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Places to Visit in Kollam

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Here is a list of best places to visit in Kollam:

Ashtamudi lake.

The incredible beauty of Kerala, Ashtamudi lake has eight branches that coincide with the Arabian sea after converging into one channel, hence the name Ashtamudi, where Ashta means eight and mudi means branch. Spell-binding the travelers with its inarticulate and persuasive charm, this second largest lake in Kerala is one of the most popular places to visit in Kollam . Beautifying the banks of this lake, palm and coconut trees, intensifies the fascinating experience of calm and lush green waterways. Thriving harmoniously in Kollam district of Kerala, Ashtamudi lake immerses the tourists with tremendous pleasure by granting them an experience of houseboat cruising. Things to do - Backwater Cruising, Fishing, Experience unimaginable stay in a houseboat, Island visit. Location - Kollam, district of Kerala Price - Coasting by houseboat will start from INR 2500. Timings - Welcome travelers 24 hours preferred timing by travelers from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Best time to visit - To enjoy most of it, visit between November to March for cool and pleasant weather.

Thangassery Light House

Climb up the 200 steps to enjoy the panoramic view of the Arabian sea and Kollam. Mounting grandly above the coconut trees, Tangasseri Lighthouse is the second tallest lighthouse with a height of 140 feet on the coast of Kerala. The red and white painted bands around the lighthouse make it marvelous and dignified. Moreover, witnessing the pleasant sunset from the top of the lighthouse is a breathtaking experience. Attracting tourists towards its enchanting beauty and calming view, an evening to the lighthouse is worth visiting among places to see in Kollam . Things to do - Climb up and enjoy the view from the lighthouse, Relax at Thangassery beach, Pump the adrenaline rush with scuba diving and surfing, go fishing.   Location - Kollam, district of Kerala Price - INR 3 for children and INR 10 for adults. Extra charges are applicable for the camera. Timings - Sunrise to Sunset. Best time to visit - Visit in Winters i.e. between the month of November to March for cool and pleasant weather.

Kollam Beach

The beauty of Kollam beach makes it a vantage point to unwind and relish its picturesque landscape. The mysterious view of natural blue waters blending with the infinite bright sky bequeaths the sightseers amazed. The Kollam beach calls to rejuvenate the mind and body, energising the tourists with its cultural and spiritual aura. This beach is famous among some travelers with the name of Mahatma Gandhi Beach and soothes wanderers with lush green, calm backwaters, and endless water activities. Things to do -  Beach fun activities, Swimming, visit nearby Mahatma Gandhi Park.   Location - Kollam, district of Kerala Price - No entry fee. Timings - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Best time to visit - The most pleasant time to visit is from October to February.

Thirumullavaram Beach

An unexplored beach of Kerala where golden sand surrounds clear blue water and the serene seashore is embellished by coconut and palm trees. The delightful view of sun-soaked sand, soothing blue sea, and lush green palm never fail to attract tourists. Holding a place in the list of places to see in Kollam , tourists visit this place to get immersed in the calm and peaceful surroundings. Being one of the isolated beaches of Kerala, the beauty of the beach is still unimpaired. Just like any other beach, travelers relax and enjoy swimming and sun-bathing. Things to do - Sit back and relax, Swimming, Sun-bathing, Visit nearby Vishnu temple.   Location - 6 km north of Kollam, district of Kerala Timings - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Best time to visit - The most delightful time to relax is from October to March.

Best of Kerala

Kollam Adventure Park

The center of leisure activities for people with no age limit. A must-go-to place for luxurious boating, picnic, and the art museum among other tourist places in Kollam. The park encloses a place possessing numerous rides and impressive scenery that makes it ideal for a family picnic. With the alluring backwaters, travelers can enjoy houseboat cruises, deluxe boats, and speedboats in the midst of serene waters. Apart from the boat club, children’s park, this place covers enticements such as a 200-year-old government guest house and Yatri Nivas. Also, on the establishment is the art museum, where painting lovers seizes a chance to admire exhibit paintings collected from different parts of the country. And the fun doesn’t end here, a nature dweller can visit the mangroves close to the park to spot endangered species of bushes. Things to do - Boating, Art Museum, yatri Nivas, and vintage guest house, fun activities and rides at the park.  Location - Behind guest house, Asramam, Kollam Price - INR 30. Timings - 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Best time to visit - The playful time is from October to March.

Anandavalleswaram Temple

South India is home to auspicious temples and religion, Anandavalleswaram temple, devoted to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is one of them. Well-known among the tourists, this temple is nearly 1100 years old, located in the heart of Kollam district. The story that revolves around the name of this temple states that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are in a happy state and hence the name ‘Anandavalleswaram’. To acquire some peace and unique experience, add this temple in your places to visit in Kollam schedule. The worshipers here get peace, while the travelers get mesmerised by its charm and tranquillity. Location - 2.5 Km from Kollam junction railway station   Price - No entry fee. Timings - 6:00 am to 9:00 pm. Best time to visit - Full moon days are considered more auspicious.

Best of Cochin

Sri Mahaganapathi Temple

This temple is one of the famous pilgrimage spots in Kollam, popular among worshipers as the center of spirituality and devotion. The architecture of this centuries-old temple attracts most of the tourists admiring its charming design. The most interesting fact about this temple, where the family of shiva resides is that, even non-Hindus are allowed to visit here. The idol of Lord Ganapathi symbolises the presence of this temple but it also has idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The god devotees worship the lord with the offering of Unniyappam Udayasthamanapooja, Maha Ganapathi Homam, and Pushpanjali. Things to do - Visit to Worship the Lord and nearby Kottukal Cave Temple. Location - 25 Km from Kollam  Price - No entry fee. Timings - 4:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Best time to visit - You can visit at any time of the year.

Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls

A sight for enduring the magnanimous waterfall and a variety of wild animals. Located in the vicinity of the Konni forest area, the waterfall is popular among the travelers for its scenic and breathtaking sight. The sound of falling water and chirping birds will make you fall in love with the surrounding landscape. For such a pleasant and delightful experience, this place is worth visiting among other places to visit in Kollam. The cascade startles the sightseers with its colorful hues of descending stream from an altitude of 25 meters. Things to do - Trekking, Visit nearby falls such as Manalar falls and Palaruvi falls, Konni forest area. Location - Achankovil-Shencottah Road of Kollam district. Price - No entry fee. Timings - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM  Best time to visit - The most suitable time to visit is after monsoon i.e. from September to February.

Best of Alleppey

Palaruvi Falls

The whitestream waterfall descending from the height of 300ft resembles the shape of a horse’s tail. The stream of milk names the cascade as Palaruvi, which rushes down the mountain, giving a glorious view and is one of the top places to visit in Kollam. This enchanting surroundings breathes of the lush green forests, Kallad river, and some other minor watercourses. The roaring sound of the stream echoes in the quietness of the encircling forest, making this site incredible. The tourists experience the freshness of its water from the lower pool generated by a massive storm of the waterfall. Along with admiration of its alluring beauty, Palaruvi Falls also holds a sacred significance and is worshipped by local people. Things to do - Palaruvi trek, Kurishumala Trek  Location - Achankovil-Shencottah Road of Kollam district. Price - Below 13 years of age - free; Above 13 years INR 10. Timings - 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM  Best time to visit - July to October.

Thevally Palace

An architectural wonder located on the banks of Ashtamudi lake, it is a blend of British, Dutch, and Portuguese architectural style. This heritage center reflects the glory of the princess reign and attracts tourists from different parts of the country. The beauty of this palace holds a magnificent view because of the lush green coconut plantation and palm trees' surroundings. Dwellers of the historical palace and scenic beauty must add this destination to their list of places to visit in Kollam route. Apart from the picturesque landscape, tourists are fascinated by the ecstatic experience of the nearby pristine lake and refreshing breeze. Things to do - Picnic on the lawns of the palace, trekking to Sankhili forest. Location - Kollam - Elamballoor Road, Palace Nagar, Thevally, Kollam Price - No entry fee. Timings - 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM  Best time to visit - The most suitable time to visit is from March to May and October to February.

Best of Kovalam

Paravur Lake

Paravur town in the Kollam district bears a small lake that merges with the backwaters of Kerala. Attracting a number of travelers, this lake embellishes the Keralan backwaters with perfection and serenity. Another real fascination in the region of Paravur lake is the Priyadarshini watercraft club. This watercraft club uncovers immense boating choices in the realm where the Arabian Sea, river, and the Kappil backwater merge. Travelers can fancy shopping at the stretch of Paravur-Edava-Varkala street, running along the bank of Paravur Lake. Paravur Lake is additionally exceptionally famous Paravur Lake is around 4 kilometers far from Paravur town. Paravur-Edava-Varkala Street goes through the banks of Paravur Lake. Furthermore, the mangroves standing along both sides of the lake intensifies its beauty, making it more attractive. Additionally, to admire the wide-ranging view of the lake, climb on to the mountains situated on the north and east of the place. This lake is popular and significant as it connects as a part of the Trivandrum-Shornaur Canal System to the Edava and Ashdamudi Kayal. Things to do - Canoeing , Swimming. Location - Paravur town, 13 km from Kollam. Price - No entry fee. Timings - 12:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Best time to visit - September to December.

St Thomas Fort

The trading center of pepper, also known as Tangasseri fort, this heritage center of Kollam has a rich trade history and culture. Situated in East Tangasseri on the banks of the Arabian sea in Kerala, the fort is 50 feet high and faces the beach. The fort remains as one of the most important archaeological sites in Kollam, attracting tourists to visit this monument and unwind its historical trading link. The rustic appearance and lush green surroundings of the fort makes it an excellent point for photography and mesmerises the travellers with its exquisite architecture. If you are a history lover, visit this fort to learn about the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British rulers. Things to do - Photography, Unreveal the trading history. Location - 8 km from Kollam Price - No entry fee. Timings - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Best time to visit - Explore the old-aged fort from September till the end of February.

Best of Kumarakom

Kakkathuruthu

A small magnificent island popularly known as the island of crows, it is a prime attraction for bird watchers. The beauty of the island enhanced by coconut trees and paddy fields is breathtaking and doesn’t miss a chance of enticing travelers, be it nature or food lovers. Speaking of food, the place serves a variety of food ranging from Kerala cuisine to seafood such as karimeen, crabs, and shrimp. Furthermore, tourists enjoy the view of the setting sun and watching the sky hues, shifting its color from pale blue to crystal clear blue. The sole place in Kerala listed in Nat Geo's magazine for relishing the time of dusk. Things to do - Broom making, Boating, Chinese net, Bird watching, Toddy tapping, Shinkari melam, Catnet fishing, Clam meat processing. Location - 10 km from Kollam Price - No entry fee. Timings - open 24 hours Best time to visit - Anytime of the year.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum

The museum represents the historical figure, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, famously known as the ‘Iron Man of India’. Tourists are fascinated to visit this museum to locate traces of the history and growth of the Indian police force. The museum holds arms and ammunition of the 18th and 19th century including bullets, guns, machines, and much more. Additionally, the place endures the unknown facts about Kerala Police force and information charts on DNA tests, human bones, fingerprints and snapshots of police dogs, etc. Things to do - Walk down the trail of museum galleries to unreveal arts and crafts, antique masterpieces, artifacts, manuscripts, old oil paintings. Location - 2 km from Kollam bus station. Price - INR 10 for children and INR 20 for adults. Timings - 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, except Sundays. Best time to visit - Anytime of the year.

Best of Varkala

Chinnakada Clock Tower

The symbolic clock tower is considered as the heart of the city Kollam. The name Chinnakada is derived from China-Kada, meaning China bazaar. The tower faces four directions of the city with clocks on all sides, and the fascinating architectural design of the colonial era attracts the tourist to take a glance at the landmark of the city. The clock tower has become a non-official symbol of Kollam and is the busiest part of the city where roads from Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Downtown, Sengottai, Ashramam, Kollam Beach, and the City bus stand meet. Location - 0.5 km from Kollam railway station. Price - No entry fee. Timings - Open 24 hours. Best time to visit - Anytime of the year.

Kottankulangara Devi Temple

A Hindu temple, devoted to goddess Durga Bhagavathy or Aadi Shakthi- popularly symbolised as the supreme mother of power. The tourists are attracted by its unique architecture, where the temple has no roof above the sanctum. The sole temple in India that holds a unique ritual of men getting dressed in female attire at the Kottankulangara Festival. The cross-dressing is encouraged not only by the local people but also by the tourists visiting during the annual festival. You can encounter men dressed as women who will be marching to the sanctuary holding traditional lamps as the lamp holds great significance in this temple. Devotees visit the sanctuary to look for the attributes of the goddess and give the offerings of payasam, aravana, iratti madhuram and ornaments, silks etc. Location - 17 km from Kollam city center. Price - No entry fee. Timings - 5:00 am to 8:30 pm. Best time to visit - Anytime of the year, Visit in mid of March to join the annual function.

Best of Kasaragod

Infant Jesus Cathedral

The historic Roman Catholic church established by Portuguese in the city of Kollam is another tourist attraction point. This magnificent church endures spellbinding interiors, a vast compound and beautifully glass painted windows depicting the life of jesus. The main attraction of this church is one of the glass window paintings that showcases Christ sitting in the lotus position and meditating. The quiet abundance of the church besides its panoramic beauty is what makes a traveler's visit to this Roman Catholic church worth it. Location - 8 km from Kollam city center. Price - No entry fee. Timings - Open 24 hours. Best time to visit - Anytime of the year, Visit during christmas to enjoy the eve.

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

An adrenaline-rushing place for adventure-seeking travelers. The wildlife sanctuary tempts tourists with its scenic beauty and authentic nature’s aura. Kollam houses only this wildlife sanctuary, which is renowned for its biodiversity and beautiful landscape . It encloses activities such as jungle camping, trekking, jeep safaris, bird watching, etc. Travelers can hike to the trails of evergreen forest and camp at any one of the five camping sites within. Moreover, travelers come across a rare tree species called Chenkurunji while wandering across the forest. Things to do - Trekking, bird watching, camping, boating and Jeep safari. Location - 2 km from Kollam bus station. Price - INR 7500 for 2 person. Timings - Open 24 hours . Best time to visit - October to February.

Puttingal Temple

An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavati is situated in Paravur village on a small ant hill, known as Puttu. This temple in Kollam is one of the most sacred destinations for worship and celebrates the birth of the goddess every year in the month of Meenam- March or April. The story behind the temple fascinates travelers pulling them during the festive celebration to experience a massive firework show and a series of rituals. Location - 20 km from Kollam railway station. Price - No entry fee. Timings - 5:00 am to 8:30 pm. Best time to visit - Anytime of the year, Visit in the month of March or April to celebrate the festival.

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• Experience a Slice of Heaven in Kerala with these Top 30 Kollam Tourist Places

Kollam is a beautiful place in South India, which fascinates you with its multitude of tourist attractions. Such was the fame of Kollam once as a trade center that everyone from the Romans, Arabs, Chinese, the Portuguese, Dutch, and British traders were clamoring to get their hands on the spices and the cashew crops of the region. Have a look at some of the best  Kollam tourist places for a surreal vacation in Kerala, truly God’s Own Country.

Best Season to Visit Kollam: October to March is Best Season to Visit Kollam

Peak Season in Kollam: December to January & May to June is Peak Season in Kollam

Kollam Weather: Minimum Temperature in Kollam: 20°C ,  Maximum Temperature in Kollam: 36°C

1. Jatayu’s Earth Centre

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Spread across 65 acres of land, Jatayu Earth's Centre is a rock-themed park built to promote mythology and adventure. The world’s largest bird sculpture is the main attraction at Jatayupara Nature Park and is one among the several Kollam famous places . It has a 6D theatre, a digital audio-visual room, cable car and the Siddha Cave Healing Centre. The virtual reality museum here tells the story of Jatayu to visitors. It is also home to umpteen adventure activities including paintball, laser tag, archery, bouldering, rock climbing, air-rifle shooting, zip lining, trekking, rappelling, valley crossing, etc.

Timings:  9.30 am to 5.30 pm 

2. Thangassery Lighthouse

Looking for the best tourist places in Kollam ? The Thangassery Lighthouse, also known as the Tangasseri Light House, boasts of being the second tallest on the entire coast of Kerala and is thus even one of the most visited lighthouses in the state on this account. The tower has a total height of 41 metres, or 135 feet, and has been operational since the year 1902.The majestic tower is clearly visible and distinct, with its painted red and white oblique bands, and looks pretty indeed in all its glory and majesty.

Timings :  10:00 AM - 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM , Closed on Monday

3. Palaruvi Falls

Palaruvi Waterfalls, which literally translates to ‘Stream of Milk’. The white-stream waterfall descending from the height of 300ft resembles the shape of a horse’s tail. An ideal time to visit this place is from June to January.  It is the 32nd highest waterfall in India, also known to have Ayurvedic properties. The roaring sounds of the fall stand in stark contrast to the silence of the forests and mist-kissed mountains around it, therefore making it among the best tourist spots in Kollam .

Timings:   8 am to 4 pm

4. Sasthamkotta Lake

Sasthamkotta Lake is the largest of its kind in Kerala and said to have derived its name from an ancient Sastha Temple located near the lake. It is surrounded by hills on the 3 sides and is the largest source of drinking water for the residents of Kollam. The reason for it being a freshwater source is the presence of larva chaoborus in the water which is responsible of consuming bacteria from the lake water and makes its healthy and fit for drinking. The lake is home for 27 species of freshwater fish. You can do boating and swimming in this lake.

Timings : 24-hrs, preferred 10 am – 6 pm

5. Kollam Beach

Voted as the first 'Beach Wedding Destination' in Kerala, the Kollam Beach requires no introduction. There are a lot of  places to visit in Kollam , but this beach is one of the most scenic and beautiful. This beach is famous among some travellers with the name of Mahatma Gandhi Beach and soothes wanderers with lush green, calm backwaters, and endless water activities. The beach also has a lighthouse called the Tangasseri Lighthouse, which is a major landmark there. The cultural and spiritual aura of the beach is indeed contagious and fills the visitors with renewed energy and passions.

Timings  - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

6. Ashtamudi Lake

The incredible beauty of Kerala, Ashtamudi Lake, it’s name has been derived from two words 'Ashta' meaning eight and 'Mudi' meaning branch, thereby stating the fact that lake has eight branches. It’s the second largest lake in Kerala. Thick coconut groves and palm trees can be seen all along the banks of the lake. The banks of the lake are also famous for the Chinese fishing nets. Backwater cruises are also available in the lake, between Kollam and Alappuzha. The boat cruise to Munroe Islands is a wonderful experience. There are many resorts along the lake that offer variety of water sports.

7. Thenmala

Thenmala is India’s first planned eco-tourism destination located in the foothills of the Western Ghats of the Kollam district which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thenmala means honey hill. Thenmala is also a dam site with the Parappar Dam which spans the Kallada River. The honey collected from Thenmala forest is famous for its medicinal values. This place has facilities like winding pathways, Sway Bridge, amphitheatre, musical fountain, boating, & so on. To the east, Pathimoonam Kannara Bridge is a 13-arched bridge along a mountain railway route. The other attraction of Thenmala is the Deer Park.

A hub of many popular shrines & temples for Hindus and Muslims, Mayyanad is amongst the best tourist places in Kollam. It lies on the banks of the Paravur Lake and also the coast of Arabian Sea. Located at a distance of 10 kms from Kollam, it has nine important temples. The most important of the nine temples here is the Subramanya temple at Umayanallor which is said to be blessed by Shri Shankaracharya of Kalladi. One can also visit an old mosque and several old churches in the area. There are frequent buses from Kollam to Mayyanad.

9. Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls

Famous for clear blue waters that drops from majestic heights, the Kumbhavurutty Waterfall is one of the popular places to visit in Kollam that is situated in southern India. The waterfall is a part of the Achankovil River. The Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls is located in the vicinity of the Konni forest area, tops the list of most beautiful and magnanimous waterfalls in Kerala. This scenic spot never fails to enthral tourists with its splendid views and colourful hues of the water fallings from a height of 25 metres.

10. Sri Mahaganapathi Temple

This temple is one of the famous pilgrimage spots in Kollam , popular among worshipers as the center of spirituality and devotion. Though the presiding deity of the temple is Lord Siva, this temple is famous as Lord Ganapathy temple situated in Kottarakkara at a distance of 25 Kms from Kollam. The temple is famous for Kottarakkara Unniappam, a rare sweet offered as Prasadam. The architecture of this centuries-old temple attracts most of the tourists admiring its charming design. The most interesting fact about this temple, where the family of shiva resides is that, even non-Hindus are allowed to visit here.

11. Thirumullavaram Beach

An unexplored beach of Kerala where golden sand surrounds clear blue water and the serene seashore is embellished by coconut and palm trees which makes it a shady and silent place. This beach is famous for the yearly ritual of Karkidaka Vavubali. Holding a place in the list of  Kollam tourist places , this beach is ideal for morning and evening walks with a beautiful sight of the setting sun. This beach is excellent for sun bathing and swimming. Mahavishnu Temple near the beach is a worth visiting place. Another popular attraction here is the rocky platform that extends out to the sea known as the Sunday Rock.

12. Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary

Want to spend some time with nature’s loved ones? Head to Shenduruny wildlife sanctuary Located in the Western Ghats in the Kollam district of Kerala which is one of the best  places to visit in Kollam . Kollam houses only this wildlife sanctuary, which is renowned for several species of flora and fauna and beautiful landscape. It encloses activities such as jungle camping, trekking, jeep safaris, bird watching, etc. The sanctuary is a part of the Agasthyamalai biosphere reserve. The sanctuary is spread across 26 sq. Kms artificial lake formed by Thenmala Dam.

13. Punalur

One of the most surreal  tourist spot in Kollam  is Punalur that offers a rejuvenating experience and an Old World Charm. Punalur derives its name from two words in Tamil and Malayalam. ‘Punal’ in Tamil means water and the Malayalam word’ ooru’ means place, which combined together give the name Punalur or ‘place of water. Indeed Kallada flows right through the heart of the city with the famous suspension bridge hanging over it. Panalur is known as "Pepper Village of Kerala". Some of the tourist attractions are Shenthruni Forest, Palruvi and Courtallam Waterfalls, and the age-old Pattazhi Devi Temple.

14. Kakkathuruthu

The Kakkathuruthu Island in Vembanad Lake, Alleppey is a small magnificent island popularly known as the island of crows. It is a heaven for bird watchers. The coconut trees, paddy fields, toddy tapping, fish farming, coir making, and traditional Kerala food like Appam, puttu, crab roast, shrimp fry, duck, pork dishes with fresh catch from the backwaters...there are numerous aspects which make Kakkathuruthu special. Tourists also enjoy the view of the setting sun and watching the sky hues. The sole place in Kerala listed in Nat Geo's magazine for relishing the time of dusk.

Things to do - Broom making, Boating, Chinese net, Shinkari melam, Catnet fishing, Clam meat processing.

15. Rameshwaram Temple

An ancient temple in Kollam, this temple dates back to the 12th Century believed to be established in the Pandian style of architecture. This is one of the four Shiva temples built by the Natukotta Chettiar, a prominent mercantile caste who were worshippers of Lord Shiva. One fascinating feature of this temple is the sculpture of Vyala, the mythological monster. There are several inscriptions here written in Tamil, which date between the12-century and 16-century. The annual temple festival is celebrated in Jan/Feb every year.  This is probably one of the best tourist spots in Kollam !

16. Munroe Island

Named after the British resident of Travancore, Colonel Munroe, Munroe Island is at a distance of 26 km from Kollam and the island is at the intersection of the Astamudi Lake and the Kallada River. The Munroe Island, also known as Mundrothuruthu, is a picturesque and magnificent inland island renowned for its splendid beauty and scenic views. This hidden treasure comprises of 8 islands in total, all of which are separated by small water channels and lakes. Munroe Island is connected with Pattomthuruthu & Pezhumthuruthu Islands by boat. Boat cruises are operated to the island twice daily. It’s one of the best among Kollam famous places .

17. Kollam Adventure Park

The 200-year-old Government Guest House, an Adventure Park, the Tourist Boat Club, the Children's Traffic Park, and the Yatrinivas have situated in the Picnic Village: the vast tourist complex. Next to the government Guest House at Asramam, is an Adventure Park is also known as the Asramam Picnic Village: the center of leisure activities for people with no age limit. With the alluring backwaters, travellers can enjoy luxurious boating, picnic, and the art museum among other tourist places in Kollam . The major attractions of the adventure park include sculptures, an open gym, mangrove forest, boating, and British residency.

18. Kottukkal Cave Temple

The Kottukkal Cave Temple is a beautiful and serene rock-cut shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kottayam MC Road, Kotthukkal village. The name Kottukal refers to Kothiya Kallu or carved rock. The temple is also known as Kaltrikkovil in Malayalam language. This temple has two caves, the bigger of which is enshrined by Nandi Bull and the smaller one with Lord Hanuman. In between these caves one can see the idol of Lord Ganapathy. The temple is an excellent example of rock cut architecture that prevailed between the 6th and 8th centuries CE, and is looked at with awe by architecture students as well as pious devotees alike.

19. Paravur Lake

Paravur Lake or better known as Paravur Kayal is one of the popular lakes in Kollam . The glittering waters are a visual treat to the eyes. It is a small lake but an ideal spot for locals to come out and enjoy a day outing amidst the beauty of nature. The mangroves standing along both sides of the lake intensifies its beauty, making it more attractive. Another real fascination in the region of Paravur Lake is the Priyadarshini watercraft club. Swimming and surfing are the most popular activities here followed by fishing that requires permission from the local authorities. Apart from the waters, the nearby Puttingal Temple and Puthenkulam Elephant Village are the other attractions here.

20. Kottankulangara Devi Temple

Kottankulangara Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located in Chavara, devoted to goddess Durga Bhagavathy, incarnation of Ma Parvati. The tourists are attracted by its unique architecture, where the temple has no roof above the sanctum. The sole temple in India that holds a unique ritual of men getting dressed in female attire at the Kottankulangara Festival (annual festival). There is a unique ritual called 'Chamaya Vilakku' where a group of young women come to the temple at night in a long procession with lighted lamps in their hands and also offer payasam, aravana, iratti madhuram and ornaments, silks etc. Other interests in & around Chavara include St. Andrews Church and Kovilthottam Beach & Light House.

21. Thevally Palace

A place of great historic importance, Trevally Palace is situated on the banks of Ashtamude Lake. The striking feature about the palace is that it presents an intriguing fusion of Dutch, English, and Portuguese styles of architecture. It will take you back to the old-world charm. The beauty of this palace holds a magnificent view because of the lush green coconut plantation and palm trees' surroundings. This architectural wonder is one of the best historical places to visit in Kollam .

22. Oachira

Situated on the Kollam-Alappuzha road is the Oachira, a pilgrim center that is known to attract a large number of tourists. The unique feature of this famous pilgrim center is that there is no deity or idol at the famous Parabrahma temple dedicated to universal consciousness. Oachira Kali in mid-June and the twelve-day Panthrandu Vilakku in November/December are the two main annual festivals. According to the Puranas, this glorious temple is one of the most famous and sacred places that can be found in Kerala, or for that matter, all over the country.

23. Pathanapuram

One of the major trading hubs of kollam District is Pathanapuram. Acknowledged as one of the  tourist places in Kollam , Pathanapuram is located on the shore of river Kallada. The prime attraction of the area is a festival of Chandanakkudam Mahotsavam organized by the mosque during the months of February and March. Some of the live-stock activities like dairying, poultry, goat rearing and industrial activities like brick making, bamboo weaving, etc. are common in Pathanapuram.  The cultivation of spice and rubber is the foremost attraction of this place.

24. Aryankavu Sastha Temple

Aryankavu Sastha Temple a Hindu temple and one among the 108 Sastha shrines in the Indian state of Kerala.   It is one of the five important temples in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa/Sastha. Here Lord Ayappa is worshiped in his teenage form and is known as Tiru Aryan, hence giving the temple its name Ariankavu or Aryankavu. Mandala Pooja and Tirukalyanam celebrated in the month of December are the main festivals here. What fascinates the travellers are the mural paintings hanging on the pillar and walls. Apart from this, travellers can also visit Palaruvi waterfalls which is situated 5 kms from Aryankavu.

25. St. Thomas Fort

Thangassery Fort is also known as St. Thomas Fort located on the beach of Thangassery on the shores of the Arabian Sea in the city of Kollam. It’s a famous trading center of pepper with rich trade history and culture. The fort remains as one of the most important archaeological sites in Kollam, attracting tourists to visit this monument and unwind its historical trading link. The rustic appearance and lush green surroundings of the fort makes it an excellent point for photography and mesmerizes the travellers with its exquisite architecture. If you are a history lover, visit this fort to learn about the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British rulers.

26. Anandavalleeswaram Temple

Anandavalleswaram temple, devoted to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is one of the famous temples in Kollam . It’s a great tourist spot and one of the most ancient temples of Kerala. The story that revolves around the name of this temple states that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are in a happy state and hence the name ‘Anandavalleswaram’. The worshipers here get peace, while the travellers get mesmerised by its charm and tranquillity.

27. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum

The Sardar Vallabhai Patel Police Museum pays tribute to the police forces of Kerala and also traces their history and development. The museum represents the historical figure, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, famously known as the ‘Iron Man of India’. One of the most famous landmarks here is the Martyrs Gallery, which includes police holds arms and ammunition of the 18th and 19th century including bullets, guns, machines, and much more. Additionally, the place endures the unknown facts about Kerala Police force and information charts on DNA tests, human bones, fingerprints and snapshots of police dogs, etc.

Timings : The museum is open on all days except for Sundays between 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

28. Chinnakada Clock Tower

The Clock Tower is situated in Chinnakada and it is a major landmark in the town of Kollam. It is considered as the heart of the city Kollam. The tower faces four directions of the city with clocks on all sides, and the fascinating architectural design of the colonial era attracts the tourist to visit here. The clock tower has become a non-official symbol of Kollam and is the busiest part of the city where roads from Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Downtown, Sengottai, Ashramam, Kollam Beach, and the City bus stand meet.

29. Kollam Pooram – Sri Krishna Temple

Kollam Pooram is a famous 10 day festival celebrated in the month of April every year at Sri Krishna Temple. The festival begins with the hoisting of a flag and the deities of the nearby temples are brought to the Krishna Temple atop 58 beautifully decorated elephants to pay homage to Lord Krishna. This ritual is known as cherupooram. Kathakali is performed on all days of the festival. Kudamattam ceremony is celebrated in a grand manner on the last day of festival. Thousands of devotees gather in the temple compound to witness this grand spectacle.

30. Rosemala

Nestled amidst the pretty pristine woods of Shenduruney forests, Rosemala is a well-kept secret of Kerala. Located in the Aryanvaku in the Kollam district, the valley appears the unfurling petals of a rose, hence the name. The highlight of the place is that it can only be reached by a 10 km long trek through the jungle. Boasting of gorgeous surroundings, the major attractions here are a lake and a watchtower. It indeed is one of the most beautiful  places to visit in Kollam . The beautiful valley abounds in the bounty of nature and is a mesmerizing place to visit.

Kollam is well-known for its scenic beauty and all you have to do is take a look at the above list of Kollam tourist places in order to plan your itinerary. Explore Kollam like you have never before and know about many hidden gems of the place. If you want a slice of the famed backwater tourism of Kerala and want to escape from the monotonous urban life, do not think twice but simply head to Kollam with great discounts on flight booking via EaseMyTrip . The best time to visit Kollam is between November and March when it is not too rainy or not too hot.

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• 40 Interesting Places To Visit In Kollam On Your 2024 Trip To South India

23 Mar 2023

Kollam has been on the route map of spice traders for a very long time. Legendary explorers like Ibn Battuta to Marco Polo have talked about the prominence of Kollam district for centuries. Endowed with a long and scenic coastline, Kollam has many peaceful and scenic places to offer. Since it is located on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake, it is also one of the best places to go cruising in the backwaters. Here are some places to visit in Kollam that you can’t skip on your trip.

40 Best Places To Visit In Kollam

Kollam is a beautiful place in South India, with quite a lot of attractions for one to explore. Have a look at some of the best places to visit in Kollam for a surreal vacation in Kerala, truly the God’s Own Country. They will lift your spirits like never before and give you a soul-soothing experience. These places are perfect if you are looking for an escape from the monotonous urban life and daily routines.

• Palaruvi Waterfalls: For Rejuvenation
• Ashtamudi Lake: For A Houseboat Trip
• Mayyanad: A Spiritual Place
• Kulathupuzha: For Weekend Getaway
• Jatayu’s Earth Centre: For Adventure
• Asramam Adventure Park: For Ultimate Fun
• Rameshwara Temple: To Seek Blessings1
• Thenmala Deer Park: For Flora And Fauna
• Karunagappally: For Thrill
• Thirumullavaram Beach: For Enjoyment
• Kollam Beach: For Beach Lovers
• Thangassery Beach: For Chilling
• Kollam Adventure Park: For Nature Lovers
• Paravur Lake: For Backwaters
• Anandavalleeswaram Temple: To Make Wishes
• Thevally Palace: To Learn History
• Mahatma Gandhi Beach And Park: For Entertainment
• Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary: For Wildlife Enthusiasts
• Palaruvi Waterfalls: For Some Quality Time
• Punalur: For Old World Charm
• Amritapuri: Offer Enlightenment
• Pathanapuram: Encounter The Beautiful Cultivations
• Boat Rides in Kollam: Ride In Beautiful Backwaters
• Aryankavu: Feel The Divine Power
• Pattazhi: Pursue Goddess Blessings
• Pullichira Church: Sense Of Spirituality
• Alumkadavu:  Relax And Unwind
• Maha Vishnu Temple:  Spiritual Trip
• Oachira:  Amazing Festivities
• Sasthamcotla Lake:  Largest Freshwater Lake
• Kottukkal Cave Temple:  Beautiful Cave
• Thangassery Lighthouse:  Marvelous Architecture
• Panmana Ashram:  Serene Environment
• Munroe Island:  Scenic Landscapes
• Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls:  Majestic Waterfall
• Achankovil River: A Scenic Spot
• Kayamkulam Kayal: Must-Visit For Nature Lovers
• Azheekal Beach: A Picture-Perfect Beach
• Neendakara Port: A Major Fishing Hub
• Rosemala: A Scenic Offbeat Place

1. Palaruvi Waterfalls: For Rejuvenation

Image Source Palaruvi translates to “milky streams”. This is a stunning waterfall located on the Kollam-Shencottah Road, which falls from 300 feet. An ideal time to visit this place is from June to January. Even if you visit this place on a low season, it is a beautiful picnic spot. One of the best places to visit in Kollam for couples, this is the 32nd highest waterfall in India and is also known to have Ayurvedic properties.

Things to do: Sightseeing, bathing in a waterfall, picnic in the woods, swimming Places to stay: Thenmala Heritage, White House, Mg Resorts, Kso Family Homes, The Kuttalam Heritage

Must Read: 6 Temples In Kollam To Soothe Your Senses On A Trip To Kerala

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2. Ashtamudi Lake: For A Houseboat Trip

Image Source

This lake is the most visited lake and backwater in the state. Lush green waterways lined with palm and coconut trees, there’s no better place to start exploring Kollam that is considered to be one of the best Kollam tourist places. Ashtamudi means ‘Eight Coned’ in Malayalam. A houseboat trip to this lake is among the most popular things to do in Kollam .

Things to do: Roam in houseboats, visit Kollam beach, take sunset boat cruise Places to stay: Munroe Island Lake Resort, REGANT LAKE VILLAGE, SS Ayurmadam, Club Mahindra, Punartham Serviced Villa

3. Mayyanad: A Spiritual Place

This village is an important place for shrines and temples and amongst the best tourist places in Kollam. Located at a distance of 10 kms from Kollam, it has nine important temples. It lies on the banks of the Paravur Lake and also the coast of Arabian Sea. The most important one being the Lord Subramaniam Temple. The village has some of the oldest temples of Kollam visited my pilgrims from all across the country is one of the best places to visit near Kollam .

Things to do: visit temples, churches and mosque Places to stay: Sea Castle Beach Homestay, Fragrant Nature Hotels & Resorts, Beach Island Villas, Lake Sea Leisure, Sea Pearl Hotel

Suggested Read: 13 Best Kept Secrets of Kerala That Locals Have Been Keeping To Themselves

4. Kulathupuzha: For Weekend Getaway

Kulathupuzha town is located at a distance of 64 km from Kollam. It is renowned for its Sastha temple, which is located on the banks of River Kulathupuzha. If you’re a Vishnu devotee, then do visit this place in April/ May as the Vishnu Mahotsava takes place here. You can also check out the Eco Tourism of Thenmala with Indo Swiss dairy farms which is just 9 kms away that is one of the best places to see in Kollam.

Things to do: Visit the Sastha temple, visit Indo Swiss dairy farms Places to stay: Kandamath Heritage Resort, Hotel Royal Green, Thenmala Heritage, KUMAR PALACE, HOTEL PANACEA VENTURES

5. Jatayu’s Earth Centre: For Adventure

For the best of Kollam sightseeing , this is a very recent construction, the Jatayu Nature Park is a rock-themed park. The adventure park has 6D theatre an audio-visual digital room, cable car and much more. This is built to promote mythology and adventure tourism. This giant bird statue located on a hill top is certainly unique and something that shouldn’t be missed.

Things to do: experience 6D theatre, do a cable car ride, see Jatayu’s statue, visit the Ayurvedic cave resort Places to stay: Woodhouse Beach Resort

Suggested Read: 7 Places To Visit In Wayanad In May To Experience A Slice Of Heaven In Kerala

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6. Asramam Adventure Park: For Ultimate Fun

Located in the core of the city near the bus stand, this is a fun adventure park for children. You can even experience backwater cruises from here to Alleppey. You can see many mangroves and go to the open gym. If you’re visiting Kollam with family, this is a place you must visit.

Things to  do:  backwater cruises, luxury boat cruise, speedboat experience, open air gym experience, walking and trekking Places to stay: Chandra Inn, JK ROYAL CRUISE, Hotel Shah International, Hotel Allseason, The Raviz Ashtamudi

7. Rameshwara Temple: To Seek Blessings

Image Source An ancient temple in Kollam, this temple dates back to the 12th Century. It is believed to be built in the Pandian style of architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, one fascinating feature of this temple is the sculpture of Vyala, the mythological monster. This is probably one of the best places to visit in Kollam in 1 day.

Things to do: Visit the temple, see sculptures Places to stay: Hotel Sri Ganesh, Ambika Lodge, Hotel New Island Star – ” Ramanathasamy Temple View, Rightchoicehotels, Hotel Saara

Suggested Read: 4 Stunning Temples In Kottayam To Explore The Rich Heritage In Kerala

8. Thenmala Deer Park: For Flora And Fauna

Image Source This park is built within the Kallada river side forest. You can spot many types of deer here from the Barking deer, Spambar Deer, Spotted deer, Axis deer and many more. Apart from that, there’s also a children’s park and a tree house as well that you can explore.

Things to do: Spot deers, visit the children’s park, check out the tree house Places to stay: Kandamath Heritage Resort, Hotel Royal Green, Thenmala Heritage, KUMAR PALACE, HOTEL PANACEA VENTURES

9. Karunagappally: For Thrill

Image Source Located 27 km north of Kollam, this beautiful town has many resorts and beautiful beaches. The scenic beauty of this place is one of a kind. The main tourist attraction is the Houseboat facility in Alumkadavu, which is close (only 3 km) to Karunagappally town. If we look into the history of this town, this was actually a Buddhist site, which is why you will see a beautiful place called Krishnapura Palace housing a deity of Lord Buddha.

Things to do: visit beaches, experience house boat ride, visit the Krishnapura palace Places to stay: Hotel Grande E Muscat, JJ Ayurveda Heritage, HIGHWAY PALACE, Kadaltheeram Home Stay Azheekal, RAGA RESIDENCY

Suggested Read: 10 Most Offbeat Kerala Backwaters You Should Explore

10. Thirumullavaram Beach: For Enjoyment

A scenic and popular beach located in the city of Kollam, this beach is famous for the yearly ritual of Karkidaka Vavubali. This beach is located at a distance of 6 km from Kollam. Thirumullavaram Beach is also among the twin beaches in the Cashew capital of the world. This is a great place for Kollam sightseeing.

Things to do: relax at the beach swimming and sunbathing Places to stay: Summer House Holiday Home, Coast of Tiberias, PAVITHRAM RESIDENCY, Global Backwater Resort, All Season’s D’Fort Ayurvedic Resort

11. Kollam Beach: For Beach Lovers

Image Source Destination weddings are in trend these days, and Kollam Beach is one of those places in Kerala. In fact, it is regarded as the first beach wedding destination in Kerala. There are a lot of places to visit in Kollam for couples, but this beach is one of the most scenic and beautiful. The beach also has a lighthouse called the Tangasseri Lighthouse, which is a major landmark here at Kollam beach.

Things to do: Watch the sunset, Unwind at the beach Places to stay: The Quilon Beach Hotel & Convention Center, The Raviz Ashtamudi, Nani Hotel, Sree Janardhana Residency, All Season’s D’Fort Ayurvedic Resort

Suggested Read: 9 Cottages In Kerala To Plan An Exotic Stay In ‘God’s Own Country’

12. Thangassery Beach: For Chilling

Image Source This is another popular beach and one of the top places to visit in Kollam. Situated at a distance of 5 km from the city it is a major beach of Thangassery. The Portuguese back in the 1500s created a trading center here and Thangassery became an important center of the pepper trade. Today, one can see a pretty seaside village here and this beach is an amazing place to enjoy a sunset with your folks on your trip to South India.

Things to do: Relax at the beach Places to stay: All Season’s D’Fort Ayurvedic Resort, Coast of Tiberias, Chandra Inn, Global Backwater Resort, PAVITHRAM RESIDENCY

13. Kollam Adventure Park: For Nature Lovers

Relax and unwind in the lap of nature, breathe in fresh air as this park is an ideal place to find respite amidst lush greenery and recreational activities amongst others. It is an urban park that is located beside the backwaters of Ashtamudi and can be a favourite for locals to come out and enjoy a picnic with their loved ones and to enjoy the adventure activities. It is one of the best tourist places in Kollam for a fun day out.

Things to do : Relax, Picnic, Stroll Places to stay: Chandra Inn, JK ROYAL CRUISE, Hotel Shah International, Hotel Allseason, The Raviz Ashtamudi

Suggested Read: 12 Homestays In Trivandrum To Experience The True Traditions Of Kerala

14. Paravur Lake: For Backwaters

Paravur Lake is yet another one of the most beautiful places in Kollam. It is one of the stunning lakes in Kerala , the glittering waters are a visual treat to the eyes. It is a small lake but an ideal spot for locals to come out and enjoy a day outing amidst the beauty of nature. Among the best places to visit in Kollam for family, this should definitely make to your list before your next trip.

Things to do : Picnic, boating, relaxing Places to stay:  Fragrant Nature Hotels & Resorts, Beach Island Villas, LakeSeaLeisure, Sea Castle Beach Homestay, THE KERALA RETREAT

15. Anandavalleeswaram Temple: To Make Wishes

A hindu temple located in Kollam, it is a famous pligrimage and tourist spot and one of the most ancient temples of Kerala. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and exudes a certain charm and positivity that the visirots would love to explore.

Things to do : Seek blessings, enjoy peace and solitude, marvel at the architecture Places to stay:  Chandra Inn, Global Backwater Resort, PAVITHRAM RESIDENCY, Coast of Tiberias, JK FLAMINGO

Suggested Read: 10 Breathtaking Places To Visit In Kerala In May That Must Be On Every Explorer’s List

16. Thevally Palace: To Learn History

One of the best places to visit in Kollam is Thevally palace. The palace is perched on the banks of lake Ashtamudi. The palace stands as the representative of the glorious times of the city. It will take you back to the old world charm. Its structure is something that will grab your attention. This is a must-visit place for history enthusiasts.

Things to do: Learning history, sightseeing Places to stay: Ashtamudi Villas, Hotel Allseason

17. Mahatma Gandhi Beach And Park: For Entertainment

If you are holidaying in Kollam and want a refreshing experience, then head to Mahatma Gandhi beach and park. The beach offers picturesque views and cool breezes. And the park is a great place for strolling and spending some quality time with each other. The place is perfect for a weekend getaway with family.

Things to do: Strolling, sightseeing Places to stay:  Madeleine Inn, Eight Bastion, Rossitta Wood Castle, ROSES INN, Neemrana’s – The Tower House, Malabar House

Suggested Read: Why You Should Visit Kerala In Spring? Here Are The Beautiful Reasons That’ll Get You Going

18. Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary: For Wildlife Enthusiasts

Want to spend some time with nature’s loved ones? Head to Shenduruny wildlife sanctuary which is one of the best places to see in Kollam . The sanctuary is a part of Agasthyamalai biosphere reserve. It is home to several species of flora and fauna. All the wildlife enthusiasts will love this place. It is also a good place to visit with kids.

Things to do: Witnessing wildlife, sightseeing Places to stay:  White House, Kso Family Homes, Five Falls Resort, Saaral Resort, Kutralam Ezhilagam, ESAKKI RESORT FIVEFALLS

19. Palaruvi Waterfalls: For Some Quality Time

Refresh yourself by visiting Palaruvi waterfalls which is one of the best places to see in Kollam . The waterfall comes down from a height of 300 ft and treats the eyes of the travelers. It is a great place to spend some time with friends or family. The best time to visit the waterfall is from June to January.

Things to do: Enjoying picturesque views, taking pictures Places to stay:  Thenmala Heritage, White House, Mg Resorts, Kso Family Homes, The Kuttalam Heritage

Suggested Read: 9 Exotic Places To Visit In Kerala In July One Must Definitely Go And Explore

20. Punalur: For Old World Charm

One of the most surreal places to see in Kollam is Punalur that offers a rejuvenating experience. It boasts picturesque views and soul-soothing experiences. From lush greenery and beautiful places to adventures, it offers something for all kinds of travelers. One of the best places if you want to explore historical places in Kollam.

Things to do: Sightseeing, enjoying nature’s beauty Places to stay:  Kerala Heritage Villa, NARENDRA REGENCY, KUMAR PALACE, HOTEL PANACEA VENTURES, Hotel Royal Green

21. Amritapuri: Offer Enlightenment

Amritapuri is one of the fundamental tourist places in Kollam which is acknowledged as the headquarters of Amma’s worldwide mission. Amritapuri is one of the places to visit in Kollam which offers spirituality of Amma’s monastic disciplines along with giving shelter to hundreds of householder devotees. The devotees from all across the world come to have Amma’s darshan. People come with faith and address their worries in front of Amma, discovering new enlightenment in their life.

Things to do: Visit Amma’s headquarters. Places to stay: Kadaltheeram Home Stay Azheekal, Hotel Grande E Muscat, JJ Ayurveda Heritage, Highway Palace, Raga Residency

Suggested Read: Kerala Vs. Andaman: Which Is The Best Coastal Travel Destination?

22. Pathanapuram: Encounter The Beautiful Cultivations

Pathanapuram is regarded as one of the places to visit in Kollam being a chief trading hub. Acknowledged as one of the tourist places in Kollam , Pathanapuram is located on the shore of river Kallada. In February and March, the festival of Chandanakkudam Mahotsavam is very popular which fascinates the people. The cultivation of spice and rubber is the foremost attraction of this place.

Things to do: Witness trading center, view rubber and spice cultivations Places to stay:  Oasis Resort, Antony’s Tower, Lals Residency

23. Boat Rides in Kollam: Ride In Beautiful Backwaters

Planning to visit Kollam and speculating over which of the places to visit in Kollam ? Boat rides in Kollam is one of the Kollam tourists places which is chosen greatly by the people. A boat ride in the beautiful waters of Kerala is filled with fun giving a feeling of tranquillity and peaceful atmosphere. The shining rays of the sunset create an amazing view, the coconut palms which you will get to experience will fill your spirit with freshness.

Things to do: boat ride, view beautiful sunset

Suggested Read: 6 Adventure Sports In Kochi That Will Let You Challenge Your Fears

24. Aryankavu: Feel The Divine Power

Image source

Aryankavu is one of the spiritual places to visit in Kollam district, a temple dedicated to Lord Sastha. What fascinates the travellers are the mural paintings hanging on the pillar and walls. The Mandala Puja organized in the month of December makes Aryankavu as one of the famous Kollam tourist places . Apart from this, travelers can also visit Palavari waterfalls which is situated 5 kms from Aryankavu is another attraction.

Things to do: visit lord Sastha temple, visit Palavari waterfalls Places to stay:  Thenmala Heritage, Kandamath Heritage Resort, Mg Resorts, Hotel Royal Green, White House

25. Pattazhi: Pursue Goddess Blessings

Pattazhi is another popular tourist place in Kollam which is visited as the religious center in Pathanapuram Taluk. The temple is blessed with the blessings of Goddess Bhagavathy which attracts many people making this place widespread. Huge number of devotees come over the place to enjoy the Mudi Festival.

Things to do: Visit ancient temple, enjoy Mudi festival Places to stay:  HOTEL RAJADHANI, Sana Heights Luxury Apartments, Alanchery, Emarald Ayurvedic Resort, Sankaras Family Homestay

Suggested Read: 9 Historical Places In Mauritius To Visit That Tells A Great Deal About This Country

26. Pullichira Church: Sense Of Spirituality

Pullichira Church is as old as 16 th century AD, one of the popular tourist places in Kollam for its annual fest. The most appropriate time for visiting the church is around Christmas festival. The date for organizing the fest is on the very first day of the Malayalam calendar or its planned-on Sunday before Christmas. Church is situated on the Pullichira Lake which is approachable by the travellers.

Things to do: Visit church, go for Pullichira lake Places to stay:  Fragrant Nature Hotels & Resorts, Beach Island Villas, LakeSeaLeisure, Sea Castle Beach Homestay, Drisya Lodge

27. Alumkadavu: Relax And Unwind

Alumkadavu is one of the Kollam tourist places and is famous for being a picnic spot. It is located near the Kollam-Alappuzha National Waterway and is frequented by locals and tourists alike. In Alumkadavu you can be one with nature and enjoy the beautiful sceneries.

Things to do: Sightseeing, boating Places to stay: Green Channel Backwater resort, The Munroe Heritage Inn

Suggested Read: Kerala In November: Places And Events Not To Be Missed Out!

28. Maha Vishnu Temple: Spiritual Trip

Maha Vishnu Temple in the town of Kollam is said to be, locally, the oldest temple of this town. It is believed that the Lord Parshuram, the mythological creator of this town, established and blessed this temple. It is one of the most beautiful places to see in Kollam.

Things to do:  Offer prayers, relax at the temple Places to stay:  Ayurmithra Eco Wellness, Munroe Coconut Homestay

29. Oachira: Amazing Festivities

Situated on the Kollam-Alappuzha road is the Oachira, a pilgrim centre that is known to attract a large number of tourists. It is one of the most sought after pilgrim centers and one of the places to visit in Kollam. Here, the locals worship Lord Parabrahman. A festival is also organised here known as the Oachirakkali. It is one of the best places to visit in Kollam.

Things to do:  Visit the temple, attend the festival Places to stay:  Sea Castle Beach Homestay, Ashtamudi Villas

Suggested Read: 57 Best Places To Visit In Kerala For A Vacation To Remember

30. Sasthamcotla Lake: Largest Freshwater Lake

Sasthamcotla lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala. The lake which derives its name from a Sastha temple – temple near the lake, is the largest source of drinking water for the people living in the town of Kollam. The reason for it being a freshwater source is the presence of larva chaoborus in the water. It is known for eating the bacteria from the water and making it fit for drinking. This lake is one of the Kollam places to visit.

Things to do:  Enjoy sunset, boating Places to stay:  Beach Island Villas, Ashrivad Homestay

31. Kottukkal Cave Temple: Beautiful Cave

Kottukkal cave temple, located in the Kotthukkal village, is one of the many places to see in Kollam. The temple is also known as Kaltrikkovil in Malayalam language and is a beautiful rock cut temple. The temple is an excellent example of rock cut architecture that prevailed between the 6th and 8th centuries CE, and is looked at with awe by architecture students as well as pious devotees alike.

Things to do:  Offer prayers, explore the caves and surroundings Places to stay:  Coast of Tiberias, Chandra Inn

Suggested Read: 14 Heritage Places In Kerala To Make Your Trip Unforgettable

32. Thangassery Lighthouse: Marvelous Architecture

Looking for the best tourist places in Kollam ? The Thangassery Lighthouse, also known as the Tangasseri Light House, boasts of being the second tallest on the entire coast of Kerala and is thus even one of the most visited lighthouses in the state on this account. The tower has a total height of 41 metres, or 135 feet, and has been operational since the year 1902.

Things to do:  Enjoy the panormaic views from the top of lighthouse Places to stay:  MUNRO WAVES, Gloabal Backwater Resort

33. Panmana Ashram: Serene Environment

Better known as the Mahasamadhi Peedom of Sree Chattampy Swamikal, the Panmana Ashram is reputed all across the country for being an excellent centre of learning and service. The Ashram is blessed with the divine presence of Sree Vidyadhiraja Parama Bhattaraka Chattambi Swamikal and Sree Maha Thripurasundari Devi. The location of the Ashram among paddy fields and coconut palms adds to the simplicity and serenity of the place and enhances its overall appeal tremendously. It is indeed one of the best places to visit in Kollam .

Things to do:  Yoga training Places to stay:  Stay at Ashram

Suggested Read: 32 Things To Do In Kochi On A Holiday In This Kerala Port City

34. Munroe Island: Scenic Landscapes

The Munroe Island, also known as Mundrothuruthu, is a picturesque and magnificent inland island in the district of Kollam making it one of the most beautiful places to see in Kollam. Named for Colonel John Munro who belonged to the former princely state of Travancore. The island is renowned for its splendid beauty and scenic views and adds to the sheer beauty and charm of the already intriguing God’s own country.

Things to do:  Boating, witness the boat race, relax and enjoy the view Places to stay:  Preyag, Pavithram Residency

35. Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls: Majestic Waterfall

Famous for clear blue waters that drops from majestic heights, the Kumbhavurutty Waterfall is one of the popular places to visit in Kollam that is situated in southern India. Located near the Aryankavu Panchayath in the district of Kollam in Kerala, the waterfall is a part of the Achankovil River. The Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls tops the list of most beautiful and magnanimous waterfalls in Kerala.

Things to do:  Enjoy the scenic views, trekking, birdwatching Places to stay:  Dream Palace, Villas Akasa

Suggested Read: 9 Unique Resorts In Kollam That Will Make Your Stay A Beautiful Experience

36. Achankovil River: A Scenic Spot

Image Credit – Suresh for Wikimedia

Achankovil River is one of the best Kollam attractions visited by most of the tourists to enjoy the mesmerizing views of nature. Also known as Achankovilaaru, the bank of the rivers are dotted with ancient temples such as the famous Dharmasastha Temple which is among the famous temples in Kerala dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The river also contributes to gorgeous falls like Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls.

Things to do: Enjoy scenic views, waterfalls Places to stay: Coir Village Lake Resort, Hotel Aida

37. Kayamkulam Kayal: Must-Visit For Nature Lovers

Image Credit – Prathaplal for Wikipedia

Also known as Kayamkulam Lake, it is one of the other famous Kollam attractions. It is considered to be one of the most scenic backwaters in Kerala and a favorite spot for nature lovers. Houseboat facilities are also available here for the travelers. The lake also hosts a boating festival.

Things to do: Enjoy scenic views Places to stay : Royale Plaza Hotel, Coir Village Lake Resort

Suggested Read: 13 Spectacular Hill Stations Near Kollam That You Cannot Miss Out

38. Azheekal Beach: A Picture-Perfect Beach

Image Credit – Pranav for Wikimedia

Azheekal Beach is located at a distance of 40km from Kollam and is one of the famous Kollam places to visit. Located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, the beach is known for its shimmering blue waters, clear brown shores and a beautiful landscape. Enjoy the pleasant climate and the peaceful ambiance and watch the setting sun on your visit to the beach.

Things to do: Perfect for evening walk Places to stay: Kadaltheeram homestay

39. Neendakara Port: A Major Fishing Hub

Image Credit: Arunvrparavur for Wikimedia

Situated 8km from Kollam, Neendakara Port is a major fishing port in the area. Tourist visit here in large number for the ultimate holiday experience in the lap of nature. The place is extremely beautiful and offer gorgeous view of the surrounding as well as Ashtamudi Lake. The highlight is that it also a headquarters of Indo-Norwegian Fisheries Community Project.

Things to do: Relax in the lap of nature Places to stay: Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort & Ayurveda Spa Timings: 6 am to 8 pm Distance from city centre: 12.4 km

Suggested Read: 8 Electrifying Things To Do In Kollam For An Adventure-Filled Excursion!

40. Rosemala: A Scenic Offbeat Place

Image Credit: Gianni Crestani for Pixabay

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Kollam , Rosemala is situated amidst beautiful valleys of Shenduruney forests. Boasting of gorgeous surrounding, the major attractions here are a lake and a watch tower. The highlight of the place is that you can reach here by 10km trek.

Things to do: Trekking Places to stay: Orchard Valley Resort Timings: NA Distance from city centre : 62 km

How To Reach Kollam

Image Credit: Free-Photos for Pixabay

If you are wondering how to reach Kollam via different modes of transport, check out the below space.

By Air: Kollam does not have an airport of its own. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport situated 66 Km away. It is well-connected by major Indian cities like Mumbai, Chennai as well as international places like Dubai, Male by regular flights.

By Road: Kollam had a good road connectivity and is also an important mode of transport for both tourists and locals. There are various private and state run government buses. One can also hire taxis/cabs to commute from nearby cities.

By Rail: The connectivity via rail is also excellent. Kollam connects with almost all major cities in India. It is also a major railhead in the Southern division.

Further Read: Top 28 Honeymoon Places In Kerala For A Bewitching Escape

Hope this ready reckoner of best places to visit in Kollam will help you plan the trip! So, wait no longer and plan your Kerala tour for a complete vacation. This place is just perfect if you are looking for an escape from the monotonous urban life.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Kollam

What is special about the town of Kollam?

Kollam is known for the production of cashew and manufacturing of coir. It is also known for its lively beaches, surreal beauty and beautiful backwaters.

How do I get to Kollam?

The nearest airport to Kollam is Trivandrum International Airport. It is located at a distance of 66 km from the town. From the airport, you can take a cab to Kollam. Alternatively, you can also opt for a rail journey.

How to reach Palaruvi waterfalls in Kollam?

The best way to reach Palaruvi waterfalls is by road from Kollam. You can take a taxi, it is located 70 km away from the railway station and Trivandrum airport.

Which is the best month to visit Kollam?

The best time to visit Kollam, is during the winter months of December to February. The weather is pleasant with cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring the backwaters, beaches, and other attractions in the region. This period also coincides with the dry season, reducing the chances of rain and ensuring a more enjoyable visit.

Are Kollam and Quilon the same?

Yes, Kollam and Quilon are the same. Earlier, Kollam was known by the name of Quilon.

Which is the Cashew capital of the world?

Kollam is the Cashew capital of the world. It is the largest producer of cashew in the world which makes it one of the most amazing places to visit.

When was Kollam formed as a district?

Kollam was formed in the year 1957. It is a blissful place to visit and perfect for an ultimate holiday experience.

How far is Kollam from Trivandrum?

Kollam is situated at a distance of 61 km from the city of Trivandrum.

What is the best time to visit Kollam?

The best time to visit Kollam is from October to February. During this time, the weather is perfect for exploring the town.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Kollam

Things to do in kollam, explore popular experiences, tours in and around kollam.

Kayaking in Mangrove Forest of Paravur Backwaters near Varkala and Kollam

5 Nights & 6 Days Kerala Tour Covering Munnar, Aleppey Houseboat, Kovalam Beach

Kayaking to the Black Devil Snail Sandbar Island in Paravur Lake near Varkala

Private Jatayu Nature Park and Varkala Beach Tour from Kovalam

Cooking classes @ Aryavilla heritage, Varkala

"Day Trip to Varkala from Trivandrum (Guided Full Day City Tour)"

21hrs Aleppey Village and Canal Tour by Private Houseboat.

Hands-on Authentic Keralite Cooking Class - Learn, Cook, Eat & Enjoy!

Day trip to Kanyakumari beach and Padmanabhapuram palace

Trivandrum Full Day Sightseeing Tour in a Private Car

Top attractions in kollam.

Other Top Attractions around Kollam

What travellers are saying

• Jatayu Earth's Center
• Thangassery Light House
• Palaruvi Falls
• Sasthamkotta Lake
• Kollam Beach
• Thirumullavaram Beach
• Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls
• Munroe Island Backwaters Canoe Tours
• Southern Backwaters

Top Things to Do in Kollam

Things to do in kollam, explore popular experiences, tours in and around kollam.

Kayaking in Mangrove Forest of Paravur Backwaters near Varkala and Kollam

5 Nights & 6 Days Kerala Tour Covering Munnar, Aleppey Houseboat, Kovalam Beach

Kayaking to the Black Devil Snail Sandbar Island in Paravur Lake near Varkala

Private Jatayu Nature Park and Varkala Beach Tour from Kovalam

Cooking classes @ Aryavilla heritage, Varkala

"Day Trip to Varkala from Trivandrum (Guided Full Day City Tour)"

21hrs Aleppey Village and Canal Tour by Private Houseboat.

Hands-on Authentic Keralite Cooking Class - Learn, Cook, Eat & Enjoy!

Day trip to Kanyakumari beach and Padmanabhapuram palace

Trivandrum Full Day Sightseeing Tour in a Private Car

Top attractions in kollam.

Other Top Attractions around Kollam

What travelers are saying

• Jatayu Earth's Center
• Thangassery Light House
• Palaruvi Falls
• Sasthamkotta Lake
• Kollam Beach
• Thirumullavaram Beach
• Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls
• Munroe Island Backwaters Canoe Tours
• Southern Backwaters

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KOLLAM TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO KOLLAM

• Kollam Overview
• Top 33 Places to Visit in Kollam
• 5 Best Kollam Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Kollam
• Best Time to Visit Kollam

How to Reach Kollam

• Kollam Tour Plans
• Driving Directions to Kollam

About Kollam

Country: india | state: kerala, #11 of 23 places to visit in kerala | places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 1-2 days, base station: kollam, nearest city to kollam: trivandrum (70 kms), best time to visit kollam: october to march, peak season: december to january & may to june, kollam weather: maximum: 36°c minimum: 20.7°c.

At a distance of 69 km from Trivandrum, 83 km from Alleppey, 94 km from Kottayam, 135 km from Kochi, and 156 km from Kanyakumari, Kollam, also known as Quilon is an old seaport city in Kerala. Lies between the Ashtamudi Lake and Lakshadweep Sea, Kollam is the headquarters of the Kollam district, and among the must-include places in Kerala tour packages . Situated on the shores of Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam is the southern gateway to the backwaters of Kerala and one of the prominent places to visit near Kochi and Trivandrum. Thirty percent of this district is covered by Ashtamudi Lake. The eight-hour boat trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the best way to explore the Kerala backwaters. It is also very famous for cashew processing and coir manufacturing. Kollam was a flourishing port during the Chera dynasty and later became the capital of the independent Venad or Kingdom of Quilon. Kollam had a strong commercial reputation since the days of the Phoenicians and Romans. Desinganadu Rajas exchanged embassies with Chinese rulers while there was a flourishing Chinese settlement at Kollam. It was considered as one of the five main ports dealing with Chinese trade in the 14th century. In 1502, the first trading center was established in Kollam by the Portuguese. The Portuguese were followed by the Dutch and then the British in 1795. Kollam attracts travelers all-round the year with its wide variety of sightseeing options that one must visit as part of Kollam tour packages . Kollam Beach, Thirumullavaram Beach, Thangasseri Beach, Munroe Island, Ashtamudi Lake, Sasthamkotta Lake, Alumkadavu Boat Building Yard, Rameshwara Temple, Achencoil, Amritapuri Ashram, Aryankavu, Chavara, Kottarakkara, Oachira, and Pullichira Church are the most famous places to visit in Kollam . Kallada Boat race is one of the famous celebrated events in Kollam. This boat race attracts a large number of tourists and is usually held on the 19th of January along with the great elephant march simultaneously. Kollam can be visited along with Trivandrum tour packages . Kollam is well connected by bus, train, and air. Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport (66 km from Kollam). Kollam Railway Station is well connected to the major cities like Chennai, Hubli, Hyderabad, Trivandrum, Mumbai, Mangalore, Nagarcoil, Madurai, New Delhi, Kolkata, Kanyakumari, and Kochi. KSRTC bus service connects Kollam to all cities in Kerala. Private buses are also available to Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Pondicherry, and Thrissur. The best time to visit Kollam is from October to March, while the peak seasons are from November to January. It usually takes 1-2 full days to explore this area.

...read more

Nearest Airport: Trivandrum - Trivandrum International Airport (71 Kms)

Direct flights to trivandrum, nearest train station: kollam railway station (0 kms), direct trains to kollam, nearest bus station: kollam ksrtc bus station (1.5 kms), direct buses to kollam, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to kollam, top 10 places to visit in kollam, ashtamudi lake.

#1 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of 2 km from Kollam Railway Station, Ashtamudi Lake is a beautiful lake situated in the Kolla district of Kerala. It is the southern gateway to the backwater of Kerala, and among the most visited tourist places in Kollam . Spread over an area of 16 km, Ashtamudi Lake is the second largest lake in Kerala, after Vembanad Lake, which has found its way into the sea through the Neendakara estuary. The 8 arms or channels of the Ashtamudi Lake are what gave it its name. The lake resembles the shape of a palm conifer or an octopus. Surrounded by lush green trees and swaying coconut palms, Ashtamudi Lake is famous for its panoramic views. Boating is offered in the lake by The Kollam Boat Club. It is the entrance to the famous backwaters of Kerala and the houseboat rides here are extremely famous. The Kollam to Alappuzha route is considered among the best in the backwaters. A lot of tourists come here .....

Kollam Beach

#2 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of 2 Kms from Kollam Railway Station, Kollam Beach, also known as Kochupilamodu Beach is located in Kochupilamodu. It is also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach. The Mahatma Gandhi Park situated at the southern end of the beach is an added attraction. The beach offers beautiful views of sunset and it is ideal for swimming.

Thirumullavaram Beach

#3 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of 5.5 Kms from Kollam Railway Station, Thirumullavaram Beach is a beautiful beach with full of coconut palms. This beach is excellent for bathing and swimming. Mahavishnu Temple near the beach is a worth visiting place.

Thangasseri Beach & Light House

#4 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of 4 Kms from Kollam Railway Station, Thangasseri Beach is a beautiful & historical beach on Ariabian Sea. This place was a Portuguese settlement in 15th/16th century and later changed hands between Dutch & British. Thangasseri beach is a wonderful place to spend an evening and watch the lovely sunset. The beach is adjacent to Kollam Fort. At north-east corner of the beach, the ruins of Thangasseri Fort built in the 18th century are also interesting to visit. Lighthouse situated close to the beach is worth visiting. Built in 1902, the majestic Lighthouse is 144 feet tall. Lighthouse is open to public between 3:30 PM & 5:30 PM. Feb to Nov is the best time to visit Thangasseri Beach.

Kappil Beach

#5 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of 18 Kms from Kollam and 6 Kms from Varkala, Kappil Beach is a famous weekend gateway from Tivandrum. Sprawls across 25 acres of land, the thin line of sand beach separates Edava-Nadayara Lake from the Arabian Sea. Swimming, water sports and Sun-bathing are famous activities at this spot. Boating is available in the backwaters of the lake at Priyadarshini Boat Club and Lake Sagar Boat Club near Beach. Dolphins are an added attraction on the Kappil Beach. Kappil Beach is connected by bus service from Kollam, Varkala & Trivandrum.

Thenmala Dam

#6 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of 68 km from Kollam, 39 km from Tenkasi & 73 km from Trivandrum, Thenmala Dam also known as Kallada Dam or Parappara Dam located in Thenmala village is built across Kalla River. It is situated very close to Kollam - Tenkasi road. The dam is located amidst picturesque location with beautiful surroundings at the foothills of the Western Ghats. The surroundings of Thenmala Dam are developed under eco-tourism development activities. It is also selected by World Tourism Organisation as one of the best eco-friendly projects in the world. Thenmala means honey hill. Due to the peculiar floristic composition of the forest, the honey collected from Thenmala forest is famous for its medicinal values. This place has facilities like winding pathways, sway bridge, amphitheatre and a musical fountain. You can also visit the traditional tree houses of the tribal of this area. There are also boating facilities in the reservoir. .....

Palaruvi Waterfalls

#7 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of 29 km from Tenkasi, 81 km from Kollam, & 86 km from Trivandrum, Palaruvi Waterfall is a wonderful waterfall located at Aryankavu. Situated on Kollam - Tenkasi road, it is one of the popular waterfalls in Kerala , and among the must-visit places during Kollam trip . Palaruvi Waterfalls, which literally translates to 'Stream of Milk', cascades down through rocks from a height of about 300 feet. It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Trivandrum . The waterfall is surrounded by lush green valleys and natural herbal groves, which makes this waterfall, rich in medicinal properties. Regarded as one of the most famous Kollam sightseeing places , the Palaruvi Waterfall is known to have ayurvedic properties. Locals believe that .....

#8 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of 16 km from Kollam, Paravur is a beautiful place with a combination of Sea, Lakes, Rivers, Backwaters, and vast green fields. This is one of the fabulous places in Kerala and among the must-include places in Kollam tour packages . Paravur town has a small lake that merges with the backwaters of Kerala. The mangroves standing along both sides of the lake intensifies its beauty, making it more attractive. This lake is popular and significant as it connects as a part of the Trivandrum-Shornaur Canal System to the Edava and Ashtamudi Kayal. Another real fascination in the region of Paravur lake is the Priyadarshini watercraft club. This watercraft club uncovers immense boating choices in the realm where the Arabian Sea, river, and the Kappil backwater merge. With a thin stretch of narrow land dividing the sea and Pravur lake, the beach at Paravur is ideal to sit and gaze at the natural beauty.

Janardhana Swamy Temple - Varkala

#9 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of about 26 km from Kollam, Janardhana Swamy Temple is located in Varkala, which is a coastal town on the banks of Arabian Sea. Situated on top of a small hillock near Papanasam Beach, this temple is believed to be 2000 years old. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Hanuman and it is important for 'Pithrutharpanam'. The temple was maintained by the Pandya Kings. Only Hindus are allowed inside the inner sanctum of the temple. Photography is not allowed inside. Timings: 4 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 8 PM

Clock Tower

#10 of 33 Places to Visit in Kollam

At a distance of 0.5 Km from Kollam Railway Station, Clock Tower is situated in Chinnakada and it is a major landmark in the town of Kollam. This tower has become an unofficial symbol of Kollam District. This quadrangular tower was built by the natives in honor of Unichakam Veedu K G Parameshwaran Pillai, the former chairman of Kollam Municipality between 1932 & 1948. The construction was started in 1941 and completed in 1944. Built with brick and white cement, it has the distinction of being the first clock tower of Travancore. The four big clocks placed on the sides were brought from Kolkata.

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• Places To Visit In Kollam

Places to Visit in Kollam

Kollam is a city in Kerala that is 64 kilometres away from the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram and is home to some very breathtaking spots. Located on the Malabar Peninsula, this bustling port boasts a dozen or more sandy beaches and a thriving trading industry. Even ancient travellers like Marco Polo and Ibn Batuta remarked on the city's importance to the spice trade. Stunning lakes, beaches, waterfalls, and more are just some of the attractions of the city. Various visitors come to see the city's many attractions, including the Palaruvi Waterfalls, Rameshwara Temple, Jatayu's Earth Centre, Punaluur, and many more.

Things To See & Do

Pathanapuram

Known for its rubber and spice plantations.

4 to 5 hours

Suggested Time

Ashtamudi Backwater and Lake

Charming lake amid nature.

Karunagapally

Bustling town boasting natural beauty.

2 to 3 hours

Palaruvi Falls

Gurgling waterfall amid nature.

3 to 4 hours

Munroe Island

Natural tourist attraction.

5 to 6 hours

Thangassery Lighthouse

Lighthouse with incredible views.

Kottukkal Cave Temple

Sacred hindu shrine.

Sasthamcotla Lake

Crystal-clear for picnic.

Kulathupuzha

Delightful hamlet with lush greenery.

Jatayu Nature Park

Home to the biggest bird sculpture.

2 to 5 hours

Ashram of Amritapuri

Peaceful tourist attraction.

1 to 3 hours

Best Time To Visit Kollam

Winter destination, peak season, moderate season.

• What To Expect : Pleasant weather with a dip in the temperature at night
• Things You'll Love : Beaches, water sports and monuments

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Theyyam Festival Third Week of February

Attukal Pongala February to March

Ambalapuzha Arattu Third Week of March

Temple Festivals March to May

Kerala Boat Festival First Week of August

Onam August to September

Maha Shivarathri September

Thiruvathira December

Makaravilakku December to January

Book Your Trip to Kollam

Travel options to reach kollam.

Our Recommendations

Flight to Thiruvananthapuram Airport, then cab to Kollam

5h 19m . one way.

Booking Price

Flight to Thiruvananthapuram

Cab to kollam, flight to kochi airport, then cab to kollam, 8h 16m . one way, flight to kochi, stay in kollam.

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Best places to visit in kollam.

Kollam is renowned for its elaborate temple festivals, with colorful processions, traditional music, and majestic elephant parades. Experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals as they celebrate their cultural heritage with fervor and enthusiasm.

Places to Visit in Kollam with Family:

• Pathanapuram: Discover the ancient temples and historical landmarks that adorn this charming town.
• Ashtamudi Backwater and Lake: Indulge in a serene boat ride along the tranquil backwaters of Ashtamudi Lake
• Karunagapally: With its pristine beaches and breathtaking vistas, Karunagapally is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Spend a relaxing day by the sea, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquil ambiance.

Places to Visit in Kollam with Friends:

• Palaruvi Falls: Embark on a scenic journey to Palaruvi Falls, a majestic waterfall nestled amidst dense forests.
• Thangassery Lighthouse: Visit the iconic Thangassery Lighthouse, a historic landmark that stands tall on the coast of Kollam.
• Jatayu Nature Park: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Jatayu Nature Park , named after the mythical bird in Hindu mythology. Explore the sprawling park, which features sculptures, adventure activities, and stunning vistas.

Best Time to Visit Kollam:

The best season to visit Kollam is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

Good Places to Visit at Night in Kollam:

While Kollam may not be known for its vibrant nightlife, there are still some places where you can enjoy a pleasant evening. - Take a peaceful stroll along the beach or the backwaters, enjoying the serene ambiance.

Restaurants in Kollam:

• Shangrila Vegetarian Restaurant
• The Riverside
• Sri Ayyappa Punjabi food and Andhra meals

Good Places to Visit in Kollam in 1 Day

Visit the historic landmarks and temples in Pathanapuram . - Take a relaxing boat ride in Ashtamudi Backwater and Lake . - Explore the picturesque beaches of Karunagapally .

Places to Visit in Kollam in 2 Days

In addition to the above, visit the majestic Palaruvi Falls and admire the panoramic views from Thangassery Lighthouse .

Places to Visit in Kollam in 3 Days

Explore the ancient temples and historical sites in Pathanapuram. - Enjoy boat rides and immerse in the tranquility of Ashtamudi Backwater and Lake. Indulge in the scenic beauty of Karunagapally's beaches.

Top Places to Visit Near Kollam:

Alappuzha: Explore the famous backwaters, serene beaches, and traditional houseboat cruises in Alappuzha , located about 90km.

Varkala: Visit the stunning cliffside beach, popular for its golden sands, clear waters, and vibrant beachside cafes in Varkala .

Thiruvananthapuram: Explore Thiruvananthapuram , the capital city of Kerala, known for its rich history, architectural wonders, and the famous Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, located around 75km from Kollam.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Kollam

What are the best places to visit in kollam.

The most loved attractions in Kollam are Pathanapuram, Ashtamudi Backwater and Lake and Karunagapally.

Kollam has loads of places that you can visit on your vacation. Our recommendation of the best places to visit in Kollam include - Pathanapuram, Ashtamudi Backwater and Lake, and Karunagapally. Apart from these, there are multiple other places to visit that you can explore if you are on a longer trip!

What are some of the best places to stay in Kollam?

Kollam has a large variety of resorts and stays that you can select from ranging from budget to luxurious stays. Some of the most popular places to stay in Kollam are Hotel Sea Pearl, Fragrant Nature and Chandra Inn.

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"Gateway to the Backwaters of Kerala"

Kollam tourism.

A treasure trove of natural wonders and historical edifices, Kollam is an enchanting town with backwaters and picturesque landscapes. Located 70kms away from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Kollam is a commercial centre and home to India’s cashew producing industry. Popularly known as Quilon, it is often regarded as the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala.

It sits on the bank of the Ashtamudi Lake, hence, cruising along the Alappuzha route is one of the main highlights of the region. With a history dating back to the 9th century, Kollam was a prominent spice trading centre. It is one of the oldest ports in the Arabian Sea that lies on the southwest coast which was frequented by iconic merchants, missionaries and explorers including Marco Polo, Ibn Battuta, Vasco da Gama, Henrique Henriques and many more. Venture the lesser-known path, and this beautiful city on India’s Malabar Coast is sure to enchant you.

Places To Visit In Kollam

Thevally Palace

Mahatma Gandhi Beach and Park

Jatayu Earth's Centre

Palaruvi Waterfalls

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Places to Visit in Kollam | Kollam Tourism

Kollam otherwise called as the Cashew Town is situated in the southwest corner of India in Kerala. Kollam has an eventful past. Kollam was an international emporium of trade. So many foreign travellers and traders visited Kollam. It was an early centre of Christian activity in Kerala.

Kollam is encircled by Alappuzha in the north, Thiruvananthapuram in the south, Tirunelveli (Tamil Nadu) in the east, and the Arabian Sea in the west. Kollam is the fourth largest city in Kerala. Kollam has some of the beautiful backwaters in Kerala.

Famous Ashtamudi lake is situated in Kollam district. The 144 ft. Thangassery Light House is a centre of attraction. There are many churches and mosques in Kollam. The Pullichira Church, Chinnakkada Palli which is one of the oldest and most important Mosques are the most popular among them.

The Anandavalleswaram Temple here is a major spot of devotees. Mahatma Gandhi beach & park, Thirumullavaram beach and Ashramam picnic Village, are some other attractions in here. Kollam is also blessed with wonderful beaches.

The Adventure Park located at the shores of Ashtamudi lake is the most popular attraction in Kollam .

Places to Visit in Kollam

1. sasthamcotta lake.

Sasthamcotta is a beautiful village situated about 19 km from Kollam Town. It is a centre of attraction and one of the most visited places in Kollam. It is a wonderful spot and pilgrimage centre and also has a health resort in here. Sasthamkotta lake is the biggest freshwater lake in Kerala. Sasthamcotta can also be called as Queen of Lakes.

This lake is surrounded by hills on all sides except south where a bund has been constructed separating the lake from the neighbouring rice fields. A major part of the lake has been reclaimed for agriculture. The source of water is from the underground sprouts.

2. Thangassery

Thangassery is a historically important place situated 5 km away from Kollam town. The main attraction of this place is the lighthouse. This light house is 144 ft. tall and stands as a sentinel, warning seamen of the treacherous reefs of Thangassery.

This renowned lighthouse is built in the year 1902. There are so many ancient pretty churches here which have been established in eighteenth century.

Thangassery has a glorious past this was a popular enclave of the Portuguese, Dutch and British in succession. In here you can still see the remnants of the Portuguese and Dutch forts. The construction of a fishing harbour is in here.

3. Palaruvi Waterfalls

Palaruvi waterfall is a stunningly beautiful waterfalls in Kollam. The word Palaruvi means ‘Stream of Milk’. There are so many peculiarities about this waterfall. There are ruins of ancient temples in here.

This waterfall is unique.The water in Palaruvi is said to be medicated and is preventive against many diseases. Water cascading down at a height of 300 feet across the Rocky Mountains is an amazing sight.

Punalur situated at a distance of 45 km from Kollam town is one among the important industrial centres of Kerala. The Suspension bridge of 400 feet long across the Kallada river is the only one of its kind in south India.

This bridge is an archaeological wonder. A concrete bridge has been constructed near this bridge now. Punalur is the headQuarters of Pathanapuram Taluk.

5. Thenmala

Thenmala, a centre of rubber and tea plantations is surrounded by dense forest. The most popular attraction in here is the Dam. Thenmala Dam site draws the attraction of thousands of tourists every year. There is also an Eco tourists center in Thenmala.

Thenmala is situated 66 km away from Kollam town. It is the meeting point of Kollam-Shenkottai road and Trivandrum-Shenkottai road. Timber of all varieties are exported from here to all parts of the country. This place is well connected with road and railway.

Oachira is a unique pilgrim center in Kollam district. The peculiarity of the temple here is that there is no temple building as such nor is any idol. People from all classes of society come here and worship the presiding deity the parabrahmam.

Oachira Kala, a festival held annually in June is most famous in here and thousands of people from different part of the state come here. Oachira is also an important handicraft center. The fancy articles of screw pine mats manufactured here are very famous.

7. Achencoil

Achencoil is an important pilgrim center situated in Kollam. This place is famous for the Sastha temple which is situated amidst the dense forests. The two important festivals of this temple are Mandala Pooja (December-January) and the festival held at 'Revathi'(January-February). Therotam (chariot festival) and Pushpabhishekam (offering of flowers) during these festivals are famous.

8. Ashtamudi Lake

Ashtamudi lake, the second largest and deepest ecosystem in India is situated in Kollam district. This palm shaped extensive water body with eight prominent arms is well known for its magnificent landscape views. This lake is the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala .

Along the banks of lake you can see the waving palm trees, green paddy fields, the simplicity of village life colourful exotic birds and so many other sights. There is an adventure park located at the Taking a houseboat cruise through this backwaters will definitely be a refreshing experience.

Make your holiday a wonderful experience in the natural beauty of this small beautiful town.

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Say Hello to Backwater Tourism with these Places to Visit in Kollam

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• April 2, 2019 in City Tours , Travel Tips
• Places to visit tourist places
• Rebecca John

Such was the fame of Kollam once as a trade centre that everyone from the Romans, Arabs, Chinese, the Portuguese, Dutch, and British traders were clamouring to get their hands on the spices and the cashew crops of the region. Today, it is famous as the southern entrance to Kerala’s backwaters with over a third of its surface covered by the Ashtamudi Lake. Jump on board a boathouse for an eight-hour ride to Alleppey, one of the most beautiful and coveted rides in the whole of Kerala or simply explore the plethora of sites that Kollam has to offer that range from traditional ornate temples to hanging out on the beaches. Here are the best tourist attractions and places to visit in Kollam.

Top 17 Places To Visit In Kollam

Find Best Hotels In Kollam

• Astamudi Lake
• Palaruvi Waterfalls
• British Residency
• Kollam Beach
• Thirumullavaram Beach
• Thangasseri Beach and Light House
• Munroe Island
• Rameshwaram Temple
• Kollam Pooram – Sri Krishna Temple
• St.Andrews Church – Kovilthottam
• Mahadeva Temple
• Kappil Beach
• Janardhana Swamy Temple
• Sardar Vallabhai Patel Police Museum Kerala

1.Astamudi Lake

This is the second largest lake in Kerala and also the gateway to the backwater tourism of Kerala. Famous for its scenic views of coconut groves and palm trees on the shores, boating facilities and houseboat rides are available here. There are many resorts also along the shores that offer a variety of water sports. The Chinese fishing nets on sight here are also a good draw for photography enthusiasts. 

2. Palaruvi Waterfalls

Palaruvi literally translates to “milky streams” and this mesmerizing waterfall is located on the Kollam-Shencottah Road and is a two and half hour ride from Kollam. The water falls from a height of 300-feet and is supposed to have Ayurvedic properties. A popular picnic spot, the ideal time to visit this place is from June to January.

3. British Residency

This colonial two storey building, right in the heart of Kollam, was built by Col. John Munro and has touches of Indian, European, and Tuscan architecture to it. The building is famous for its murals and artistic flourishes. The Edward Rose Garden and the clock tower are the other notable landmarks within the grounds of this building.

4. Kollam Beach

Centrally located and just 2 kilometres from the Kollam Railway Station, Kollam Beach is also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach and Kochupilamodu Beach offers beautiful views of the sunset and is ideal for a leisurely day out with family and friends. The waves near the shore are not high and the place is ideal for swimming. This is definitely one of the best tourist attractions in Kollam.

5. Thirumullavaram Beach

Arguably, the second most popular beach in Kollam after Kollam Beach, this beach is full of coconut palms, which makes it a shady and silent place. The beach is ideal for morning and evening walks with a beautiful sight of the setting sun. Picnics, swimming, and sunbathing are the ideal activities here as there are no danger zones here. A popular attraction here is the Maha Vishnu Temple. Another popular attraction here is the rocky platform that extends out to the sea known as the Sunday Rock. During low tide, this platform can be seen extending out to the sea for around 1.5 kilometres. According to a survey, the beach is one of the 16 best-maintained beaches in India . It is at a distance of 5.5 kilometres from the Kollam Railway Station.

6. Thangasseri Beach and Light House

Completing the trio of beaches in Kollam is the Thangasseri Beach and Lighthouse, which is a historical beach where beauty and history come together. The beach has a history of rolling into the hands of settlers one after the other from the Portuguese to the Dutch and finally to the British. The remains of these exchanges are still here. At the north-east end of the beach are the ruins of the Thangasseri Fort, a relic from the 18-century. Another monument connected to the beach is the Lighthouse built in 1902 and is 144-feet in height. The Lighthouse is open to the public between 3:20 pm and 5:30 pm on all days. The best time to visit the beach is between November and February. This is one of the best places to see in Kerala .

7. Munroe Island

Named after the British resident of Travancore, Colonel Munroe, Munroe Island is at a distance of 26 kilometres from Kollam and the island is at the intersection of the Astamudi Lake and the Kallada River. Canoe tours are one of the best ways to experience this island and see the life of the riverine population here. Stone age tools discovered here has meant that this is an important historical destination now. Boat cruises are operated to the island twice daily.

8. Rameshwaram Temple

Rameshwaram Temple is one of the oldest temples in this region and according to local history, this is one of the four Siva temples built by the Natukotta Chettiar, a prominent mercantile caste who were worshippers of Lord Shiva.

The temple was built in the 12-century and is reflective of the Pandyan style of architecture with beautiful sculptures. There are several inscriptions here written in Tamil, which date between the12-century and 16-century. An annual temple festival is celebrated here every year between January and February.

9. Jatayupara

In the Ramayana, Jatayu is the name of the bird who fights with the demon king Ravana to rescue Sita, the consort of Lord Rama. Jatayupara takes its name from the place where Jatayu apparently fell after its wing was cut off by Ravana.

Today, a massive sculpture of Jatayu, the world’s largest bird sculpture ((200 feet (61 m) long, 150 feet (46 m) broad, 70 feet (21 m) in height and having 15,000 square feet (1,400 m 2 ) of floor area) is the main attraction at Jatayupara Nature Park, which is at a height of 1200-feet above sea level and at a distance of 38 kilometres from Kollam. There is a nature park around the sculpture. This place is a unique combination of culture, mythology, technology, and art. Apart from the awe-inspiring sculpture, the virtual reality museum here tells the story of Jatayu to visitors. The Jatayu Adventure Centre here also offers all the modern fun amenities with adventure activities such as zip lining, trekking, rappelling, wall climbing, bouldering, valley crossing, and paintball shooting. The climbing activities are built into the natural rock formations on the hill here.

The Siddha Cave Healing Centre here ensures that you get a complete experience here. This is one of the best tourist attractions in Kollam that should not be missed at any cost.

10. Kollam Pooram – Sri Krishna Temple

At a distance of 2.5 kilometres from the Kollam Railway Station, is the Sri Krishna Temple, which becomes the site of the Kollam Pooram Festival in April every year. The 10-day festival begins with the hoisting of a flag and the deities of the nearby temples are brought to the Krishna Temple atop beautifully decorated elephants to pay homage to Lord Krishna. Different rituals and ceremonies take place throughout the 10 days and thousands of devotees gather in the temple compound to witness this colourful extravaganza.

11. Paravur                 

Another favourite for backwater trips, Paravur gives you a heady concoction of the sea, backwater lakes, rivers, and vast stripes of greenery. Swimming and surfing are the most popular activities at Paravur followed by fishing that requires permission from the local authorities. Apart from the waters, the nearby Puttingal Temple and Puthenkulam Elephant Village are the other attractions here.

12. St. Andrews Church –Kovilthottam

The St. Andrews Church at Kovilthottam is one of the most famous landmarks for Christian pilgrims to Kollam. Built in 1398 originally, the present day structure dates backs to 1779 and this picturesque church with its antique sculpture is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on the west and the T.S. Canal on the east. The church is at a distance of 17 kilometres from Kollam.

13. Mahadeva Temple

Situated on the banks of the Astamudi Lake and 7 kilometres from the Kollam Railway Station this is a Shiva Temple where two important festivals are held every year. The annual Srattu Festival is held every year in February and attracts thousands of devotees. The highlight during this festival is the eight artificial horses that represent the eight areas around the temple. Another famous festival here is the Kettukazhcha festival, which is a festival celebrated in the months of December to January.

14. Kappil Beach

If you want to head to a beach outside Kollam, Kappil Beach might just be your correct choice. Sprawling across 25 acres of land, swimming, water sports, sun-bathing, and boating are the big draws on this beach. Additionally, the sight of dolphins on this beach gives it its USP. Kappil Beach is well-connected by road and bus service from Kollam.

15. Janardhana Swamy Temple

 This 2000-year-old temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Hanuman and is at a distance of around 26 kilometres from Kollam in the coastal town of Varkala. This temple is famous for conducting ‘Pithrutharpanam’, the ceremony where the departed ancestors are worshipped. Only Hindus are allowed in the garbhagriha or inner sanctum of the temple and photography is not allowed inside. 

16. Sardar Vallabhai Patel Police Museum Kerala

The Sardar Vallabhai Patel Police Museum pays tribute to the police forces of Kerala and also traces their history and development. It is a prominent landmark of Kollam and was started by former Inspector General of Police, B Sandhya.

One of the most famous landmarks here is the Martyrs Gallery, which includes police arms and ammunition used in the 18-century and 19-century. Along with this, there are other important artefacts, which display information related to fingerprinting, DNA tests, photos of police dogs and medals.

Another popular section is the natural calamity section, which houses tragic images from the Tsunami in Kollam and images of the Malanada Fire Works incident. The museum is open on all days except for Sundays between 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

17. Punalur

Punalur is at a distance of about 38 kilometres from Kollam and derives its name from two words in Tamil and Malayalam. ‘Punal’ in Tamil means water and the Malayalam word’ ooru’ means place, which combined together give the name Punalur or ‘place of water’. This is more than true as the river Kallada gushes through the heart of the city. Apart from the river, there is plenty of flora to be seen here in the form of forests full of pineapples, pepper, cinnamon, and other spices. For those with an adventurous spirit, the Thenmala Ecotourism Park is the perfect spot.

Since the town is in the middle of the Western Ghats, the town is also a good connecting point for further activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and adventure sports. Some of the tourist attractions to head to from here can be the Shenthruni Forest, Palruvi, and Courtallam Waterfalls and the age old Pattazhi Devi Temple. This is another one of the best places to see in Kollam.

These, in a nutshell, are the places to visit and tourist attractions in Kollam. If you want a slice of the famed backwater tourism of   Kerala, do not think twice but simply head to Kollam. Due to the good connectivity by road, there is very little to plan as such because there are buses available to all major destinations. Figure out your itinerary before visiting this place to ensure maximum use of available time. The best time to visit Kollam is between November and March when it is not too rainy or not too hot.

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• 15 Best Places To Visit In Kollam: A Multitude Of Tourist Attractions

15 Best Places To Visit in Kollam: A Multitude of Tourist Attractions

Experience a slice of heaven in Kollam, one of Kerala’s most sought after destinations that fascinate travellers with a multitude of attractions. Once a trade centre of spices and cashew for everyone, including Arabs, Romans, British, Portuguese, Chinese and Dutch traders, this majestic town is a surreal vacation spot of today. It offers a galore of nature spots, historic sites, ancient temples, beaches, and a lot more to leave you spellbound.

Here is a list of the 15 best Kollam tourist places to include in your itinerary when on a vacation in this majestic town.

1. Palaruvi Waterfalls  

Palaruvi is a delightful picnic spot of Kollam. Besides the greenery and scenic beauty, the milky stream of water falling from a height of 300 feet on the rocky terrain offers a spectacular view, attractive locals and tourists. This place is frequently visited by people looking to relax and rejuvenate in the lap of mother nature.

Not just one of the exciting places to visit in Kollam, Palaruvi waterfall is also known to have Ayurvedic properties.

Location: Palaruvi waterfall is located in the Aryankavu village of Kollam, which is around 75 km from the city and can be reached in 2 hours via NH744 by car.

2. Ashtamudi Lake  

One of Kerala's most visited backwaters, Ashtamudi is the second largest lake in the state that is known for its unique wetland ecosystem. It is a large palm-shaped or octopus-shaped water body surrounded by palm trees and thick coconut grooves, making it famous among locals and tourists for houseboat cruises from Kollam to Alappuzha.

Besides backwater cruising, the lake is known for its incredible beauty and nearby resorts.

Location: Ashtamudi lake is around 18 km from the main Kollam city and can be reached in about 32 minutes via NH 66 by car.

3. Mayyanad  

Mayyanad village in Kollam is a place of religious importance. It is known to have some of the oldest shrines and temples in the country. Additionally, it is also home to one of the nine most important Hindu temples in India, The Subramanya Temple. The temple is believed to have been consecrated by the great Hindu philosopher Shree Sankaracharya.

Together with other famous temples and shrines, Mayyanad is among the most visited Hindu pilgrim sites of Kerala.

Location: Mayyanad village is around 9 km from the main Kollam city. It can be reached in about 17 minutes via NH 66 by car.

4. Jatayu’s Earth Centre  

Also popularly known as Jatayu Nature Park or Jatayu Rock, it is a tourism centre that features a 6D theatre, an audio/visual digital room, a cable car and many more exciting things to make your visit worthwhile. This brilliantly designed structure is spread over 65 acres of land and holds the distinction of being the world’s largest bird sculpture.

The sculpture represents Jatayu, the demi-god in the form of a vulture mentioned in the Hindu epic Ramayana.

Location: Jatayu Earth Centre is about 36.7 km from the main Kollam city and can be reached in about 53 minutes via NH 66 by car.

5. Thenmala Deer Park  

Among the best tourist places to visit in Kollam, it is an eco-park situated in the dense woods of the Kallada riverside forest. The place is home to different types of deer, including Sambar deer, Spotted deer, Barking deer, Axis deer and many more. Besides, the place also features tinkering waterfalls, ropeways, a children’s park and a treehouse for visitors to spend some quality time with family and friends.

Location: Thenmala deer park is around 60 km from the main Kollam city and can be reached in 1 hour 35 minutes via NH 744 by car.

6. Thirumullavaram Beach  

Yet another interesting attraction on the list of best Kollam tourist places is the Thirumullavaram beach. This secluded nature spot is best for sightseeing or spending some quality time with your loved ones. Visitors get to enjoy lovely views of the sun-soaked sand, lush greenery and serene blue sea.

Besides, the beach is famous for the yearly rituals of Karkidaka Vavu Bali. It is the sacrificial ritual performed in the memory of the departed souls of ancestors.

Location: Thirumullavaram beach is around 8 km from the main Kollam city. It can be reached in about 17 minutes via Panvel - Kochi - Kanyakumari Highway and NH 744 by car.

7. Kollam Beach

Also known as Mahatma Gandhi beach, it is among the popular beaches and the best places to visit in Kollam. The place is known for its lush greenery, calm backwaters and thrilling water activities. Besides, Kollam beach is also one of the best destination wedding sites in Kerala, offering the perfect backdrop. The visual aura of this place is such that it leaves you with an urge to come back again and again.

Location: Kollam beach is around 7 km from the main city. It can be reached in about 16 minutes via Thangassery Beach coastal road and NH 744 by car.

8. Kollam Adventure Park  

Also known as Asraman Picnic Village, it is among the best tourist places in Kollam for a one day trip. The urban park is spread across 48 acres of sprawling land and features endless fun and recreational activities. Rally your friends and family to this park and spend some quality time in lush green surroundings and fresh air.

Besides, visitors can also explore the museum or enjoy boating on the backwaters of the Ashtamudi river.

Location: Kollam adventure park is located in the heart of Kollam city. It can be easily reached in 10 minutes by car via Asramam road.

9. Anandavalleswaram Sri Mahadevar Temple  

A famous Hindu pilgrimage site, it is among the ancient temples in Kerala. It has Lord Shiva and Goddess Anandavally as the main deities along with Lord Krishna, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Bhoomi and Goddess Lakshmi. As per traditional beliefs, both the main deities at the Anandavalleswaram Sri Mahadevar Temple were placed and worshipped by sage Parashurama in the yesteryears. Thereby, increasing its religious and historic significance, and making it one of the best places to visit in Kerala.

Location: The temple is around 5 km from the main Kollam city. It can be reached in about 13 minutes by car via Panvel - Kochi - Kanyakumari highway and NH 744.

10. S hendurney Wildlife Sanctuary  

Shendurney forest was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1984 after several exotic and commonly found wildlife species made the forest their home. Animals here stay in their natural habitat and are safe from poachers. It is among the most beautiful places in Kollam that can be explored by wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The sanctuary comes under the control of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve as a protected area to safeguard its rich biodiversity of 1257 plant species and 379 animal species.

Location: The wildlife sanctuary is around 66 km from the main Kollam city. It can be reached in about 2 hours by car.

11. Kakkathuruthu Island  

One of the most beautiful tourist places in Kollam for a one day trip, Kakkathuruthu island is like a treasure trove for nature lovers and bird watchers. The thick coconut groves, paddy fields, fish farming, toddy tapping, and the traditional Kerala food; it is perfect for planning weekend getaways to get some time away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The mesmerizing beauty of this island has made it bag a place in Nat Geo’s magazine dedicated to some of the most beautiful places to relish during dusk.

Location: Kakkathuruthu Island is around 124 km from the main Kollam city. It can be reached in about 3 hours via NH 66 by car.

12. Munroe Island  

The hidden gem of Kollam, Munroe island is an inland island group located at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada river. It is a group of 8 islets separated by small water channels, making it the best place in Kerala for canal cruising.

The island’s main attractions are its tranquil surroundings, narrow backwaters and the famous Kallada boat race that takes place during the Onam festival.

Location: Munroe island is at a distance of around 15 km from the main Kollam city. It can be reached in about 56 minutes via NH 66 by car.

13. Rosemala View Point

On the list of beautiful Kollam tourist places is the Rosemala viewpoint that attracts locals and tourists for its surreal surroundings. It has a bewitching aura that almost seems to have come alive from a fairy tale. This scenic offbeat place is located amidst the pristine woods of Shendurney forest, featuring a lake and a watchtower.

Locals believe that the place was built as an estate by the wife of a British planter and is named after her name Roslin. Other viewpoints are that this thick forest land resembles the shape of a rose, thereby giving it the name Rosemala.

Location: Rosemala is around 86 km from the mail Kollam city. I can be reached in about 2 hours 37 minutes via NH 744 by car.

14. Thangassery Lighthouse  

Also spelt as Tangasserri, this famous lighthouse is among the best tourist attractions in Kollam. It is one of the two lighthouses in the city that are maintained by the Cochin Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships. It boasts of being the second tallest and most visited lighthouse in Kerala, thanks to the marvellous architecture standing at a height of 135 feet. Besides, it is also among the oldest lighthouses in Kerala, operational since 1902.

Location: The place is at a distance of 8 km from the main Kollam city. It can be reached in about 30 minutes via Thangassery Beach Coastal road.

15. Meppattu Sri Mahaganapathi Temple

Last on our list of Kollam tourist places is the famous Sri Mahaganapathi Temple. More than being a tourist attraction for its century-old architecture, the temple holds a religious and historic significance. Though the main deity at the temple is Lord Shiva along with Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesh and Lord Kartikeya, it is famous as a Ganapati temple.

An interesting fact about the temple is that people from all over the world are allowed to offer prayers regardless of their religion.

Location: The temple is at a distance of 8 km from the main Kollam city. It can be reached in about 24 minutes via NH 66 by car.

Pack your bags and get ready to explore Kerala's hidden gem Kollam. Also, check out the best Kerala tour packages online to discover other aspects of the state.

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Kollam tourist places.

Kollam was once a famous port of international spice trade in ancient India. Blessed with a long coastline, Kollam has a prominent role in the cashew trade in India. The destinations you should visit in Kollam are Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam Beach, Thirumullavaram Beach, Jatayu Adventure Centre, Thenmala, Palaruvi Waterfalls, Thangassery Light House, Kakkathuruth, Paravur Lake, Neendakara Port, Thevally Palace, and Munroe Island. A long ride in a houseboat through Ashtamudi Lake is a sought-after and picturesque trip that Kollam has to offer to you. 

Jatayu Adventure Center

Jatayu Adventure Center is a unique and spectacular tourist destination, offering a mind blowing experience to adventure seekers. It is particularly famous for the gigantic bird sculpture of Jatayu which has its name in the Guinness book of world records for being the largest functioning bird sculpture in the world. Some of the activities that tourists can look forward to at the adventure centre are paintball, trekking, jumaring and archery.

Paravur Backwaters Kayaking

Paravur Backwaters is one of the lesser known, tightly kept secret locations in southern Kerala. The Paravur Backwaters is safe and a sheltered waterbody, without much influence of the tidal effects. You can be assured of the safety as the depth of the lake in general is not more than 10 feet and not wider than 1 km. This ensures you don't paddle out and lose orientation in unknown waters. There are no motorboats in the waterbody to cause wake or noise pollution. Paravur Backwaters is part of the West Coast Canal System and connects it to the NW3 National Waterway between Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.

Kollam Beach 

​ An array of beach activities attracts huge flocks of tourists throughout the year to thepristine Kollam Beach. The panoramic visuals of the Arabian Sea are enchanting. A port city and one time bustling harbour for Chinese ships and trade, Kollam Beach is home to Chinese fishing nets

Adventure Park Kollam

Asramam Adventure Park is an urban park in the core Kollam city of Kerala state. It was opened after 1980, on 48 acres of city-owned land. Located beside the Kerala's pride, backwaters of Ashtamudi, this place popularly known as Asramam Picnic Village. It is the main centre of recreational activities in Kollam city

Ashtamudi Lake

The 8 arms or channels of the Ashtamudi Lake are what gave it its name. It is the entrance to the famous backwaters of Kerala and the houseboat rides here are extremely famous. The Kollam to Alappuzha route is considered among the best in the backwaters. Cruises here give you a deeper look at the heart and spirit of the backwaters. 

Thenmala Ecotourism

Thenmala attracts foreign and domestic tourists with a host of attractions including boating on the lake, a rope bridge, trekking, mountaineering, biking and a musical fountain. Thenmala is approachable both from Trivandrum and Punalur by road. The nearest railway station is Punalur. Kollam-QLN is better connected nationally. The waterfall called Palaruvi is a prime attraction nearby. Also nearby is a deer rehabilitation center where visitors can see deer in a forest setting and have a peep into a traditional tree house used by forest dwellers to escape harm from wild animals.

Palaruvi Water Falls and Hill Station

Palaruvi Falls is a waterfall located in Kollam district in the Indian state of Kerala. It is the 32nd highest waterfall in India. Palaruvi falls from a height of 300 feet and is situated at Aryankavu in the Kollam district of the south Indian state of Kerala

Kottukkal Rock Cut Temple

Kottukal Rock-cut Cave Temple is situated on the Thiruvanathapuram -Kottayam Road and is an idyllic example of rock-cut temple architecture. The temple is situated in Ittiva Panchayat in Kollam district. It has two cells on either side with Sivalingams in each with a projection carrying the figure of Lord Ganapathy at the centre. 

Thangassery Lighthouse

The Thangassery Lighthouse, also known as the Tangasseri Light House, boasts of being the second tallest on the entire coast of Kerala and is thus even one of the most visited lighthouses in the state on this account.  Rior to construction of the lighthouse, the British East India company had installed a tower with an oil lamp. In 1902 the present Tangasseri Lighthouse was completed, which by 1930 had suffered cracks in the tower that required jacketing masonry to be installed. The light source was modified in 1932, 1940, 1962, 1967, 1990 and 1994

The Punalur Suspension Bridge is the oldest motorable bridge in Kerala, which was built by the British on AD 1877 and is now a historical attraction. It is also known as "London Bridge Of Kerala". The bridge has a length of 400 feet. The suspension bridge was built to prevent wild animals from crossing into the town from the forest area of old Kattupathanapuram. It is the symbol of Punalur now. It is added to Kerala Tourism Circuit recently. Punalur is also known as the " City of hanging bridge"

Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Western Ghats, India, located in Kollam district of Kerala and comes under the control of Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve. This is a tropical semi-evergreen forest and is home to animals like elephants, leopards, bisons, sambar, wild boar, Lion-tailed macaques, langurs, deer and most of the other regular inhabitants of a wild, West Coast tropical evergreen forest.

Kakkathuruthu

Kakkathuruthu, a tiny island in Kerala’s backwaters,  The coconut trees, paddy fields, toddy tapping, fish farming, coir making, and traditional Kerala food like Appam, puttu, crab roast, shrimp fry, duck, pork dishes with fresh catch from the backwaters...there are numerous aspects which make Kakkathuruthu special. Tourists also enjoy the view of the setting sun and watching the sky hues. 

Chinnakada Clock Tower

Chinnakada Clock Tower is a landmark in Kollam City in the Istate of Kerala. In Chinnakada, the tower lies in the heart of the city, close to Kollam Junction Railway Station This quadrangular tower was built by the natives in honor of Unichakam Veedu K G Parameshwaran Pillai, the former chairman of Kollam Municipality between 1932 & 1948. The construction was started in 1941 and completed in 1944. Built with brick and white cement, it has the distinction of being the first clock tower of Travancore. The four big clocks placed on the sides were brought from Kolkata

Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls

Kumbhavurutty Waterfall is a famous waterfalls in South India situated near Aryankavu panchayath in Kollam district of Kerala near Tamil Nadu border. Located on the eastern area of Kollam District, Kumbhavurutty falls is one among the few crowd pulling waterfalls in Kerala.  This waterfall is a part of river Achankovil. Manalar Waterfall is another important waterfall near to this. The travelers can see wild animals also if lucky. Because the waterfall is very close to the thick Konni Forest area.

Munroe Island

Munroe Island or Mundrothuruthu is an inland island group located at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River, in Kollam district, Kerala, South India. It is a group of eight small islets comprising a total area of about 13.4 km

St. Thomas Fort

Fort Thomas or St. Thomas Fort or Fortaleza da São Tomé, also known as Tangasseri Fort, is a old fort located in the beach town of Tangasseri on the shores of the Arabian Sea in the city of Kollam, Kerala, Set up in 1519 CE, this historic fort in Kollam district, was built by the Portuguese. In its initial design, the fort had three towers and four bastions, and the entrance was from the seafront. The structure was equipped to meet all the artillery requirements then. In 1658, the Dutch conquered the fort. Although the Portuguese regained hold of some of the areas of the fort, it was recaptured by the Dutch in 1661. In 1795, the Thangassery fort was ceded to the British by the Dutch.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum is a museum that traces the history and growth of the police force in India On display are police arms of the 18th and 19th centuries and various other exhibits. The star attraction of the museum is the Martyr's Gallery. 

Visiting Hours: 0900 - 1800 hrs. on all days

Jatayu Adventure Park

​ Jatayu Adventure Center is a unique and spectacular tourist destination, offering a mind blowing experience to adventure seekers. It is particularly famous for the gigantic bird sculpture of Jatayu which has its name in the Guinness book of world records for being the largest functioning bird sculpture in the world. Some of the activities that tourists can look forward to at the adventure centre are paintball, trekking

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Top Tourist Places to Visit in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Some of the top tourist places to visit in Kollam are:

Ashtamudi Lake:

This scenic lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular destination for boating and fishing.

Thangassery Light House:

This historic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and is a popular spot for photography.

Sri Mahaganapathi Temple:

This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.

Thirumullavaram Beach:

This stunning beach is surrounded by palm trees and is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Sasthamkotta Lake:

This freshwater lake is surrounded by hills and is a popular destination for fishing and boating.

Palaruvi Falls:

This beautiful waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular destination for picnics and nature walks.

Popular places to visit in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Some of the popular places to visit in Kollam are:

Here is a sample 5-day itinerary for a trip to Kollam (Quilon), Kerala, India:

5 days itinerary for Kollam (Quilon) Trip

• Arrival in Kollam and check in to your hotel
• Visit the Thangassery Light House to admire the views of the Arabian Sea
• Explore the local markets to get a taste of the local culture
• In the evening, visit the Sri Mahaganapathi Temple to witness its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture
• Take a boat tour of the Ashtamudi Lake to admire its scenic beauty and enjoy a peaceful paddle
• Visit the Sasthamkotta Lake and enjoy a picnic by the water’s edge
• Visit the Palaruvi Falls to admire the stunning waterfall and enjoy a nature walk in the surrounding greenery
• Visit Kollam Beach to soak up the sun and enjoy a swim in the sea
• Visit Thirumullavaram Beach for a relaxing day by the water’s edge
• Visit the local temples and museums to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region
• Take a day trip to the nearby hill station of Munroe Island to admire the scenic beauty of the region
• Visit the local spice plantations to learn about the production of spices in the region
• In the evening, attend a traditional Kathakali dance performance to experience the rich culture of the region
• Departure from Kollam and return home with wonderful memories of your trip.

3 days itinerary for Kollam (Quilon) Trip

Here is a sample 3-day itinerary for a trip to Kollam (Quilon), Kerala, India:

• Visit the local markets to get a taste of the local culture

Popular Historical places to visit in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is rich in history and heritage and has many popular historical places to visit. Some of the most popular historical places to visit in Kollam are:

Kollam Beach:

This stunning beach is surrounded by palm trees and has a rich history as a trading center for spices and textiles.

This beautiful beach has a rich history and is surrounded by palm trees and is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple:

This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered one of the 108 holy shrines of Vaishnavism.

The Portuguese Fort:

This historic fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and offers a glimpse into the colonial history of the region.

Top Temples to visit in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its rich cultural heritage and has many popular temples to visit. Some of the top temples to visit in Kollam are:

Anandavalleswaram Sri Mahadevar Temple:

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Sasthamkotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple:

This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and is considered one of the most sacred shrines in the region.

Ochira Parabrahma Temple:

This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Parabrahma and is known for its unique architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Best street foods corner in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its delicious street food. Here are some of the best street food corners in Kollam to check out:

JN Stadium:

This bustling food street is known for its wide variety of street food options, including spicy chaat, savory dosas, and sweet jalebis.

This popular food street is known for its seafood stalls and street food stalls serving local favorites like fish curry and fried prawns.

Asramam Food Court:

This food court is located in the heart of the city and is known for its wide variety of street food options, including samosas, pakoras, and chaat.

Chinnakada:

This busy street is known for its street food stalls serving local favorites like spicy parottas and fluffy idlis.

Krishna Vilasam Road:

This street is known for its street food stalls serving sweet and savory treats like banana chips and pazham pori.

Best beaches to visit in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its beautiful beaches. Here are some of the best beaches to visit in Kollam:

Alumkadavu Beach:

This secluded beach is known for its clear waters and stunning views and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.

Paravur Beach:

This quiet and peaceful beach is known for its stunning sunsets and is a popular spot for picnicking and birdwatching.

Mahatma Gandhi Beach:

This popular beach is located in the heart of the city and is known for its wide sandy beaches and water sports facilities.

Best street foods to have in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its delicious street food. Here are some of the best street foods to try in Kollam:

This flaky, layered bread is a staple of the local cuisine and is often served with a spicy gravy or curry.

Kappa Biryani:

This traditional dish is made with boiled cassava (tapioca) and is often served with a spicy chicken or mutton curry.

Fish Curry:

This flavorful dish is made with fresh fish and a mix of spices and is often served with rice.

This crispy, savory crepe is made with a batter of fermented rice and lentils and is often served with a spicy chutney.

Pazham Pori:

This sweet snack is made with ripe plantains that are battered and fried to perfection and is often served with a cup of tea.

Famous market in Kollam (Quilon) for shopping

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its vibrant markets and shopping destinations. Here are some of the famous markets in Kollam for shopping:

This bustling market is the heart of the city and is known for its street vendors selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and accessories.

Kollam Beach Road:

This popular market is located near the beach and is known for its street vendors selling locally made handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry.

Kadappakada:

This large market is known for its street vendors selling a wide variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and electronics.

Kollam Main Market:

This historic market is located in the center of the city and is known for its street vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and locally made handicrafts.

Kurumandal Market:

This small market is known for its street vendors selling locally made handicrafts and textiles and is a popular spot for shopping for souvenirs.

Cheap and best shopping places in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its vibrant markets and shopping destinations. Here are some of the cheap and best shopping places in Kollam:

This bustling market is the heart of the city and is known for its street vendors selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and accessories at affordable prices.

This historic market is located in the center of the city and is known for its street vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and locally made handicrafts at low prices.

This small market is known for its street vendors selling locally made handicrafts and textiles and is a popular spot for shopping for souvenirs at affordable prices.

This popular market is located near the beach and is known for its street vendors selling locally made handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry at low prices.

This large market is known for its street vendors selling a wide variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and electronics at affordable prices.

Best Budget Restaurants in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its delicious local cuisine and a variety of dining options. Here are some of the best budget restaurants in Kollam:

Sree Krishna Bhavan:

This restaurant serves traditional South Indian dishes, including dosas and idlis, at affordable prices.

Hotel Rama Krishna:

This popular eatery serves a variety of local dishes, including seafood and vegetarian options, at budget-friendly prices.

Green Bites:

This vegetarian restaurant offers delicious and healthy vegetarian dishes, including curries and rice dishes, at reasonable prices.

Hotel Annapoorna:

This restaurant is known for its traditional Keralan cuisine, including seafood dishes, at affordable prices.

Hotel Anand:

This budget-friendly restaurant serves a variety of local dishes, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, at low prices.

Best street food stalls in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its delicious street food and vibrant food culture. Here are some of the best street food stalls in Kollam:

This popular street is known for its street food vendors selling a variety of local delicacies, including fresh seafood, tasty dosas, and sweet jalebis.

This bustling market is the heart of the city and is known for its street food vendors selling a variety of delicious and affordable street food, including local specialties like puttu and appam.

Kadappakada Market:

This large market is known for its street food vendors selling a variety of local delicacies, including crispy vadas, spicy chaat, and sweet jalebis.

This historic market is located in the center of the city and is known for its street food vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and a variety of tasty street food at low prices.

This small market is known for its street food vendors selling locally made sweets, including traditional Keralan sweets like payasam and halwa, at affordable prices.

Popular pubs and bars in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its relaxed atmosphere and cultural heritage, rather than its nightlife. However, there are some popular pubs and bars in Kollam that visitors can explore:

This upscale lounge bar serves a variety of cocktails, wines, and spirits, as well as a selection of light snacks.

The 360 Bar:

This popular bar offers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as a selection of light snacks and appetizers.

This classic pub offers a variety of beers, wines, and spirits, as well as a selection of light snacks and appetizers.

This trendy bar offers a variety of cocktails, beers, and spirits, as well as a selection of light snacks and appetizers.

Cheap and best pubs and bars in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its relaxed atmosphere and cultural heritage, rather than its nightlife. However, there are some cheap and best pubs and bars in Kollam that visitors can explore:

Ocean’s Eleven:

This casual bar offers a variety of beers, wines, and spirits at affordable prices, as well as a selection of light snacks and appetizers.

The Brew House:

This casual bar offers a variety of local and imported beers at reasonable prices, as well as a selection of light snacks and appetizers.

The Shaka Bar:

This casual bar offers a variety of cocktails, beers, and spirits at reasonable prices, as well as a selection of light snacks and appetizers.

These are some of the cheap and best pubs and bars in Kollam, and visitors can also explore the local restaurants and cafes to find affordable places to relax and enjoy a drink or two. However, it is important to note that the nightlife scene in Kollam is relatively relaxed, and visitors should keep this in mind when planning their evening entertainment.

Cheap and best restaurants in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its traditional and delicious cuisine, with a variety of options available to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best cheap and affordable restaurants in Kollam:

This traditional restaurant serves a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes at reasonable prices.

Sreekrishna Vegetarian Restaurant:

This vegetarian restaurant offers a range of authentic Keralan dishes at affordable prices.

The Food Factory:

This casual restaurant serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes at reasonable prices.

Kollam Kitchen:

This traditional restaurant serves a variety of Keralan and Indian dishes at affordable prices.

Aksharam Restaurant:

This casual restaurant serves a variety of Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes at affordable prices.

These are some of the best cheap and affordable restaurants in Kollam, and visitors can also explore the local street food stalls and food courts to find delicious and budget-friendly options.

Cheap and best clothes shopping in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon), located in the state of Kerala, India, is known for its traditional clothing and textiles, such as the famous Keralan saris. Here are some of the best places to find cheap and affordable clothing in Kollam:

Kollam Textile Market:

This market is a popular destination for those looking for traditional Keralan clothing and textiles at affordable prices.

Kollam Handloom Emporium:

This store specializes in traditional Keralan handloom textiles, including saris, at reasonable prices.

Kollam Silk Saree Center:

This store specializes in traditional Keralan silk saris, with a range of styles and colors available at affordable prices.

Kollam Textile Plaza:

This shopping center offers a range of traditional Keralan clothing and textiles, including saris, at reasonable prices.

Kollam Textile Shopping Complex:

This shopping complex offers a range of traditional Keralan clothing and textiles, including saris, at affordable prices.

Adventurous things to do in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon) is located in the state of Kerala, India, and is known for its beautiful landscapes and scenic beauty. Here are some adventurous activities that can be enjoyed in Kollam:

Backwater cruises:

Kollam is famous for its picturesque backwaters and visitors can enjoy a cruise on a traditional Keralan houseboat, for a unique and adventurous experience.

Beach activities:

The beaches in and around Kollam offer a range of water-based activities, such as swimming, fishing, and parasailing, for an adventurous experience.

The surrounding hills and forests offer a range of trekking and hiking trails, with stunning views and a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.

Rock climbing:

The surrounding cliffs and rocks offer opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling, for an adrenaline-filled experience.

Wildlife Safari:

The nearby wildlife sanctuaries and national parks offer a range of wildlife safari experiences, with opportunities to see a variety of species in their natural habitat.

Adventurous places to visit in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon) is located in the state of Kerala, India, and is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the most adventurous places to visit in Kollam:

This scenic lake offers a range of water-based activities, such as backwater cruises, kayaking, and canoeing, for an adventurous experience.

Thenmala Ecotourism:

This ecotourism destination offers a range of trekking and hiking trails, as well as rope bridges, zip lines, and a boating lake, for an adventurous experience.

This stunning waterfall is a popular destination for trekking and hiking, with a chance to take a dip in the cool and refreshing waters.

Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary:

This wildlife sanctuary is home to a range of wildlife species, including tigers, elephants, and leopards, and offers a range of wildlife safari experiences.

Adavi Eco-Tourism Park:

This eco-tourism park offers a range of activities, including trekking, rock climbing, and boating, for an adventurous experience.

Popular restaurants in Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam (Quilon) is known for its local cuisine and the variety of restaurants that serve traditional and contemporary dishes. Here are some of the most popular restaurants in Kollam:

A popular vegetarian restaurant that serves traditional South Indian dishes, including dosa, idli, and vada.

Annapoorna:

A chain of vegetarian restaurants that serves delicious South Indian dishes, including dosas, uttapams, and sambhar.

A popular restaurant that serves traditional and contemporary seafood dishes, including crab curry, prawns fry, and fish curry.

The Spice Studio:

A contemporary restaurant that serves a range of international and local dishes, including pizzas, pasta, and curries.

Ramachandran Nair:

A traditional restaurant that serves authentic Keralan dishes, including biryanis, appams, and stew.

Best Tips for Budget trip to Kollam (Quilon)

Here are some tips for a budget trip to Kollam (Quilon):

Travel off-season:

Visit Kollam during the low tourist season, when hotel and travel prices are lower.

Accommodation:

Look for budget-friendly accommodation options, such as homestays, guesthouses, or budget hotels.

Public transportation:

Use public transportation, such as local buses and auto-rickshaws, to save on transportation costs.

Street food:

Try out the local street food stalls, which offer delicious and affordable food options.

Plan ahead:

Plan your itinerary ahead of time to make the most of your budget and avoid expensive last-minute purchases.

Shop local:

Shop for souvenirs and gifts at local markets, where prices are typically lower than at tourist shops.

Be flexible:

Be open to adjusting your plans if you find better budget options or discounts.

Popular malls must visit in Kollam (Quilon)

Here are some popular malls in Kollam (Quilon) that you might want to visit:

Chitranjali Studio & Convention Centre:

A popular shopping mall that offers a range of products and services, including fashion, electronics, and more.

Bhima Jewellers:

A famous jewelry store that offers a wide range of gold, silver, and diamond jewelry.

Sevens Mall:

A large shopping mall that features a variety of stores, including clothing, footwear, and home decor.

Shree Krishna Complex:

A shopping center that features a variety of shops, including clothing, electronics, and beauty products.

Focus Mall:

A shopping mall that offers a range of products, including fashion, electronics, and home decor.

Popular street to visit in Kollam (Quilon)

Here are some popular streets to visit in Kollam (Quilon):

Ashramam Tourist Village:

A scenic street that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

A bustling street in the heart of Kollam that offers a range of shopping and dining options.

A popular street that runs along the beach and offers a range of attractions, including restaurants, shops, and local street food stalls.

Market Road:

A bustling street that is lined with shops and stalls selling a range of products, including textiles, jewelry, and spices.

High School Junction:

A busy street that is known for its street food stalls, offering a variety of delicious local dishes.

A famous holy place in Kollam (Quilon)

Here are some famous holy places to visit in Kollam (Quilon):

Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple:

A famous Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.

Maha Vishnu Temple:

A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the main gods in Hinduism.

Asramam Sreekrishna Swamy Temple:

A Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Krishna, one of the main gods in Hinduism.

St. Mary’s Orthodox Cathedral:

A famous Christian church that is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Jumma Masjid:

A famous mosque that is one of the largest in Kollam and is considered an important religious site for the local Muslim community.

Best authentic Kerala restaurants in Kollam (Quilon)

Here are some authentic Kerala restaurants in Kollam (Quilon) that you can visit:

Annapoorna Family Restaurant:

A popular restaurant that serves traditional Kerala dishes, including biryanis, curries, and seafood.

Janardhanas Vegetarian Restaurant:

A vegetarian restaurant that serves a wide range of delicious Kerala dishes, including curries, dosa, and idlis.

Vasantham Family Restaurant:

A popular restaurant that serves a wide range of traditional Kerala dishes, including biryanis, curries, and seafood.

A vegetarian restaurant that specializes in traditional Kerala dishes, including curries, dosa, and idlis.

Sree Krishna Restaurant:

Tourist Places to Visit in Kollam

Kollam: A Gateway To Kerala's Rich Past and Scenic Beauty

Things to know before visiting kollam.

Situated along the scenic Malabar Coast, Kollam is an ancient port city in Kerala steeped in centuries-old traditions intertwined with its history as an erstwhile global trade hub. Flanked by the crystal waters of Ashtamudi Lake and Laccadive Sea, Kollam offers an alluring medley of natural vistas, ancient shrines, historic monuments and an authentic slice of Keralite life. As you plan your trip to uncover Kollam's essence spanning sacred ritual to backwater tranquility and beyond, here's a comprehensive guide to steer you.

1.Backwater Serenity Beckons

No trip to Kollam feels complete without leisurely experiencing first-hand the bliss of gliding silently through labyrinthine channels fringed by flourishing palm groves and rural homesteads popping up around bends bathed in golden dawn splendor. Whether you choose a private houseboat, guided kayak tour or public ferry - cruising along the Ashtamudi backwaters guarantees soul-stirring vistas and revelations around every corner.

The eight hour Triprayar Boat Safari lets you hop off at ancestral bungalows for traditional Sadhya lunches before stopping at drowsy islands to interact with coir-making villagers. Canoe rides by local guides impart unusual insights into unique lock-gate systems supporting aquatic life as kingfishers flit by. Or book a budget ride to Munroe Island to visit coir factories upholding ancient practices.

With special permits, you can also visit hamlets within Ashtamudi Lake housing the local adivasi community whose unique heritage harks back over 500 years showcasing legacy handicrafts, murals and architecture passed down generations.

2.Sacred Sites from Diverse Lineages

Beyond bustling waterways lies heritage ensconced in temples nestled amid Kollam's historic coast illustrating spiritual legacies spanning diverse faiths and medieval craftsmanship:

The unique Jatayu Earth Center features a massive eagle-shaped sculpture mythically linked to epic Ramayana tales, set amid rock-cut caves with ancient shrines dedicated to Nagas and goddess worship.

The Oachira Kali temple remains bereft of idol or priests, with unusual sacred rituals performed solely by namboodri Brahmins seeking blessings for newborns. Legends link it to ancient Dakshina Kali worship on the banks of the Ithikkara river.

The historic Thangasseri beach also holds remnants of Portuguese and Dutch colonial fortifications crumbling gently amid windswept sands bordering the Sea.

Inland towards Pathanamthitta lies the Damodaran Kone house showcasing incredible mural art covering every inch glorifying Lord Rama alongside intricate carved wood architectural styles from ancient days.

3.Weaving Through Spice Trails

A signature feature of Kollam remains its fabled spice cultivation tracing back to early Sangam periods when international trade thrived through its bustling port. Ancient maritime powers like Romans, Arabs, Chinese and Portuguese were attracted by fragrant cardamom, cloves, pepper - transforming Kollam coast into the aromatically rich 'Malabar region'.

Even today, visitors can glimpse vestiges of this vibrant legacy through warehouse rows bulging with heaps of spices besides recreated villas like the 150 year old Ayurveda Mana to experience first-hand grinding fresh curry powders on grinding stones or watch leaves being rolled by hand. Don't forget to buy aromatic bags of cinnamon, turmeric or wild nutmeg as flavourful souvenirs from plantation visits.

4.Illuminated by Dance & Festivity

Beyond historic marvels and rural tropical calm also unfolds Kerala's inimitable living heritage across Kollam's festival calendar that sees exuberant celebration of traditional artforms, temple lore and shared comradery:

The Pooramonth festival makes even casual streets come alive with graceful women balancing lit brass Urulli lamps to light the way towards the Kollam Pooram venue where caparisoned elephants gather amid cheering crowds and fireworks to honor local deities with gaiety continuing till dawn.

In direct contrast observe the atmosphere turn sublime at annual Kottankulangara Festival as choreographed dancers enact spiritual stories through intricate mudras with gentle Kathakali music and processions carrying Utsava idols for blessings.

The harmony sentiment continues at an Afghan colony practicing unique mat weaving skills passed down generations alongside Urdu poetry recitals. Kollam diversity intrigues eternally.

5.Travel Convenience

Kollam enjoys good air and rail connectivity besides reliable roadways:

Kollam Airport operates limited domestic services with more connections via Kochi Airport northwards including international flights.

Overnight trains connect to Chennai (13 hours) and daily trains to cities like Bangalore and Kolkata. State transport buses are easily found for stops like Varkala, Fort Kochi.

Ola, Uber autos available for short distances. But do clarify landmarks before hiring regular auto-drivers owing to slight language barriers expected. Winters colder and summers remain hot and humid. Light cottons and hats help through sightseeing.

With an irresistible fabled past as the spice hub of global empires and the enduring tranquility of tropical backwaters cradling modern lives - Kollam shines as the less visible cousin among Kerala destinations but remains the soulful ark where this coastal state's multi-faceted heritage floats through both anchoring and forward-gazing into the horizon. Lose yourself to the rhythms of Kollam's fascinating cross-culture tapestry patiently woven over centuries.

These 15 places are the best to visit in New Jersey, according to Travel and Leisure

Four-minute read.

Ready to hang out in New Jersey?

This travel media brand says yes.

TravelandLeisure.com released report on 15 of the best places to visit in New Jersey with the help of local tourism experts: Jeffrey Vasser, executive director, New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism and Diane Wieland, director at Cape May County Department of Tourism.

Between the 130 miles of Atlantic Ocean aligned with beautiful beaches and boardwalks with amusements to more than 50 wineries, these gems of the Garden State are worth a visit.

Jersey Shore Restaurant Week: It's back, with lunch and dinner deals at more than 60 spots

Here are the 15 best places to visit in New Jersey:

Ocean city boardwalk.

Known for amusement rides and arcade games that accommodate all ages, Ocean City boardwalk is a fun-filled destination for the the whole family. “The Ocean City Boardwalk is a famous promenade that’s been a source of entertainment for more than 100 years," Wieland said.

This charming Jersey Shore town set on peninsula is a year-round destination with family-friendly and various oceanside dining.

Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks

“Families can spend the entire day on more than 100 rides, splashing around the two water parks right on the beach, and lounging in private cabanas,” Vasser said.

Wildwoods Boardwalk

Composed of more than 70,000 wooden planks, the 38-block oceanfront stretch draws crowds with everything from amusement rides, games, water parks and more.

Wildwood’s Doo Wop Motel District

The largest concentration of mid-century motels in the country has over 50 vintage motels still stand today within this unique district. “It’s really neat to see all the neon signs and retro details. Walking around Wildwood’s Doo Wop Motel District is like being transported to the 1950s,” said Vasser.

American Dream

American Dream is the second-largest shopping mall in the United States, and includes restaurants and themed parks that provide endless fun for the whole family. “American Dream is, quite literally, an indoor vacation one-stop shop that’s open year-round,” said Vasser.

Lambertville

Full of rich history, Lambertville has well-preserved federal townhouses, Victorian homes and antique shops that brings history to life. “The charming town also supplies family-owned wineries and photogenic vantage points such as Goat Hill Overlook,” added Vasser.

What's the best? Central Jersey town named best place to live in NJ and one of the best nationally

Beneduce Vineyards

This 77-acre farm with 25 acres of vines are hand pruned, hand harvested and dry farmed in the rolling hills of Hunterdon County. “One of my favorites, Beneduce Vineyards, has great wine and fun year-round events such as live music and food trucks on Saturdays,” said Vasser.

Grounds for Sculpture

Grounds for Sculpture is a 42-acre landscaped park with 300 contemporary sculptures, an arboretum, and a museum with an indoor exhibitions that features six galleries.

Atlantic City

Known as the East Coast's version of Las Vegas offers travelers casinos, live entertainment, big-name restaurants with more fun attractions at the Steel Pier and the only helicopter ride at the Jersey Shore.

Frenchtown is a vibrant community full of Victorian architecture, art, and culture nestled along the banks of the Delaware River. Vasser recommends visiting during Frenchtown Riverfest. “There are all kinds of street fair activities along the river,” he said.

Cape May County Park & Zoo

The Cape May County Park & Zoo houses over 500 different animals that includes African lions, American black bears, snow leopards and ring-tailed lemurs. The zoo features playgrounds for kids of all ages and both places are free to the public. "It's truly one of the best-kept secrets in the area," said Wieland.

Asbury Park

Asbury Park has become a creative hub and music mecca within the last decade with iconic landmarks like The Stone Pony, Asbury Lanes and Silverball Retro Arcade. Asbury Park combines gaming, bowling, dining, live entertainment and of course swimming and surfing on the shore.

Adventure Aquarium

Adventure Aquarium features the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast and protects over 8,000 aquatic species, including penguins and stingrays. Visitors can interact with hundreds of sea creatures at the touch tanks. “It’s a favorite for kids of all ages, especially if you’re looking for an indoor activity,” said Wieland.

Long Beach Island

The shores of Long Beach Island are particularly lovely. Besides its scenic Atlantic Ocean coastline, vacationers go for the water sports, charming towns like Barnegat Light, and the laid-back lifestyle.

Will Disneyland get an Avatar land? It’s likely. Here’s what else may be in store

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With the city of Anaheim unanimously voting to pass DisneylandForward , the Disneyland Resort will be forever changed.

Twice in the last 69 years, Disneyland has been significantly transformed. Four years after the park opened in 1959, Disneyland added its monorail, the Matterhorn Bobsleds and a submarine ride and expanded Autopia. It was a message that would begin to fulfill Walt Disney’s promise that Disneyland would never be completed.

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More than that, however, it revealed that Disneyland would continue to look to the future. Disneyland in 1959 showed its guests possibilities — a transportation system in the monorail that could remake urban communities, a tease of the freeway system that would reshape travel and a glimpse at the sort of deep-sea excursions only a lucky few could witness. The Matterhorn, while inspired by the film “Third Man on the Mountain,” also was meant to be a transportive experience, to not only bring to Disneyland a new kind of thrill ride but give visitors a taste of international adventure.

Disneyland’s second reimagining came much later. In 2001 the Walt Disney Co. would open Disney California Adventure, the Grand Californian hotel and the Downtown Disney District. These additions would attempt to make Disneyland, the company’s original park, one that could, in theory, rival Florida’s Walt Disney World by becoming a resort that could demand multiday stays.

This expansion succeeded as well, but not overnight.

The original vision of Disney California Adventure proved to be lackluster, relying heavily on on-the-shelf rides and lacking emotion-driven experiences that take visitors out of their daily life. While the Grand Californian is a Craftsman-inspired triumph, Downtown Disney is in the midst of a transformation and is still attempting to outgrow its reputation as a home for chains and midtier eateries.

And now we’re entering a new era of possibilities, one that likely will look much different from the prior two. Modern Disney is centered on intellectual property — or IP, in corporate speak — rather than Walt-era idealism, and the most tantalizing prospects of DisneylandForward center on building around existing structures rather than erecting a new park.

With DisneylandForward, the company won the flexibility to redesign the resort. Zoning rules will be amended so that Disney can add new attractions alongside hotels on the west side of Disneyland Drive. These will, if they come to fruition, likely be extensions of Disneyland or Disney California Adventure rather than a third park. Additionally, a new shopping, dining and entertainment district can be created to the southeast on what is currently the Toy Story parking lot at Katella Avenue and Harbor Boulevard.

Company brass and the DisneylandForward materials have offered teases of what could be built. Most of these have centered on recent expansions at Disney’s international parks, such as the World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland or Zootopia at Shanghai Disney Resort. There’s been little ideological talk about the future of Disneyland, as the focus has centered squarely on popular properties and franchises rather than the resort’s status as a cultural hub and gathering space.

But DisneylandForward came with a pledge. The Walt Disney Co. has promised to spend a minimum of $1.9 billion on Disneyland attractions, lodging, entertainment, shopping and dining in the next 10 years. That money can go quickly, with modern attractions costing sometimes in the high six figures, but the Walt Disney Co. also is in the midst of doubling down on its theme parks. Disney has guaranteed to spend $60 billion over the next 10 years in its experiences division, with at least half of that total dedicated to parks and resorts, according to a recent SEC filing .

It’s safe to say that the next 10 years will shape Disneyland for decades to come. While there’s much to be revealed, there are, perhaps, some safe bets. Here are a few educated guesses as to what to expect with an expanded Disneyland in the near term.

Get ready for Pandora

DisneylandForward materials reference everything from “Tangled” to “Peter Pan” to “Tron” as possible experiences that could come to Anaheim. One word, however, is missing, and it’s one that’s been regularly referenced by Disney brass in recent weeks: “Avatar.”

Disney CEO Bob Iger mentioned it at a recent shareholder meeting, even sharing the “Avatar” concept art, which was referred to as “inspirational artwork.” Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, wrote in a blog post after the shareholder event that further news on Disneyland-related attractions such as the “Avatar” experience was tied to the approval of DisneylandForward.

“We are excited about the stories our guests could experience at Walt’s original theme park destination after approval of DisneylandForward — including the chance to experience all-new Avatar adventures with a visit to Pandora,” D’Amaro wrote . And last night in Anaheim, Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock again teased “Avatar” at the DisneylandForward hearing and vote. Finally, one of Disney’s most respected theme park creatives even posted the “Avatar” concept art on Instagram , expressing the hope of sharing more on the project in the future.

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Consider a large-scale “Avatar”-inspired land all but a done deal, and the art shared for Disneyland isn’t an exact replica of Florida’s Pandora — The World of Avatar, which resides in that coast’s Animal Kingdom park. Now where to put it? Expect Pandora to be bound for Disney California Adventure. There’s been speculation that it could replace the area currently served by water ride Grizzly River Run or move into a largely vacant slot of Hollywood Land, but neither is ideal. The latter requires a rerouting of the monorail, and Grizzly River Run remains a popular attraction.

Here’s betting it’s positioned in one of the DCA expansion areas near the Pixar Place Hotel, as that would allow the company to give the James Cameron property a plethora of space, especially if Disney must hide a large show building behind an illusion of floating mountains.

Expect more hotel options

With Disneyland lacking the acreage of Florida’s Walt Disney World, hotel prices in Anaheim are at a premium. Rooms for the recently revamped Pixar Place Hotel — Anaheim’s “budget” option — can routinely top $500 per night. More hotel space is needed, and if Disneyland goes all-in on “Avatar,” expect lodging and more entertainment options to follow close behind. Disney has long touted development of the Toy Story Lot as prime space for hotel, dining and entertainment modeled after Florida’s Disney Springs district.

The DisneylandForward materials mention the land as “the perfect location to cater to locals, conventioneers, hotel and Disneyland Resort guests with restaurants, hotels, live music, shopping, ticketed shows and theme park experiences.” A new proposed parking structure to the north would solve the parking issue, and Disney has done extensive research on this already, as it was part of an earlier, pre-pandemic planned development known as the “Eastern Gateway.”

Walkways to and from the new parking structure would connect the current resort to the new entertainment area. And while fans may want Disney to rapidly fill the available space with theme park attractions, if the resort is planning to increase capacity it’s first going to need a spot for those guests to park. Additionally, Iger at a recent media event said the company likely would hold back some of its theme park funds so the organization could move on the popularity of new films or franchises.

“We actually have a fairly good idea in the near term of what’s being built, but we’re purposefully not going to allocate it all,” Iger said. “Because who knows? In five years we can end up with a giant hit movie — think ‘Frozen’ — that we may want to mine essentially as an attraction, or a hotel or restaurant in our parks. So you want to maintain some flexibility.”

What about ‘Frozen’s’ Arendelle? Or a ‘Coco’-themed experience?

Beyond “Avatar,” which seems a sure thing as it’s been mentioned by Iger on multiple occasions, any future aspects of DisneylandForward become pure speculation. But a couple of franchises may have higher priority than others.

Disney now has a “Frozen” attraction in Walt Disney World, a land in Hong Kong and experiences in the works for Disneyland Paris and Tokyo DisneySea. Walt Disney Imagineering, the company’s secretive arm devoted to theme park experiences, clearly has done the work on bringing “Frozen” to life in physical spaces, and it stands to reason that expansions to the original Disneyland Park, with its fairy-tale feel, would go more of a Fantasyland-inspired route.

What’s more, re-creating Arendelle in the expansion plots located near the Disneyland Hotel would give Disney the opportunity to construct a second castle, as any extensive changes to park centerpiece Sleeping Beauty Castle are prohibited due to structural limitations . The enduring popularity of “Frozen” seems relatively assured at this point, so bringing the franchise to Disneyland is far from a risk.

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But if the company opts to create something unique for Southern California rather than importing Hong Kong’s World of Frozen or Shanghai’s Zootopia, one franchise that seems to be routinely brought up by executives is “Coco.” When mentioning blue-sky concepts last year year at an investor event in Florida, D’Amaro teased “Coco” as a key film that has yet to be properly explored in the Disney parks.

Potrock again mentioned “Coco” in an op-ed in the Orange County Register touting the benefits of DisneylandForward, writing that the initiative could pave the way for “the chance to celebrate Dia de Los Muertos in a ‘Coco’-themed experience.” Disney California Adventure, of course, is home to a Dia de Los Muertos celebration that does center a short “Coco” show, and the property seems especially ripe for Southern California and our heavily Latino communities. That makes it an opportunity to give Disneyland an unique land not found in other parks while also tapping into the region’s diverse fan base. Walt’s original park deserves no less as it looks ahead to closing out its first century.

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Todd Martens joined the Los Angeles Times in 2007 and covers a mix of interactive entertainment (video games) and pop music. Previously, Martens reported on the music business for Billboard Magazine. He has contributed to numerous books, including “The Big Lebowski: An Illustrated, Annotated History of the Greatest Cult Film of All Time.” He continues to torture himself by rooting for the Chicago Cubs and, while he likes dogs, he is more of a cat person.

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