“Kollam – Gateway to Backwater Wonders, where lakes, cashew trails, and Ashtamudi’s calm canals await.”
Kollam, formerly known as Quilon, is a historic coastal district in the southern part of Kerala. It is internationally known for its scenic backwaters, long coastline, rich biodiversity, heritage monuments, and vibrant cultural traditions. Kollam has been a major trading port since ancient times and today stands as an important tourism destination that combines nature, heritage, and eco-tourism.
Highlights in Trivandrum
Geographic Features
Kollam is blessed with diverse geographical features including the Arabian Sea coastline, backwater lakes, rivers, forests, and hill ranges.
- Long coastal belt with sandy beaches
- Vast backwater network connected to Ashtamudi Lake
- Forest regions linked to the Western Ghats
- Rivers like Kallada enhancing inland water tourism
- Rich wetland and mangrove ecosystems
This variety makes Kollam suitable for beach tourism, backwater tourism, forest tourism, and cultural tourism.
Major Tourist Attractions
Backwaters and Inland Water Tourism
Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi Lake is the most important backwater destination in Kollam and one of the largest lakes in Kerala. The lake is named after its eight branching arms and supports houseboat tourism, village cruises, fishing communities, and mangrove forests.
Activities include:
- Houseboat cruises
- Canoe and shikara rides
- Village sightseeing
- Sunset photography
Munroe Island
Munroe Island is a cluster of small islands formed at the confluence of the Kallada River and Ashtamudi Lake. It is famous for narrow canals, coconut groves, coir making, fishing activities, and homestay tourism. It offers authentic rural experiences and eco-friendly travel opportunities.
Beaches and Coastal Tourism
Kollam has several clean and peaceful beaches suitable for leisure and family tourism.
- Kollam Beach – City beach with promenade and sunset views
- Thirumullavaram Beach – Calm and less crowded, suitable for relaxation
- Tangasseri Beach – Historic surroundings and lighthouse
- Puthenthura and Azheekal Beaches – Quiet coastal villages with scenic beauty
These beaches are ideal for evening walks, photography, and light recreational activities.
Eco-Tourism and Nature Tourism
Thenmala Eco-Tourism
Thenmala is India’s first planned eco-tourism destination. It offers nature trails, boating, forest walks, adventure activities, butterfly parks, and educational eco-programs. The region promotes sustainable tourism and environmental awareness.
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
This protected forest area is part of the Western Ghats ecosystem and supports rich flora and fauna. Guided trekking and nature interpretation programs are available for visitors.
Palaruvi Waterfalls
Palaruvi, meaning “stream of milk,” is a scenic waterfall located in forest surroundings. It is popular for nature bathing, picnic tourism, and photography.
Heritage, Culture and Religious Tourism
Temples
- Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple – Famous for ritual traditions and Kathakali association
- Sasthamcotta Dharma Sastha Temple – Located near Sasthamcotta Lake
- Mayyanad Subramanya Swamy Temple – Ancient coastal temple
Churches and Colonial Heritage
- Historic churches at Tangasseri built during European trading periods
- Remains of Portuguese and Dutch settlements
- Old forts and colonial structures
Mosques and Cultural Diversity
Kollam has historic mosques reflecting its long maritime trade links with Arab countries, showing strong cultural harmony and religious coexistence.
Urban Tourism and Public Spaces
- Asramam Maidan – Large public ground and cultural venue
- Tangasseri Breakwater Tourism Park – Waterfront leisure park
- Mahatma Gandhi Park – Recreation park near Kollam Beach
- Chinnakada Clock Tower – City heritage landmark
- Museums and cultural centers related to local history
These areas support family tourism, cultural programs, and community events.
Festivals and Cultural Events
Kollam hosts several festivals that attract tourists:
- Kollam Pooram – Elephant processions, percussion, fireworks
- President’s Trophy Boat Race – Internationally known snake boat race
- Temple festivals with traditional art forms
- Onam celebrations in backwater regions
These festivals promote cultural tourism and seasonal travel.
Cuisine and Local Products
Food Tourism
Local cuisine is rich in seafood, coconut-based dishes, and traditional Kerala meals.
Popular items include:
- Fish curry and fried seafood
- Tapioca with fish curry
- Traditional vegetarian sadya
- Toddy with local dishes
Shopping and Handicrafts
Kollam is famous for:
- Cashew processing and export products
- Coir and coconut-based crafts
- Spices and traditional snacks
- Handicraft items
Cashew industries also support industrial tourism.
Accommodation and Tourist Facilities
Tourists can choose from:
- Backwater resorts
- Eco-lodges and forest cottages
- Houseboat stays
- Budget hotels and homestays
Facilities include:
- Tourist information centers
- Approved boat services
- Local guides and travel operators
- Medical and emergency services
Connectivity and Accessibility
- Air: Nearest international airport: Trivandrum International Airport.
- Rail: Kollam Junction is a major railway station connected to all major Indian cities.
- Road: National highways and state roads connect Kollam with nearby districts and tourist centers.
- Water Transport: Boat services operate in backwater routes connecting villages and tourism centers.
Conclusion
Kollam is a unique tourism destination that offers a balanced mix of water landscapes, beaches, forests, cultural heritage, religious harmony, festivals, and traditional industries. With proper infrastructure and sustainable tourism planning, Kollam can further develop as a major international tourism hub while preserving its ecological and cultural identity.
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