Kollam

About Kollam

Kollam sits on Ashtamudi Lake — houseboat trips shorter than Alleppey but still scenic; lighthouse area at Tangasseri has colonial-era feel. Nice stop between Thiruvananthapuram and Alleppey on Kerala coastal routes.

Top Places to Visit in Kollam

Popular attractions and places to visit in Kollam

Best Time to Visit Kollam

Plan your trip around the right season

Oct-FebBest Window

Why visit

Pleasant post-monsoon weather for Ashtamudi Lake cruises, Thangassery beach, and the old cashew port town. Good starting point for the Kollam-Alappuzha backwater route.

Keep in mind

Holiday season raises houseboat and cruise rates on the Ashtamudi route.

Show other seasons
Mar-May

Why visit

Fewer tourists on the lake routes. Mornings are still pleasant.

Keep in mind

Humidity rises sharply. Midday on open boats feels uncomfortable.

Jun-Sep

Why visit

Backwaters look very lush. Operators discount cruises during this period.

Keep in mind

Heavy rain limits outdoor stops on the cruise route and beach walks.

How to Reach Kollam

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Kollam railway station is on the Mumbai-Thiruvananthapuram main line. Trivandrum airport (~70 km) is the nearest. NH66 connects Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi via Kollam.

Getting Around Kollam

Local transport and practical tips

Getting Around

KSRTC buses and autos within Kollam town. Boats from Kollam boat jetty for Ashtamudi Lake cruises and the Alappuzha day cruise.

Quick Tip

Kollam-Alappuzha backwater cruise takes 8 hours - start early and book the KSRTC or private boat a day ahead.

Best Areas to Stay in Kollam

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

Alleppey – Kumarakom canal belts

Houseboat mornings

Pickup jetties stay predictable when resorts coordinate timings.

Town-centre homestays

Food explorers

Thali breakfasts before toddy-shop cycling afternoons.

Beach cliff pockets (where applicable)

Sunset walkers

Sea breezes break inland humidity spikes.