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Get InspiredAsiaIndiaKeralaKollam

Kollam

Kerala, India
City·Historic, Bustling, Culturally Rich
Kollam
Photo by Nithin P John from Unsplash
Kollam
Photo by SARATH K S from Unsplash
Kollam
Photo by Mayur Nair from Unsplash
Kollam
Photo by Anantha Krishnan from Unsplash
Kollam
Photo by kodiganti srikanth from Unsplash
Kollam
Photo by Nithin P John from Unsplash
Kollam
Photo by SARATH K S from Unsplash
Kollam
Photo by Mayur Nair from Unsplash
Kollam
Photo by Anantha Krishnan from Unsplash
Kollam
Photo by kodiganti srikanth from Unsplash

Kollam is a captivating city in Kerala, India, renowned for its ancient seaport and vibrant trade history. Positioned on the scenic banks of Ashtamudi Lake, it serves as a gateway to Kerala's famous backwaters. The city boasts a rich cultural tapestry, with historic churches and mosques, and has been a significant trading hub for centuries, engaging with traders from around the globe. Kollam is also known for its thriving cashew processing and coir manufacturing industries, making it a bustling commercial center. Visitors can explore its historic sites and enjoy the serene beauty of the backwaters.

Kollam is a captivating city in Kerala, India, renowned for its ancient seaport and vibrant trade history. Positioned on the scenic banks of Ashtamudi Lake, it serves as a gateway to Kerala's famous backwaters. The city boasts a rich cultural tapestry, with historic churches and mosques, and has been a significant trading hub for centuries, engaging with traders from around the globe. Kollam is also known for its thriving cashew processing and coir manufacturing industries, making it a bustling commercial center. Visitors can explore its historic sites and enjoy the serene beauty of the backwaters.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Ancient seaport with a rich trading history.

  • Gateway to Kerala's picturesque backwaters.

  • Home to historic churches and mosques.

  • Known for cashew processing and coir manufacturing.

  • Vibrant cultural and commercial center.

Before you go: Kollam essentials

  • Close access to Kerala's scenic backwaters.

  • Rich cultural heritage with historic churches and mosques.

  • Known for cashew processing and coir manufacturing industries.

Getting Around

Kollam is well-connected by rail and road, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings.

Local Cuisine

Try local delicacies like seafood and traditional Kerala dishes.

Best For

History enthusiasts and backwater explorers.

Currency

INR ₹

Average Cost

$30-$50 p/day

Languages Spoken

Malayalam, English

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs when visiting religious sites, such as removing shoes before entering.

Backwater Tours

Consider taking a houseboat tour to fully experience the beauty of Kerala's backwaters.

Occasion Tags

Cultural Exploration, Historic Tour, Nature Lovers

Best time to visit Kollam

November-February

Spring

Spring is pleasant with moderate temperatures, ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, but it's a great time to experience local festivals.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers comfortable weather, perfect for backwater tours and sightseeing.

Best Season

Winter

Winters are mild and enjoyable, making it a great time for cultural exploration.

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Location

Kollam, Kerala, India

Things to do in Kollam

Best of the Trivandrum (Guided Half Day City Tour by Car)
From $72

Best of the Trivandrum (Guided Half Day City Tour by Car)

5.0(11)
Duration: 4h
Trivandrum
Kanyakumari Full Day Tour from Trivandrum and Kovalam with Lunch
From $82

Kanyakumari Full Day Tour from Trivandrum and Kovalam with Lunch

Duration: 14h
Trivandrum
Heritage & Cultural Walk of Trivandrum 2 Hour Guided Walking Tour
From $11

Heritage & Cultural Walk of Trivandrum 2 Hour Guided Walking Tour

4.3(30)
Duration: 2h
Trivandrum
Trivandrum Walk of Divinity (2 Hours Guided Walk)
From $12

Trivandrum Walk of Divinity (2 Hours Guided Walk)

4.3(29)
Duration: 2h
Trivandrum
Trivandrum Private Tour: Overnight Alleppey Backwaters Houseboat Cruise
From $265

Trivandrum Private Tour: Overnight Alleppey Backwaters Houseboat Cruise

4.8(4)
Duration: 48h
Trivandrum
Trivandrum & Kovalam Highlights: Private Day Tour
From $58

Trivandrum & Kovalam Highlights: Private Day Tour

3.0(2)
Duration: 8h
Trivandrum
Kayaking in Mangrove Forest of Paravur Backwaters near Varkala and Kollam
From $15

Kayaking in Mangrove Forest of Paravur Backwaters near Varkala and Kollam

4.5(37)
Duration: 4h
Trivandrum
A Journey To The Southern Tip Of India
From $140

A Journey To The Southern Tip Of India

5.0(4)
Duration: 12h
Trivandrum
Explore on Viator

Natural & historic sites near Kollam

Periyar National Park

Kerala
Protected Area · Serene, Wild, Protected, Natural