KOLLAM
Are you tired of the same old destinations for your vacations? Want to explore a place that's off the beaten path, yet offers tons of fun and entertainment? Look no further than Kollam, the hidden gem of Kerala!
Nestled on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam boasts a charming blend of history, culture and natural beauty. From serene backwaters to bustling markets, this city has something for everyone.
But don't take our word for it - even Marco Polo was smitten by Kollam's allure! And if that doesn't convince you, we have one word for you: cashew. Yes, Kollam is the cashew capital of the world, producing over 80% of India's cashews. So, if you're nuts about nuts (pun intended), this is definitely a destination worth considering.
But wait, there's more! Kollam is also home to some spectacular beaches, like Thirumullavaram and Tangasseri. Soak up some sun or indulge in some water sports - either way, you won't be disappointed.
And let's not forget about the food - oh boy, the food! From mouth-watering seafood to spicy curries and crispy parottas , Kollam has it all. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure in this underrated paradise!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Kollam
- How to Reach and getting around Kollam
- Weather of Kollam
- Places to Visit in Kollam
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Kollam
- Best areas for Accommodation in Kollam
- Shopping in Kollam
- Nightlife in Kollam
- Festivals and Events in Kollam
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Kollam
- FAQs
History and Culture of Kollam
Kollam, also known as Quilon, is a historic city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It was once a major port city and an important trading center for spices and cashew nuts. Legend has it that the city was founded by the great warrior sage Parasurama, who threw his axe into the sea to create a new land, which became Kollam.
Kollam has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times. It was an important center of learning and culture during the reign of the Chera dynasty. The city was also visited by famous explorers like Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta who were amazed by its beauty and wealth.
One of the most famous cultural events in Kollam is the annual Kollam Pooram festival, which is held at the Asramam Maidan in April/May every year. The festival is known for its colorful processions, fireworks, and traditional performances like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu.
Kollam is also known for its delicious cuisine, which includes seafood dishes like prawn curry and karimeen fry. The city's street food scene is also worth exploring, with local delicacies like parippuvada, banana chips, and kappa biryani being popular among visitors.
Kollam's natural beauty is another major attraction for tourists. The city is home to some of Kerala's most beautiful beaches like Thirumullavaram Beach and Tangasseri Beach. Visitors can also take a boat ride along the backwaters of Ashtamudi Lake or explore the nearby Munroe Island to experience the region's unique biodiversity.
In conclusion, Kollam is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture that is worth exploring for anyone interested in Kerala's heritage. Whether you're interested in food, festivals or nature, there's something for everyone in this beautiful coastal town!
How to Reach and getting around Kollam
Kollam is a beautiful city located in the southern part of India, also known as the 'Gateway to the Backwaters'. It is well connected to all major cities of India through different modes of transportation. Here are some options on how to reach Kollam for those planning a visit:
By Air: The nearest airport to Kollam is Trivandrum International Airport, which is about 70 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kollam. The airport has regular flights from all major cities in India and abroad.
By Train: Kollam has its own railway station, which is well-connected to all major cities of India. One can take a train from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore or any other city and reach Kollam without any hassle. Some popular trains that run to Kollam are Jan Shatabdi Express, Kerala Express and Guruvayur Express.
By Road: Kollam has good road connectivity with all major cities in South India. One can take a bus or drive down from nearby cities like Trivandrum, Kochi or Madurai. The National Highway 66 passes through the city connecting it with other parts of Kerala.
By Water: Kollam is also known for its backwaters and one can take a boat ride from nearby places like Alleppey or Quilon to reach this beautiful city. There are many houseboats available for hire that offer a luxurious way of traveling through the backwaters.
In conclusion, reaching Kollam is hassle-free and convenient due to its excellent connectivity with other parts of India. Whether it's by air, train, road or waterway, one can choose the mode of transport that suits them best and enjoy their trip to this beautiful city.
Weather of Kollam
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantKollam, a beautiful coastal city in Kerala, experiences a tropical climate throughout the year. The city witnesses heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September, which makes it difficult to explore the city. The humidity level is also high during this time, making it uncomfortable for tourists.
The best time to visit Kollam is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and cool. During this time, the temperature ranges between 18°C to 30°C, making it perfect for exploring the beautiful beaches and other tourist attractions in Kollam.
The winter months of December and January are the peak season for tourism in Kollam. The weather is dry and cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing and beach hopping. The temperature during these months ranges from 16°C to 28°C.
If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful vacation, then visiting Kollam during the shoulder season of October-November or February-March is a good idea. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, and you can explore the city without any hassle.
To sum up, Kollam is an all-year-round destination with winters being the best time to visit due to pleasant weather conditions. However, if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful vacation, then visiting during non-peak months can be a good idea too.
Places to Visit in Kollam
Kollam Beach: Located at a distance of three kilometers from the Kollam town, Kollam Beach is an ideal spot for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of nature. The beach is known for its serene beauty, calm atmosphere, and picturesque sunsets.
Thangassery Lighthouse: Thangassery Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Kerala, built during the British era in 1902. The lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and nearby areas.
Ashtamudi Lake: Ashtamudi Lake is a vast freshwater lake that covers an area of 61 square kilometers. It is famous for its backwater tourism, houseboat rides, and boat races.
Munroe Island: Munroe Island is a cluster of eight islands located at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River. The island is famous for its natural beauty, backwaters, and coconut plantations.
Palaruvi Waterfalls: Palaruvi Waterfalls is located near Aryankavu village in Kollam district. It is one of the highest waterfalls in Kerala with a height of 300 feet.
Jatayu Earth's Center: Jatayu Earth's Center is a unique eco-tourism project situated on top of Jatayupara hills near Chadayamangalam town. It features a giant statue of Jatayu (a mythical bird) and various adventure activities.
Sasthamkotta Lake: Sasthamkotta Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, situated at a distance of 29 kilometers from Kollam town. It is also known as "Queen of Lakes" due to its scenic beauty.
Mahatma Gandhi Beach & Park: Mahatma Gandhi Beach & Park is located close to the Thangassery Lighthouse and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Kulathupuzha Temple: Kulathupuzha Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Sastha (Ayyappa). The temple complex features beautiful carvings and sculptures.
Oachira Temple: Oachira Temple is a unique temple located at Oachira village in Kollam district that does not have any idol or deity worshiped inside it but worships nature itself as God Almighty.
Note by AI Writer: The description provided here are based on online research only as I am an AI language model with no personal experience visiting these places.
Adventures Activities
Heritage Places
Relaxing Retreats
Beaches
Hilly Regions
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Kollam
Best areas for accommodation in Kollam
Kollam, also known as Quilon, is a scenic city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Known for its serene backwaters and colonial architecture, Kollam is a popular tourist destination. If you're planning a trip to Kollam, here are some of the best areas for accommodation:
Ashtamudi Lake: Located on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake, this area offers stunning views of the backwaters. It is home to several luxury resorts and hotels.
Beach Road: As the name suggests, this area runs along the coastline and offers easy access to Kollam Beach. It has a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to mid-range resorts.
Kadappakada: This area is close to Kollam's commercial hub and is ideal for business travelers. It has a mix of budget and mid-range hotels.
If you're looking for accommodation in Kollam, here are three properties that you can consider:
The Raviz Resort & Spa Ashtamudi: This luxury resort is located on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake and offers stunning views of the backwaters. It has an outdoor pool, spa, and multi-cuisine restaurants.
Hotel Allseason: This budget hotel is located in the heart of Kollam city and offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It has an on-site restaurant that serves Indian and Chinese cuisine.
Zostel Kollam: This hostel is ideal for backpackers who want to explore Kollam on a budget. It has dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and shared bathrooms. The hostel also organizes activities like boat rides and bonfires.
Shopping in Kollam
Kollam, also known as Quilon, is a beautiful city located in the southern part of Kerala. Apart from its scenic beauty, Kollam is also famous for its markets and shopping destinations. Here are some of the best things to buy, markets to visit and things to avoid while shopping in Kollam.
Things to buy
- Spices: Kollam is famous for its spices such as black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Coir products: The city is known for its high-quality coir mats, carpets, and other coir products.
- Handicrafts: You can find various handicrafts made by local artisans such as wooden sculptures, wall hangings and pottery.
- Cashews: Kollam is the largest producer of cashews in Kerala. You can find different varieties of cashews here.
Markets to visit
- Tangasseri Market: This market offers a wide range of seafood, spices and coir products. It's also a great place to buy souvenirs.
- Chinnakada Market: This market is one of the busiest areas in Kollam. You can find everything from clothing to electronics here.
- Kadappakada Market: This market is famous for its fresh fruits and vegetables.
What to avoid
- Cheap and fake products
- Buying without bargaining
- Unlicensed tour guides
- Overpaying for transportation
In conclusion, shopping in Kollam can be a great experience if you know where to go and what to buy. Make sure you visit these markets and purchase authentic products while avoiding any scams or overpriced items.
Nightlife in Kollam
Kollam is a city in the southern state of Kerala, India. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse cuisine. But it's not just about the day time activities that makes Kollam an interesting place to visit. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers something for everyone.
Whether you're looking for a quiet drink or want to dance the night away, Kollam has plenty of options. From rooftop bars to nightclubs and lounges, there's something for every taste.
Here are three places in Kollam with activities for spending the night:
- The Raviz Ashtamudi: This luxury hotel overlooks the Ashtamudi Lake and offers a range of nightlife options. You can enjoy live music at the hotel's lounge bar or head up to the rooftop terrace for a romantic dinner with stunning views.
- Havana Lounge Bar: This popular bar is located in the heart of Kollam city and is known for its lively atmosphere and great cocktails. You can dance to the latest hits or catch up with friends over drinks.
- M.R Resort & Spa: If you're looking for a more laid-back vibe, head to M.R Resort & Spa. The resort has a poolside bar where you can sip cocktails while enjoying live music or simply relax by the pool.
In conclusion, Kollam may not be as bustling as other cities in India when it comes to nightlife but it still has plenty of options to offer. Whether you prefer a quiet drink or dancing till dawn, there's something for everyone in this charming southern city.
Outdoor Activities in Kollam
Kollam, a city in the southern state of Kerala, is known for its serene backwaters, pristine beaches, and lush green forests. Apart from the tranquil atmosphere, Kollam also offers a plethora of outdoor activities to keep visitors engaged and entertained.
Boating on the backwaters of Ashtamudi Lake is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Kollam. The lake has several islands that can be explored by boat. Additionally, there are many fishing villages along the banks where visitors can witness traditional fishing techniques and sample fresh seafood.
Trekking through the forests surrounding Kollam is another activity that nature enthusiasts will enjoy. There are several trekking trails that lead to scenic spots such as waterfalls and viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the landscape.
Beach sports such as volleyball, football or frisbee can be played on the sandy beaches like Thirumullavaram Beach and Mahatma Gandhi Beach. Visitors can also take a dip in the clear waters or simply lounge on the beach enjoying the sea breeze.
In conclusion, Kollam is an excellent destination for those who love outdoor activities amidst nature. Boating on Ashtamudi Lake, trekking through forests and indulging in beach sports are some of the must-try experiences that will make your visit to Kollam worthwhile.
Festivals and Events in Kollam
Festivals and events are an important part of Kollam's culture and heritage. They provide a glimpse into the traditions, beliefs, and customs of the people. The city celebrates a wide range of festivals and events throughout the year that attract tourists from all over India and around the world.
- Ashtami Rohini (August/September): Celebrated in honor of Lord Krishna's birth, this festival is marked by colorful processions, devotional songs, and special feasts.
- Kollam Pooram (April/May): A grand cultural festival that showcases the traditional art forms of Kerala like Kathakali, Theyyam, Panchavadyam, and Chenda Melam. It is celebrated at Asramam Maidan in Kollam.
- Kottankulangara Chamayavilakku (March/April): A unique festival where men dress up as women to offer prayers to Goddess Bhagavathy. It is held at Kottankulangara Temple in Chavara.
- Thiruvathira Festival (December/January): Celebrated by women to seek blessings for marital bliss and longevity. It involves traditional dance forms like Thiruvathirakali.
- Onam (August/September): The biggest festival in Kerala, Onam marks the homecoming of King Mahabali. It is celebrated with floral decorations (Pookalam), boat races (Vallomkali), and a sumptuous feast (Onasadya).
- Navaratri Festival (September/October): A nine-day celebration dedicated to Goddess Durga. It involves fasting, prayer, and cultural programs.
- Sivaratri Festival (February/March): A day-long fast observed by devotees of Lord Shiva. It involves special pujas at temples across Kollam.
These festivals and events showcase the rich cultural heritage of Kollam and provide visitors with an opportunity to experience its traditions firsthand. Whether it's dancing to traditional music or indulging in mouth-watering local delicacies, these celebrations are not to be missed!
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Kollam
Plan your trip around festivals and events: Kollam is known for its vibrant festivals and events, so try to plan your trip around these dates to get the full experience. Some popular events to look out for include the Kollam Pooram, the Ashtami Rohini, and the Navaratri festival.
Pack appropriate clothing: Kollam has a tropical climate, so make sure to pack light, breathable clothing that is suitable for hot and humid weather. Also, keep in mind that some religious sites may require visitors to dress conservatively.
Stay hydrated: With high temperatures and humidity levels, it's important to stay hydrated during your travels. Make sure to carry a water bottle with you at all times and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Explore local cuisine: Kollam is famous for its delicious seafood dishes, so be sure to try some of the local delicacies while you're there. Some must-try dishes include karimeen pollichathu (spicy grilled fish), meen vevichathu (fish curry), and kappa biryani (tapioca-based dish).
Use accredited tour guides: When visiting historical sites or tourist attractions in Kollam, it's important to use accredited tour guides who are knowledgeable about the area's history and culture. This will not only enhance your experience but also ensure that you receive accurate information about the sites you're visiting.
FAQs
What is Kollam famous for?
Kollam is famous for its backwaters, beaches, and historic significance. It is known as the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala and boasts of Ashtamudi Lake, which is the second-largest lake in Kerala. Kollam Beach and Thirumullavaram Beach are two popular beaches in Kollam. The city also has a rich history with several ancient temples, churches, and mosques.
How to reach Kollam?
Kollam is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, which is around 64 km from Kollam. The city has its own railway station that connects it to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. There are also regular buses available from nearby cities like Trivandrum and Kochi.
What are some popular tourist attractions in Kollam?
Some popular tourist attractions in Kollam include Ashtamudi Lake Backwaters, Thangasseri Lighthouse, Munroe Island Backwaters, Palaruvi Waterfalls, Jatayu Earth's Center, Mahatma Gandhi Beach & Park, and Thirumullavaram Beach.
What are some famous festivals celebrated in Kollam?
Kollam celebrates several festivals throughout the year with great fervor. Some of the popular festivals celebrated here include Onam (August/September), Vishu (April), Navratri (September/October), Christmas (December), Eid-ul-Fitr (June/July), and Muharram (August/September).
What are some famous dishes of Kollam?
Kollam has a rich culinary heritage with several dishes unique to the region. Some of the famous dishes include Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish marinated in spices and grilled in banana leaves), Meen Curry (fish curry made with coconut milk), Appams (rice pancakes made with fermented rice batter), and Puttu-Kadala Curry (steamed rice cake served with chickpea curry).
What are some shopping destinations in Kollam?
Kollam has several shopping destinations where you can buy souvenirs and local handicrafts. Some of the popular shopping destinations include Chinnakada Market (famous for textiles and spices), Kadappakada Market Complex (famous for jewelry), Tangasseri Market (famous for sea shells and antiques), and Ashtamudi Craft Village (famous for handicrafts).
What are some adventure activities that one can indulge in while visiting Kollam?
Being a coastal town with backwaters on one side and hills on the other side makes it possible for tourists to indulge themselves in various adventure activities like kayaking through mangrove forests at Munroe Island Backwaters or Paragliding at Varkala beach or even trekking through Thenmala hills which offer a breathtaking view of nature at her best.
In conclusion,Kollliam is not just another tourist destination but a place that offers different experiences to its visitors. From serene backwaters to bustling markets; from history-rich temples to modern adventure sports- there's something for everyone here!
