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Discover the hidden gems of Kerala’s southern coast with these exciting things to do in Kollam. One can see both cultural legacy and natural beauty combined in this quaint port city. Kollam’s diverse attractions, ranging from serene backwaters to golden beaches, captivate visitors. Explore ancient temples, stroll through bustling markets, and indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine. While nature enthusiasts can visit wildlife sanctuaries, adventure seekers can explore the thrill of water sports.
Top 10 Things To Do In Kollam
Visitors can enjoy several attractions and activities amidst picturesque landscapes in Kollam. Here are some of the best things to do in Kollam:
1. Explore The Ashtamudi Lake
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most captivating things to see in Kollam is to explore the mesmerising Ashtamudi Lake. With eight winding branches joining the Arabian Sea, it gets its name from its unique octopus-like form. This is the second-largest lake in Kerala and also the entry point to Kerala’s backwaters. The lush greenery surrounding the lake, with swaying palm and coconut trees, makes a lovely background. The visitors can enjoy the tranquil views from a houseboat cruise while gliding through the calm waters & observing the vibrant local life along the banks of the lake.
Location: Kollam, Kerala
Entry Fee: Houseboat cruises start from ₹2500
Timings: Open 24 hours
Suggested Read: Beaches In Kannur
2. Enjoy Views From Thangassery Light House
Photo: Sivader4u / Wikimedia Commons
A visit to the Thangassery Light House, a 144-foot towering symbol of the city’s maritime history, is one of the most famous things to do in Kollam. The eye-catching red and white stripes of the lighthouse set it out against the seaside skyline. After climbing 200 steps, the visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Kollam and the vast Arabian Sea. In service since 1902, this lighthouse offers more than simply beautiful views with its historical significance.
Location: Thangassery Road, Valiazhikom, Kollam
Entry Fee: ₹3 for children, ₹10 for adults
Timings: 10 AM – 1 PM and 2 – 6 PM (Tuesday-Sunday)
3. Visit To Kollam Beach
Photo: Akash Dominic / Wikimedia Commons
Kollam Beach, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, is a very peaceful place and boasts stunning views of the Arabian Sea with the calming sound of sea waves. Adjacent to the beach is the well-maintained Mahatma Gandhi Park which is a popular spot for picnics for families. Unlike some of the touristy beaches in Kerala, Kollam Beach is much less crowded and offers a glimpse of the local lifestyle of Kollam. The visitors can see fishermen using traditional Chinese fishing nets here which is a unique sight specific to this region.
Location: Thamarakulam, Kollam
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Karakkund Waterfalls
4. Marvel At Thevally Palace
Photo: Akhilan / Wikimedia Commons
The Thevally Palace is a historic monument in Kollam and was home to the Maharaja of Travancore. It is an architectural wonder that is perched on the banks of astonishing Ashtamudi Lake. Designed by Gauri Parvathi Bai between 1800 and 1819, this unique palace features an intriguing fusion of Portuguese, English, and Dutch architectural elements. While walking through the halls of this palace the tourists are transported to the royal life that once flourished within these walls with intricate designs.
Location: Kollam-Elamballoor Road, Palace Nagar, Thevally, Kollam
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
5. Hike To Palaruvi Waterfalls
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Locally known as “Stream of Milk”, the Palaruvi Waterfalls is a natural beauty and one of the most amazing places for thrilling activities in Kollam. Cascading from 300 feet, it creates a spectacular sight as water crashes down the rocky facade, resembling a stream of milk. The visitors can take a refreshing dip in the calm and clear waters of the natural pool at the base of the falls or enjoy a picnic on the nearby rocks. The hike to the falls takes the visitors through lush woodlands teeming with diverse flora and fauna.
Location: Achankovil-Shencottah Road, Kollam district
Entry Fee: Free for under 13, ₹10 for above 13
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kovalam
6. Swim At Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls
Photo: Santoshsellathurai / Wikimedia Commons
The Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls, a part of the Achankovil River is a stunning waterfall that cascades 25 meters down the rocky hills to provide an enthralling display of the strength and beauty of nature. A refreshing mist at the bottom of the falls invites several visitors who love to relax on the nearby rocks or swim in the natural pool. The journey to the falls with a short trek through dense forests adds to the excitement and thrill of the entire experience.
Location: Achankovil-Shencottah Road, Kollam district
Entry Fee: ₹25
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
7. Pray At Sri Mahaganapathi Temple
Photo: Yakshitha / Wikimedia Commons
The Sri Mahaganapathi Temple is the beacon of spirituality at Kollam. It is well-known for its link to Lord Ganapathy, even though it is mainly devoted to Lord Shiva. It is a wonder of a centuries-old building which has been beautified with intricate carvings in a typical Kerala-style design and a calming holy atmosphere for the devotees. The temple is famous for its delicious sweet offering which is known as Unniyappam, a fried dish made with rice flour, banana, and jaggery.
Location: Collectorate, South of Kollam Civil Station, Kollam
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: 4 AM – 11 AM and 5 PM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Varahi Devi Temples In Kerala
8. Surfing At Paravur Lake
Photo: Arunvrparavur / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most peaceful tourist attractions in Kollam is the Paravur Lake which is often called Paravur Kayal. This little yet breathtaking lake is a visual feast for nature lovers and is surrounded by thick mangroves. The lake is a hub for various fun and thrilling water activities, with swimming and surfing being popular among visitors. For visitors looking for a more peaceful experience compared to the hustle and bustle of the city, Paravur Lake is the perfect choice.
Location: Paravur, Kollam
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: Open 24 hours
9. Rejuvenate At The Oachira Temple
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
Among the most exciting things to do in Kollam is visiting the Oachira Temple, a unique spiritual place in Kerala. Unlike the typical temples, Oachira is not centred around an idol but is dedicated to Parabrahma, the universal consciousness. The devotees visiting the temple can wander through its serene grounds to find peace or engage in unique holy practices like praying to the banyan tree. The nearby pond is believed to possess therapeutic qualities that enhance the temple’s ethereal ambience. Whether spiritually inclined or curious about local traditions, Oachira Temple offers a unique cultural experience for all.
Location: Oachira Road, Oachira, Kollam
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: 4 AM – 8 AM & 5 PM – 8:30 PM,
Suggested Read: Cheppara Caves
10. Tour The Jatayu Earth Centre
Photo: athulnair / Wikimedia Commons
The Jatayu Earth Centre is a marvel of modern engineering that houses the biggest bird sculpture in the world, i.e., a 200-foot-long and 70-foot-tall monument of Jatayu, the mythical bird from the Ramayana. This park is built on 65 acres of land and has a 6D theatre & digital audio-visual room that provide immersive experiences to the visitors. Also, the virtual reality museum narrates the story of Jatayu. The panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes make this place a photographer’s dream. The Jatayu Earth Centre is an attraction with adventure, mythological, and natural beauty.
Location: Jatayu Nature Park Road, Jatayu Junction, Kollam
Entry Fee: ₹400 for Indian nationals, ₹600 for foreign nationals
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Kollam captivates visitors with its diverse attractions like serene backwaters and historic landmarks. Natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventure make a unique blend in addition to other enthralling and unforgettable things to do in Kollam. Plan a memorable getaway to this enchanting destination in Kerala with TripXL and discover the hidden gems and exhilarating fun-filled activities with friends and family.
Cover Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
