Kollam
Kollam previously known as Quilon is one of the the most antiquated cities of Tourist Kerala. This historic coastline city known for its marine and cashew industries was one of the oldest ports on the Malabar coast and a major international trade center with the Persians, Romans, Arabs and Chinese in the past. The Portuguese, Dutch and British established trading posts at Kollam to export spices, sandalwood, ivory and coir. Now also Kollam is the heart of cashew nut processing and trading industry of Kerala.
A vast area of Kollam is covered by the famous Ashtamudi Lake (literally means having eight arms) which is the second largest backwaters of Kerala and is considered the entryway to the enchanting backwaters of Kerala. There are a number of tourist destinations in and around Kollam besides the captivating backwaters. The eight hours boat ride from Kollam to Alappuzha is exceedingly beautiful with lotuses and water lilies growing in the water and water birds splashing and playing in the water.If you miss this experience you are misiing the heart of Kerala .In the Tourist map of Kerala Kollam also hosts some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the traditional architectural style.
Places of Attraction
Thangasseri – This seaside village in the boundary of the city is burst with historical evidences. The remnants of an old Portuguese Fort and the churches built in the eighteenth century are seen here. The 144 feet high lighthouse at Thangasseri provides fabulous views of the sea and the coast of Kollam.
Thevally Palace:- The Thevally Palace on the banks of the river Ashtamudi is a unique example of ancient Kerala architecture.
Mayyannad:- Mayyanadu is noted for its temples and shrines. Among them the Subramanya Temple that is believed to be consecrated by the Sri Sankaracharya, the Hindu philosopher is the most important.
Thirumullavaram:- Thirumullavaram located 6km north of Kollam, is a beautiful beach spot in South Kerala. It is very well connected by road. This beach is ideal for an early morning walk and has good bathing facilities. One can lie around the warm sunlight under the coconut palm fronds swaying and dancing in the breeze. Thirumullavaram Temple is another attraction.
Ochira:- Ochira is a unique pilgrim center. It is famous for its Parabhrahma Temple, which is a unique Kerala temple without any sanctum sanctorum or idol. In the vast ground there are two groves (Kavu). The important festivals are the Ochirakali (June-July) and the Panthrandu Vilakku (December).
Sasthankotta Lake:- It is the largest fresh water lake in Kerala. It is the main source of drinking water for the people in various parts of Kollam. Sree Dharma Sastha Temple one of the famous Temples of Kerala situated on the banks of the river is another attraction. Boating facilities in the beautiful backwaters are also available here.
Alumkadavu:- Alumkadavu is a small picturesque village on the banks of the Kayamkulam lake. It is the home of the skilled artisans who crafted the enormous Kettuvallams (house boats).
Matha Amritanandamayi Ashram:- The ashram is located in Amritapuri, Vallikkavu, 30km north from Kollam Town. This international pilgrimage destination is famous for its educational and Ayurvedic medical institutes. You can visit the Ashram and Matha Amrithanandamayi who is called the hugging saint, on tours of Kollam.
Jadayu Rock:- This massive rock located in the Chadaya Mangalam Village derived its name from the mythical bird Jatayu (vehicle of Lord Mahavisnu) mentioned in Ramayana. It has to say a lot connected with legend, belief and culture. It is an ideal place for trekking also.
Palaruvi Waterfalls – The flow of immaculate waters from a height of 300 feet is a spectacular sight. Separate bathing points for men and women are available.
How to Reach
By air :- Thiruvananthapuram International air port (77km)
By road:- NH 47 and Kollam Shenkotta NH passes through the city.
By rail:- Kollam Junction is connected to all other parts of Kerala
