Kollam brings together broad backwaters, sandy shores and reminders of its old port history. Cruise Ashtamudi Lake, explore the narrow canals of Munroe Island or look out over the coast from Thangassery Lighthouse. These eight attractions cover city stops and outings within Kollam district. Keep the waterfront sights together, and allow separate time for Munroe Island or Jatayu Earth Centre.
Kollam highlights
Ashtamudi’s branching waterways are central to a Kollam visit. A boat trip opens up views of palm-lined shores, fishing activity and waterside settlements. Choose a short cruise for a quick introduction or a houseboat stay for more time on the water. Confirm the departure jetty and route when booking.
At the meeting of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River, Munroe Island offers a closer look at village life along narrow canals. Small canoe trips pass homes, coconut palms and mangroves. This is an outing beyond Kollam city, so allow time for transfers and agree on the boating schedule in advance.
Also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, this city waterfront is an easy stop for an evening walk and sunset views. Its open shoreline makes a welcome break after sightseeing. Come to enjoy the sea breeze and local atmosphere; follow beach warnings and lifeguard advice before approaching the water.
North of central Kollam, Thirumullavaram offers a quieter coastal setting, with coconut palms and views of offshore rocks. It suits a relaxed shoreline visit or a sunset stop after exploring Thangassery. Enjoy the beach from the sand and follow local guidance, as sea conditions can change.
Thangassery’s red-and-white lighthouse is one of Kollam’s most recognisable landmarks. Built in 1902, it offers elevated views of the Arabian Sea and surrounding coast when visitor access is open. Pair it with the nearby fort ruins, and check current entry hours before planning your visit around the view.
The surviving remains of this Portuguese fort recall Kollam’s role in overseas trade. Dating to 1519, the site offers a short heritage stop in the Thangassery area. Expect ruins rather than an intact fortress, and combine the visit with the lighthouse to explore two different chapters of the coast’s history.
Beside Ashtamudi Lake, Asramam Adventure Park is a convenient choice for a family outing within Kollam. The waterfront setting and recreation areas provide a change from monuments and beaches. Ask which boating or adventure activities are operating on your visit date, as availability and age requirements vary.
The large Jatayu sculpture at Chadayamangalam brings a scene from the Ramayana to a hilltop setting. Views across the surrounding landscape are part of the appeal. Located elsewhere in Kollam district, it needs a separate excursion from the city. Check ticket options and cable-car arrangements before travelling.
Your trip, your pace
Choose a morning canoe ride, an afternoon around Thangassery or a longer stay beside Ashtamudi Lake. Share your dates and interests, and we can plan accommodation, transfers and sightseeing around the places you want to explore.
Curated itineraries
Trivandrum – Kovalam – Kollam – Alleppey – Periyar – Cochin
Cochin – Kumarakom – Alleppey – Kollam – Trivandrum
Why IndianHoliday
A Kollam holiday works best when boat trips, city sights and district excursions have enough time between them. We help bring these plans together around your stay and onward journey.
Kollam attraction questions
Start with Ashtamudi Lake, Thangassery Lighthouse and Kollam Beach. Add Munroe Island if you want a canal trip, or Jatayu Earth Centre for a hilltop outing. The fort ruins and Thirumullavaram Beach fit well into a coastal sightseeing day.
Choose Thangassery Lighthouse and the nearby fort ruins, then finish at a beach. Check lighthouse opening hours before setting off. A half-day visit works better with a small group of nearby sights than a drive across the district.
Two days can cover the main city sights and a Munroe Island outing at a comfortable pace. Use one day for the lighthouse, fort and beach, and another for the backwaters. Add more time if Jatayu Earth Centre or an overnight houseboat stay is a priority.
Yes. Munroe Island canoe trips focus on narrow canals and village surroundings. A houseboat on Ashtamudi generally spends more time on broader waterways and may include meals or an overnight stay. Choose by the experience you want, and confirm the route and inclusions with the operator.
Asramam Adventure Park, a short backwater cruise and an evening beach walk are useful options. Choose activities around your children’s ages and comfort. Check access to the lighthouse viewing area and book boats with suitable life jackets for everyone.
No. It is at Chadayamangalam in Kollam district. Treat it as a separate excursion with road transfers, rather than a quick stop between city attractions. Confirm admission and cable-car arrangements before finalising the day.
October to February generally offers more comfortable conditions for sightseeing. Plan exposed coastal stops for the morning or late afternoon. During rainy weather, boat trips and outdoor activities may change, so check local conditions and keep some flexibility in your schedule.