- Kollam was historically known as Desinganadu and served as a major trade port for the Chinese, Arabs, and Portuguese due to its spice exports.
- The city is recognized as the 'Cashew Capital of the World,' housing the largest concentration of cashew processing units globally.
- It is the southern gateway to the Kerala backwaters, functioning as a primary transit point for traditional houseboat tourism.
- The Ashtamudi Lake, which defines the city's geography, is shaped like an eight-armed palm, giving it its name.
- Kollam was one of the earliest colonial settlements in India, with the Portuguese, Dutch, and British all establishing trading factories here.
About Kollam
Kollam, located on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake, serves as the historic gateway to the Kerala backwaters and a major center for the global cashew processing industry. The city's maritime heritage is defined by the iconic Thangassery Light House, which offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Religious traditions remain central to local life, with significant sites such as the Kottarakkulam Sree Mahaganapathy Temple and the Infant Jesus Roman Catholic Cathedral dotting the urban landscape. Visitors often explore the coastline at Kollam Beach or find tranquility in the local green spaces like the Adventure Park, Kollam.
Highlights of Kollam
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Beaches and ponds
This stretch of coastline provides a popular vantage point for viewing the confluence of the sea and the local landscape.
Places of interest
Visitors can climb this historic structure to see the coastline from a height of over 40 meters.
Parks
Located along the lake, this park offers a range of recreational activities suitable for visitors seeking leisure.
Parks
A well-maintained public green space that serves as a popular gathering point for local residents.
Temples
This temple is a prominent center of worship known for its traditional architectural style.
Temples
This historic cathedral reflects the colonial architectural legacy and religious diversity of the coastal region.
Places of interest
Known for its serene atmosphere, this beach is a favored location for those observing local rituals.
Temples
A significant local church that highlights the enduring influence of European maritime history in the area.
Top things to do in Kollam
The 1,974 highest-rated places in Kollam, ranked by travellers.
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Places of interest
Jatayu Earth's Center features the world's largest bird sculpture, measuring 200 feet long, 150 feet wide, and 70 feet h...
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Temples
The Sree Maha Ganapathi Temple in Kottarakkara is widely recognized as one of the most prominent Lord Ganesha shrines in...
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Temples
Oachira Parabrahma Temple is unique for lacking a conventional roofed sanctum or idol, as the deity is worshipped as the...
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Beaches and ponds
Varkala Beach is the only place in southern Kerala where high sedimentary cliffs stand directly adjacent to the Arabian...
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Beaches and ponds
Kollam Beach, also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, is a prominent coastal area in Kerala characterized by its active fish...
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Temples
The Chettikulangara Bhagavathi Temple is a prominent Hindu shrine in Mavelikara, Kerala, dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi...
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Places of interest
The Punalur Suspension Bridge is a historic landmark spanning the Kallada River in Kerala, India. Built in 1877 by Alber...
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Places of interest
Thangassery Light House is a 44-meter tall cylindrical tower built in 1902 to guide vessels along the Malabar Coast. The...
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Temples
Sivagiri Mutt is a prominent pilgrimage center founded by the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru in 1904. It serves as t...
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Museums
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Zoos
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Kollam on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Kollam
September to March, as the weather is cool and pleasant for exploring the backwaters and outdoor sites.
2-3 days to comfortably experience the backwater boat tours, coastal landmarks, and major temples.
The city is best navigated using auto-rickshaws, private taxis, and local KSRTC buses.
Stay in the area surrounding Chinnakada for central access to transit and markets, or near the coastline for a quieter environment with better views.
A budget-friendly destination with a wide range of affordable guesthouses and mid-range hotels.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 1,974 curated attractions in and around Kollam, ranked by traveller ratings.
Jatayu Earth's Center is the highest-rated place to visit in Kollam right now.
The largest category is temples, with 1,805 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Bangalore, Howrah, Kottayam.
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