Kollam

Introduction and History: Kollam is the headquarters of Kollam district in Kerala. Also referred to as Quilon, the southern city has served as a magnetic trade centre since ancient times. Spices, pearls, diamonds and silk were the key exports. The seaport had flourishing trade relations with China, Rome and Greece. Recognized by the great travellers Marco Polo and Ibn Batuta, Kollam has served as a capital city. Its reputation continued to thrive during the Portuguese and Dutch invasion times. Malayalam Era is called ‘Kolla Varsham’ after Kollam, because of the importance of Kollam in the 9th century A.D. About thirty per cent of this district is covered by the Ashtamudi lake, there by making it the gateway to the backwaters of the state. Nowadays the city is famous for cashew and coir.

What to see and when to go: Killam has multiple tourist destinations which include the ruins of the Portuguese fort and the lighthouse at Thangasseri, Jatayupara at Chadayamangalam (named after Jatayu in Ramayana epic). Kollam clock tower, Thenmala and Palaruvi waterfalls serve as tourist hotspots. Mayyanad is a tourist town 10 Kilometers south of Kollam that has famous temples, churches and mosques. Kovilthottam beach and light house, sinking islands in Ashtamudi lake, St.Andrews church and Kottamkulangara temple in Chavara village also make up an ideal tourist destination. The best season to visit is from August to March

Things to do: Eco tourist’s center is situated at Thenmala. Selected by World Tourism Organization as one of the world’s best eco-friendly projects, Thenmala has a leisure zone that includes winding pathways, a sway bridge and a boardwalk; a culture zone with an amphitheatre and a musical fountain and an adventure zone. Picnic village at Ashramam plays host to variety of recreational activities that include Adventure parks. Leisurely walks along the Thirumullavaram Beach and houseboat cruises are also recommended.

Accommodation: Accommodation prices vary from place to place in the district. In the city, prices range from 150 to 10,000 Rupees per day. Overall, the rates are very economical and the resorts provide a comfortable stay.

Mode of Transport: Kollam is an important railway junction. The Thiruvananthapuram - Ernakulam(via Kottayam and Alappuzha) line passes through Kollam. The city is well-interconnected with other major cities through National Highways 47, 220 and 208. The city’s road transport is backed by buses and autos. Thiruvananthapuram airport at a distance of 72 km from Kollam is the nearest airport. The Alappuzha water transport service is a major tourist attraction.

Related links:
• Official website: http://kollam.nic.in
See also: Achencoil, Oachira, Varkala, Thevalli palace, Mahavishnu temple and Munroe Island.