Selected Tourist Places in Kollam

What are the major tourist places in Kollam? Quilon, as it was called by Dutch, was a British Enclave. Clinched in its past and flourished by its unique culture, Kollam lies on the southwest coastline of Kerala. Widespread backwater networks including the serene waters of Ashtamudi Lake and the lush green vegetation composed of swaying coconut groves make Kollam among the major tourist places in Kerala. Here’s a list of major places to visit in Kollam District.

Munroe Island Kollam

One of the most enjoyable yet least explored among the tourist places in Kollam is Munroe Island. Located at the joining of Kallada River and Ashtamudi Lake, Munroe Island is a hidden treasure among the backwaters of Kerala. The destination that is composed of 8 islands and a network of several canals, rivers, and lakes is a perfect place for experiencing country boat rides, fishing, coir manufacturing, and amazing sunsets. Read more about Munroe Island here.

Kollam Lighthouse

The lighthouse that was built by Britishers in the year 1902 is 144 feet tall in a picturesque coastal village that includes a three kilometers long sand beach. The location is popularly known as Thangasseri and is renowned since the Portuguese establishment of a trading center here in 1502. The ancient church and the fort built by Portuguese and named after St. Thomas was destroyed during the wars with Moors, Arabs, and Dutch. The Dutch, the Kingdom of Travancore, and the British (in 1795) conquered and ruled this small village, leaving the traces of different cultures and remains of their administration for the tourists to have a sneak peek into the history. The remains of Portuguese and Dutch forts, the lighthouse, and the beach are the major attractions here.

Sasthamkotta Lake

The largest freshwater lake in Kerala, Sasthamkotta is vast and serene. It is said that this magnificent lake have derived its name from an ancient temple dedicated for Lord Sastha. However, the lake and its beautiful village is a good choice from the major tourist attractions in Kollam District to relax and unwind.

Punalur

Punalur, a small yet gorgeous town in Kollam District of Kerala, is also known as the ‘lap of the Western Ghats’ due to its lush green natural beauty. This tourist spot in Kollam is famous for pepper, pineapples, and timber. The exotic Kallada River is also flowing through Punalur where you can enjoy a relaxed evening in a hammock on its banks. A suspension bridge that was constructed by British during 19th century is another major attraction in Punalur. There’s more - this vibrant tourist place in Kollam is popular for its bio-reserve known as Agasthyamala.

Palaruvi Waterfalls

When planning a tour to Kollam, you can also visit Palaruvi Waterfalls that is located near Aryankavu on Kollam - Shenkottai Road. This majestic waterfall has an altitude of 300 feet and can be best visited from June until January, during the major monsoon months and immediately after that. Palaruvi is approximately 77 kilometers from Kollam town after Punalur.

Beaches of Kollam

In addition the lighthouse (Thangasseri), Kollam has a few more exotic beaches to explore. Just 2 kilometers from Kollam town is Mahatma Gandhi Beach and Park. This is one interesting place in Kollam where you will find people come for a relaxed evening while hawkers flock around to earn that day’s sale.

Another beach that scored acceptance and popularity in Kollam District is Thirumullavaram Beach. The serene sand bed of Thirumullavaram is suitable for sunbathing and swimming. Thirumullavaram Beach is approximately 6 kilometers from Kollam Town and can be accessed by public road transportation.

Mayyanad is a charming village located just 10 kilometers from Kollam town. The beach that is separated from brackish waters by a small strip land makes this village scenic. Lord Subramanian Temple, an old mosque, and three churches are also famous among the attractions of Mayyanad.

Thevally Palace, Kollam

Thevally Palace is among the major heritage destinations in Kollam. The palace is situated on the shores of Ashtamudi Lake. Built during the reign of Gauri Parvathi Bai between 1811 and 1819, the palace served as the residence of the Travancore Maharaja during his visits to Kollam. A blend of English, Portuguese and Dutch architectural excellence can be seen here.

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Kollam

The sanctuary is a protected area in the Western Ghats. Located near Punalur and controlled by Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, the park has an artificial lake that supports a wide variety of flora and fauna in the park. The park is home to several species of animals including over 267 species of birds.

Varkala Beach

Varkala is one of the best beach destinations that can easily be accessed from Kollam town. Just under 32 kilometers from Kollam, Varkala beach is a pleasing spot among the tourist places in Thiruvananthapuram District. The black beach and the cliff beach of Varkala are famous among the tourists of Kerala, and you cannot miss it out from your Kerala Tour itineraries.

Ponmudi

A calm and tranquil hill station in the district of Thiruvananthapuram is another tourist spot that is misunderstood and considered among the tourist places in Kollam, due to its proximity to Kollam town. Just over 100 kilometers Ponmudi is an exotic hill station with green meadows and beautiful valleys.

Another major attraction in Kerala is Munnar, one of the best hill stations in southern India for experiencing Western Ghats.