Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Kollam’s location on Kerala’s southwest coast makes it a fantastic hub for day trips to hill stations, waterfalls, beach towns, wildlife parks, and cultural heritage sites. Whether you're after adventure, nature, or peaceful rural life, there's something close by to explore.

Here’s a list of top nearby destinations and one-day trip ideas from Kollam:

 1. Thenmala Eco-Tourism & Dam

 66 km | 1.5–2 hours drive

 Why Visit?

• India’s first planned eco-tourism destination
• Activities include trekking, rope bridge walk, boating, butterfly garden, and a musical fountain
• Ideal for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts

 Tip: Combine with a visit to Palaruvi Waterfalls for a full-day nature getaway.

 2. Palaruvi Waterfalls

 ~75 km | 2–2.5 hours drive

 Why Visit?

• One of Kerala’s most scenic waterfalls, falling from 300 feet
• “Palaruvi” means "stream of milk", referring to its white frothy flow
• Surrounded by forests, it’s a peaceful picnic and bathing spot

 Tip: Best time to visit: post-monsoon (Sept–Jan). Take swimwear if you plan to take a dip.

 3. Varkala Beach & Cliff

 35 km | 1 hour drive

 Why Visit?

• Unique red cliffs with beach views, yoga centers, and boho cafés
• Visit Papanasam Beach, Janardana Swamy Temple, and local shops
• A mix of spiritual vibes and seaside chill

 Tip: Stay for sunset—it’s spectacular from the cliffside.

 4. Padmanabhapuram Palace

 60 km (in Tamil Nadu) | 1.5–2 hours drive

 Why Visit?

• 16th-century wooden palace of the Travancore kings
• Renowned for rosewood carvings, mural paintings, and antique furniture
• Architectural and historical gem

 Tip: Closed on Mondays. Shoes not allowed inside; wear socks if needed.

 5. Paravur Lake & Beach

 20 km | 40 minutes drive

 Why Visit?

• Scenic spot where the lake meets the Arabian Sea
• Ideal for kayaking, picnics, and watching migratory birds
• Less crowded, clean, and perfect for a peaceful break

 Tip: Great for couples, photographers, and morning nature lovers.

 6. Munroe Island

 27 km | 45 minutes drive

 Why Visit?

• A cluster of islets located where Ashtamudi Lake meets the Kallada River
• Take a traditional canoe ride, visit coir-making units, and observe village life
• Offbeat and immersive experience

 Tip: Best experienced during sunrise or sunset canoe rides.

 7. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary (via Thenmala)

 ~70 km | 2–2.5 hours drive

 Why Visit?

• Evergreen forests home to elephants, leopards, bison, and exotic birds
• Trekking and guided forest tours available
• Great for adventure lovers and nature buffs

 Tip: Entry needs permission from forest authorities—plan in advance.

 8. Sasthamcotta Lake & Temple

 29 km | 1 hour drive

 Why Visit?

• Largest freshwater lake in Kerala
• Visit the ancient Sastha Temple, and enjoy the peaceful lake shore
• Less touristy and ideal for spiritual seekers

 Tip: Spot friendly temple monkeys around the premises!

 9. Ochira Temple & Oachira Kali Festival Site

 34 km | 1 hour drive

 Why Visit?

• A unique temple without idols or sanctum, celebrating universal energy
• Site of the grand Oachira Kali festival (June) – mock battle reenactments in muddy fields
• Blend of philosophy, folklore, and fun

Tip: Visit during the festival for a colorful, one-of-a-kind experience.

 10. Jatayu Earth’s Center (Jatayupara Nature Park)

 55 km | 1.5 hours drive

 Why Visit?

• Features the world’s largest bird sculpture (Jatayu from Ramayana)
• Cable car rides, rock adventure park, and cultural center
• A mix of myth, nature, and thrill

 Tip: Go in the morning to avoid heat and long queues for cable cars.

✅ Quick Overview Table

Kollam isn’t just a destination—it’s a gateway. Within a couple of hours, you can explore beaches, waterfalls, hill forests, mythological landmarks, and spiritual lakes. Whether you're after thrills or tranquility, these day trips from Kollam will give you a full spectrum of Kerala’s beauty.

From canoe rides to cliff views—your next escape is just a short drive from Kollam.