Kollam Travel Guide – How to Plan Your Trip

Kollam, once a bustling port known as Quilon, is now the melting point of heritage, nature, and tranquillity along Kerala’s southwest coast. It’s scenic Ashtamudi Lake, often called the backwaters gateway, spreads into coconut-lined canals and islands like Munroe. Nearby gems include Thirumullavaram Beach, ancient cliffside temples, and the recently opened Jatayu Earth Centre with a Guinness World Record-holding stone sculpture.

At the edge of the Western Ghats lies Thenmala, Kerala’s first planned eco-tourism spot. Whether you’re cruising houseboats, visiting waterfalls, or strolling sandy beaches at sunset, Kollam moves at a calm pace. It’s ideal for travellers wanting greenery without the crowds and history without the hurry.

Quick overview

Why Should You Visit Kollam?

• Scenic Backwaters: Glide through Ashtamudi Lake by houseboat or country boat.
• Offbeat Islands: Explore Munroe Island’s traditional canals and village life.
• Unique sights: Visit Jatayu Earth Centre, home to the world’s largest bird sculpture atop a hill.
• Explore the Thangassery Lighthouse, Portuguese fort ruins, and churches from the colonial era. It’s a mix of history, architecture, and sea breeze all in one place.
• Idyllic beaches: Relax or swim at the Thirumullavaram beach, known for its calm tides and sunset views.
• Rainforest retreats: Thenmala and Palaruvi Falls invite you into lush greenery and misty magic.

What are the Top Places to Visit in Kollam?

Kollam is a traveller’s delight for its untouched beauty, less crowded backwaters, and deep historical roots as a once-thriving trade center. Let’s check out the top places to visit in Kollam.

1. Ashtamudi Lake & Backwaters

Glide through palm-fringed backwater canals aboard a houseboat or country boat. The vast Ashtamudi Lake, shaped like an octopus’ arms, is ideal for day cruises or overnight stays. The lake and its wetlands are a Ramsar site, noted for their ecological importance.

2. Munroe Island (Munroe Thuruth)

About 27 km from Kollam city, this peaceful island cluster sits in the backwaters. Traditional coir weaving, village canals, and coconut groves give it a rustic charm. Boat rides on narrow waterways give tourists a peek into the daily life of locals.

3. Thirumullavaram Beach

A short drive north of Kollam city, this beach is celebrated for its clear waters, gentle tides, and palm-lined sands. It’s perfect for morning walks and watching the sunset. Locals often perform rituals here during the Karkidaka Vavubali festival.

4. Jatayu Earth Centre (Jatayu Nature Park)

Located approximately 38 km inland, this hilltop park is home to the world’s largest stone bird sculpture, depicting Jatayu from the Ramayana. Take the cable car up, explore the museum, trek on nature trails, or try ziplining.

5. Palaruvi Waterfalls

This waterfall is about 75 km from Kollam. Palaruvi means ‘Milk Stream,’ and this 300-foot waterfall cascades through forested hills, creating a milky curtain of water and stunning photo opportunities. It is best visited post-monsoon when the flow is not dangerous.

6. Thenmala Eco‑Tourism & Shendurney Sanctuary

India’s first planned eco‑tourism destination, Thenmala, lies just outside Kollam. Claiming that families are in for a fun time would be an understatement because this planned destination has so much to offer – treetop walks, pedal-boating, butterfly parks, and forest treks. You can also spend some time at the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, which is nearby, and is rich in biodiversity with elephants and birdlife thriving in their natural habitat.

7. Thangassery Lighthouse & Beach

This 41 m tall lighthouse, built in 1902, stands at Tangasseri, near the old port area of Kollam. This red and white tower offers unparalleled views of the Arabian Sea and the nearby fishing village.

Local Experiences and Activities

• Houseboat cruise on Ashtamudi Lake, either short or overnight, to experience life on the waters.
• Coir-making demo on Munroe Island, where traditional boat nets and mats are made by hand.
• Evening beach ritual at Thirumullavaram, especially during Vavubali season.
• Waterfall dip at Palaruvi or hiking treks in Thenmala, surrounded by greenery.
• Have a meal at Ramees restaurant, order their Mutton Rameesa and Kerala Parotta.

Best Time to Visit Kollam

Kollam’s best season runs from October to March, when skies are clear and humidity is low, and the weather is ideal for houseboat rides, forest trails, and waterfalls. The monsoon season (June-September) turns landscapes lush, but heavy rains make travel more challenging.

April-May are hot and humid (up to 35°C), but the rainforest interiors remain relatively cooler. Early morning treks are recommended. Less crowded, ideal for budget travel.

How to Reach Kollam

• By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is about 66 km away.
• By Train: Kollam Junction is centrally located (about 3 km from the city centre).
• By Road: Well-connected via NH 66 and NH 744, buses and taxis are available from major cities.

Festivals and Events Around Kollam

• Kollam Pooram (April): Held at the Asramam Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, this is one of the biggest temple festivals in Kollam. It features elephant pageantry, kudamattam (umbrella exchanges), and fireworks at Asramam Maidan.

• Karkidaka Vavubali Ritual (July – August): Thousands gather at Thirumullavaram Beach to perform ancestral rites in the sea.

• Onattukara Oachira Parabrahma at Oachira (May or July): Nearby pilgrimage with unique rituals and offerings merging regional temple culture with local traditions.

Quick Travel Tips