A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Kollam, India

An Overview of Kollam and What it Offers as a Tourist Destination

• The coastal city of Kollam in India has been a popular tourist destination for years. With its picturesque beaches, lush green backwaters, stunning temples and wildlife sanctuaries, Kollam offers a unique experience for those looking to explore the beauty of South India.
• From the ancient Thangasseri Lighthouse to the renowned Ashtamudi Lake, there are plenty of attractions and activities that make Kollam a great destination for tourists. Whether you’re looking for an exciting adventure or simply want to relax and enjoy nature’s bounty, Kollam is sure to provide something for everyone.

Top 10 Best places to Visit in Kollam & Historical Sites in Kollam

• Kollam, the old sea port city in India, is a tourist paradise for those who love exploring and experiencing different cultures.
• With its ancient temples, pristine beaches, lush green forests and diverse wildlife, Kollam offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
• From visiting the historic Dutch Palace to taking an elephant ride on the beach or getting mesmerized by spectacular houseboat cruises—Kollam has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable holiday experience, make sure you explore all that Kollam has to offer.

1.Ashtamudi Lake

• Best places to Visit in Kollam include Ashtamudi Lake is a beatiful and serene lake that is the second-largest in Kerala.
• It is located in the heart of Kollam and is surrounded by lush green forests, coconut groves, and palm trees.
• The lake is famous for its backwaters, which offer a unique and relaxing experience for visitors. You can take a boat ride on the lake, which is a great way to explore the surrounding areas and enjoy the natural beauty of Kollam.

2.Kollam Beach

• Kollam Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kollam.
• The beach is located at a distance of 3 km from the city center and is known for its white sands and blue waters.
• The beach is a great place to relax and unwind, and you can also enjoy a variety of water sports such as swimming, parasailing, and boating.

3.Thangasseri Lighthouse

• Best places to Visit in Kollam include Thangasseri Lighthouse is a famous landmark in Kollam that is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea.
• The lighthouse was built in the 1900s and is a great example of British colonial architecture.
• The lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the surrounding areas, and you can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy the view.

4.Palaruvi Waterfalls

• Palaruvi Waterfalls is a popular tourist attraction in Kollam that is located in the middle of a dense forest.
• The waterfall is known for its natural beauty, and the water is said to have medicinal properties. Visitors can take a dip in the waterfall or enjoy a picnic in the surrounding areas.

5.Kollam Clock Tower

• Kollam Clock Tower is a historical landmark in Kollam that is located in the city center.
• The clock tower was built in the early 20th century and is a great example of British colonial architecture.
• The clock tower is a popular tourist attraction, and you can take a stroll around the tower to enjoy the surrounding areas.

6.Tangasseri Fort

• Best places to Visit in Kollam include Tangasseri Fort is a historical landmark in Kollam that is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea.
• The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and is a great example of Portuguese colonial architecture.
• The fort is a popular tourist attraction, and you can explore the fort to learn about its history.

7.Thirumullavaram Beach

• Thirumullavaram Beach is a serene and secluded beach that is located at a distance of 6 km from Kollam.
• The beach is known for its golden sands and blue waters, and it is a great place to relax and unwind. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports such as swimming, boating, and parasailing.

8.Mayyanad

• Best places to Visit in Kollam include Mayyanad is a small town located in the suburbs of Kollam.
• The town is known for its beautiful temples and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore the town to learn about its history and culture.

9.Thevally Palace

• Best places to Visit in Kollam include Thevally Palace is a historical palace located in the heart of Kollam.
• The palace was built by the British in the early 20th century and is a great example of British colonial architecture.
• The palace is a popular tourist attraction, and you can explore the palace to learn about its history.

10.Amritapuri Ashram

• Best places to Visit in Kollam include Amritapuri Ashram is a spiritual center located in the outskirts of Kollam.
• The ashram was founded by Mata Amritanandamayi, also known as Amma, and is a popular destination for spiritual seekers from all over the world. Visitors can participate in various spiritual activities and programs such as meditation, yoga, and chanting.

In addition to these ten places, Kollam also has many other attractions such as the Sasthamkotta Lake, Jatayu Earth’s Center, and the Kollam Adventure Park. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, especially the seafood, which is a must-try for any food lover.

Delight your Taste Buds with Delicious Local Dishes & Restaurants

• Best places to Visit in Kollam, like the rest of Kerala, is known for its delicious cuisine. The cuisine of Kollam is a blend of traditional Kerala dishes and local specialties. Here are some of the popular dishes and food landmarks of Kollam and Kerala.

1.Appam and Stew

• Appam and stew is a traditional breakfast dish of Kerala that is popular in Kollam as well.
• Appam is a rice pancake that is made by fermenting rice batter and coconut milk.
• Stew is a mild and flavorful dish made with potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables cooked in coconut milk.

2.Puttu and Kadala Curry

• Puttu and Kadala Curry is a well-known breakfast dish in Kollam, India.
• It consists of steamed rice cake (Puttu) made with grated coconut served with a lip-smacking spicy & flavorful black chickpea curry (Kadala Curry). It can be enjoyed as a snack as well.

3.Kappa and Fish Curry

• Kappa is a traditional Kerala dish made with tapioca and served with spicy fish curry.
• This is a popular lunch or dinner dish in Kollam and is often served at local restaurants and food stalls.

4.Malabar Biryani

• Malabar Biryani is a famous dish in Kerala that is popular in Kollam as well.
• It is a flavorful rice dish made with chicken or mutton, spices, and herbs, and is often served with raita or pickle.

5.Thattukada

• Thattukada is a popular food landmark in Kerala that is known for its street food.
• These small roadside stalls offer a variety of snacks such as banana fritters, vada, samosas, and parippu vada, which are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

6.Kerala Parotta and Chicken Curry

• Kerala Parotta is a layered flatbread that is popular in Kollam and is often served with spicy chicken curry.
• This is a popular dinner dish and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

7.Payasam

• Payasam is a traditional Kerala dessert that is made with rice, milk, and sugar, and is flavored with cardamom and nuts.
• This sweet dish is often served during special occasions and festivals in Kollam and is a must-try for anyone .

In addition to these dishes, Kollam also has many local specialties such as seafood dishes, including prawns, crabs, and fish, which are caught fresh from the nearby backwaters and served in local restaurants. So, if you are in Kollam, make sure to try some of these delicious dishes and explore the unique and flavorful cuisine of Kerala.

Choosing Where To Stay – Accomodation Options for Your Journey

Best places to Visit in Kollam offers a range of lodging options for visitors, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the top hotels, resorts, and lodging options in Kollam.

1.Raviz Resort and Spa, Ashtamudi

• Raviz Resort and Spa, Ashtamudi is a luxurious hotel situated by the picturesque Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam.
• Featuring elegantly designed & comfortable villas, suites & rooms; the resort offers something special for everyone. In addition to breathtaking views, the resort also provides a wide range of amenities.
• Guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool, a spa for relaxation, and several dining venues for delicious meals of both local and international cuisines.

2. Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort and Ayurveda Spa

• The Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort is a beautiful resort located on the banks of the backwaters in Kollam.
• The resort features well-appointed rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a spa, and a restaurant serving traditional Kerala cuisine.
• The resort also offers Ayurvedic treatments and massages for guests looking for a rejuvenating experience.

3. Hotel All Season

• Hotel All Season is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Kollam.
• The hotel features comfortable rooms and suites, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
• The hotel is a great option for visitors looking for affordable and comfortable accommodation in Kollam.

4. The Quilon Beach Hotel and Convention Center

• The Quilon Beach Hotel and Convention Center is a beautiful beachfront hotel located in Kollam.
• The hotel features well-appointed rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a spa, and multiple restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
• The hotel also offers a range of recreational activities, including water sports, fishing, and cycling.

5. Ashtamudi Villas

• Ashtamudi Villas is a boutique resort located on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam.
• The resort features well-appointed villas, each with a private balcony overlooking the lake.
• The resort also offers a range of activities, including fishing, kayaking, and cycling, as well as a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.

In addition to these options, Kollam also has many other hotels, resorts, and lodges to suit all budgets and preferences. So, whether you are looking for a luxurious resort or a budget-friendly hotel, you are sure to find the perfect accommodation in Kollam.

conclusion

Kollam is a beautiful and serene city that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. With its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and spiritual centers, Kollam is a perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. So, if you are planning a trip to Kerala, make sure to include Kollam in your itinerary and explore all the wonders this city has to offer.