About 71 km to the north of the capital city, Thiruvananthapuram, lies Kollam, the center of the country's cashew trading and processing industry. With unique representative features - pleasing sea, impressive lakes, magnificent plains, colossal mountains, shimmering rivers, striking streams, superlative backwaters, dense forests, vast lush green fields, and tropical crops of every type, Kollam is rightly known as "God's Own Capital" of the "God's Own Country" - Kerala. Once the port of international spice trade, Kollam, today, is one of the oldest ports on the Malabar Coast. Interestingly, about thirty per cent of this historic town is covered by the distinctive Ashtamudi Lake, declaring it as the gateway to the splendid backwaters of Kerala. The smooth boat trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest and most captivating journey to experience in the backwaters of Kerala. The district is home to some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the traditional ornate architectural style.The Portuguese were the first Europeans to set up a trading center in Kollam, followed by the Dutch and British. People from far-off places, such as Persia, Arab, Rome, and China indulged in trade here in the earlier times. Belief is that the present day Kollam town was built by the Syrian merchant called Sapir Iso in the 9th century. Today, Kollam, being one of the most industrialized districts, is highly significant for Kerala's trade and commerce. Products, such as coir, chemicals, ceramics, and minerals make up for the diversity in terms of trade and commerce. It also serves as an important hub for the marine products industry of Kerala, which centralize around the Neendakara port for trawlers and ice plants. Paced with industrial activity, Kollam is a place where nature can be viewed at its best and hence, a visit to this destination is a must on your trip to Kerala.
Kollam Attractions
From the Thangassery Beach with water sports facilities to boating, trekking, cycling, and a tree house stay in Thenmala; from a tranquil ride in the backwaters of Alumkadavu to the beautiful village of Mayyanad and much more, Kollam has it all and is sure to provide the visitors with fun aplenty. Read through the lines below to know more about the spellbinding and awesome tourist attractions in Kollam.
Kollam Excursions
Let's get the obvious (also the most fascinating) out of the way - the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary. Yes, although Kollam is highly known for the rich variety of flora and fauna it holds in the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, but it also possesses a whole lot more than catering to the needs of wildlife lovers, peace lovers, nature lovers, and the religiously inclined alike. Read more to know about the excursions in and around Kollam.
How to Reach Kollam
Kollam, a city in the Indian state of Kerala, is situated about 71 km from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. Being the fourth largest city in Kerala and a popular backwater destination makes it well connected to rest of the cities in and outside Kerala, via road, rail, and air. Read below to know more about the modes of transportation available in Kollam.
