Kollam - Kerala - India

The coastal district of Kollam formerly known as Quilon lies 70 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. The first thing that comes to the mind of a Keralite when he hears of Kollam is the delicious cashew nut. The orchards and their abundant yield of the costly nut has led to the title “Cashew Kings” dispersed among some of the rich. The place is rich in marine yield also. It is one of the oldest ports and trading centers in Kerala. It finds mention in history pointing to its trading connection to Phoenicians and Romans before the start of Christian era.

One of the finest backwater destinations in Kerala to start your houseboat ride is Kollam. Kollam is one of the oldest ports on the Malabar Coast, and is renowned for its Cashew industry. 30 percent of the backwaters of this town are occupied by the famous Ashtamudi Lake. 

   Kollam stay will be very interesting as it has many ancient ruins and is a historically noted place.  

The backwater canals (kayals) and lakes were lined with coconut palms and the dailies of village activity—children waving, men fishing, and women walking to the market.

Well, about the city, it is a beautiful place, having a history of being a trading port for centuries. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to establish a trading center in Tangasseri part of Kollam, in 1502. 

    Kollam (Quilon), one of the oldest seaport towns on the Arabian Sea and Ashtamudi Lake

Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and Ashtamudi lake; Kollam which was also known as Quilon is famous for its Commerce and culture along with its unique tourist spots.

The tourist places in Kollam District offers variety of experience to voyagers. Being one of the oldest ports on the Malabar Coast this place has contributed extensively in the development of culture and trade network in Kerala.

The sprawling town at the curvy banks of Ashtamudi Lake, the southern backwater gateway of Kerala, has enough in store for a short getaway.

Kollam houseboat cruises serve the longest backwater ride in Kerala, lasting for 8 hours from Kollam to Alleppey. The traditionally designed houseboats come along with the authentic cooks, who serve you freshly cooked meals along the way.

The sight that the ride offers across Kollam is spectacular; blooming water lilies, canals and the songs from the birds leaves you content.

The Kollam Beach also provides traveller to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for a soothing experience.

The backwaters have been described as the emerald jewel in South India’s crown and we would have to agree. 

How to reach

By Road

You can easily get regular buses to Kollam from other major cities of the country.

By Train

Kollam is well connected to other major cities of the country via regular trains.

Railway Station(s): Kollam Junction (QLN), Eravipuram (IRP)

By Air

There are no regular flights from other major cities of the country to Kollam. Nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.

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