Who needs home after visiting Kollam? Here's why it's a perfect destination
The southern district, which shares borders with the capital district of Thiruvananthapuram, is home to many timeless spots, including the awe-inspiring Asthamudi Lake, the bustling suburb of Neendakara, and a sprinkling of as-pretty-as-a-picture isles.
The southern district, which shares borders with the capital district of Thiruvananthapuram, is home to many timeless spots, including the awe-inspiring Asthamudi Lake, the bustling suburb of Neendakara, and a sprinkling of as-pretty-as-a-picture isles.
The southern district, which shares borders with the capital district of Thiruvananthapuram, is home to many timeless spots, including the awe-inspiring Asthamudi Lake, the bustling suburb of Neendakara, and a sprinkling of as-pretty-as-a-picture isles.
Malayalam language has an age-old saying that goes 'Kollam kandavanu illam venda,' which translates to 'Anybody who has visited Kollam district wouldn't miss home anymore.' Considering how the gem of south Kerala packs a punch with lakes, beaches, isles and wildlife sanctuary, one should say the quote is valid even today. The southern district, which shares borders with the capital district of Thiruvananthapuram, is home to many timeless spots, including the awe-inspiring Asthamudi Lake, the bustling suburb of Neendakara, and a sprinkling of as-pretty-as-a-picture isles.
Nature’s bounty blesses the district, and it is one of the favourite hunting grounds for tourists visiting the state, which is replete with verdant forests, lofty mountains, babbling brooks, tranquil beaches, and roaring waterfalls.
Here’s a list of spots you shouldn’t miss in Kollam.
Sambranikodi
Sambranikodi is a picturesque small island in the middle of the Ashtamudi Lake. The isle, which is tightly hugged by thick mangroves and home to many migratory birds, is bound to make an impression on all visitors. You can walk through the island, submerged in knee-deep water, and enjoy the beauty of nature to your heart’s content. You can also collect shells and catch fish while in Sambranikodi.
Some boats ferry travellers to Sambranikodi, and the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) has also rolled out packages for the tourists. Under the packages, travellers can board boats from the Sambranikodi boat jetty, Manalil boat jetty or Kuripuzha boat jetty for a tour of the island and its surroundings. The nearest railway station is Kottarakkara, which is 26 km away from the island. Sambranikodi is the best place to unwind and spend quality time with family members and friends.
Munroe Island
The Munroe Island is an archipelago of small isles at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River. The jade-green island is a perfect getaway as it’s loaded with a fascinating network of canals and lagoons. If you want to soak in the virgin beauty of the island, it’s better to meander through the water bodies in small boats. While travelling through the lagoons in boats, you should be cautious of the small bridges that connect different water channels. You can also get a ringside view of the thick mangroves and ‘chemmeen kettu’ (shrimp farms) at the island.
Many people visit the island to witness the sunrise and sunset, which are indeed incomparable spectacles. A visit to the island offers an opportunity to learn more about the people who live there, whose primary sources of income are agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Undoubtedly, the island is an ‘Instagrammable’ spot, as you can take some unforgettable pictures while cruising through the mangrove vegetation in a boat. Make it a point to visit the island before the sun is at its zenith. This amazing spot is 29 km away from Kollam. Although there is a railway station near the island, only a few trains stop there. You can reach the island by road and by boat.
Achankovil
Achankovil is a serene hamlet in Pathanapuram taluk of Kollam district. The village lies in the heart of the Western Ghats, and the famous Sastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, is the most popular pilgrimage site in the region. It is worth noting that Achankovil and its surrounding areas are dotted with rubber plantations and timber depots. The Pallivasal stream flows through the middle of the village. There is a motorable road to the temple.
Meenpidipara
Meenpidipara, situated 500 m east of St. Gregorios College on the Kollam-Shenkottai road, is a must-visit place in the Kollam district. The Meenpidipara tourism centre is under the control of the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC). The tourism centre boasts beautiful parks, refreshing cascades, a giant fish statue, a hanging bridge, a 500 m-long walkway, and stone benches to provide a great experience for visitors. Many travellers flock to this enchanting place to enjoy the raw charm of nature. The nearest railway station is Kottarakkara, located 4 km away from Meenpidipara.
Jatayu Rock
Jatayu Rock, also known as Jatayu Earth’s Centre, features the world’s largest bird sculpture and is situated 850 feet above sea level. The facility, also known as Jatayu Nature Park, spans 65 acres of land, and visitors can reach the top via a ropeway or on foot. An enjoyable activity of the centre is ‘vanara oottu’ or feeding of monkeys. The visiting hours are from 10 am to 5.30 pm and the entry fee is Rs 499 per person. The nearest railway station is Kollam, located 36.9 km from the centre.
Thenmala Ecotourism Center
Thenmala, with its diverse flora and fauna, is a natural gift to the state of Kerala and is the first planned ecotourism destination in India. Nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Thenmala is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both nature lovers and adventure seekers can have a great time at Thenmala, which is a government-controlled region. The butterfly safaris and the lush green landscape are attracting travellers in droves who want to be in the lap of nature. Besides music, dance and adventure activities, you can go on a trekking, hiking and night camping spree. The centre, located 2.2 km from Thenmala railway station, is the ideal spot to escape the madding crowd and connect with nature.
Thangassery Lighthouse
The Thangassery Lighthouse is the second-tallest lighthouse on the Kerala coast. Many travellers come to Thangassery to gain a first-hand experience of this structure, built in 1902, which stands tall at 41m or 135ft. The visiting hours are from 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm. It’s open on all days except Mondays. Entry fee is Rs 20 for adults and Rs 10 for children.
Neendakara Fishing Harbour
The Neendakara Fishing Harbour is the primary fishing harbour in Kollam, capable of accommodating nearly 500 fishing boats. You can get a panoramic view of the coastline and hectic harbour activities from the nearby bridge. Kollam railway station is 9.8km from the harbour.
Ashramam Picnic Village
The Ashramam Picnic Village is another place of interest where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and other fun activities. The lake and forest create a paradisiacal setting for the picnic village. You can also find an age-old guest house on the premises, located just 1.2 km away from Kollam railway station.
Brimming with cascades
Kollam is dotted with many wild brooks and waterfalls where one could have a whale of a time. Come, take a plunge at these places.
Palaruvi Waterfall
The milky waters of the Palaruvi Waterfall, which plunge from a height of 300ft, are a treat for your eyes. As the name suggests, ‘palaruvi’ means ‘milky stream’ in Malayalam; the waterfall is indeed white as milk. The dense forest, rocky terrain and thick mist make this mesmerising cascade in Aryankavu stand out. The sound of the water plummeting from a height is soothing and can rejuvenate both mind and body. It’s believed that the cascading water has medicinal properties as it flows, caressing many medicinal plants along the way. Monsoon is the best time to enjoy the beauty of the falls. The waterfall is 5.7 km from Aryankavu bus stand and 5.6km from Aryankavu railway station.
Kumbhavurutty-Manalar Waterfalls
If you are an adventure enthusiast and a trekking aficionado, then pack your bags and head to this waterfall where the water falls from a height of 70 ft. It’s an exhilarating experience to reach the pinnacle of the falls after climbing the small steps. As the waterfall is situated amidst the Konni forest, the chances of spotting wild animals are pretty high. The visiting hours are from 8 am to 4.30 pm, and the entry fee is Rs 25 for children and Rs 50 for adults. The waterfalls are 36 km and 35.1 km from Aryankavu bus stand and Aryankavu railway station, respectively.
Meenmutty Waterfalls
The enchanting Meenmutty Waterfalls lie near Kadakkal Bhagavathy Temple in Kollam district’s Kadakkal panchayat. You can take a dip and swim in the crystal clear water without any fear. But those who are venturing into cascades for the first time should be a tad careful. The waterfall is 6.5 km from the Kadakkal bus stand.
Vattathil Thangal Waterfalls
This is a small waterfall located along the Ithikkara River. Though small, its charm packs quite a punch. The waterfall is 10km from Parippilly, and you have to walk for 200m through rubber plantations to reach this wondrous spot. The distance between Chadayamangalam and the falls is 6.7km.
Irappu Waterfalls
As the name suggests, its sound makes Irappu (sound) waterfalls different. The waterfall in Anchal flows majestically in summer too. The waterfalls are approximately 47 km from Kollam railway station. Kollam is known not only for waterfalls but also for its rocky terrain replete with hills and mountains. These spots should not be missed at any cost if you are visiting the Kollam district.
Rosemala
This alluring place resembles a rose that has blossomed, hence the name Rosemala. You have to walk close to 10km through the forest to reach Rosemala. The trek would be worth it as the vistas that greet you after reaching Rosemala are beguiling to say the least. You can find a watchtower and a lake there, and the panoramic view of the Thenmala dam from the watchtower is ethereal. The trek through the forest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as you can see virgin wild streams, rare butterflies, and frogs along the way. Entry is from 9 am to 5 pm. As there is a presence of wild animals, you have to be cautious while walking through the forest. You can travel by vehicle only up to 1 km from the Rosemala viewpoint; after that, you have to walk. You can reach Rosemala from Aryankavu.
Malamel para
Malamel Para is one of the major tourist destinations in the district, located in Arakkal village of the Edamulackal panchayat. The rocks of the region are known by various appellations, including Nadukanipara, Kudapara, Golapara, and Pulichaan, each with its unique characteristics. Ambalapra is home to the famous Irubuzhikunnu Sankaranarayana Swami Temple. Another highlight is the sandalwood trees, which spread a sweet aroma in the region when the wind blows. Entry is through tickets, and Malamel Para is 16 km from the Anchal bus stand.
Muttara Maruthimala
You can touch the skies while standing atop the Muttara Maruthimala Hills. Never-dry small pools of water in rock cavities are like decorations on the rocky terrain. The rustic beauty of nature and the village can be relished from the top of the hill. The hill, which is part of an ecotourism initiative, spans 24 acres of land in the Veliyam panchayat of Kollam district. You can reach Muttara Maruthimala via Kundara, and the distance is 24.3km.
Ambanad Hills and Tea Estate
Pleasing climate and stupendous views define Ambanad Hills and Tea Estate. Ambanad, which earned the sobriquet ‘Mini Munnar’, is in Punalur and is the only tea estate in Kollam district. Travellers will fall in love with lush green rolling hills and the cool climate. The estate gives a great view of the Western Ghats and the forests of Achankovil. As there isn’t much rush to Ambanad, one can have a peaceful time in the hills. You would also cherish the beauty of small creeks and waterfalls on the way. Entry fee is Rs 20 for children and Rs 100 for adults. A drive of 20km from the Punalur bus stand will take you to the estate.
Beaches beckon
The beaches give a heady twist to the evenings. Who doesn’t love to spend some quality time at the beaches, and Kollam district is also known for its sunny and serene beaches.
Kappil Beach
The spick and span Kappil beach is close to Varkala near the Kollam-Thiruvananthapuram border. The beach, replete with coconut groves, sugary sand, and rock formations, offers a distant view of the popular Varkala cliff. The beach is approximately 8 km from both Varkala railway station and Varkala bus stand.
Kollam Beach
The Kollam Beach is one of the most critical spots in Kollam city. The Mahatma Gandhi Park, located near the beach, is a popular destination for children. The beach is 2.8km from Kollam railway station.
Thanni Beach
You can reach this beach through the Thanni bridge from both the Kollam beach and Mayyanad. The easy-on-the-eye Thanni beach is a spot that should be visited at least once in your lifetime. It’s one place where tranquillity is in abundance and where you can put your feet up. You can also indulge in yoga, meditation, football and cycling on the beach. The distance between Thanni Beach and Kollam railway station is 9.8km.
Mundakkal Beach
The Mundakkal beach grabbed headlines after the dredger ship ‘Hansitha’ ran aground on the beach in 2016. This beach is also known as Pappanasam beach, and people come here to offer obeisance to their ancestors during ‘Karkadaka Vavu’. The beach is 3.4 km from Kollam railway station and 2.6 km from Mundakkal bus stand.
Thirumullavaram Beach
The Thirumullavaram beach is one place that can make your evenings memorable. A Mahavishnu Temple is situated near the beach. The distance between the beach and Kollam railway station is 5.1km.
Azheekal Beach
If Lady Luck smiles upon you, you would spot a dolphin or two swimming in the water. Crystal clear water and white sand make heads turn on the beach. You can participate in many enjoyable activities and find peace with yourself at the beach.
Pulse of Kollam
Without an iota of doubt, the vast lakes are the pulse of Kollam. Many people from far and wide visit Kollam to experience its natural beauty.
Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi Lake is one of the significant points of interest in the Kollam district. The best way to get up close to the water body is to go on a boating spree. The cool breeze, the swaying coconut trees on the shore, and the undulating water can create a surreal experience for visitors.
Sasthamcotta Lake
Sasthamcotta Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, and scores of travellers flock to this place. The lake, situated in Kunnathur taluk, is a fascinating spot with hills and paddy fields interspersed throughout. The water body is 29.2km from Kollam railway station.
Paravur Lake
Paravur Lake is another important go-to destination for tourists. The lake has a distinct tone, with thick mangroves surrounding the water body. If you are into kayaking, then Paravur Lake can satisfy your craving. The distance between the lake and Kollam railway station is 16.4km.
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is home to a diverse array of wild animals, including elephants, tigers, Indian bison, and deer, among others. The only wildlife sanctuary in Kollam was established in 1984, and the facility attracts many tourists throughout the year.
The sanctuary, with its headquarters in Thenmala, is also the only one in Kerala to be named after a tree. A 30-minute drive will take you to Thenmala, where the main attractions include the Kallada dam, a hanging bridge, boating, walking across a wooden bridge, river crossing, cycling, a butterfly park, a musical dancing fountain, a tree house, and trekking. The protected area is part of the Kulathupuzha reserve forest. Tourists can avail the camping packages and stay in camping houses inside the forest. The sanctuary is 67.3km away from Kollam railway station.
Museum
Kollam boasts the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum, located opposite Kollam railway station. The museum features guns dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, ammunition, machinery, and other historical weapons. The facility also provides an overview of the history of the Kerala police.
8 Point Art Café
If you are an art lover, you shouldn’t miss this art café. In fact, the facility brings together art, books, and food under one roof. The café features a free library with nearly 50 titles. It also conducts various functions and exhibitions. The café is open from 11 am to 9 pm and is 1.7km away from Kollam railway station.
A walk through temples
Kottukal Cave Temple
This rock-cut Shiva temple is situated on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kottayam MC Road. It has two caves – one has the sacred bull Nandi as a deity and the other has a Hanuman idol. The idol of Ganapathy is placed between these two caves. The temple is a perfect example of rock-cut architecture that was in vogue between the 6th and the 8th century.
Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple
The ‘unniyappam’, a small, round sweet, is an offering of the Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple and is as famous as the temple itself. The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva. The temple also has idols of Ganapathy, Parvathy, Nagaraja and Lord Ayyappa. The temple is 1.6km away from Kottarakkara.
Kottankulangara Sree Bhagavathy Temple
This is a well-known temple in Chavara, and the ‘chamaya vilaku’ festival, in which men dress up as women to offer prayers to the goddess, is very famous. The distance between the temple and Kollam railway station is 14.2km.
Achankovil Sree Dharmasastha Temple
This is a significant temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, the main deity, in the Kollam district. Many pilgrims from Tamil Nadu visit the temple, located in Pathanapuram. It’s 43.4km from Punalur railway station.
Aryankavu Sastha Temple
The Aryankavu Sastha Temple is located near the Kollam-Thirumangalam national highway. It’s one of the rare temples where women are allowed to offer prayers. The distance between the temple and Kollam railway station is 36km. The other main temples of the district include Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple, Panmana Ashram and Ochira Parabrahma Temple.