Enchanting Kerala

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Something for Everyone - Kollam

Call it a mosaic of contrasts. A land where its forests, lakes, sea, islands and an ever bustling city exist in harmony, and showcase an awe inspiring canvas of ethereal beauty. This is Kollam, a land that nuzzles several gems in its folds.

With a strong history of commerce since the days of the Phoenicians and the Romans, this port town on the Kerala coast has been etched in the annals of history for its role in international spice trade. It is also the centre of country's cashew trading and processing industry.

Though at the heart is a town bustling with trade activities, it promises immense possibility for city tours. Thirty percent of this district is covered by the Ashtamudi Lake. Ferry through these backwaters in houseboats and as it glides through the palm fringed water way, take in the spectacular sights of the passing backwater life.

Ashramam Picnic Village along the shores of the Ashtamudi backwaters, which has an adventure park, a 200 year old bungalow, where Lord Munroe once stayed, and a children’s traffic park attract hordes of visitors. The serene beaches of Kollam and Thirumullavaram are ideal ones for a tête-à-tête with the sea. The Thankasseri Lighthouse and ruins of an old Portuguese fort are other attractions. The Police Museum, tracing the growth of the police force and the Eight-Point Art Café, a colonial villa revamped into an art gallery, are one of a kind.

There are important historical buildings like the Krishnapuram Palace and the Punalur Hanging Bridge, built in a traditional ornate architectural style. The President’s Trophy Boat Race, Parippally Gajamela, Kottamkulangara Chamayavilakku and Malanada Kettukazcha are the major festivals in Kollam which draw visitors from far and wide.

Created by the backwaters of the Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River is the beautiful ‘Munroe Thuruth’, an island named after Col. Munroe, the British Resident of erstwhile Travancore State. The mystique highlands of Kollam provide ample opportunities to relish in the bounties of nature. The Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary and Thenmala, India's first planned eco-tourism destination are a treat to the senses. Palaruvi and Kumbavurutti Waterfalls, cascading down steep rocks, provide enchanting visuals. Embark upon a jungle pilgrim tour at Kulathupuzha, Aryankavu and Achenkovil; all famous for their temples dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.

"One who has seen Kollam, does not require his home anymore," is a saying on Kollam and visitors even today, experience the same.