About Kollam

Kerala

KollamKollamKottankulangara Devi TempleKottankulangara Devi TemplePoruvazhi Malanada TemplePoruvazhi Malanada Temple

Overview

Kollam sits on the shores of Ashtamudi Lake, offering houseboat trips that are shorter than those from Alleppey but no less scenic. The lighthouse area at Tangasseri retains a colonial-era feel worth exploring on foot. It makes a pleasant stop between Thiruvananthapuram and Alleppey along Kerala's coastal route.

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.

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

Local transport

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

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.