Kerala is known as God’s Own Country, and for good reason. Almost every part of Kerala sees hordes of tourists all year round. Kollam, a port town located on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake, is one of Kerala’s many gems that stand testament to its label. The Ashtamudi Lake is known to be the southern opening for the famed backwaters, so Kollam provides everything a traveler looks for—a serene, relaxing holiday in the lap of nature, while enjoying the conveniences of a city life.
Steeped in history, Kollam was an important trade center with historical mentions in the Biblical times during King Solomon’s reign. Trade with the Chinese, Romans and Arabs, among others, was commonplace from the Kollam port. The city is still an important point of trade and manufacture, but it is an even bigger tourist hotspot. Houseboats on the backwaters shaded by towering palm trees, long, winding sandy beaches and historical edifices make this town an ideal destination for a trip with your friends, family or just your special loved one.
Apart from just lazing on the beach of cuddling inside a houseboat, Kollam has plenty to offer to the discerning tourist. The Tangasseri lighthouse that stands towering over you at over 140 ft, along with its adjoining fort, is a must-see. There are a number of temples displaying traditional Keralite architecture that would be a perfect stopover for the religiously inclined.
The British Residency building in the city has been often called a fine piece of architecture; add the Portuguese cemetery to that itinerary, and any history buff will be satiated.
The port town also offers many sprawling beaches, so hop from one to the other to experience how kind nature has been here. If you’re travelling with kids, check out the Adventure Park or the Asramam Picnic Village, where they can learn and play all day long. When in Kollam, there won’t be a moment of boredom.
The most fun way of getting around Kollam would undoubtedly be by boat. If you feel like splurging, hop onto a double-decker luxury boat. Buses are also readily available through town. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also convenient options to sightsee at your own leisure.
On a daily basis there are approximately 75 flights that operate at Trivandrum International Airport.Air India Express, IndiGo and Air India are the most popular airline brands that fly frequently to this airport.
Besides flying you can also reach Kollam through train.Kollam Jnis one of the most popular train stations in Kollam.On an average about 100+ trains pass through Kollam on a daily basis.Kayamkulam to Kollam, Thrissur to Kollam, Kochi to Kollamare some of the most popular routes to Kollam with 216, 212, 208 trains weekly respectively.
By road Kollam is surrounded by Varkala, Pathanamthitta, Chengannur which are 13.3 km, 29.95 km, 30.19 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.
Kollam has a total of 33 hotels.There are 33 hotels in Kollam with the popular ones being WelcomHotel Raviz Ashtamudi, Resort and Ayurveda Spa, Fragrant Nature Resort, The Quilon Beach Hotel, Hotel Nani, Aquasserenne Resort, Ashtamudi Villas etc.