The state of Kerala is located in the southern part of India, more specifically, on the Malabar Coast. National Geographic`s Traveler Magazine labeled Kerala as one of the "ten paradises of the world" in the year 2012. Kerala`s beaches, backwaters, islands, mountains, hills, waterfalls, museums, ancient ports and religious institutions have lent beauty and popularity to this state. Apart from the above mentioned attractions, Kerala also has a number of lakes. Some of them are described below.
Vembanad Lake
Bordered by the Alappuzha, Kottayam and Ernakulam districts, Vembanad Lake is the longest lake in India and the largest lake in the state of Kerala. This lake is approximately 14 kilometers wide at its widest point and just over 96.5 km in length. A narrow barrier island helps this lake in maintaining a distinct identity from the Arabian Sea. 10 rivers flow into Vembanad Lake, out of which 6 rivers belong to central Kerala. This lake is known to provide shelter to more than 20,000 waterfowls - the third largest such population in India. It is also a suitable habitat for shrimps. The Vembanad Wetland System was included in the list of wetlands of international importance in the year 2002 as defined by the Ramsar Convention.
Vellayani Lake
Thiruvananthapuram district is beautified by a lake called Vellayani Lake. It has the distinction of being the largest fresh water lake of Thiruvananthapuram district. This lake occupies an area of about 7.5 square kilometers. The quality of this lake is being deteriorated by illegal sand mining, pollution and land reclamation. The noteworthy aspects of this lake are boat race during Onam and its crystal-clear calm water.
Pookode Lake
Pookode Lake is situated in Wayanad district. This lake has an elevation of about 770 meters above sea level. This natural fresh water lake serves as a home to fresh water fishes. Pethia pookodens is a species of cyprinid fish which is only found in Pookode Lake. This lake is adorned by blue lotus and groups of blue water lily. Boating is a fun filled possibility on this lake. This lake comes under South Wayanad Forest Division and is the responsibility of the District Tourism Promotion Council.
Enamakkal Lake
Enamakkal Lake is located in Enamakkal in the district of Thrissur. The lake is spread over an area of about 25 square kilometers. Characteristically, this is a fresh water lake. Keecheri River and Viyyoor River amalgamates with Enamakkal Lake.
Oranju Poika
Orange Poika is housed in Kudappanakunnu in the middle of Thiruvananthapuram. Characteristically, Orange Poika is a landlocked natural lake formation above the montane hills.
