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| Kollam |
| Kollam is one of the oldest sea port towns on the Malabar Coast. Its strategic location with regards to trade made it the subject of writers such as Marco Polo who recorded it as one of the leading trade capitals of the Old World. The magnificent Ashtamudi Lake, which is also known as the gateway to the magnificent backwaters of Kerala, covers one third of Kollam. From here, a 130-kilometer long spread of canals and lakes join hands to create one of nature’s finest spectacles wherever you go. The eight-hour boat trip between Allapupha and Kollam is the longest and most enchanting on the backwaters. |
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 The district also has some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the traditional ornate architectural style. The town is very famous for cashew processing and coir manufacturing.
Plac es of Interest in and
around Kollam:
Sasthamkotta Dharmasastha Temple:
Kollam abounds in temples dedicated to the Lord ‘Ayyapa’ and the Sasthamkotta temple is believed to possess great powers. Monkeys colonise the trees near the temple. To prevent the monkeys from straying outside the temple a philanthropist has set up funds to feed the monkeys twice daily.
Thenmala:
Covered by dense forest, rubber and tea plantations, Thenmala is home to India’s first planned eco tourism project. Thenmala has a leisure zone that includes swaying pathways, a sway bridge, a musical fountain and an adventure zone.
Palaruvi Waterfalls:
‘Palaruvi’, which literally means ‘stream of milk’, is an enchanting waterfall that makes its way down the rocks from a height of 300 feet.
Thevally Palace:
Built between 1811 and 1819, this erstwhile residence of the King was used for meetings with the British. It overlooks the scenic Ashtamudi Lake and is best viewed from the Lake itself. Built with laterite and lime plaster, the structure is a blend of Dutch, British and Portuguese architecture.
Elephant Pageant:
In March, the Shree Krishna Swamy temple near Kollam celebrates its annual elephant festival. The highlight is the colourful pageantry involving around 40 elephants.
Other highlights:
Crafts festival held annually
(December-January)
Paripally Gajamela elephant procession
(March) |
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