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Does the Population of Kollam Speak English?

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Does the Population of Kollam Speak English?

When it comes to traveling to a foreign country, one of the biggest concerns for travelers is whether the local population speaks their language. In India, English is widely spoken, but it’s not the primary language. People in different regions and cities speak their own language along with Hindi and English. In this blog, we’ll explore whether people in Kollam, a city in Kerala, India, speak English.

The Official Language of Kollam

The official language of Kollam is Malayalam. Malayalam is a Dravidian language spoken mainly in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Moreover, it’s the mother tongue of the majority of the residents in Kollam. It’s the primary language used for communication in all walks of life, including education, politics, and various official activities.

English Language in Kollam

As mentioned earlier, English is not the primary language in Kollam. However, due to globalization and the influence of Western culture, English is widely spoken as a second language in Kollam. The city has many schools teaching English, and many people can speak and understand English to varying degrees.

Moreover, due to the popularity of the tourism industry in Kerala, most people working in the tourism sector can communicate in English. In fact, Kollam is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, and many tourists from all parts of the world visit the city each year. Therefore, locals in Kollam have learned to communicate in English to ensure they can provide high-quality services to tourists.

How to Communicate in Kollam if You Don’t Speak Malayalam

Although English is widely spoken in Kollam, it’s always a good idea to learn a few phrases in Malayalam to make your trip smoother. This will help you communicate easily with the locals and understand their culture better. Some of the common Malayalam phrases that you can use in Kollam include:

  • Namaskaram – Hello or Welcome
  • Vandikkum – Thank You
  • Veendum Varavu – Please visit again
  • Poyi Varoo – Go away
  • Enikku Malayalam Aariyilla – I don’t know Malayalam

It’s essential to learn a few phrases if you’re traveling to Kollam and want to communicate well with the locals. Even if you don’t know the language or the specific phrases, you can always use a translation app or hire a guide that can communicate on your behalf.

Conclusion

English is not the primary language spoken in Kollam, Kerala, but many people can understand and speak English to varying degrees. The city’s tourism industry has played a significant role in widespread English usage, and most people working in the sector can communicate effectively with tourists. If you’re traveling to Kollam, it’s always a good idea to learn a few Malayalam phrases to help better communicate with the locals and understand the culture.

Overall, language is not a significant barrier when traveling to Kollam. With the help of technology and the friendly attitude of the locals, it’s relatively easy to communicate your needs or requirements without any issues.

Insider’s Guide to Kollam, Kerala

Kollam, also known as Quilon, is a beautiful coastal city located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Situated on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake and surrounded by lush green hills, Kollam is a perfect destination for tourists seeking a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty. In this insider’s guide, we will explore the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to help plan an unforgettable trip to Kollam.

Attractions

Kollam has plenty of attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the best:

– Ashtamudi Lake: A serene and scenic lake that is perfect for a boat ride. You can hire a traditional houseboat or a canoe to explore the lake’s backwaters and witness the beautiful sunset.
– Thangassery Lighthouse: Located in the Thangassery suburb, this lighthouse dates back to the British colonial period. You can climb to the top to get a panoramic view of the city and the Arabian Sea.
– Kollam Beach: A clean and tranquil beach that is ideal for a leisurely walk or a swim. The beach is adorned by miles of swaying coconut palms and offers stunning views of the sunset.
– Thevally Palace: This 200-year-old palace located on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake was built by the king of Travancore. The palace is now a heritage museum showcasing the traditional art and culture of Kerala.
– Palaruvi Waterfalls: A beautiful waterfall located about 75 km from Kollam. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and is a perfect location for a picnic.

Dining Spots

Kollam offers a wide range of dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets. Here are some must-try places:

– Taste of Kerala: An outdoor restaurant that serves authentic Kerala cuisine. The restaurant is famous for its seafood delicacies, including spicy fish curry and prawn fry.
– Theeram: A beachside restaurant that serves a wide range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. The restaurant also offers a stunning view of the Arabian Sea.
– Aryas: A vegetarian restaurant that serves traditional Indian cuisine. The restaurant is known for its thali meal, which includes rice, vegetables, and different types of curries.
– The Bakers Lounge: A bakery that serves a variety of cakes, pastries, and snacks. The bakery is famous for its freshly baked bread and savoury puffs.

Cultural Experiences

Kollam is a city rich in culture and traditions. Here are some cultural experiences that you must try:

– Kathakali Performance: Kathakali is a traditional dance form of Kerala that involves elaborate makeup, stunning costumes, and intricate hand gestures. You can witness a Kathakali performance at the Sree Ganesh Cultural Centre in Kollam.
– Ayurvedic Massage: Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic treatments, and Kollam offers plenty of Ayurvedic spas. Try a rejuvenating massage with herbal oils and experience holistic well-being.
– Kalari Payattu: Kalari Payattu is a traditional martial art form of Kerala. You can learn the basics of Kalari Payattu at the CVN Kalari Sangam in Kollam.
– Village Tour: Take a village tour to experience the rural lifestyle of Kerala. You can visit the local paddy fields, coconut plantations, and watch traditional handicraft making.

Local History

Kollam has a rich history dating back to the 9th century. Here are some of the historical places that you must visit:

– Tangasseri Fort: A Portuguese fort built in the 16th century. The fort was later taken over by the Dutch and the British. The fort now houses a cemetery and a church.
– Thazhathangady Juma Masjid: A 1,000-year-old mosque situated in the heart of Kollam. The mosque has intricate wood carvings and is a unique blend of Islamic and Kerala architecture.
– Krishnapuram Palace: A palace built by the Travancore king in the 18th century. The palace is now a museum showcasing traditional Kerala art and architecture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Here are some suggestions to explore the hidden gems of Kollam:

– Munroe Island: A beautiful island located about 27 km from Kollam. The island is surrounded by the Ashtamudi Lake and is known for its backwater lagoons.
– Puthenkulam Elephant Village: A village located about 23 km from Kollam that offers an opportunity to interact with elephants. You can take an elephant ride or watch the daily bath of elephants in the nearby river.
– Ochira Parabrahma Temple: A unique temple without an idol. The temple is situated in the Ochira village and is dedicated to the universal energy.
– Jatayu Earth’s Centre: A nature park that is home to the world’s largest bird sculpture. The sculpture is 200 feet long, 150 feet wide, and 70 feet tall and is inspired by the story of Jatayu from the Indian epic Ramayana.

In conclusion, Kollam is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer to tourists. From picturesque beaches to cultural experiences, from historical landmarks to off-the-beaten-path suggestions, Kollam has something for everyone. Plan your trip to Kollam and experience the charm and beauty of this coastal gem.

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Does the Population of Kollam Speak English?

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!