Stretched over a huge area covering multiple districts of the state, the Vembanad Lake is one of the top places to visit in Kerala. Vembanad is known in different names in different districts such as Punnamada in Kuttanad and Kochi Lake in Kochi. The lake is the biggest piece of waterbody and is one of the main reasons behind the popularity of Kerala backwaters. Vembanad is also famous for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race which is held in a certain part of the lake. Recently the waterbidy has been identified by Government of India as a part of its National Wetlands Conservation Programme. Another stunning waterbody on the backdrop of Vembanad Lake is Kumarakom, which is very famous for backwater tourism. The abode of endless varieties of flora and fauna, Kumarakom is a picturesque site but its biggest highlight is varieties of houseboats that float on the water and offer unique accommodation experience on the lap of Mother Nature. Another attraction of Kumarakom is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is home to diverse species of migratory birds. One can also enjoy shipping here as multiple species of marine and freshwater fishes as well as shrimps are found here.