Kollam served as a major trading centre during the rule of Portuguese and Dutch. The sea port became a prime centre of activities in that time. The district is blessed with nature's bounty as on one side it is the coast of Arabian Sea and another side it is the large backwaters. Hence, there are a number of tourist places that're worth a visit in Kollam.
Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi means 8 corners or 8 coned. The city of Kollam is on the banks of Ashtamudi lake. The beautiful coconut palms, houseboats and the scenery of this backwater will amaze you.
Photo Courtesy: Joseph Jayanth
Thevally Palace
Thevally Palace is a historic monument and one of the main landmarks in Kollam city. It is one of the heritage buildings on the banks of Ashtamudi lake. Thevally Palace is one of the popular palaces in Kerala.
Photo Courtesy: Thessentials
Kollam Beach
The scenic vistas of Kollam beach attracts many visitors. It is one of the prime tourist places that make Kollam alluring. Kollam beach is also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach and they're several other places to see around.
Photo Courtesy: Surajram Kumaravel
Munroe Island
Munroe Island is a unique place in Kollam. The island is also a village which is known for coir weaving industry. Munroe island is located at the confluence of Ashtamudi lake and Kallada river. One can go bird watching, boating and also explore the village.
Photo Courtesy: Arunsunilkollam
Mahatma Gandhi Park
Mahatma Gandhi Park (MG Park) is located near Kollam Beach. It is one of the main spots in Kollam.
Photo Courtesy: Arunvrparavur
Thangassery Light House
Thangassery Light House or Tangasseri Light House is situated in Tangasseri. It is one of the major attractions of Tangasseri in Kollam.
Photo Courtesy: Joachim Specht
Sasthamcotta Lake
Sasthamcotta Lake is one of the protected wetlands in Kerala. It is named after the Sastha temple situated on its shore. Sasathamcotta Lake is also the main source of drinking water for Kollam.
Photo Courtesy: Soman
Kottukal Rock-Cut Temple
Kottukal rock-cut temple is a unique architecture built during 6th - 8th century. The temple houses the idol of Lord Ganapathi, a Shiva Linga and a Hanuman statue. The cave temple is located in Kottukal near Anchal.
Photo Courtesy: Kannanshanmugam
Thangasseri
Thangasseri or Tangasseri became a popular trading centre during the Portuguese rule. It is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea and a has a number attractions. Thangasseri Fort, Light House, Thangasseri Port, Infant Jesus Church and Thangasseri Breakwater.
Photo Courtesy: Arunvrparavur
Kottarakkara Mahaganapathi Temple
Kottarakkara Mahaganapathi Temple is one of the famous temples in Kerala. The presiding deity is Lord Shiva but the temple is known for Ganapathi. It is located in Kottarakkara.
Photo Courtesy: Binupotti
Palaruvi Waterfalls
Palaruvi in the local Malayalam language means ' a stream of milk'. The waterfalls looks so beautiful. It is formed by the Kallada river in Kollam.
Photo Courtesy: Akhilsunnithan
Adventure Park
Adventure Park is on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake. It is known for various fun activities like speed boats, houseboats, etc. It is also called as Asramam Picnic Village in Kollam city. A visit here is a must.
Photo Courtesy: Arunvrparavur
The Arabian Sea and the vast freshwater lakes provide a mystical beauty to this place. The heritage sites and pilgrimage sites all together make Kollam a nice place for tourism in Kerala. A house boat ride in Ashtamudi lake, a walk around Kollam beach and exploring Thangassery will make your vacation a most enjoyable one.