Top Activities & Experiences

through backwaters

1. Backwater Cruise on Ashtamudi Lake

 Boat stations at Kollam city, Ashtamudi, and Munroe Island

 Why Do It?

• Explore the majestic eight-armed lake and its lush canal network
• Choose from houseboats, shikaras, or canoe rides
• Spot kingfishers, egrets, mangroves, and coconut-lined shores

 Tip: Try an overnight houseboat stay or a sunset cruise for magical views.

 2. Canoe Ride through Munroe Island

 27 km from Kollam city

 Why Do It?

• Paddle through narrow, palm-shaded canals
• Watch locals engaged in coir making, prawn farming, and toddy tapping
• Authentic, peaceful, and immersive rural experience

 Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon for the best light and birdwatching.

3. Relax at Thirumullavaram or Kollam Beach

 6 km from town (Thirumullavaram) / Near city center

 Why Do It?

• Chill on clean, less-crowded beaches
• Great for sunrise/sunset walks, local snacks, and peaceful time
• Safe and scenic for families and couples

 Tip: Pack snacks and a mat for a laid-back beach picnic.

 4. Climb Tangasseri Lighthouse & Explore Colonial Ruins

 Tangasseri, 5 km from town

 Why Do It?

• Climb the lighthouse for panoramic sea and city views
• Explore Portuguese and Dutch colonial ruins, old churches, and cemeteries
• History meets adventure in this coastal corner

 Tip: Open till 5 PM—visit on a clear day for best views.

 5. Taste Kollam’s Cashew Delights & Coastal Cuisine

 Local bakeries, seafood shacks, and street stalls

 Why Do It?

• Kollam is India’s cashew capital—try roasted, spiced, and sweetened varieties
• Enjoy Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish), fish curry meals, tapioca with chutney
• Try the iconic banana chips and jackfruit halwa

 Tip: Visit a local cashew factory or outlet for tasting and packing gifts.

 6. Ayurvedic Massage or Wellness Therapy

 Resorts & Ayurvedic centers around Ashtamudi, Kollam Beach

 Why Do It?

• Experience traditional Kerala therapies with natural oils and herbs
• Ideal for rejuvenation, relaxation, and stress relief
• Available as short sessions or full-day packages

 Tip: Choose a certified Panchakarma center for authentic treatments.

 7. Day Trip to Thenmala Eco-Tourism & Palaruvi Waterfalls

 ~66–75 km from Kollam

 Why Do It?

• Trek through forest trails, walk the suspension bridge, or enjoy boating
• Visit India’s first eco-tourism destination
• Cool off at Palaruvi Waterfalls, a stunning white cascade

 Tip: Great for families and nature lovers; carry snacks and water.

 8. Temple Hopping & Spiritual Trails

 Rameshwara Temple, Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple, Aryankavu

 Why Do It?

• Experience the spiritual pulse of Kerala through its ancient temples
• Observe rituals, festivals, and classical architecture
• Peaceful and introspective activity

 Tip: Dress modestly and check temple timings before visiting.

 9. Try Your Hand at Fishing with Locals

 Coastal villages and backwater sides

 Why Do It?

• Join local fishers on a traditional wooden boat
• Learn net casting or rod fishing, and catch your own dinner!
• Genuine local interaction and fun for all ages

 Tip: Book through your homestay or local tourism contact.

 10. Photography Walks & Sunset Views

 Munroe Island, Ashtamudi Lake banks, Lighthouse, Vellimon

 Why Do It?

• Capture reflections on the backwaters, temple rituals, fishermen at work
• Stunning sunrises and sunsets over the water
• Ideal for travel bloggers, nature lovers, and Instagrammers

 Tip: Early morning fog and golden hour at dusk offer magical lighting.