Kollam
Top Places to Visit in Kollam
Popular attractions and places to visit in Kollam
Kottankulangara Devi Temple
A Kerala temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy near Kollam, famous for the Chamaya Vilakku festival where thousands of men dress in female attire as a devotional offering.
Poruvazhi Malanada Temple
A unique Kerala temple dedicated to Duryodhana from the Mahabharata, one of the very few temples in India worshipping him, known for its spectacular Kettukazhcha festival.
Best Time to Visit Kollam
Plan your trip around the right season
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.
Why visit
Fewer tourists on the lake routes. Mornings are still pleasant.
Keep in mind
Humidity rises sharply. Midday on open boats feels uncomfortable.
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
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 morningsPickup jetties stay predictable when resorts coordinate timings.
Town-centre homestays
Food explorersThali breakfasts before toddy-shop cycling afternoons.
Beach cliff pockets (where applicable)
Sunset walkersSea breezes break inland humidity spikes.