Vembanad Lake
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Vembanad Lake (Vembanad Kayal or Vembanad Kol) is the largest lake in Kerala, India.
It covers an area of 200 km², and bordered by Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam districts. The lake lies at sea level, and is separated from the Arabian Sea by a narrow barrier island. Canals link the lake to coastal lakes to the north and south. Several rivers flow into the lake, including the Achenkovil, Manimala, Meenachil, Muvattupuzha, Pamba and Periyar. The lake surrounds the islands of Pathiramanal, Perumbalam and Pallippuram.
The port of Kochi (Cochin) is located at the lake's outlet to the Arabian Sea. The town of Alapuzha (also known as Allepey), is sometimes called the "Venice of the East" for its large network of canals that meander through the town. The Vallam Kali (the Snake Boat Race) held every year in August is a major attraction.
Vembanad Lake is designated a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
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[edit] Veernapuzha - Local name of Vembanad Lake in Vypeen Island
Located in Cochin. It is the northern extension of Vembanad Lake. From Kochi Azhi to Munambam Azhi, the serene backwaters popularly known in this name – Veeranpuzha. (It is also known by the name Veerampuzha) Veeranpuzha is the name of Vembanadu Lake at Vyppen Island. In early 80’s there were regular ferry services from Munambam to Ernakulam. Though it stretches from Ernakulam to Munambam, Veeranpuzha’s Nayarmbalam part is the most scintillating landscape. You can never forget the sight in your lifetime.
However, even today, very few tourists visit Veeranpuzha. People are still not aware of the beauty of the place. Very recently some resorts have come up on the banks of the lake.
The most attractive factor about this part of the lake is that it is an isolated area and so your privacy can be maintained. It’s because this area is covered with paddy fields and so devoid of human habitation. One of the reasons being the lack of potable water in the area, local water being brackish. Anyone planning on spending time in the area should carry a fair supply of drinking water as well as rations as there are a very few shops nearby.
Most of the people are fishermen and agrarians. The people are very co-operative and innocent. They are cultured and educated too. Local people can be very dependable in case of any emergency.
[edit] The route
From Cochin City one has to travel approximately 16 km. by Bus or Cab or Autorikshaw to reach the area. If one chooses to come by bus, one has to get down at Nayarambalam Paalam Bus Stop. Nayarambalam Paalam is only 14 km from Ernakulam High Court. From there, it is possible to get an autoriskhaw to get to Veeranpuzha Boat Jetty. For half of this distance the road is tarred, while the rest of the route is only a gravel road. Important thing to remember is that one should carry drinking water and essential food materials as there are no shops nearby.
