Located at the Laccadive Sea coast, Kollam is an ancient port town and is also known by its anglicized name Quilion. The region came under the reign of the Chera Dynasty until the formation of the Venad Kingdom in the 9th century. The city had trade relations with China, Egypt and Malaysia and has been deeply influenced by the plethora of cultural exchanges that occurred during the Sangam period. The city is another tourist hub, a trait common with most major towns in Kerala and is known for its spices and cashew industry. Below is a list of the best places you can visit in Kollam.
1. Thangassery
A beautiful beach town, Thangassery was established by the Portuguese in 1502 and became one of the major sources of Pepper trade. The town is famous for its beautiful and clean beach and a 44 meters tall light house that provides the most amazing views of the city. The town is a picturesque and contains several churches and other monuments that belong to the Portuguese and Dutch era.
2. Thenmala
The first planned eco-tourism destination in India, Thenmala is located by the Kallanda River and is famous for being a favorite shooting location for Tamil and Malayalam films. The town attracts several tourists with its trekking and mountaineering spots and lush green surroundings. The Hanging Bridge is a popular attraction along with the Thenmala Dam.
3. Palaruvi Waterfalls
With a massive height of 91 meters the Palaruvi Waterfalls are a horsetail waterfall and a major tourist attraction in Kollam. The name Palaruvi literally means a stream of milk and is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Kerala. The lush green surrounding with the backdrop of the misty mountains make it a perfect picnic spot to relax your body and senses.
4. Thevally Palace
The erstwhile abode of the King of Travancore, the Thevally Palace was constructed between 1811 and 1819. The architecture of the palace borrows influences from British, Dutch and the Portuguese architectural styles. The Palace also contains a temple dedicated to a local deity Lord Sastha.
5. Munroe Island
Named after Colonel John Munroe from the British Colonial Period, Munroe Island is a famous tourist destination located in the backwaters of Asthamudi River. The island is home to a plethora of attractions including Watersports, fishing, boat racing and watching migratory birds etc.
6. Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary
One of the most flora rich areas of Kerala, the Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 100 sq kilometers. The sanctuary was established in 1984 and contains a plethora of animal, bird and reptile species along with several archeological sites with excavations dating back to the Stone Age.
Considered as the gateway to god’s own country, Kerala, Kollam is a picturesque town with its rich culture and natural surroundings. The several lakes, rivers, beaches and backwaters make it a tourist spot like no other and the afore-mentioned places will make you experience Kollam in the best possible way.
Some More Tourist Destinations Of Kerala:
Hello,
please give the detail address from kollam railway station and bus stand to above places, so one can reach the places.
i want the information regarding Sree Uma Maheswara Swami Temple kollam post box. 333 kerala.
information regarding pooja and all.