Kollam,Kerala
Kollam (formerly Quilon) is an ancient port city on the Malabar Coast of Kerala with a history as a trading hub connecting the Arabian Sea, the Persian Gulf, China and Europe. It played an important role in the spice and cashew trade and was noted in Chinese, Arab and European maritime records. The city is the gateway to the Ashtamudi Lake backwaters, one of Kerala’s most important and scenic wetland ecosystems, and is a center for traditional industries such as coir, cashew processing and fishing. Kollam also has several historic colonial-era sites, temples and churches that reflect its multi-layered cultural past.
Places to visit
- Ashtamudi Lake and backwaters
- Thangassery (Tangasseri) Lighthouse and Fort
- Kollam Beach and Asramam Picnic Village
- Thirumullavaram Beach
- Munroe Island (Munroethuruthu)
- Jatayu Earth’s Center (Jatayupara) — Chadayamangalam
- Palaruvi Waterfall (in Kollam district)
- 8-Pandals and temples of historic significance
Unique Aspects
- Vast, palm-fringed backwaters and houseboat cruises on Ashtamudi Lake
- Thriving cashew-processing industry and traditional coir-making units
- Colonial-era buildings, lighthouses and a mixed cultural heritage
- Rich birdlife and mangrove ecosystems around the estuary and islands
- Local boat races (vallam kali) and backwater festivals
Things to do
- Houseboat cruises on Ashtamudi Lake and day trips to Munroe Island
- Kayaking, canoe rides and village boat tours
- Beach walks, sunrise and sunset viewing at Thirumullavaram and Kollam Beach
- Visiting colonial sites and the Thangassery Lighthouse
- Day trip to Jatayu Earth’s Center for trekking, rope activities and viewing the sculpture
- Visiting cashew processing units and sampling local seafood
- Birdwatching in mangrove and estuarine habitats
- Attending local festivals and boat races
Festivals & Events
- Kallada Boat Race (vallam kali) and other local boat races (seasonal)
- Onam celebrations across the city (major harvest festival)
- Local temple festivals and processions (timings vary by temple)
Best Time to Visit
October to February — cool, pleasant post-monsoon months ideal for backwater cruises, beaches and sightseeing.
Weather Conditions
Tropical monsoon climate: hot and humid most of the year. Heavy southwest monsoon rains from June to September; pre-monsoon showers in May; cooler, drier weather from October to February.
Accessibility
Nearest major airport: Trivandrum International Airport (TIR) — about 70–80 km south (1.5–2.5 hours by road depending on traffic). Kollam is well connected by rail (Kollam Junction) on the Southern Railway network and has frequent long-distance trains. Regular state and private buses connect Kollam to nearby cities. Local transport: taxis, auto-rickshaws and ferries for island access.
Recommended Duration
2–4 days for the city and nearby backwater experiences; add extra days for excursions to Jatayupara or waterfall treks.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, breathable cotton clothing for daytime; a light jacket or shawl for evenings in winter. Comfortable walking shoes/sandals for beaches and light treks. Rain jacket/umbrella during monsoon. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and insect repellent for backwaters.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try fresh Kerala seafood (fish curry, prawn dishes), karimeen preparations, appam and tapioca-based dishes, and local snacks. Cashew nuts from Kollam and handcrafted coir products make popular souvenirs. Pick up local spices, traditional textiles and small handicrafts from markets.
