Kollam in Kerala

Kollam located 74 km northwest of Thiruvananthapuram and 85 km south of Alappuzha, is a vibrating backwater destination, tucked between the eight cornered Ashtamudi Lake and Lakshadweep Sea. It was once the center of the international spice trade and a secret approach to Kerala's backwaters. The name Kollam is derived from the word Kolam which is the Sanskrit word for pepper. Duarte Barbossa, a 16th century Portuguese writer described it as a 'very great city with right good haven'. It's typically sprawling Kerlan market community, with the wooden houses and winding backstreet's are worth a wander. August to April is the ideal time to plan out the trip to Kollam.

It is one such destination that takes you back in time to relive the glory of yesteryears. In the earlier times Roman, Arab, Chinese, later on Portuguese, and Dutch traders used to visit Kollam for the purpose of trade. Later on the Britishers set up the factories at Kollam to export spices, sandalwood, cashew nuts, pottery, aluminum, ivory and coir. Kollam was formerly known as Quilon.

Kollam Sightseeing :

Ashtamudi Lake :

Famed for its magnificent views, Ashtamudi is the most important sightseeing spot in Kollam. The Kallada river which rises in the western ghats flows through forests and plains and finally drains into the Ashtamudi. The palm-shaped, Ashtamudi lake is named so because of the eight arms or channels is the gateway to the Kerala backwaters.

Thangassery Light House :

Thangassery lighthouse is considered as the biggest contribution of the British to Kollam. Built at the height of 144 feet, it is major landmark in Kollam. The construction of this lighthouse was completed in the year 1902. It remains open to the tourists from 15:30pm to 17:30pm. Another highlight of the region is the Thangassery Fort which is now a protected monument.

Amanda Valleeswaram Temple :

Among the many temple, church and mosques in Kollam, Ananda Valleeswaram temple is most important among them all. Drawing heaps of tourists all around the year, it is one of the major pilgrimage in Kerala.

Things to do :

Kollam Backwater Cruise :

Kollam offers its tourists the unique backwater experience. It is good opportunity to relax in the lap of nature for few days. The ketuvallm glides across the kayals, stopping at the regular intervals for you to discover the life that revolve around these backwaters. Feel the aura of water birds, lotus and water lilies that touches your houseboats as you sail through them. Every day a cruise leaves at 10:30 am and covers all the major destinations from Kollam to Alappuzha.

Festivals in Kollam :
Another major attraction of the region is the Pooram festival that is held in month of April annually. Than there is Ashtamudi Craft and Art festival (December/January) every two years.

Ayurveda Tour :

Janakanthi Panchakarma Center is a lake side Ayurvedic Resort, known for its seven to twenty one day treatment packages. You can also go for the rejuvenation massage and herbal stream bath for Rs 500.