, the Valiyaparamba Backwater region is being developed as a satellite destination for Bekal. Kerala Government has assigned Bekal Resorts Development Corporation (BRDC) to implement a rural community tourism project in this region. To explore this cleanest backwater destination, BRDC has introduced boating facilities, such as houseboats from Kottappuram (near Nileshwar) for the benefit of tourists to experience the backwater cruise. Recently a boat terminal has been developed ...

...read more

At a distance of 3 km from Nileswaram, 38 km from Kasaragod and 58 km from Kannur, Kottappuram is a serene backwater destination situated in Kasaragod district of Kerala. It is one of the popular Kerala backwater destinations and among the must visit places in Kerala as part of Kannur Tour.

Being part of 'Valiyaparamba Backwaters', Kottappuram backwaters is a large body of scenic backwaters fed by four rivers. The River Tejaswini is one among them and a houseboat cruise through its waters with views of areca nut groves and coconut palms is a pure delight. It is different from other South Kerala backwater attractions regarding commercialization, sights, livelihood and houseboat culture.

Endowed with mangroves, backwaters, wildlife, coconut groves and a flourishing village life, Kottappuram draws large numbers of visitors. A trip to Kottappuram and a houseboat journey through the backwaters will redefine the flavours of the land. There are small boats modelled on the shikaras of Kashmir as well as grand and elaborate houseboats with air-conditioned rooms.

With over 20 houseboats plying on the backwaters, visitors can board the boats from the two terminals - one is at Kottappuram and the other one is at Achamthuruthy. Day trips on houseboats are the most in-demand while there are also overnight stays too. During the cruise on Kottappuram backwaters, one can also have a close-up view of village life on the green leafy banks and enjoy the picturesque beauty of ...

...read more

At a distance of 24 Kms from Munnar, Anayirankal Dam is a lovely place located on NH49 (towards Palani, after Devikulam).

The surroundings of the falls are full of tea plantations & forests and appear like a green carpet. It is one of the earliest Dams built in India using concrete. Elephants are also spotted in the vicinity of reservoir.

This place is connected by frequent buses from Munnar. All buses towards Palani stop here.

...read more

At a distance of 34 Kms from Palakkad, Kanjirapuzha Dam is a fascinating dam surrounded by hills with rich natural beauty.

The reservoir is surrounded by an evergreen forest named Vettilachola. Three islands at all sides of the reservoir gain a special attraction. These islands are abundant with marine life including commercial varieties grown by the fisheries department.

There is a wonderful garden at bottom of the dam with several facilities. Boating facilities is also available in the reservoir.

...read more

At a distance of 11 km from Guruvayur, and 25 km from Thrissur, Chettuva is known for its placid and scenic backwaters. It is one of the most popular destinations for Kerala Backwaters, and among the must-see tourist places near Guruvayur.

Chettuva Backwaters, also known as Lanchi Velayudhan backwaters, are situated between Engandiyur Panchayat and Kadappuram Panchayat in Thrissur District. These backwaters extend from Enamavu Lake to an estuary where it flows into the Arabian Sea. The area consists of two distinct lakes, Chettuva and Enammavu, which are fed by the Canoli Canal, creating a vast expanse of backwaters.

Notably, Chettuva Backwater is home to the largest mangrove forest in Kerala. With its abundant mangrove vegetation, Chinese fishing nets, estuary, ancient fort, migratory birds, and picturesque islets, Chettuva is considered one of the finest backwater destinations in Kerala, second only to Alleppey. It is also among the top tourist attractions near Kochi. Recognizing its significance, the Government of Kerala designated Chettuva as a heritage village in 2010.

To unwind and escape the busy routines of city life, boating is the best way in Chettuva Backwaters. Visitors can avail themselves of various types of boats, such as shikaras, kettuvallams, motorboats, or houseboats, from the Vettakkorumakan Boat landing, located approximately 11 km from Guruvayur town. Embarking on a leisurely trip across Chettuva Lake, tourists can witness the mussel harvesting, ...

...read more

At a distance of 43 Kms from Idukki, 65 Kms from Kumarakom, 58 kms from Kottayam and 80 Kms from Munnar, Malankara Dam & Lake (in Idukki district) is a lovely place located at a distance of 7 Kms from Thodupuzha on Thodupuzha-Erattupetta route.

Malankara Lake, spread over 11 Kms is an artificial lake formed as part of Muvattupuzha Valley Irrigation Project. The Dam is constructed across Thodupuzha River for irrigation purpose. This place is a very good picnic spot with boating facilities in the lake.

It is located on SH8 and easily accessible from Thodupuzha by Bus, Auto & Cab. Thodupuzha is accessible by Bus from all parts of Kerala.

Thommankuthu Waterfalls is about 27 Kms from this place which is connected by Bus from Thodupuzha.

...read more

At a distance of 58 Kms from Kozhikode Railway Station, Kakkayam Dam is a picturesque dam and a good picnic spot. This area has rich wildlife population and also an excellent trekking & rock climbing destination.

Kakkayam offers challenging trekking and rock climbing experience along the Kuttiady River. The Urakkuzhi waterfalls located in the Urakkuzhi ghat area is an added attraction. This place offers breathtaking views of the valleys with numerous waterfalls.

The best time to visit this place is November to March. Few direct buses are available from Kozhikode.

...read more

At a distance of 57 Kms from Kozhikode Railway Station, Peruvannamuzhi Dam is a beautiful picnic spot with great natural beauty amidst hills. The reservoir meets the drinking water needs of Kozhikode, Quilandy and Vadakara.

Boating facilities are available at the reservoir of the dam with speedboats and rowboat. There is a small island in the reservoir of the dam with a bird sanctuary & crocodile farm. One can closely observe the giant crocodiles maintained by forest department here. There is a garden named 'Smaraka Thottam' created for the memory of the freedom fighters of the region.

Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM.

...read more

At a distance of 17 km from Kalpetta, Karapuzha Dam is an earth dam situated near Vazhavatta in the Wayanad district of Kerala. It is one of the biggest earth dams in India and also one of the major Wayanad tourist places.

Karapuzha Dam is built on Karapuzha River, a tributary of Kabini River. The construction of the dam began in 1977 and it was completed in 2004. The height of the dam is 28 meters and length is 625 meters. The purpose of the dam is irrigation and it left and right bank canals are still under construction.

The dam is located in the greenish and natural regions of Wayanad. It is an ideal place for watching aquatic birds that frequent the reservoir, which is surrounded by partially submerged hills and green islands. The Tourism Department has ambitious plans to develop the area around Karapuzha Dam. They plan to landscape the area, construct an aquarium and provide boating and canoeing facilities also.

Vazhavatta is connected by few buses with Kalpetta. But Meenangadi town (7 km from the Dam) on Kalpetta - Sulthan Bathery road has frequent bus facility. Private transportation can be availed from Meenangadi to reach the Karapuzha Dam. The road to Karapuzha Dam is very bad and the short distance takes about 30 minutes. There is not much to see near the dam except the view of the water and surrounding hills. The water level is very low in summer and not recommended to visit in summer.

Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM

...read more