Kollam, a Land of Backwaters

Kollam, situated to the north of Kerala capital Thiruvananthapuram is the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala. Kollam is the hub of India's cashew trading and processing industry. Home to the largest fresh water lake in Kerala -Sasthamcottah lake, a boat cruise starting from the Ashtamudi backwaters in Kollam to backwater networks in the adjoining district of Alappuzha and further is a delightful experience.

The climate is of tropical humid type with an oppressive summer and plenty of seasonal rainfall. The summer lasts from March to May and the monsoon season is from June to November.

Airport: The nearest airport is the Thiruvananthapuram international airport, which is about 80 km away.

Railway: Kollam is connected by rail with several important cities.

Road: Well connected by road with many tourist centres in India.

Places of Attractions

Sasthamkotta Lake:

This is the largest fresh water lake in Kerala. A country boat or a houseboat ride through the blue waters of Shastamkotta is just thrilling. A moon light stay in the houseboats in the lakes is so fascinating.

Ashtamudi Lake:
Scenic and Calm Ashtamudi Lake is another biggest backwaters of Kerala. The backdrop of Chinese fishing nets lends a magnificent view. The quiet town of Kollam is situated on the edge of this lake. Fringed with coconut groves and palm trees, hire boats for cruising through the placid lake.

Palaruvi Waterfalls:

Located near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, this lovely waterfall at Palaruvi, at a height of 300 feet, is a pristine spot. The waterfalls give the impression of following milk, which falls steeply down into a small shallow pool, which is ideal for swimming.

Shendurni Wildlife Sanctuary:

Located 70 kms from Kollam is the Shendurni Wildlife Sanctuary.

Kottangulangara Chamayavilakku:
This is a unique festival, which is held at the Kottankulangara temple in Chavara, near Kollam. One can see hundreds of sturdy men dressed up as comely females. This is an offering to the goddess Bhagavathy, the deity of the temple.

Oachira Kettukazcha:
This is a major festival held during the months of August/ September- September/ October at the Oachira Temple near Kollam. Unlike other temples, there is no shrine or idol at the Oachira temple. Oachirakali or Oachira dance is a sort of ancient choreographed mock battle performed a the temple.

Jatayupara:
This huge rock at Chadayamangalam takes its name from the mythical bird Jatayu in the epic Ramayana, who is believed to have collapsed on the rock after failing in his attempts to thwart Ravana's kidnapping of Sita.

Picnic Village:
Along the backwater front is located the picnic village, which is a main centre of recreational activities in Kollam. A 200-year old Government Guest House, Adventure Park, Tourist Boat Club, Children's Traffic Park are all housed in this tourist complex.

Thangassery (Fort and Lighthouse):

Thangassery is a seaside village of historic importance, which has the ruins of an Old Portuguese fort and a church built in 18th century. The beautiful beach nearby has a lighthouse of about 144 feet high.