Top Best Places to Visit in Kollam 2025

Top Best Places to Visit in Kollam 2025

What if we could go in our past?, how fascinating would that be? Wouldn’t it be interesting? And if you too wish to step into the past and experience the colonial period, then come along in this inclusive travel guide, where you will discover the beauty of Kollam’s colonial era along with complete information about its delicious dishes, iconic temples, enchanting backwaters, houseboats and much more.

A Complete Travel Guide to Explore the Best of Kollam:

Introduction

Known as the "Gateway to the Backwaters of Kerala," Kollam is a coastal treasure combining history, nature, and culture. This port city along the Malabar Coast is one of the oldest trade centers in India and still draws visitors with its tranquil ambience, beaches, temples, and backwaters.

The best places to visit in Kollam will acquaint you with the ageless charm of the city. From Ashtamudi Lake and Thangassery Beach to the historic forts and lively festivals, there is something for every traveler in Kollam. At India Travel DMC, we create tailor-made itineraries so that you can explore Kollam beyond the guidebooks and experience the local vibe.

Why Visit Kollam?

• Historic trade centre, with colonial touches.
• Reputed for its backwaters, lakes, and houseboats.
• Temples, churches, and culture.
• Beaches perfect for chilling and photography.
• Real Kerala meal and seafood delicacies.
• Good connectivity for Varkala, Alleppey, and Trivandrum too.

Kollam is not just a haltover; it's a spot for days to be spent.

Best Places to Visit in Kollam

1. Ashtamudi Lake – The Backwater Jewel

Known as the "gateway to Kerala's backwaters," Ashtamudi Lake is the most well-known tourist attraction in Kollam. A houseboat cruise here gives the visitors an opportunity to peacefully glide through coconut groves, fishing villages, and lands of migratory birds.

• Highlights: Overnight houseboat stays, sunset cruises, and Ayurvedic resorts.

2. Kollam Beach – Scenic Escape

This beach is great for chilling out, relaxing, and for evening strolls. Due to golden sands and Chinese fishing nets views, Kollam Beach enjoys popularity with families and photographers.

• Highlights- Beach park, children's play areas, and cultural programs.

3. Thangassery: Historic Fort and Lighthouse

Thangassery is a coastal village known for Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial remnants. The 18th-century lighthouse offered vast views over the Arabian Sea.

• Highlights: Thangassery Lighthouse, ruins of Fort Thomas, and traditional fishing villages.

4. Jatayu Earth Center: Where Mythology Meets Adventure

This place makes for an interesting mixture of mythology and adventure, hosting the world's biggest bird sculpture. The park is dedicated to Jatayu from the Ramayana and offers trekking, ziplining, and cable car rides.

• Highlights: Giant Jatayu sculpture, adventure activities, and rock experiences.

5. Palaruvi Waterfalls: Silver Cascade

Palaruvi is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Kerala, situated about 35 km from Kollam. Water cascades from a height of 300 feet, resembling a "stream of milk."

• Highlights: Natural pools for bathing, verdant surroundings, and picnic spots.

6. Sasthamkotta Lake: The Freshwater Delight

Sasthamkotta, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, is a quiet retreat. A place surrounded by hills and temples must surely be created for nature-lovers.

• Highlights: Boating, birdwatching, and visit to Sastha Temple.

7. Thenmala-Eco-tourism Spot

Thenmala is India’s first planned eco-tourism spot and nature-lovers and adventure-lovers can cherish it.

• Highlights include trekking, mountain biking, walks across a rope bridge, and musical fountain shows.

8. Paravur Lake-Backwater-Hidden Retreat

The less-known Paravur Lake is a calm spot where the lake greets the sea into quiet harmony. It is a subtle paradise for photography and calm boat rides.

• Highlights include canoeing, birdwatching, and a quieter ambience.

9. Rameshwara temple-Old Dravidian Architecture

Dating way back to the 12th century, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has excellent Dravidian architecture.

• Highlights: Stone carvings, spiritual atmosphere, and celebrations.

10. Kollam Adventure Park and Aquarium

Great for families, it offers boating, an aquarium, and picnic facilities close to the Ashtamudi Lake.

• Highlights: Pedal boating, kid rides, and fish exhibits.

One-of-a-kind experiences in Kollam

•  Backwater Cruises: Experience overnight houseboat stays on Ashtamudi Lake.
• Cultural Trips: Temples, churches, and colonial ruins.
• Adventure: Trekking at Thenmala and paragliding around.
• Ayurveda: Rejuvenation at the lakefront.

Best Time to Visit Kollam

• Winter (October–February): Pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
• Monsoon (June–September): Lush greenery and waterfalls at their peak.
• Summer (March–May): Hot, but perfect for exploring hill areas like Thenmala.

How to Reach Kollam

• Air travel: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (70 km).
• Train travel: Kollam Junction is among the busiest railway stations of Kerala.
• By Road: National Highway 66 joins Kollam with the main cities of Kerala.

India Travel DMC provides transfers, guided tours, and customized itineraries for hassle-free travel.

Why Choose India Travel DMC for Kollam?

Traveling with India Travel DMC ensures a seamless, comfortable, and memorable journey:

• Tailored Itineraries: Personalized trips according to your preferences and interests
• Local Expertise: Explore hidden gems, scenic viewpoints, and authentic cultural experiences
• Comfortable Travel: Transfers, hotels, and guided tours included
• Authentic Experiences: Hills, waterfalls, plantations, wildlife, and village exploration
• 24/7 Support: Assistance throughout your Kollam trip

Booking with India Travel DMC ensures that your Kollam experience is immersive, authentic, and stress-free.

FAQs About Kollam

Q1. What is Kollam famous for? 
Kollam is famous for backwaters, beaches, cashews, and historic trade routes.

Q2. Is Kollam worth visiting?
Yes, Kollam is one of Kerala's underrated treasures where nature, culture, and adventure come together.

Q3. How much time is needed to do Kollam?
A trip of 2–3 days highlights the major attractions of Kollam. You could try to extend the itinerary to nearby Varkala and Thenmala with the help of India Travel DMC.

Q4. Which is better for backwaters, Kollam or Alleppey?
Both are different experiences. Alleppey is more touristy, whereas Kollam provides a peaceful and genuine backwater experience.

Q5. Reasons to book Kollam tour with India Travel DMC?
We offer custom-made itineraries, expert guides, luxurious stays, and 24X7 support for a flawless traveling experience.

Summary

Where history, nature, and spirituality came together Kollam stands. From the placid Ashtamudi waters to the mythical prowess of Jatayu Earth's Center and the enthralling charm of Thangassery, the best places in Kollam have an indescribable lure for travelers. 

With India Travel DMC, your trip to Kollam will become so much more than a sightseeing experience. It becomes a very comfortable travel experience steeped in local culture and genuine flavors. Whether you're seeking a calm getaway, some thrill on an adventurous holiday, or exploring culture, Kollam awaits you.