Kollam - Travel Guide

Kollam, a treasure trove of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, is a captivating tourist destination located in the state of Kerala, India. Also known as Quilon, this historic city has been a major trading hub since ancient times, with its strategic location on the Malabar Coast making it a significant center for commerce and trade. The city's stunning landscape, characterized by rolling hills, serene backwaters, and pristine beaches, offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal getaway for travelers seeking to unwind and rejuvenate. From the majestic Ashtamudi Lake to the picturesque Thirumullavaram Beach, Kollam's diverse geography is dotted with numerous attractions that cater to different interests and preferences. The city's cultural landscape is equally fascinating, with a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. The ancient temples, churches, and mosques that dot the city's skyline are a testament to its rich spiritual heritage, while the vibrant festivals and traditions that are an integral part of Kollam's social fabric offer a glimpse into its vibrant cultural identity. As a tourist destination, Kollam offers a wide range of experiences, from relaxing boat cruises and rejuvenating ayurvedic treatments to thrilling water sports and exciting trekking expeditions. With its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, Kollam is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the authentic charm of Kerala, often referred to as 'God's Own Country'. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Kollam has something to offer everyone, making it a truly unforgettable travel experience.

History

In the misty veil of time, where the sun dips into the horizon and paints the sky with hues of crimson and gold, lies the ancient city of Kollam, a treasure trove of stories, legends, and historical significance. Located in the southern state of Kerala, India, Kollam has been a silent witness to the ebb and flow of civilizations, with its history dating back to the 9th century. The city's strategic location on the Arabian Sea made it a prized possession for traders, travelers, and conquerors, who left behind an indelible mark on its culture, architecture, and people. As the capital of the Venad Kingdom, Kollam flourished under the benevolent rule of the ancient Chera dynasty, with the city's ports and trade routes bustling with activity, as merchants from far-off lands like China, Rome, and Arabia arrived with exotic spices, precious stones, and other valuable commodities. The city's significance was further amplified by the arrival of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, who established their trading posts, churches, and fortifications, leaving behind a legacy of colonial architecture, cultural exchange, and conflict. As the centuries passed, Kollam continued to evolve, its people adapting to the changing times, while holding on to their traditions, customs, and way of life. Today, the city stands as a testament to its rich and diverse history, with its ancient temples, churches, and mosques, its vibrant festivals, and its people, who embody the spirit of resilience, hospitality, and warmth that has come to define this enchanting city. The history of Kollam is a tale of trade and commerce, of cultural exchange and conflict, of colonization and freedom, and of the unwavering spirit of its people, who have endured the test of time, and continue to thrive in this fascinating city, where the past and present blend seamlessly, like the gentle lapping of the waves against its shores.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kollam, Kerala is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During this period, the temperature ranges from 22 to 28 degrees Celsius, with minimal rainfall, allowing tourists to explore the city's beautiful beaches, backwaters, and temples without any hindrance.

Why This is the Best Time

The reasons why this is the best time to visit Kollam are plenty. Firstly, the weather is mild and comfortable, making it perfect for boat cruises, beach activities, and temple visits. Secondly, the winter season coincides with the festival season in Kerala, with celebrations like Onam, Vishu, and Christmas taking place during this time, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the state. Additionally, the crowds are relatively smaller compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and peaceful experience. Lastly, the cool weather also makes it an ideal time for adventure activities like trekking, cycling, and birdwatching, making it a great time for outdoor enthusiasts to visit Kollam.

Things to Do and See

1. Explore the Backwaters of Kollam

Kollam is renowned for its breathtaking backwaters, a network of serene waterways, lakes, and canals that offer a glimpse into the traditional village life of Kerala. Explore these tranquil waters on a houseboat, watching the sunset over the palm-fringed landscape, and experience the local fishing culture.

2. Visit the Jatayu Earth Center

Located in Chadayamangalam, the Jatayu Earth Center is a unique tourist destination that combines adventure, art, and culture. This massive sculpture of the mythical bird Jatayu, designed by film director Rajiv Anchal, offers panoramic views of the surroundings and features an adventure park and a museum.

3. Discover the Thirumullavaram Beach

Thirumullavaram Beach is a picturesque destination, known for its pristine shores, calm waters, and stunning sunrises. It's an ideal spot for relaxation, swimming, and water sports, making it a must-visit for those looking to unwind in a serene coastal environment.

4. Trek to the Sasthamkotta Lake

Sasthamkotta Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, is a haven for nature lovers and trekkers. The surrounding hills offer breathtaking views, and the lake itself is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Take a trek around the lake to experience its serene beauty and perhaps spot some of the local wildlife.

5. Experience the Kollam Pooram

Kollam Pooram is a vibrant festival that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. This annual celebration features processions of decorated elephants, traditional music, and stunning fireworks displays. It's a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and festivities.

6. Visit the Palaruvi Waterfalls

Located in the lush forests of the Western Ghats, the Palaruvi Waterfalls are a breathtaking natural wonder. The 300-foot cascade creates a misty veil that surrounds the area, providing a cool and refreshing atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for trekking, picnicking, and connecting with nature.

7. Explore the Kollam City

Kollam city, with its rich history dating back to the ancient times, is a treasure trove of cultural and historical landmarks. Visit the Kollam Beach, the Tangasseri Lighthouse, and the ancient churches and temples to experience the city's diverse heritage and vibrant atmosphere.

8. Enjoy the Ashtamudi Lake

Ashtamudi Lake, with its eight arms or channels, is a unique and fascinating destination. Take a boat ride through the lake's tranquil waters, exploring the surrounding villages and spotting local birdlife. It's an ideal spot for relaxation and nature photography.

9. Visit the Thenmala Ecotourism

Thenmala, dubbed the 'Honey Hill', is a scenic destination that offers a range of ecotourism activities. From trekking and hiking to rock climbing and rappelling, there's something for every adventure enthusiast. The area is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

10. Learn about the History at the Kollam Museum

The Kollam Museum, also known as the Anaswara Museum, is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and cultural relics. The museum showcases the history and heritage of Kollam, with exhibits on ancient coins, sculptures, and other historical objects. It's an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those looking to learn more about the region's rich cultural past.

11. Take a Trip to the Munroe Island

Munroe Island, located at the confluence of the Kallada River and the Ashtamudi Lake, is a picturesque destination that offers a glimpse into traditional village life. Take a boat ride through the island's serene waterways, exploring the local farming and fishing communities, and experience the unique culture of the region.

12. Go on a Spice Plantation Tour

Kollam is known for its rich spice plantations, which have been a major part of the region's economy for centuries. Visit a local spice plantation to learn about the different types of spices, such as pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon, and experience the process of harvesting and processing these aromatic crops.

Food & Dining

Kollam, a city in the Indian state of Kerala, is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse range of local cuisine that showcases the region's rich culinary heritage. The city's strategic location on the Malabar Coast has influenced its food culture, with a blend of traditional Kerala dishes, fresh seafood, and exotic spices. From spicy curries to fragrant biryanis, and from crispy snacks to sweet desserts, Kollam's local food scene is a treat for the taste buds. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and traditional cooking methods, the cuisine in Kollam is a true reflection of the city's warm hospitality and rich cultural traditions.

Must-Try Local Dishes

1. Karimeen Fry – A mouth-watering dish made with pearl spot fish, marinated in a mixture of spices, herbs, and coconut milk, then fried to perfection
2. Kerala Sadya – A traditional feast featuring a variety of dishes, including parippu, sambar, rasam, and avial, served with steaming hot rice and a range of sweet and savory accompaniments
3. Chemeen Thoran – A flavorful stir-fry made with succulent prawns, coconut, and spices, cooked to perfection and served with steaming hot rice
4. Idiyappam with Egg Curry – A popular breakfast dish featuring steamed rice noodles served with a rich and creamy egg curry, made with eggs, coconut milk, and a blend of spices
5. Kadala Curry – A hearty and flavorful chickpea curry, made with chickpeas, coconut, and a blend of spices, served with steaming hot rice or roti
6. Puttu with Kadala Curry – A traditional breakfast dish featuring steamed rice cakes served with a rich and flavorful chickpea curry, made with chickpeas, coconut, and a blend of spices
7. Erachi Olathiyathu – A spicy beef fry, made with tender beef, coconut, and a blend of spices, cooked to perfection and served with steaming hot rice
8. Meen Moilee – A flavorful fish stew, made with fresh fish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, served with steaming hot rice
9. Unnakkaya – A sweet and savory snack, made with stuffed plantains, coconut, and a blend of spices, deep-fried to perfection
10. Ari Pathiri – A crispy and flavorful rice bread, made with rice flour, coconut, and a blend of spices, served with a range of curries and stews
11. Ada Pradhaman – A sweet and creamy dessert, made with rice, jaggery, and coconut milk, served at special occasions and festivals

Shopping

Kollam, a charming city in the Indian state of Kerala, offers a unique and exciting shopping experience that caters to all kinds of travelers. From traditional handicrafts to modern boutiques, the city is filled with a plethora of shopping opportunities that showcase its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the bustling markets and bazaars, where they can find an array of authentic Kerala products, including spices, textiles, and handicrafts. The city is also famous for its cashew nuts, and shoppers can find a variety of cashew-based products, such as roasted cashews, cashew brittle, and cashew-based sweets. For those looking for a more modern shopping experience, Kollam has several shopping malls and complexes that offer a range of international and national brands. Whether you're looking for traditional souvenirs, local handicrafts, or modern amenities, Kollam has something for everyone, making it a shopper's paradise. The city's shopping scene is a perfect blend of traditional and modern, reflecting its rich history and cultural diversity.

Popular Things to Buy

• Kasavu Sarees - traditional Kerala sarees with golden borders
• Cashew Nuts - roasted, flavored, and plain cashews
• Coconut Shell Products - decorative items and handicrafts made from coconut shells
• Kerala Spices - authentic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper
• Handmade Jewelry - intricate and beautiful pieces made from gold, silver, and other metals
• Wooden Crafts - traditional wooden handicrafts, such as masks and figurines
• Cotton Textiles - colorful and vibrant cotton fabrics, perfect for clothing and home decor
• Ayurvedic Products - natural and herbal products, such as oils, soaps, and creams
• Brass and Copper Items - decorative and functional items, such as lamps, vases, and utensils
• Kerala Tea - high-quality tea leaves, perfect for tea enthusiasts

Nearby Attractions

• Jatayu Earth Center – A stunning sculpture of the mythical bird Jatayu, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and an exhilarating adventure park experience
• Thangasseri Lighthouse – A historic 19th-century lighthouse standing tall on the shores of the Arabian Sea, providing a glimpse into Kollam's rich maritime past
• Kollam Beach – A picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and a charming promenade, perfect for relaxation and water sports
• Palaruvi Waterfalls – A breathtaking cascade of water, surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere
• Thenmala Ecotourism – A unique eco-tourism project offering a range of activities, including trekking, birdwatching, and boating, amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Western Ghats
• Munroe Island – A tranquil island village, accessible only by boat, with picturesque canals, lush green landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage
• Sasthamkotta Lake – A vast and serene freshwater lake, home to a wide variety of birdlife and aquatic species, and a popular spot for boating and fishing
• Kottarakkara Sree Mahaganapathy Temple – A historic temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, famous for its unique architecture, vibrant festivals, and spiritual significance
• Chavara – A charming coastal town with a rich cultural heritage, known for its beautiful beaches, historic churches, and traditional fishing villages
• Oachira Temple – A unique and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Parabrahma, famous for its stunning architecture, vibrant festivals, and spiritual significance
• Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary – A protected area of lush forests and rolling hills, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, deer, and rare bird species

Travel Options

By Road / Car / Bike

Traveling to Kollam by road is a scenic and convenient option, with several national highways connecting the city to major destinations in India. The NH-66 (formerly NH-47) passes through Kollam, making it easily accessible by car or bike from cities like Trivandrum, Cochin, and Chennai. The journey from Trivandrum takes around 2-3 hours, while from Cochin it takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The road route from Chennai is a bit longer, taking around 10-12 hours, but the scenic views of the Western Ghats and the coastal roads make it a worthwhile journey. Several car rental services and taxi operators also ply on this route, offering a hassle-free travel experience. For bike enthusiasts, the road to Kollam is a thrilling ride, with the option to stop at various attractions and take in the local culture along the way.

By Train

Kollam has a major railway station, with regular trains connecting it to all parts of India. The Kollam Junction railway station is a key stop on the Trivandrum-Mumbai and Trivandrum-Chennai routes, with several express and passenger trains plying daily. The train journey from Trivandrum takes around 1-2 hours, while from Cochin it takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the type of train and class of travel. The train route from Chennai takes around 10-12 hours, with options to travel by day or night, depending on personal preference. The railway station is well-connected to the city center, with taxis, autos, and buses available for onward travel. Online booking and reservation facilities make it easy to plan and book train travel to Kollam in advance.

By Air

The nearest airport to Kollam is the Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), which is around 65 kilometers away. The airport receives flights from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, as well as international flights from the Middle East and Southeast Asia. From the airport, taxis and car rental services are available to travel to Kollam, taking around 1-2 hours depending on traffic. Several airlines operate flights to Trivandrum, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India, with multiple flights daily. The airport is well-equipped with modern facilities, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, and currency exchange. For international travelers, the airport offers visa-on-arrival and immigration facilities, making it a convenient entry point to India.

By Bus

Traveling to Kollam by bus is a budget-friendly and convenient option, with several government and private bus operators plying on this route. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services from cities like Trivandrum, Cochin, and Chennai, with options to travel by day or night. Private bus operators like Kallada Travels and SRS Travels also offer luxury and deluxe bus services, with amenities like air-conditioning, reclining seats, and on-board entertainment. The bus journey from Trivandrum takes around 2-3 hours, while from Cochin it takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The bus route from Chennai takes around 10-12 hours, with options to break the journey at intermediate stops. Online booking and reservation facilities make it easy to plan and book bus travel to Kollam in advance.

Travel Tips

When traveling to Kollam, it's essential to plan ahead and book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. The city has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity during the summer months, so it's recommended to pack light and breathable clothing. Don't forget to try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Kerala dishes like sadhya and idiyappam. With its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Kollam is a must-visit destination in Kerala, and with these travel options, you can easily plan a memorable trip to this charming city.

Accommodation

Kollam, a city in the Indian state of Kerala, offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels and homestays, visitors can choose from a variety of options to make their stay in Kollam comfortable and memorable. The city's proximity to the Arabian Sea and its scenic backwaters make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing getaway.

Top 10 Recommended Accommodations

1. The Raviz Kollam – A 5-star hotel offering luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities
2. Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort & Ayurveda Spa – A resort situated on the banks of the Kollam backwaters, offering ayurvedic treatments and luxurious villas
3. The Quilon Beach Hotel – A beachfront hotel with comfortable rooms and stunning views of the Arabian Sea
4. Hotel Allseason – A budget-friendly hotel with cozy rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine
5. Nila Palace – A heritage hotel with elegantly designed rooms and a rich cultural ambiance
6. Lake n River Resort – A resort situated on the banks of the Astamudi Lake, offering scenic views and outdoor activities
7. Tamarind KTDC Easy Hotel – A budget-friendly hotel with modern rooms and a restaurant serving international cuisine
8. The Leonia Holistic Destination – A wellness resort offering ayurvedic treatments, yoga, and meditation
9. Hotel Sea Pearl – A 3-star hotel with comfortable rooms and a rooftop restaurant serving seafood
10. Regant Lake Palace – A luxury hotel with lavish rooms and suites, and a private lake

Facilities & Information

Kollam, a city in the Indian state of Kerala, offers a wide range of facilities for tourists, including transportation, accommodation, and healthcare. The city has a well-connected airport, railway station, and bus station, making it easily accessible from major cities. Additionally, Kollam has a variety of hotels, resorts, and homestays to cater to different budgets and preferences. The city also has several hospitals, clinics, and medical stores, providing adequate healthcare facilities for tourists.

Government Offices & Important Facilities

• Kollam District Collector's Office – The district collector's office is responsible for administrative and revenue-related matters
• Kollam Municipal Corporation Office – The municipal corporation office handles civic amenities, waste management, and public services
• Kollam Sub-Registry Office – The sub-registry office is responsible for property registration and document verification
• Kollam District Treasury Office – The district treasury office handles financial transactions, tax payments, and pension-related services
• Kollam District Court Complex – The district court complex is the primary judicial hub for Kollam, dealing with civil and criminal cases
• Kollam Police Commissioner's Office – The police commissioner's office is responsible for law and order, traffic management, and public safety
• Kollam Regional Transport Office – The regional transport office handles vehicle registration, driving licenses, and transportation-related services
• Kollam Post Office – The post office provides postal services, money transfer, and bill payment facilities

Other Useful Information

Tourists can also access various other facilities in Kollam, including hospitals like the Kollam District Hospital and the Travancore Medical College Hospital. For emergency services, tourists can contact the police at 100 or the ambulance at 102. The city has several banks, ATMs, and money exchange centers, including the State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, and the Federal Bank. Additionally, tourists can visit the Kollam Tourist Information Office for guidance on local attractions, transportation, and accommodation. In case of emergencies, tourists can also contact the Kerala Tourism Helpline at 0471-2320714.