Kollam - Gateway to the Backwaters
Posted: Sun Mar 08, 2026 5:04 am
Kollam (formerly known as Quilon) is an ancient seaport town and a stunning district in Kerala. Often referred to as the "Gateway to the Backwaters," it is famous for its maritime history, cashew industry, and serene landscapes.
Here is a complete look at Kollam:
Historical Significance
Kollam is one of the oldest ports in the world.
The Global Hub: In ancient times, it was a major trading center for Romans, Chinese, Arabs, and later, Europeans. The 13th-century traveler Marco Polo described it as one of the finest ports in the world.
The Kollam Era: The Malayalam calendar, known as Kollavarsham, is believed to have started in 825 AD to commemorate the founding or restructuring of this city.
Colonial Influence: You can still see the remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British history in the architecture, especially in the Tangasseri area.
Geography and Nature
Kollam is geographically diverse, featuring a long coastline, massive lakes, and forest-covered hills.
Ashtamudi Lake: This is the second-largest lake in Kerala. Its name means "eight-coned" because of its eight branches. It is the heart of Kollam’s backwater tourism.
Sasthamcotta Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Kerala, surrounded by hills and known for the ancient Sastha Temple and a large population of friendly monkeys.
Climate: Like the rest of Kerala, it has a tropical humid climate with heavy rains during the monsoons (June to September).
Top Tourist Attractions
Kollam offers some of the most unique experiences in Kerala:
Jatayu Earth’s Center: Home to the world’s largest bird sculpture, themed around the mythical bird Jatayu from the Ramayana. It offers cable car rides and adventure games.
Munroe Island (Mundrothuruthu): A hidden gem consisting of a cluster of eight islands. It is perfect for a quiet canal cruise through narrow waterways.
Thenmala Eco-Tourism: India’s first planned eco-tourism destination. Activities include trekking, mountain biking, and a visit to the deer park and butterfly safari.
Palaruvi Waterfalls: Literally meaning "Stream of Milk," this 300-foot waterfall is a popular picnic spot near the Tamil Nadu border.
Thangasseri Lighthouse: A red-and-white striped 144-foot tower that offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.
Economy: The Cashew Capital
Kollam is famously known as the "Cashew Capital of the World."
Processing Hub: The district has hundreds of cashew processing units. It is the largest exporter of processed cashew nuts in India.
Other Industries: It is also a major hub for seafood exports and traditional industries like coir (coconut fiber) and handlooms.
Port Wealth: The Kollam Port is the second-largest in Kerala and is currently being modernized to handle more international cargo.
Culture and Festivals
Kollam Pooram: A magnificent 10-day festival held at the Asramam Sri Krishna Swamy Temple, featuring elephant processions and grand fireworks.
Kottamkulangara Vilakkeduppu: A unique festival where men dress up as women to offer prayers at the Kottamkulangara Temple.
Cuisine: Don't miss the local seafood, especially the Kollam-style fish curry and various cashew-based delicacies.
Here is a complete look at Kollam:
Historical SignificanceKollam is one of the oldest ports in the world.
The Global Hub: In ancient times, it was a major trading center for Romans, Chinese, Arabs, and later, Europeans. The 13th-century traveler Marco Polo described it as one of the finest ports in the world.
The Kollam Era: The Malayalam calendar, known as Kollavarsham, is believed to have started in 825 AD to commemorate the founding or restructuring of this city.
Colonial Influence: You can still see the remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British history in the architecture, especially in the Tangasseri area.
Geography and NatureKollam is geographically diverse, featuring a long coastline, massive lakes, and forest-covered hills.
Ashtamudi Lake: This is the second-largest lake in Kerala. Its name means "eight-coned" because of its eight branches. It is the heart of Kollam’s backwater tourism.
Sasthamcotta Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Kerala, surrounded by hills and known for the ancient Sastha Temple and a large population of friendly monkeys.
Climate: Like the rest of Kerala, it has a tropical humid climate with heavy rains during the monsoons (June to September).
Top Tourist AttractionsKollam offers some of the most unique experiences in Kerala:
Jatayu Earth’s Center: Home to the world’s largest bird sculpture, themed around the mythical bird Jatayu from the Ramayana. It offers cable car rides and adventure games.
Munroe Island (Mundrothuruthu): A hidden gem consisting of a cluster of eight islands. It is perfect for a quiet canal cruise through narrow waterways.
Thenmala Eco-Tourism: India’s first planned eco-tourism destination. Activities include trekking, mountain biking, and a visit to the deer park and butterfly safari.
Palaruvi Waterfalls: Literally meaning "Stream of Milk," this 300-foot waterfall is a popular picnic spot near the Tamil Nadu border.
Thangasseri Lighthouse: A red-and-white striped 144-foot tower that offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.
Economy: The Cashew CapitalKollam is famously known as the "Cashew Capital of the World."
Processing Hub: The district has hundreds of cashew processing units. It is the largest exporter of processed cashew nuts in India.
Other Industries: It is also a major hub for seafood exports and traditional industries like coir (coconut fiber) and handlooms.
Port Wealth: The Kollam Port is the second-largest in Kerala and is currently being modernized to handle more international cargo.
Culture and FestivalsKollam Pooram: A magnificent 10-day festival held at the Asramam Sri Krishna Swamy Temple, featuring elephant processions and grand fireworks.
Kottamkulangara Vilakkeduppu: A unique festival where men dress up as women to offer prayers at the Kottamkulangara Temple.
Cuisine: Don't miss the local seafood, especially the Kollam-style fish curry and various cashew-based delicacies.