Kollam
Backwater Paradise: Kollam is an ancient port city situated on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake, known for its serene and extensive backwater network. It is the southern gateway to the famous backwaters of Kerala, offering a more peaceful experience compared to Alappuzha. The city has a history that dates back to the Roman and Chinese empires, making it one of the oldest ports in the world. Today, it is a hub for the cashew industry and traditional fishing. Natural Landscapes: The region is blessed with diverse geography, ranging from golden beaches to lush green forests and waterfalls. The Ashtamudi Lake, with its eight branches, creates a unique ecosystem of mangroves and small islands. Nearby, the Palaruvi Waterfalls offer a refreshing escape into the Western Ghats. The landscape is a mix of coconut plantations and inland waterways that define the beauty of southern Kerala. Industrial Heritage: Known as the "Cashew Capital of the World," Kollam's economy has long been driven by the processing and export of cashew nuts. Visitors can see many old factories that still operate today, preserving a unique industrial heritage. The city also has a strong tradition of coir manufacturing and traditional boat building. This industrial backdrop adds a unique character to the otherwise tranquil coastal city. Cultural Tapestry: Kollam is home to various historic temples, churches, and mosques that reflect its multi-religious heritage. The Oachira Parabrahma Temple is unique as it has no formal structure or idol. Festivals like the Kollam Pooram bring the city to life with elephant processions and traditional music. The local cuisine is famous for its spicy seafood dishes, influenced by the coastal location and local spices.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1-2 DaysPlace Type:
Backwaters & BeachEntry Fees:
Attractions: Entry to the Thangassery Lighthouse is about 20 INR for adults. The Jatayu Earth's Center has a higher entry fee, typically starting from 500 INR, which includes the cable car ride to the top.
Parks & Beaches: Most public beach...Attractions: Entry to the Thangassery Lighthouse is about 20 INR for adults. The Jatayu Earth's Center has a higher entry fee, typically starting from 500 INR, which includes the cable car ride to the top.
Parks & Beaches: Most public beaches and parks like the Asramam Picnic Village have free entry or a very nominal fee of around 10 to 20 INR for maintenance. Houseboat rates vary significantly based on the duration.Timing:
Regular Hours: Most tourist spots are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The Jatayu Earth's Center operates from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Temples usually have specific morning and evening hours for visitors.
Best Time: Early morning is best for boa...Regular Hours: Most tourist spots are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The Jatayu Earth's Center operates from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Temples usually have specific morning and evening hours for visitors.
Best Time: Early morning is best for boat rides to see birds and local life. Late afternoon is the ideal time to visit the beach and the lighthouse to catch the sunset and enjoy cooler temperatures.Special Events:
President's Trophy Boat Race: Held annually on November 1st on the Ashtamudi Lake, this is a spectacular event featuring traditional snake boats. Thousands gather to cheer on the rowers in this high-energy competition.
Kollam Pooram: A gran...President's Trophy Boat Race: Held annually on November 1st on the Ashtamudi Lake, this is a spectacular event featuring traditional snake boats. Thousands gather to cheer on the rowers in this high-energy competition.
Kollam Pooram: A grand festival held at the Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, featuring a colorful procession of caparisoned elephants and traditional percussion music. It is one of the most significant cultural events in the region.Best Photo Spots:
Jatayu Earth's Center: The massive bird sculpture against the sky provides a dramatic subject for photography, especially during the golden hour. The surrounding hills and rock formations add to the majestic view.
Thangassery Lighthouse: Th...Jatayu Earth's Center: The massive bird sculpture against the sky provides a dramatic subject for photography, especially during the golden hour. The surrounding hills and rock formations add to the majestic view.
Thangassery Lighthouse: The red and white striped tower offers a classic coastal shot. From the top, you can capture the curving coastline and the vast Arabian Sea stretching to the horizon.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
@@The Majestic Milky Cascade: Palaruvi Falls is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Kollam district of Kerala, India. The name "Palaruvi" literally translates to "Stream of Milk" in the local Malayalam language, a name earned by the white, frothy appearance of the water as it plunges down from a great height. Standing at a staggering height of 300 feet, it is ranked as the 32nd highest waterfall in India. The falls are located in the heart of the Thenmala mountain ranges, surrounded by dense tropical forests that provide a lush green backdrop to the shimmering white water. Visitors are often captivated by the sheer force and beauty of the water as it hits the rocky pool at the base. @@Ayurvedic and Medicinal Properties: A unique feature of Palaruvi Falls is the belief that its waters possess healing powers. As the water flows through the dense forests of the Western Ghats before cascading down, it passes over numerous medicinal herbs and plants. This infusion of herbal properties makes the water rich in minerals and natural cures, leading many tourists to take a therapeutic dip in the pool. The Kerala Forest Department manages the site, ensuring it remains a plastic-free and eco-friendly zone. The surrounding area is part of the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, making it a haven for biodiversity including rare birds and butterflies. @@A Popular Picnic Spot: Over the years, Palaruvi has transformed from a hidden forest gem into a well-loved picnic destination for families and nature enthusiasts. The misty spray created by the falling water keeps the air cool and refreshing even during the warmer months. There are dedicated bathing areas for men and women, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. The trek from the parking area to the falls is a short, scenic walk of about 15 minutes that introduces visitors to the sights and sounds of the jungle. It is a place where one can truly disconnect from the urban hustle and reconnect with the raw, rhythmic beauty of nature.
@@Mythology Meets Modernity: The Jatayu Adventure Center, also known as Jatayu Earth's Center, is a breathtaking fusion of nature, mythology, and adventure located atop the massive Jatayupara rock. The center is built on the spot where, according to the Ramayana, the mythical bird Jatayu fell after a heroic battle with Ravana to save Goddess Sita. This 65-acre park is a masterpiece created by renowned sculptor Rajiv Anchal, featuring the world's largest bird sculpture. It is a unique public-private partnership that has put Chadayamangalam on the global tourism map. @@A Sustainable Marvel: The park is designed with a strong focus on eco-tourism and sustainability, featuring a massive rainwater harvesting reservoir with a capacity of 1.5 million liters. It spans four hills, each offering a different experience: from adventure and wellness to mythology and nature walks. The first hill houses the giant sculpture, while the second hill is dedicated to adventure activities like rock climbing and rappelling. It provides a panoramic view of the Western Ghats, making it a favorite for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. @@Adventure and Leisure: For those looking for an adrenaline rush, the center offers over 15 adventure activities, including a 250-meter zipline and paintball in a natural terrain. Beyond the thrills, the park also focuses on wellness through its Siddha Cave Healing Center and eco-lodges for an immersive stay. The cable car ride to the top of the hill offers a scenic ascent, providing guests with a "bird’s-eye view" of the lush Kerala landscape. Whether you are a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, this destination offers a comprehensive leisure experience that caters to all age groups.
Ashtamudi Lake is the second-largest wetland ecosystem in the state of Kerala, and it is often called the gateway to the state's iconic backwaters. Its name, derived from the Malayalam words 'Ashta' (eight) and 'Mudi' (conch or arm), perfectly describes its unique geographical structure: eight major arms or channels that converge into a vast, deep expanse of water. This estuarine system is fed by the Kallada River and is home to a unique mix of fresh and brackish water life. The lake is considered a Ramsar wetland, a designation given to sites important for global biodiversity conservation, highlighting its ecological significance. The shores of Ashtamudi are lined with lush coconut palms, quaint villages, and traditional Keralan homes, creating a tranquil, picture-postcard setting that feels world's away from the bustle of the city. A houseboat cruise here offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the serene beauty of the backwater lifestyle. Unlike the more commercialized backwaters further north, Ashtamudi offers a quieter, more authentic experience. The ecosystem supports extensive biodiversity, including over 50 species of birds, numerous species of fish, and the unique Kallada prawn. The local community relies heavily on the lake for fishing, coir production, and transportation, making the backwaters a living, breathing part of their culture. Staying overnight on a traditional houseboat, often referred to as a Kettuvallam, allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the rhythm of this peaceful environment, waking up to the gentle lapping of water and the calls of exotic birds. The dense mangrove forests surrounding some parts of the lake act as natural filters, contributing to the purity of the water and providing crucial habitats for juvenile marine life, making the lake a critical nursery ground for the region's fisheries. This lake also connects Kollam with Alappuzha via the National Waterway, offering the famous 8-hour scenic ferry ride that showcases the sheer scale and beauty of Kerala's inland water network. This journey is often cited by travelers as one of the best boat rides in the world.
Sree Mahaganapathi Kshethram in Kottarakkara is one of the most prominent and spiritually significant temples in Kerala. Interestingly, though the primary deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, the temple is globally famous for the sub-deity, Lord Ganesha (Mahaganapathi). The idol of Ganesha here is believed to have been carved out of a jackfruit tree by the legendary master sculptor Perumthachan. The temple is deeply rooted in local history and is a major center for the classical art form of Kathakali, which originated in this town. Devotees flock to this shrine to offer 'Unniyappam', a sweet fried snack which is the most famous prasadam of the temple. The atmosphere within the temple complex is serene, with the chanting of mantras and the smell of burning incense providing a divine experience. The temple structure follows the quintessential Kerala style, featuring extensive woodwork and a large temple tank. Lord Ganesha here is known as 'Vighneswara', the remover of obstacles, and it is a tradition for people to start any new venture after seeking his blessings. The temple complex also houses shrines for Goddess Parvati, Lord Murugan, Lord Ayyappan, and Nagaraja. The annual festivals are celebrated with grand processions, traditional music (Panchavadyam), and cultural performances. It is not just a religious site but a cultural hub that preserves the rich heritage of the erstwhile Elayidathu Swaroopam kingdom.
@@A Colonial Engineering Marvel: The Punalur Suspension Bridge, also known as the Punalur Hanging Bridge, is the oldest motorable suspension bridge in South India. Constructed in 1877 during the reign of King Ayilyam Thirunal of Travancore, it was designed by the British engineer Albert Henry. The bridge spans across the Kallada River and was a revolutionary project for its time. It took approximately six years to complete and was built primarily using materials imported from England. The bridge was a vital link for trade and movement in the 19th century, connecting the forested regions of the east to the port city of Kollam. Today, it stands as a protected monument under the Archaeology Department of Kerala. @@Purpose and Local Legends: The design of the suspension bridge was chosen for a very specific and clever reason. In the 1800s, the area surrounding Punalur was a dense forest inhabited by wild animals. The bridge was designed to "shake" or vibrate whenever someone walked or drove over it. This vibration was intended to scare away wild animals, preventing them from crossing the river into the human settlements of the town. There is also a famous story about its inauguration; to prove the bridge's strength to a skeptical public, the engineer Albert Henry sat in a boat directly under the bridge with his family while six massive elephants were marched across the deck. @@Heritage and Restoration: As an architectural landmark, the bridge is unique because it does not use traditional concrete pillars in the riverbed. Instead, it is suspended by massive steel chains anchored into four deep wells on either bank. The bridge features beautiful arched gateways at both ends, which are built in a classic colonial style. Although it is no longer open to heavy vehicular traffic to ensure its preservation, it remains open for pedestrians. The local government has recently renovated the bridge and added a beautiful park nearby, making it a centerpiece for tourism in Punalur. It serves as a reminder of the industrial heritage of the town, which was once a major hub for paper mills and timber trade.
@@History and Legend: The Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple is a highly revered shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, depicted here as Bala Sastha or a child. It is situated on the scenic banks of the Kulathupuzha River, a tributary of the Kallada River, nestled within the lush reserve forest ranges of eastern Kollam. This ancient temple is one of the five important Sastha shrines in Kerala believed to have been established by Lord Parashurama. The presiding deity is known for being in both a fierce (Ugramoorthi) and an auspicious (Mangalapradayakan) mood. A unique aspect of the temple is the sacred pond where thousands of fish, known as Thirumakkal (divine children), are protected and fed by devotees as a religious offering. The temple attracts pilgrims from both Kerala and Tamil Nadu, seeking blessings for health and prosperity. The surrounding forest adds a serene and spiritual atmosphere to the entire complex. It remains a cornerstone of the Travancore Devaswom Board's heritage sites.
@@Detailed Overview: The Amritapuri Ashram is the international headquarters of the Mata Amritanandamayi Math and the birthplace of the world-renowned spiritual leader, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, affectionately known as Amma or the "Hugging Saint." Nestled between the serene Arabian Sea and the tranquil backwaters of Kollam, this sacred space serves as a global hub for peace, selfless service, and spiritual practice. The ashram began as a humble family home and has transformed into a massive spiritual township that accommodates thousands of residents and visitors from every corner of the globe. The atmosphere is permeated with a sense of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," the ancient Indian philosophy that the entire world is one family. Visitors often describe a profound sense of inner peace the moment they step onto the grounds, regardless of their religious or cultural background. The ashram operates as a self-sustaining community where everyone participates in "Seva" or selfless service, contributing to various humanitarian projects known globally as Embracing the World. This location is not just a religious site but a center for social welfare, education, and environmental research. Throughout the year, devotees gather here to receive Amma's blessing and her signature hug, which many believe offers spiritual healing and emotional comfort. The sprawling complex includes prayer halls, meditation centers, living quarters, a hospital, and a university campus. It remains a beacon of hope for millions, emphasizing the path of love and compassion as the primary way to live a meaningful life. Even when Amma is on her world tours, the ashram continues to pulse with spiritual energy through daily Vedic chants, meditation sessions, and community service activities. It is a place where tradition meets modernity, with sophisticated research facilities working alongside ancient spiritual rituals.Show All
Thenmala is a pioneer in sustainable tourism, located at the foothills of the Western Ghats. The project is divided into different zones: Culture Zone, Leisure Zone, and Adventure Zone. The Thenmala Dam (Parappar Dam) is the center of attraction, built across the Kallada River. The reservoir is surrounded by the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, offering boat rides where one can spot wild animals on the banks. The Eco-tourism project focuses on preserving nature while providing education and entertainment. It features a musical dancing fountain, a butterfly safari, and a deer rehabilitation center. The lush greenery and the cool mountain air make it a stark contrast to the coastal heat of Kollam. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site buffer zone, ensuring that the biodiversity is strictly protected. The project is managed by the Thenmala Eco-tourism Promotion Society, providing employment to many locals. Whether you are looking for a quiet walk in the woods or an adrenaline-pumping climb, this place caters to all.Information
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Why Famous:
Cashew Capital: Kollam is globally famous for being the largest producer and exporter of cashews. The city's history is deeply intertwined with this industry, which employs thousands of local workers.
Ashtamudi Lake: This is the second-larg...Cashew Capital: Kollam is globally famous for being the largest producer and exporter of cashews. The city's history is deeply intertwined with this industry, which employs thousands of local workers.
Ashtamudi Lake: This is the second-largest lake in Kerala and is world-famous for its scenic backwater cruises. The lake's unique palm-shaped topography makes it a must-visit for nature lovers and houseboating enthusiasts. -
Architecture:
Colonial Remnants: The Thangassery area features ruins of Portuguese and Dutch forts, along with a 144-foot tall British-era lighthouse. The architecture here reflects the strategic importance of Kollam as a colonial trading post.
Traditional T...Colonial Remnants: The Thangassery area features ruins of Portuguese and Dutch forts, along with a 144-foot tall British-era lighthouse. The architecture here reflects the strategic importance of Kollam as a colonial trading post.
Traditional Temples: Temples like the Rameshwara Temple showcase the Pandyan influence with intricate stone carvings and traditional Kerala-style wooden roofs. The architecture is designed to withstand the heavy monsoon rains while providing a cool interior.
Modern Marvels: The Jatayu Earth's Center features the world's largest bird sculpture, measuring 200 feet in length and 70 feet in height. This modern architectural feat is built atop a massive rock, combining mythology with state-of-the-art engineering. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), located about 70 KMS away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi, bus, or train to reach Kollam. The drive takes approximately 2 hours through the scenic coastal road.
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Near Tourist Places:
Varkala (35 KMS), Thiruvananthapuram (70 KMS), Thenmala (66 KMS), Pathanamthitta (56 KMS), Alappuzha (85 KMS), Munroe Island (25 KMS), Palaruvi Falls (75 KMS), Jatayu Park (38 KMS), Oachira (32 KMS), Sasthamkotta (25 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Keep yourself hydrated and carry a water bottle while trekking or exploring the city. Be careful while swimming in the sea as the currents at Kollam Beach can be strong. Use mosquito repellent when visiting backwater areas.
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