Experience a Slice of Heaven in Kerala with these Top 30 Kollam Tourist Places
July 21, 2022
Kollam is a beautiful place in South India, which fascinates you with its multitude of tourist attractions. Such was the fame of Kollam once as a trade center that everyone from the Romans, Arabs, Chinese, the Portuguese, Dutch, and British traders were clamoring to get their hands on the spices and the cashew crops of the region. Have a look at some of the best Kollam tourist places for a surreal vacation in Kerala, truly God’s Own Country.
Best Season to Visit Kollam: October to March is Best Season to Visit Kollam
Peak Season in Kollam: December to January & May to June is Peak Season in Kollam
Kollam Weather: Minimum Temperature in Kollam: 20°C , Maximum Temperature in Kollam: 36°C
1. Jatayu’s Earth Centre
Spread across 65 acres of land, Jatayu Earth's Centre is a rock-themed park built to promote mythology and adventure. The world’s largest bird sculpture is the main attraction at Jatayupara Nature Park and is one among the several Kollam famous places. It has a 6D theatre, a digital audio-visual room, cable car and the Siddha Cave Healing Centre. The virtual reality museum here tells the story of Jatayu to visitors. It is also home to umpteen adventure activities including paintball, laser tag, archery, bouldering, rock climbing, air-rifle shooting, zip lining, trekking, rappelling, valley crossing, etc.
Timings: 9.30 am to 5.30 pm
2. Thangassery Lighthouse
Looking for the best tourist places in Kollam? The Thangassery Lighthouse, also known as the Tangasseri Light House, boasts of being the second tallest on the entire coast of Kerala and is thus even one of the most visited lighthouses in the state on this account. The tower has a total height of 41 metres, or 135 feet, and has been operational since the year 1902.The majestic tower is clearly visible and distinct, with its painted red and white oblique bands, and looks pretty indeed in all its glory and majesty.
Timings: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM , Closed on Monday
3. Palaruvi Falls
Palaruvi Waterfalls, which literally translates to ‘Stream of Milk’. The white-stream waterfall descending from the height of 300ft resembles the shape of a horse’s tail. An ideal time to visit this place is from June to January. It is the 32nd highest waterfall in India, also known to have Ayurvedic properties. The roaring sounds of the fall stand in stark contrast to the silence of the forests and mist-kissed mountains around it, therefore making it among the best tourist spots in Kollam.
Timings: 8 am to 4 pm
4. Sasthamkotta Lake
Sasthamkotta Lake is the largest of its kind in Kerala and said to have derived its name from an ancient Sastha Temple located near the lake. It is surrounded by hills on the 3 sides and is the largest source of drinking water for the residents of Kollam. The reason for it being a freshwater source is the presence of larva chaoborus in the water which is responsible of consuming bacteria from the lake water and makes its healthy and fit for drinking. The lake is home for 27 species of freshwater fish. You can do boating and swimming in this lake.
Timings: 24-hrs, preferred 10 am – 6 pm
5. Kollam Beach
Voted as the first 'Beach Wedding Destination' in Kerala, the Kollam Beach requires no introduction. There are a lot of places to visit in Kollam, but this beach is one of the most scenic and beautiful. This beach is famous among some travellers with the name of Mahatma Gandhi Beach and soothes wanderers with lush green, calm backwaters, and endless water activities. The beach also has a lighthouse called the Tangasseri Lighthouse, which is a major landmark there. The cultural and spiritual aura of the beach is indeed contagious and fills the visitors with renewed energy and passions.
Timings - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
6. Ashtamudi Lake
The incredible beauty of Kerala, Ashtamudi Lake, it’s name has been derived from two words 'Ashta' meaning eight and 'Mudi' meaning branch, thereby stating the fact that lake has eight branches. It’s the second largest lake in Kerala. Thick coconut groves and palm trees can be seen all along the banks of the lake. The banks of the lake are also famous for the Chinese fishing nets. Backwater cruises are also available in the lake, between Kollam and Alappuzha. The boat cruise to Munroe Islands is a wonderful experience. There are many resorts along the lake that offer variety of water sports.
7. Thenmala
Thenmala is India’s first planned eco-tourism destination located in the foothills of the Western Ghats of the Kollam district which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thenmala means honey hill. Thenmala is also a dam site with the Parappar Dam which spans the Kallada River. The honey collected from Thenmala forest is famous for its medicinal values. This place has facilities like winding pathways, Sway Bridge, amphitheatre, musical fountain, boating, & so on. To the east, Pathimoonam Kannara Bridge is a 13-arched bridge along a mountain railway route. The other attraction of Thenmala is the Deer Park.
8. Mayyand
A hub of many popular shrines & temples for Hindus and Muslims, Mayyanad is amongst the best tourist places in Kollam. It lies on the banks of the Paravur Lake and also the coast of Arabian Sea. Located at a distance of 10 kms from Kollam, it has nine important temples. The most important of the nine temples here is the Subramanya temple at Umayanallor which is said to be blessed by Shri Shankaracharya of Kalladi. One can also visit an old mosque and several old churches in the area. There are frequent buses from Kollam to Mayyanad.
9. Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls
Famous for clear blue waters that drops from majestic heights, the Kumbhavurutty Waterfall is one of the popular places to visit in Kollam that is situated in southern India. The waterfall is a part of the Achankovil River. The Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls is located in the vicinity of the Konni forest area, tops the list of most beautiful and magnanimous waterfalls in Kerala. This scenic spot never fails to enthral tourists with its splendid views and colourful hues of the water fallings from a height of 25 metres.
10. Sri Mahaganapathi Temple
This temple is one of the famous pilgrimage spots in Kollam, popular among worshipers as the center of spirituality and devotion. Though the presiding deity of the temple is Lord Siva, this temple is famous as Lord Ganapathy temple situated in Kottarakkara at a distance of 25 Kms from Kollam. The temple is famous for Kottarakkara Unniappam, a rare sweet offered as Prasadam. The architecture of this centuries-old temple attracts most of the tourists admiring its charming design. The most interesting fact about this temple, where the family of shiva resides is that, even non-Hindus are allowed to visit here.
11. Thirumullavaram Beach
An unexplored beach of Kerala where golden sand surrounds clear blue water and the serene seashore is embellished by coconut and palm trees which makes it a shady and silent place. This beach is famous for the yearly ritual of Karkidaka Vavubali. Holding a place in the list of Kollam tourist places, this beach is ideal for morning and evening walks with a beautiful sight of the setting sun. This beach is excellent for sun bathing and swimming. Mahavishnu Temple near the beach is a worth visiting place. Another popular attraction here is the rocky platform that extends out to the sea known as the Sunday Rock.
12. Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary
Want to spend some time with nature’s loved ones? Head to Shenduruny wildlife sanctuary Located in the Western Ghats in the Kollam district of Kerala which is one of the best places to visit in Kollam. Kollam houses only this wildlife sanctuary, which is renowned for several species of flora and fauna and beautiful landscape. It encloses activities such as jungle camping, trekking, jeep safaris, bird watching, etc. The sanctuary is a part of the Agasthyamalai biosphere reserve. The sanctuary is spread across 26 sq. Kms artificial lake formed by Thenmala Dam.
13. Punalur
One of the most surreal tourist spot in Kollam is Punalur that offers a rejuvenating experience and an Old World Charm. Punalur derives its name from two words in Tamil and Malayalam. ‘Punal’ in Tamil means water and the Malayalam word’ ooru’ means place, which combined together give the name Punalur or ‘place of water. Indeed Kallada flows right through the heart of the city with the famous suspension bridge hanging over it. Panalur is known as "Pepper Village of Kerala". Some of the tourist attractions are Shenthruni Forest, Palruvi and Courtallam Waterfalls, and the age-old Pattazhi Devi Temple.
14. Kakkathuruthu
The Kakkathuruthu Island in Vembanad Lake, Alleppey is a small magnificent island popularly known as the island of crows. It is a heaven for bird watchers. The coconut trees, paddy fields, toddy tapping, fish farming, coir making, and traditional Kerala food like Appam, puttu, crab roast, shrimp fry, duck, pork dishes with fresh catch from the backwaters...there are numerous aspects which make Kakkathuruthu special. Tourists also enjoy the view of the setting sun and watching the sky hues. The sole place in Kerala listed in Nat Geo's magazine for relishing the time of dusk.
Things to do - Broom making, Boating, Chinese net, Shinkari melam, Catnet fishing, Clam meat processing.
15. Rameshwaram Temple
An ancient temple in Kollam, this temple dates back to the 12th Century believed to be established in the Pandian style of architecture. This is one of the four Shiva temples built by the Natukotta Chettiar, a prominent mercantile caste who were worshippers of Lord Shiva. One fascinating feature of this temple is the sculpture of Vyala, the mythological monster. There are several inscriptions here written in Tamil, which date between the12-century and 16-century. The annual temple festival is celebrated in Jan/Feb every year. This is probably one of the best tourist spots in Kollam!
16. Munroe Island
Named after the British resident of Travancore, Colonel Munroe, Munroe Island is at a distance of 26 km from Kollam and the island is at the intersection of the Astamudi Lake and the Kallada River. The Munroe Island, also known as Mundrothuruthu, is a picturesque and magnificent inland island renowned for its splendid beauty and scenic views. This hidden treasure comprises of 8 islands in total, all of which are separated by small water channels and lakes. Munroe Island is connected with Pattomthuruthu & Pezhumthuruthu Islands by boat. Boat cruises are operated to the island twice daily. It’s one of the best among Kollam famous places.
17. Kollam Adventure Park
The 200-year-old Government Guest House, an Adventure Park, the Tourist Boat Club, the Children's Traffic Park, and the Yatrinivas have situated in the Picnic Village: the vast tourist complex. Next to the government Guest House at Asramam, is an Adventure Park is also known as the Asramam Picnic Village: the center of leisure activities for people with no age limit. With the alluring backwaters, travellers can enjoy luxurious boating, picnic, and the art museum among other tourist places in Kollam. The major attractions of the adventure park include sculptures, an open gym, mangrove forest, boating, and British residency.
18. Kottukkal Cave Temple
The Kottukkal Cave Temple is a beautiful and serene rock-cut shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kottayam MC Road, Kotthukkal village. The name Kottukal refers to Kothiya Kallu or carved rock. The temple is also known as Kaltrikkovil in Malayalam language. This temple has two caves, the bigger of which is enshrined by Nandi Bull and the smaller one with Lord Hanuman. In between these caves one can see the idol of Lord Ganapathy. The temple is an excellent example of rock cut architecture that prevailed between the 6th and 8th centuries CE, and is looked at with awe by architecture students as well as pious devotees alike.
19. Paravur Lake
Paravur Lake or better known as Paravur Kayal is one of the popular lakes in Kollam. The glittering waters are a visual treat to the eyes. It is a small lake but an ideal spot for locals to come out and enjoy a day outing amidst the beauty of nature. The mangroves standing along both sides of the lake intensifies its beauty, making it more attractive. Another real fascination in the region of Paravur Lake is the Priyadarshini watercraft club. Swimming and surfing are the most popular activities here followed by fishing that requires permission from the local authorities. Apart from the waters, the nearby Puttingal Temple and Puthenkulam Elephant Village are the other attractions here.
20. Kottankulangara Devi Temple
Kottankulangara Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located in Chavara, devoted to goddess Durga Bhagavathy, incarnation of Ma Parvati. The tourists are attracted by its unique architecture, where the temple has no roof above the sanctum. The sole temple in India that holds a unique ritual of men getting dressed in female attire at the Kottankulangara Festival (annual festival). There is a unique ritual called 'Chamaya Vilakku' where a group of young women come to the temple at night in a long procession with lighted lamps in their hands and also offer payasam, aravana, iratti madhuram and ornaments, silks etc. Other interests in & around Chavara include St. Andrews Church and Kovilthottam Beach & Light House.
21. Thevally Palace
A place of great historic importance, Trevally Palace is situated on the banks of Ashtamude Lake. The striking feature about the palace is that it presents an intriguing fusion of Dutch, English, and Portuguese styles of architecture. It will take you back to the old-world charm. The beauty of this palace holds a magnificent view because of the lush green coconut plantation and palm trees' surroundings. This architectural wonder is one of the best historical places to visit in Kollam.
22. Oachira
Situated on the Kollam-Alappuzha road is the Oachira, a pilgrim center that is known to attract a large number of tourists. The unique feature of this famous pilgrim center is that there is no deity or idol at the famous Parabrahma temple dedicated to universal consciousness. Oachira Kali in mid-June and the twelve-day Panthrandu Vilakku in November/December are the two main annual festivals. According to the Puranas, this glorious temple is one of the most famous and sacred places that can be found in Kerala, or for that matter, all over the country.
23. Pathanapuram
One of the major trading hubs of kollam District is Pathanapuram. Acknowledged as one of the tourist places in Kollam, Pathanapuram is located on the shore of river Kallada. The prime attraction of the area is a festival of Chandanakkudam Mahotsavam organized by the mosque during the months of February and March. Some of the live-stock activities like dairying, poultry, goat rearing and industrial activities like brick making, bamboo weaving, etc. are common in Pathanapuram. The cultivation of spice and rubber is the foremost attraction of this place.
24. Aryankavu Sastha Temple
Aryankavu Sastha Temple a Hindu temple and one among the 108 Sastha shrines in the Indian state of Kerala. It is one of the five important temples in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa/Sastha. Here Lord Ayappa is worshiped in his teenage form and is known as Tiru Aryan, hence giving the temple its name Ariankavu or Aryankavu. Mandala Pooja and Tirukalyanam celebrated in the month of December are the main festivals here. What fascinates the travellers are the mural paintings hanging on the pillar and walls. Apart from this, travellers can also visit Palaruvi waterfalls which is situated 5 kms from Aryankavu.
25. St. Thomas Fort
Thangassery Fort is also known as St. Thomas Fort located on the beach of Thangassery on the shores of the Arabian Sea in the city of Kollam. It’s a famous trading center of pepper with rich trade history and culture. The fort remains as one of the most important archaeological sites in Kollam, attracting tourists to visit this monument and unwind its historical trading link. The rustic appearance and lush green surroundings of the fort makes it an excellent point for photography and mesmerizes the travellers with its exquisite architecture. If you are a history lover, visit this fort to learn about the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British rulers.
26. Anandavalleeswaram Temple
Anandavalleswaram temple, devoted to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is one of the famous temples in Kollam. It’s a great tourist spot and one of the most ancient temples of Kerala. The story that revolves around the name of this temple states that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are in a happy state and hence the name ‘Anandavalleswaram’. The worshipers here get peace, while the travellers get mesmerised by its charm and tranquillity.
27. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum
The Sardar Vallabhai Patel Police Museum pays tribute to the police forces of Kerala and also traces their history and development. The museum represents the historical figure, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, famously known as the ‘Iron Man of India’. One of the most famous landmarks here is the Martyrs Gallery, which includes police holds arms and ammunition of the 18th and 19th century including bullets, guns, machines, and much more. Additionally, the place endures the unknown facts about Kerala Police force and information charts on DNA tests, human bones, fingerprints and snapshots of police dogs, etc.
Timings: The museum is open on all days except for Sundays between 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
28. Chinnakada Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is situated in Chinnakada and it is a major landmark in the town of Kollam. It is considered as the heart of the city Kollam. The tower faces four directions of the city with clocks on all sides, and the fascinating architectural design of the colonial era attracts the tourist to visit here. The clock tower has become a non-official symbol of Kollam and is the busiest part of the city where roads from Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Downtown, Sengottai, Ashramam, Kollam Beach, and the City bus stand meet.
29. Kollam Pooram – Sri Krishna Temple
Kollam Pooram is a famous 10 day festival celebrated in the month of April every year at Sri Krishna Temple. The festival begins with the hoisting of a flag and the deities of the nearby temples are brought to the Krishna Temple atop 58 beautifully decorated elephants to pay homage to Lord Krishna. This ritual is known as cherupooram. Kathakali is performed on all days of the festival. Kudamattam ceremony is celebrated in a grand manner on the last day of festival. Thousands of devotees gather in the temple compound to witness this grand spectacle.
30. Rosemala
Nestled amidst the pretty pristine woods of Shenduruney forests, Rosemala is a well-kept secret of Kerala. Located in the Aryanvaku in the Kollam district, the valley appears the unfurling petals of a rose, hence the name. The highlight of the place is that it can only be reached by a 10 km long trek through the jungle. Boasting of gorgeous surroundings, the major attractions here are a lake and a watchtower. It indeed is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kollam. The beautiful valley abounds in the bounty of nature and is a mesmerizing place to visit.
Kollam is well-known for its scenic beauty and all you have to do is take a look at the above list of Kollam tourist places in order to plan your itinerary. Explore Kollam like you have never before and know about many hidden gems of the place. If you want a slice of the famed backwater tourism of Kerala and want to escape from the monotonous urban life, do not think twice but simply head to Kollam with great discounts on flight booking via EaseMyTrip. The best time to visit Kollam is between November and March when it is not too rainy or not too hot.
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