Discover the magic of

1. Houseboat Cruises

Spend a day or night floating along the lake in a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat), complete with local cuisine and stunning views. Houseboat rides Kerala are the best way to soak in the Vembanad backwater experience — villages, coconut palms, birds, and peaceful waters. We assure you, a houseboat stay experience on Punnamada Lake will be one you’ll cherish forever.  

2. Canoe or Shikara Rides

For a more intimate experience, take a small canoe or shikara through narrow canals off the lake. It’s quieter, closer to nature, and perfect for early morning rides, and a high point of Kerala lake tourism. 

3. Witness the Nehru Trophy Boat Race

Held every second Saturday of August, this race is a spectacle of strength, rhythm, and pride. Chundan Vallams (snake boats) stretch over 100 feet and are powered by up to 100 oarsmen rowing in unison. The energy is electric, the cheering crowds are massive, and the cultural pride is palpable. Kerala Lake Tourism would be incomplete without the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. 

4. Bird Watching

The lake is home to kingfishers, cormorants, herons, and migratory birds, especially early in the morning or near the nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is a reserved area within the Alappuzha backwaters. In fact, the backwaters in Alappuzha are a biodiversity hotspot. 

Best Time to Visit Punnamada Lake for Houseboat Rides

• August for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race
• October to March for cooler, pleasant weather and ideal boating conditions
• Monsoon (June–September) for lush greenery and dramatic skies, but boat rides may be limited

How to Reach Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha

• By Air: The Cochin International Airport lies approximately 83 km away.
• By Train: The Alappuzha Railway Station is located at a distance of 4 km from Punnamada Lake.
• By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kottayam.

Once in Alappuzha, local autos, taxis, and rental bikes make it easy to get around.

Photography Tips

• Golden hours (sunrise/sunset) are unbeatable—especially on a boat.
• For an iconic capture consider reflections of coconut trees on the water and Chinese fishing nets. You might want to click pictures of Punnamada houseboats, too. 
• During the boat race, get a telephoto lens to zoom in on the action and faces.
• Ask locals for permission before photographing close-up portraits in villages.
• The rainy season brings dramatic skies—just carry waterproof gear.

Things to do around Punnamada Lake — Nearby Attractions

1. Alappuzha Beach: Just 5 km away, a great sunset spot with an old pier and lighthouse.

 2. Pathiramanal Island: A small and secluded haven and the ideal setting to watch birds in their natural habitat. You can each the island only by a boat ride from Muhamma. 

 3. Krishnapuram Palace: A historic palace with beautiful murals and traditional architecture, about 47 km away.

 4. Kumarakom: A peaceful backwater village on the other side of Vembanad Lake, known for its bird sanctuary and luxury resorts.

Being one of the best lakes to visit in Kerala, Punnamada Lake is more than a postcard-perfect destination — it is your opportunity to slow down and connect with culture, nature and calm at once. Don’t miss the chance.