Destinations in and around Kollam
Kollam is the most picturesque city of Kerala, lying on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake on the Arabian sea coast. The city holds pristine beaches with golden sands, exquisite monuments and temples, breathtaking eco-spots, houseboats and the tempting taste of cashew nuts.Is considered to be the southern gateway to the backwaters of Kerala and is a prominent tourist destination. Some of the destinations in and around Kollam are as-
Ashtamudi Lake: Is the second largest and deepest wetland ecosystem, a palm-shaped large water body. The natural beauty of Ashtamudi and the houseboats cruising along it attracts large number of tourists worldwide.
Thangassery: An erstwhile Portuguese Colony where the remnants of the old Portuguese Fort and a British built lighthouse and Buckingham Canal can be visited.
Kollam Beach: Also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, has a park of international standard. People visit the beach for realaxation and entertainment.
Thirumulklavaram Beach: Ideal for swimming and bathing in the sea.
Munroe Island: The island where one can watch coir retting process, coir weaving, fishing, prawns, feeding, migratory bird watch, narrow canals, coconut farms on the lake shore, lagoons and the beautiful tiny islands of Pathupara. The famous Chittumala Theerthatanam starts from here.
Palaruvi Waterfalls: The 40th highest waterfall in India located amidst thick tropical forests. Crystal clean water rushing down over the rocks forming thick white forth is a wonderful sight.
Jadayupara: A large rock formation. It is believed that the epic bird Jadayu had fallen here when its one wing was severed by demon Ravana.
Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa Temple: Located deep inside tropical forest is one among the most popular temples of south India. Pilgrims from different parts of the country visit Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa Temple during festival season.
Konni:  The elephant camp at Konni offers excellent opportunity for thrilling elephant rides.
Oachira: A popular pilgrim centre with an ancient Para Brahmna Temple, one of the rarest of its kind in the whole of South India.
