Akkulam Lake & Tourist Village, Thiruvananthapuram [2026] - Timing, Entry Fees, Best Time, How To Reach, Photos

General information

Ideal Duration:

3 to 4 hours (Can extend to a full day if including lunch and all adventure activities)
Place Type:

Tourist Village, Lake, Picnic Spot, Adventure Park
Entry Fees:

General Entry Fee for Tourist Village: The basic entry fee to the Akkulam Tourist Village is kept quite minimal to encourage public access. Typically, the fee is around Rs.30 per adult and Rs.20 per child. This fee covers access to the general park area, the children’s play...

Read More

General Entry Fee for Tourist Village: The basic entry fee to the Akkulam Tourist Village is kept quite minimal to encourage public access. Typically, the fee is around Rs.30 per adult and Rs.20 per child. This fee covers access to the general park area, the children’s playground, and the public viewing areas of the lake. It’s an essential revenue source for the maintenance of the large grounds, landscaping, and public amenities like restrooms and pathways.

Fees for Specific Attractions and Activities: Separate charges apply for specific activities within the village. The Boating Club has different rates based on the type of boat (pedal boat, rowboat, motorboat) and duration (per hour or per trip). The Swimming Pool access is also separately ticketed, often with an hourly or session-based rate. The newer Adventure Park activities, like the Zip Line, Glass Bridge, and Rope Course, have individual fees based on the specific adventure sport chosen. This tiered fee structure allows visitors to choose and pay only for the activities they wish to experience, making the visit budget-friendly and customizable. The collected fees are vital for upgrading equipment, maintaining high safety standards for adventure sports, and funding future infrastructure development to keep the village attractive and well-maintained.

Read Less

Timing:

Regular Timings:

Tourist Village and Park: The typical operating hours for the Akkulam Tourist Village are from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on all days of the week. This allows visitors to enjoy the park from the late morning well into the evening....

Read More

Regular Timings:

Tourist Village and Park: The typical operating hours for the Akkulam Tourist Village are from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM on all days of the week. This allows visitors to enjoy the park from the late morning well into the evening. The specific attractions like the Boating Club, Swimming Pool, and Adventure Park may operate on a slightly tighter schedule, sometimes closing by 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM, particularly in the off-season.

Ideal Visit Time:

For Different Experiences: The Ideal Visit Time depends on the activity. For families with young children, the late morning (10:00 AM to 12:00 PM) is excellent for enjoying the park and pools before the peak heat. For a romantic or peaceful experience, the best time is the late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:30 PM), which offers a stunning sunset view over the lake and cooler temperatures for a leisurely walk or boat ride. For the Adventure Park, the period just after opening or late afternoon is preferable to avoid the midday sun, making the physical activities more comfortable.

Read Less
Special Events:

Special Seasonal Fairs and Festivals: The Akkulam Tourist Village, being a major public space under the DTPC, is frequently the venue for special seasonal fairs, exhibitions, and cultural programs, particularly during major tourist seasons like Onam (August/September) or th...

Read More

Special Seasonal Fairs and Festivals: The Akkulam Tourist Village, being a major public space under the DTPC, is frequently the venue for special seasonal fairs, exhibitions, and cultural programs, particularly during major tourist seasons like Onam (August/September) or the Christmas and New Year period (December/January). These events typically feature food stalls, local handicrafts, cultural performances like Kathakali or Mohiniyattam, and small amusement rides that are set up temporarily, creating a vibrant, festive atmosphere different from the regular daily routine.

Boating and Water Sports Competitions: While Vellayani Lake is more famous for its boat race, the Akkulam Lake occasionally hosts smaller, local-level boating and water sports competitions. These events are less formal but highly energetic, with local teams participating in various rowing and paddling challenges. They offer a unique opportunity to witness the local competitive spirit and enthusiasm for water-based activities, complete with cheering crowds and a lively environment.

Read Less
Best Photo Spots:

The Scenic Bridge Over the Backwater: The small bridges or footpaths that cross parts of the backwater or connect different sections of the park are prime spots. They offer an elevated view that captures the full expanse of the lake, often with the backdrop of lush palm tr...

Read More

The Scenic Bridge Over the Backwater: The small bridges or footpaths that cross parts of the backwater or connect different sections of the park are prime spots. They offer an elevated view that captures the full expanse of the lake, often with the backdrop of lush palm trees and the distant cityscape. Photographing the boats passing underneath or using the bridge as a frame for a sunset shot yields stunning results. The Adventure Park Structures (Glass Bridge/Zipline Tower): For dynamic and modern photography, the colorful structures of the Adventure Park are ideal. The Glass Bridge, especially, is a fantastic spot for unique perspective shots, capturing a sense of thrill. The launch or landing platform of the Zipline can be used to take action shots or wide-angle photos of the entire park, emphasizing the blend of man-made adventure and natural scenery.

Sunset Over the Lake Promenade: The main lakeside promenade, particularly during the Golden Hour just before sunset, is the most picturesque spot. The still waters of the lake reflect the dramatic colors of the sky, creating a beautiful mirror effect. Silhouettes of people enjoying the evening or the outlines of the nearby boats against the vibrant sky make for truly memorable photographs.

Read Less

Photo Gallery

Show all

Things To Do

Show all

Relaxing Boat Rides on Akkulam Lake: The primary activity is undoubtedly boating. Visitors can choose from various options like pedal boats for a personal experience, rowboats, or larger motorboats and speedboats. A leisurely paddle boat ride is perfect for couples or families to enjoy the tranquility of the backwaters, observing the local flora and fauna. Motorboat cruises offer a faster way to cover the lake's expanse. The DTPC Boating Club ensures all safety measures are in place, making it a safe and enjoyable activity for all age groups.

Thrill and Adventure at the Adventure Park: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the newer Adventure Park offers a bouquet of activities. This includes the high-flying Zip Line over a small stretch of land, a challenging High Rope Course where participants navigate obstacles suspend...

Read More

Relaxing Boat Rides on Akkulam Lake: The primary activity is undoubtedly boating. Visitors can choose from various options like pedal boats for a personal experience, rowboats, or larger motorboats and speedboats. A leisurely paddle boat ride is perfect for couples or families to enjoy the tranquility of the backwaters, observing the local flora and fauna. Motorboat cruises offer a faster way to cover the lake's expanse. The DTPC Boating Club ensures all safety measures are in place, making it a safe and enjoyable activity for all age groups.

Thrill and Adventure at the Adventure Park: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the newer Adventure Park offers a bouquet of activities. This includes the high-flying Zip Line over a small stretch of land, a challenging High Rope Course where participants navigate obstacles suspended in the air, and the fun, bouncy Bungee Trampoline. They also often feature a Glass Bridge—a novel attraction that provides a thrilling walk with a clear view of the ground below, offering a unique photo-op and an exciting experience for youth and adults.

Family Fun at the Children's Park and Pool: The expansive Children's Park is a destination in itself. Kids can spend hours on the swings, slides, multi-play stations, and climbing frames. A miniature Toy Train often runs on a track around the park perimeter, which is a classic favorite. In addition, there is a dedicated Swimming Pool for adults and a smaller Paddle Pool for children, providing a refreshing break, especially during the hot summer months. Note that the pool requires a separate ticket.

Leisurely Picnicking and Strolls: The entire village is designed as a scenic picnic spot. Families can find numerous shaded areas, benches, and manicured lawns to spread out and enjoy a packed lunch or snacks from the on-site café. Taking a long, slow walk along the lake promenade or through the well-maintained gardens is a highly relaxing way to spend the evening, especially with the cool breeze coming off the water.

Photography and Bird Watching: The picturesque backwater setting with its palm-fringed banks and the vibrant hues of the park structures offer countless photography subjects. The early morning or late afternoon is the best time for capturing the natural beauty, including the reflections on the lake. The lake and its surrounding wetlands are also home to various resident and migratory bird species, making it a quiet spot for casual bird-watching.

Exploring Nearby Veli Tourist Village: As mentioned, taking a boat trip to the interconnected Veli Tourist Village is an excellent extension of the visit. Veli is famous for its floating bridge that connects the mainland to the Veli beach, and it has more recreational facilities and a calmer, beach-side atmosphere, combining the backwater experience with the seashore.

Read Less

Resturants

Show all

Show All

Information

Why Famous:

Largest Children's Park in Kerala: Akkulam has long been famous for housing one of the largest and best-equipped children's parks in Kerala. This sprawling park is a major draw for families, offering a vast array of modern and safe rides, swings, and slides tailored for di...

Read More

Largest Children's Park in Kerala: Akkulam has long been famous for housing one of the largest and best-equipped children's parks in Kerala. This sprawling park is a major draw for families, offering a vast array of modern and safe rides, swings, and slides tailored for different age groups. It provides a rare, extensive open space in a capital city where children can freely run and play, making it an essential weekend destination for locals.

Backwater Serenity near the City: Its fame also rests on its picturesque location right on the banks of Akkulam Lake. This offers a slice of Kerala's famous backwaters right on the city's doorstep. The serene environment, complete with gentle lake breezes and views of the tranquil water, provides a perfect, easily accessible escape. It's an ideal spot for boating and simply enjoying nature without having to travel far from the city center of Thiruvananthapuram.

Hub for Adventure Tourism: The recent addition of the Adventure Tourism Park has cemented its fame as a multifaceted destination. The park is often highlighted for being among the first to bring modern adventure sports like Ziplining, high rope walking, and the Bungee Trampoline to the city. This addition caters to a younger audience and adventure enthusiasts, significantly broadening the attraction's appeal beyond just a family picnic spot.

Read Less
Architecture:

Layout and Design Philosophy: The architectural "design" of the Akkulam Tourist Village is less about a single building style and more about the functional and aesthetic layout of a recreational space, drawing heavily on contemporary landscape architecture while integrating...

Read More

Layout and Design Philosophy: The architectural "design" of the Akkulam Tourist Village is less about a single building style and more about the functional and aesthetic layout of a recreational space, drawing heavily on contemporary landscape architecture while integrating with the natural Kerala backwater setting. The entire complex is designed to be sprawling and open, maximizing the view of the Akkulam Lake. The structures, such as the boat club and administrative blocks, follow a simple, functional design common in modern public buildings, often with tiled, sloping roofs to complement the tropical climate, a subtle nod to traditional Kerala style. The emphasis is on open areas, footpaths, and seating, all strategically placed to encourage interaction with the lake environment.

Integrated Fun and Leisure Zones: A key architectural feature is the clear demarcation of different zones. The Children's Park occupies a large, dedicated area, featuring brightly colored play equipment, designed for safety and imaginative play. The Swimming Pool area is functionally separate, enclosed for privacy and safety regulations, with changing rooms and a snack bar nearby. The newer Adventure Park features structures like the Glass Bridge, high rope courses, and a Zip Line, which are examples of modern structural engineering designed for adventure sports and adhering to international safety standards. The overall Dimension is that of a large, well-spread-out campus spanning several acres along the lake, creating distinct pockets of activity—from the calm boating area to the energetic adventure zone. The use of natural materials for landscaping, like local stone and abundant tropical plants, further merges the built environment with the backwater ecosystem.

Read Less
How To Reach:

By Air:

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV): The nearest airport is the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), located approximately 7 KMS from the Akkulam Tourist Village. Upon arrival at TRV, visitors have several opti...

Read More

By Air:

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV): The nearest airport is the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), located approximately 7 KMS from the Akkulam Tourist Village. Upon arrival at TRV, visitors have several options. The fastest way is to hire a prepaid taxi or use a ride-sharing service like Uber/Ola. The journey is short, taking about 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. You can also hire an auto-rickshaw (Tuk-Tuk) from outside the airport, but negotiating the fare in advance is highly recommended. The proximity to the airport makes it an excellent first or last stop on a trip to Thiruvananthapuram.

By Train:

Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (TVC): The primary railway hub is the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (TVC), located about 10 KMS away from the village. This station connects the city to all major parts of India. From TVC, the most convenient method is to take a taxi or a ride-sharing service, which will take about 25-40 minutes depending on the route and city traffic. Alternatively, you can find numerous auto-rickshaws right outside the station; be sure to confirm the destination and fare beforehand.

By Road:

National and State Highways: Akkulam is well-connected by road, lying close to the main arterial roads of the city. If traveling by a private vehicle, the village is easily accessible via the National Highway 66 (NH 66) bypass route near the Medical College and Ulloor Junction. The roads are generally well-maintained. For those traveling from within Kerala or the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, driving is a good option. There are also local and inter-city KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) buses that run on routes passing near the Ulloor area, from where you can take a short auto-rickshaw ride to the village.

By Local Transport:

Bus, Auto-Rickshaw, and Taxi:

Local Buses: Take a bus heading towards Sreekaryam or Kazhakuttam from the East Fort/City Bus Depot. Get off at Ulloor Junction and hire an auto-rickshaw for the remaining 2-3 KMS to the village. This is the most economical option.

Auto-Rickshaw (Tuk-Tuk): Easily available throughout the city. They offer a good balance of cost and convenience for short to medium distances. Always ask the driver to use the meter or agree on a fare before starting.

Taxi/Cab: Ride-sharing services are readily available and provide a comfortable, air-conditioned option, especially suitable for families or those with luggage.

Read Less
Weather and Best Time to Visit:

Different Types of Seasons:

Winter (Ideal), Summer (Bearable), Monsoon (Lush): The Best Time to Visit is during the Winter months, from October to February. The weather is pleasantly cool and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 20°...

Read More

Different Types of Seasons:

Winter (Ideal), Summer (Bearable), Monsoon (Lush): The Best Time to Visit is during the Winter months, from October to February. The weather is pleasantly cool and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C, making it perfect for all outdoor activities, especially boating and spending a full day in the adventure park. The Summer (March to May) can be quite hot, with temperatures exceeding 34°C, so visits should be planned for early mornings or late afternoons. The Monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, which makes the surroundings incredibly lush and green. While some activities may be suspended due to rain, the sight of the lake swelling and the green landscape is spectacular for nature lovers.

Different Parts of the Day:

Morning (Peace), Evening (Sunset/Cool): Morning (10:00 AM - 1:

00 PM): This time is best for the children's park, the swimming pool, and the adventure activities before the midday sun peaks. It’s also generally less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful experience. Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM - 7:

00 PM): This is the most popular and arguably the most beautiful time. The temperature is lower, making leisurely walks and adventure sports comfortable. Crucially, this period offers the stunning sunset view over the backwaters, providing the best opportunities for photography and a truly relaxing end to the day.

Read Less
Near Tourist Places:

Veli Tourist Village: (3 KMS) - Famous for the floating bridge, lagoon, and beach access.

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo & Botanical Gardens: (6 KMS) - One of the oldest zoos in India.

Napier Museum & Sree Chitra Art Gallery: (7 KMS) - Showcase of natural history, art, and historical artifacts.

Kanakakunnu Palace: (7. 5 KMS) - Historic palace known for its architectural beauty and cultural events.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple: (10 KMS) - The famous, ancient temple in the city center.

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum: (10 KMS) - Adjacent to the temple, known for its wooden architecture.

Shanghumugham Beach: (6 KMS) - Popular city beach with the iconic Jalakanyaka (Mermaid) sculpture.

Trivandrum International Airport: (7 KMS) - Major transport hub.

Technopark, Kazhakuttam: (8 KMS) - One of the largest IT parks in India.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple: (12 KMS) - Renowned for the annual Attukal Pongala festival.

Tourism Tips

Health & Safety: Water Sports and

Sun Protection:

Water Safety: Always wear a life jacket provided by the DTPC boating club, even if you are a strong swimmer, and especially for children. Never attempt to s...

Read More

Health & Safety: Water Sports and

Sun Protection:

Water Safety: Always wear a life jacket provided by the DTPC boating club, even if you are a strong swimmer, and especially for children. Never attempt to swim in the unmarked or restricted areas of the lake.

Sun Protection: Carry a hat, sunglasses, and apply plenty of sunscreen (SPF 30+) during the hotter parts of the day, as much of the park is open-air.

Adventure Park Safety: Strictly follow the instructions of the staff on the Zip Line and rope courses. Ensure harnesses and safety gear are properly secured before starting any activity.

Packing:

Essentials for a Picnic Spot:

Hydration: Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. While there are shops, having your own water is essential for walks around the large park.

Attire: Wear light, comfortable clothing and sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, as you will be covering a lot of ground. Carry swimwear if you plan to use the swimming pool.

Snacks/Picnic: Consider packing your own snacks or a light picnic, as the on-site cafeteria options may be limited or slightly expensive.

Accommodation:

Near and Around Akkulam: The area around Akkulam and the nearby Medical College junction offers several mid-range and budget hotels and guesthouses. For more luxury options, it is best to stay closer to the city center or near the airport, as they are only a short distance away. Booking in advance, especially during the peak November to February tourist season, is highly recommended for better rates and availability.

Other Different Topics heading: Photography and

Local Transport:

Photography Best Practices: For the best results, visit during the Golden Hour (early morning or late afternoon). Carry a telephoto lens for bird-watching and a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the lake.

Local Transport: While the park is accessible, getting a taxi or auto-rickshaw back to the city can sometimes be tricky late in the evening. It's advisable to arrange your return transport in advance through a ride-sharing app or by hiring a pre-paid taxi for a round trip.

Read Less