Top places to visit

Top Places to Visit in Kollam

Kollam, the gateway to Kerala’s backwaters, is blessed with a mix of natural beauty, historic charm, spiritual serenity, and coastal magic. From tranquil lakes and ancient temples to scenic beaches and cultural landmarks, Kollam offers an offbeat yet unforgettable travel experience.

 1. Ashtamudi Lake

 Heart of Kollam
 Open all day

 Why Visit?

• The second-largest lake in Kerala, with eight branches or “arms”
• Perfect for houseboat cruises, canoe rides, birdwatching, and sunset views
• Gateway to Alleppey backwater cruises

 Tip: Try a sunset boat ride or an overnight houseboat stay for the full experience.

 2. Thirumullavaram Beach

 6 km from city center
 Sunrise to sunset

 Why Visit?

• A quiet, less-crowded beach ideal for morning walks and picnics
• Golden sand, calm waves, and lined with coconut palms
• Spot the Nyarazhcha Para (a submerged rock visible during low tide)

 Tip: Great for families and solo travelers looking to relax.

 3. Kollam Beach & Mahatma Gandhi Park

 Near city center
 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM

 Why Visit?

• Enjoy the lighthouse views, local snacks, and breezy evenings
• A popular place for locals and tourists alike
• Adjacent to a children's park, making it family-friendly

 Tip: Climb the Tangasseri Lighthouse (nearby) for panoramic views.

 4. Tangasseri Lighthouse & Ruins

 5 km from city
 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
 Entry: ₹20

 Why Visit?

• 144 ft high, built in 1902 by the British
• Offers stunning sea and city views from the top
• Nearby ruins of Portuguese and Dutch forts, ancient churches, and cemeteries

 Tip: Wear comfy shoes if you’re climbing the spiral staircase.

 5. Sree Mahaganapathy Temple, Kottarakkara

 ~25 km from Kollam

 Why Visit?

• Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this is one of Kerala’s most important Ganapathy temples
• Spiritual ambiance, especially during Vinayaka Chathurthi and temple festivals

 Tip: Don't miss the prasadam—sweetened rice known as Appam and Unniyappam.

 6. Munroe Island

 27 km from Kollam
 Ideal for morning/afternoon visits

 Why Visit?

• A cluster of small islands where Ashtamudi Lake meets the Kallada River
• Take a traditional country boat ride through narrow canals
• See coir-making, toddy tapping, prawn farming, and rural life

 Tip: Visit during low tide or full moon for canoe rides through mangrove tunnels.

 7. Thenmala Eco-Tourism & Dam

 66 km from Kollam
 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
 Entry: Varies by activity

 Why Visit?

• India’s first planned eco-tourism destination
• Activities: trekking, rope bridge walk, boating, adventure zone, butterfly garden
• Visit Thenmala Dam and enjoy the forested hill views

 Tip: Combine with Palaruvi Waterfalls nearby for a full-day trip.

 8. Palaruvi Waterfalls

 ~75 km from Kollam (via Aryankavu)
 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
 Entry: ₹20

 Why Visit?

• “Palaruvi” means “stream of milk”—named for its milky-white cascade
• Falls from 300 feet through lush greenery
• A natural swimming spot and picnic area

 Tip: Visit post-monsoon (Sept–Jan) for the best flow and safest conditions.

 9. Rameshwara Temple

 Kollam town

 Why Visit?

• One of Kerala’s oldest Shiva temples
• Features Gopuram, carvings, and Kerala-Dravidian architecture
• Peaceful spot amid the bustle of the town

 Tip: Visit in the morning for a calm spiritual vibe.

 10. Kollam Town & Shopping Streets

 Chinnakada, Kavanad, Beach Road

 Why Visit?

• Explore cashew shops, spice markets, handloom textiles, and gold jewelry stores
• Buy fresh cashew nuts, banana chips, coir products, and Kerala saris

 Tip: Best visited in the evening; don’t forget to try local snacks!