Ramsar Sites in Kerala: Exploring the State’s Wetland Treasures

Kerala has long been celebrated for its natural beauty, yet its wetlands remain among the most compelling features of the state’s geography. The Ramsar sites in Kerala, designated for their ecological and cultural importance, are not merely areas of scientific interest but living landscapes that sustain communities, wildlife, and traditions. These wetlands, spread across the state, combine scenic appeal with significant biodiversity, making them destinations where travel and conservation meet seamlessly. Exploring them is an opportunity not only to appreciate Kerala’s natural heritage but also to reflect on the vital role such ecosystems play in balancing human and ecological needs. Among these, three sites, Ashtamudi Wetland, Sasthamkotta Lake, and the Vembanad-Kol Wetland, stand out for their uniqueness and beauty. But what are Ramsar Sites and why are they important? Let's check it out. 

What is a Ramsar Site?

While most are unaware, a Ramsar site is a site considered to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention Treaty. Signed in the Ramsar city of Iran in 1971, this convention, also known as the ‘Convention of Wetlands’, is an environmental protection treaty under the auspices of UNESCO. Most of the time, Wetlands are a neglected natural formation, even though they sustain and have a well-developed ecosystem. Although there are a few criteria that need to match the standards to be certified as a ‘Ramsar Site’.

According to a recent survey by the RAMSAR Convention, as of 2025, the number of Ramsar sites globally has increased to a whopping 2,531, out of which 89 are present in India. If you still wish to know more about what Ramsar Sites are, then you can read our article on lesser-known Ramsar Sites in Northeast India, wherein we talk in detail about the criteria for the wetlands, and more. In this article, we cover the 3 Ramsar Sites in God’s Own Country. So, the next time you plan on visiting the heaven of backwaters, check out these stunning spots. 

Ashtamudi Wetland

The Ashtamudi Wetland in Kollam district is often described as the gateway to Kerala’s backwaters, and with good reason. Its name, meaning “eight coned,” refers to the eight arms of the lake that extend inland, creating a landscape that is both intricate and visually striking. This wetland is one of the most prominent Ramsar sites in Kerala, recognised for its ecological diversity and economic significance. Mangroves thrive along its shores, otters and other aquatic species inhabit its waters, and migratory birds arrive in large numbers during the season. At the same time, it sustains traditional livelihoods, particularly fishing and inland navigation, which remain central to local culture. For visitors, a boat journey across Ashtamudi is as much an aesthetic experience as it is an immersion into the rhythms of everyday life in Kerala’s backwaters.

Sasthamkotta Lake

Moving inland, Sasthamkotta Lake represents a different character altogether. Known as the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, it has earned its place among Ramsar sites in Kerala for both its environmental and utilitarian importance. Situated in the Kollam district, it serves as a primary source of drinking water for thousands of residents, demonstrating how wetlands often serve essential public functions beyond their scenic value. The lake is also linked with local culture and history; its name derives from the nearby Sastha temple, which lends the water body a spiritual association in addition to its ecological one. While quieter and less frequented by tourists than other backwater destinations, Sasthamkotta offers an atmosphere of calm reflection.

Vembanad-Kol Wetland

The Vembanad-Kol Wetland is not only the largest Ramsar site in Kerala but also the longest lake in India, spanning multiple districts and supporting an extraordinary range of human and ecological activity. Its sheer scale sets it apart: it is home to the Kumarakom bird sanctuary, serves as a venue for Kerala’s famed snake boat races, and supports extensive paddy cultivation in the below-sea-level fields of Kuttanad. The wetland is a hub of biodiversity, sheltering numerous fish species and migratory birds, while also playing a central role in agriculture and fisheries that sustain local communities. Vembanad’s recognition as a Ramsar site underscores its status as a cultural and ecological landmark, a landscape that epitomises Kerala’s identity as a water-rich region. For the traveller, it offers a chance to experience Kerala’s backwaters on a grand scale; houseboats, traditional villages, and endless horizons combine to create a setting that is both picturesque and deeply significant.