Kollam- Explore the mystic charm of this erstwhile port city

Touted as the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala, the erstwhile port city of Kollam holds the rare distinction of being the cashew trading centre of Kerala. With an impressive coastline, Kollam is equally famous for its fishing industries and processing units as well.

Though for most tourists, Kollam is just a short stopover on the way to the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, the fact is that it has many leisure activities that remain unexplored. The largest fresh water lake of Kerala, Sasthamkotta and a leisurely boat cruise along the fabled Ashtamudi lake that forms part of the Kollam backwaters are very much on cards while you are in Kollam.

A boat trip between Kollam and Alleppey is the longest and most delightful experience in the backwater tourism in Kollam to explore and experience the charm of the unique yet complex backwaters of Kerala.

Set out on a houseboat trip along the Asthamudi Lake connected to innumerable waterways, to enjoy the serene charm of nature and the simple rustic beauty of the village life. There are many historic places of interest along the coast including many temples that are built in the traditional Kerala architectural style. Step back in time at the 200-year-old Government Guest House, which exudes the timeless charm of the yore or explore the Adventure Park and the Tourist Boat Club. Options are all yours when you are in Kollam, the erstwhile business hub of Kerala.

No trip to Kollam can be complete without a trip to Mata Amritanandamayi Ashram at Vallikkavu, near Kollam. Apart from being a spiritual abode, it carries out many entrepreneurial activities in various fields like housing, education and health care industries among others.

Thangasseri, a seaside hamlet would be of great interest for history lovers as it still has many well preserved remnants of the fort and church built by the Portuguese. Kollam beach is an ideal spot to soak up the intriguing charm of a perfect beach holiday. Laze out in the coasts, enjoy a fabulous sun set cruise in a ferry or catch up with the local fishermen who go about their daily business.

Kollam beach has many colonial relics around like the clock tower, which can be seen from all parts of the city square and the English church cemetery which has many tombstones of the Britishers.

You cannot miss out the Thevally Palace, which houses the army unit, is an imposing structure that adds up to the charm of the lake surroundings. The famous papanasam beach in Varkala, easily accessible from Kollam is well known for its cliff edges and the brilliantly colored sand beach, which is a popular haunt for fun seekers not only from India but also from outside.

The Palaruvi waterfalls, which cascades down from a staggering height of over 300 feet would be a perfect spot for a few snapshots that bear the stamp of the bewitching beauty of this popular tourist spot.

Kollam tourism indeed caters to all your needs and sight seeing priorities. From history to culture and nature and adventure, there is something special for everyone!

If you are a tourist looking for luxury in Kollam do visit The Raviz Resort .