Introduction

This 750-hectare freshwater lake is one of the two in Kerala, and about 7 kilometers (4.37 miles) from Kovalam via Poonkulam junction. The other being Sasthamkotta lake in Kollam district. Vellayani is a picturesque village on the outskirts of Trivandrum city. Blessedly, modern day constructions in and around Trivandrum have not touched the serenity of this lake. The area surrounding it still remains largely unspoilt. Little wonder, it serves as the venue for Kerala’s favorite sport, snake boat race held during the harvest festival, Onam. Behold the beauty of the lake on a full moon night - the shimmering waters against dark foliage make it look other-worldly.

In proximity to the lake is a government agricultural college and Devi Temple. Interestingly, the main college structure is an erstwhile summer palace of the royal family of Travancore. The 300-acre college complex also includes some beautiful Kerala-style structures. The Devi temple too is unique in that only non-Brahmins can serve as priests and preside over ceremonies, with main temple festival – Vellayani Mahotsav - celebrated once in three years. The revelry goes on for 54 days! Last festival was in 2008.

The lake water continues to be used extensively for drinking and irrigational purposes. Vellayani traces its origin to a legend associated with an ascetic who used to meditate under a banyan tree in this place. One day a beggar accosted him and requested for some water to drink. The ascetic peeped into his pot and saw that it was nearly empty. He poured out the last few drops on his palm and said a prayer. After which he threw the drops as far as he could. Miraculously, the point till which the water droplets touched the earth turned into a massive lake - the Vellayani Lake.

You can even take a traditional country boat from Kovalam beach to reach the lake. The boatman charges something around Rs 500.

Special Attributes

The serene waters of the lake and the verdant surroundings make it an ideal picnic destination in Kovalam.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable. But if you plan to visit the temple as well, make sure you are modestly dressed.

Connectivity

You can take a taxi from your hotel of stay in Kovalam, and if you are visiting from Trivandrum, you can avail the bus service from city depot at East Fort to Vellayani Lake.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers especially nature lovers

Exposure

You will be under the open sky. The weather remains pleasant In the morning and evening. But noon gets quite warm. You are advised to wear a lot of sunscreen lotion, carry along sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

March, April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

You can enjoy boating on the lake.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

The lake looks particularly beautiful at sundown and after moon rise.

Type of site

Natural freshwater lake