OT Travel Itinerary: How To Spend A Day In Kollam

Kollam, a picturesque district in the southern part of Kerala, is a must-visit destination. Nestled 70 km north of the capital Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam offers stunning beaches, serene backwaters, and the breathtaking expanse of Ashtamudi Lake. Boasting a rich history, Kollam has been mentioned in ancient travellers' accounts and has a diverse colonial past under the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. For those who love being in nature, Kollam has considerable forest cover, providing a home to various species.

Morning

Start your day early at Kollam Beach by the Arabian Sea. It is known as the first 'Beach Wedding Destination' in Kerala, offering a unique and picturesque setting. Kollam Beach is renowned for its lighthouse, fishing harbour, and adventure park. Take a refreshing swim, enjoy thrilling water sports, and indulge in delicious local cuisine for breakfast. After your breakfast, walk to Thangasseri Lighthouse, a majestic structure that is one of the two lighthouses in the Kollam Metropolitan Area. Managed by the Cochin Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships, the lighthouse offers a captivating view of the Arabian Sea and the city of Kollam. Ascend the 200 steps to reach the top and immerse yourself in the breathtaking panoramic vistas. Thangasseri is worth exploring with impressive ruins of Portuguese and Dutch forts, along with charming 18th-century churches.

Afternoon

Following a satisfying lunch after your beach adventures, make your way to Ashtamudi Lake and explore the backwater stretch. The lake's name is derived from its eight channels and it serves as the gateway to the renowned backwaters of Kerala. A must-do activity here is to experience a houseboat ride. The route from Kollam to Alappuzha is considered one of the best in the backwaters, but that will take around three hours. You can do it on your next visit. If time permits, a visit to Munroe Island, formed by the backwaters of Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River, would be a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

Evening

Set out early after the backwaters trip, to visit the famous Jatayu Earth's Centre, also known as Jatayu Nature Park or Jatayu Rock. Located in Chadayamangalam, Kollam district, this park and tourism centre stands at an impressive altitude of 350m above sea level. Experience a thrilling ride on Swiss-made cable cars with a breathtaking bird's eye view of the place. The site closes by 5 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. For the adventurous at heart, there's a picturesque walkway winding up the rocky terrain, consisting of 826 carefully crafted steps.

Where To Stay

Kollam has several good options for accommodation, from boutique stays to budget places. Check out Samiira on Ashtamudi Lake, Hotel Dona Castle, Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort, and The Leela Ashtamudi.

Getting There

The nearest railway station is Kollam Junction Railway Station, about 4 km from the centre of town and the nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, about 68 km away. You can hire a cab from there.