Frequently Asked Questions About Kollam

Introduction

Located in the southern part of India in the state of Kerala, Kollam is a beautiful city known for its backwaters, beaches, and lagoons. Kollam is often referred to as the “Gateway to Kerala” due to its location on the Malabar Coast. Many tourists visit Kollam every year to experience its unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, local cuisine, and traditional handicrafts. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Kollam.

What is the Best Time to Visit Kollam?

The best time to visit Kollam is between September and March when the weather is pleasant, and the humidity is low. During these months, the temperature ranges from 18°C to 32°C, which is perfect for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, boating, and swimming. However, during the monsoon season (June to August), Kollam receives heavy rainfall, which may hamper outdoor activities.

What are the Top Tourist Attractions in Kollam?

Kollam has many tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the top attractions include:

• Ashtamudi Lake
• Thevally Palace
• Thevally Church
• Kollam Beach
• Thangassery Light House
• Rameshwara Temple
• Munroe Island

What is the Local Cuisine of Kollam?

Kollam is famous for its traditional seafood cuisine. The local cuisine includes a variety of dishes made from fish, crabs, prawns, and mussels. Some of the popular dishes include:

• Karimeen Pollichathu (Fish cooked in banana leaf)
• Meen Vevichathu (Fish curry)
• Nadan Kappa (Tapioca)
• Chemmeen Curry (Prawn curry)
• Chatti Pathiri (Savory pastry)

What are the Popular Festivals Celebrated in Kollam?

Kollam celebrates many festivals throughout the year. Some of the popular festivals are:

• Onam – Celebrated in August or September, it is a harvest festival and the biggest festival of Kerala
• Vishu – Celebrated in April, it is the Malayalam New Year
• Easter – Celebrated in March or April, it marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ
• Navratri – Celebrated in September or October, it is a nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga
• Deepavali – Celebrated in October or November, it is the festival of lights

What are the Different Modes of Transportation in Kollam?

Kollam has a well-developed transportation system, and tourists can easily travel within the city. The different modes of transportation in Kollam are:

• Buses – Kollam has a well-connected bus network that covers all major tourist destinations.
• Taxis – Taxis are easily available in Kollam, and tourists can book them through their hotels or via mobile apps.
• Auto-rickshaws – Auto-rickshaws are a cheaper mode of transportation in Kollam, and tourists can hire them for short-distance travel.
• Boats – Boats are an essential mode of transportation in Kollam, especially for visiting the backwaters and lagoons.

Conclusion

Kollam is a beautiful city that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or nature, Kollam has it all. We hope this blog post has answered some of your questions about Kollam and has inspired you to visit this beautiful city.

Insider’s Guide to Kollam, Kerala, India

Kollam is a city in the Indian state of Kerala, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea. It is a charming city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine that attracts tourists from all over the world. Here’s an insider’s guide to Kollam that covers the city’s must-see attractions, local dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip memorable.

Local Attractions

Kollam is home to many attractions that are must-visit destinations for tourists.

– Ashtamudi Lake: One of the most popular tourist attractions in Kollam is the Ashtamudi Lake, a beautiful freshwater lake that stretches for miles. You can go on a boat ride or take a backwater tour to explore the scenic beauty of the lake.

– Thangasseri Lighthouse: Another popular attraction in Kollam is the Thangasseri Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships for over a century. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and the sea.

– Mahatma Gandhi Beach: Kollam also has a beautiful beach called the Mahatma Gandhi Beach, which is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset and take a leisurely walk along the shore.

– Thevally Palace: Thevally Palace is a historic palace that dates back to the 19th century. It’s a great place to learn about the city’s rich history and culture.

Local Dining Spots

Kollam is known for its delicious food that includes a variety of seafood, traditional Kerala cuisine, and street food.

– Hotel Karthika: Hotel Karthika is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Kerala cuisine, including seafood and vegetarian dishes.

– Kottappuram Market: Kottappuram Market is a street food paradise that offers a wide variety of delicious food, including spicy chicken fry, fish tikki, and banana chips.

– The Indian Coffee House: The Indian Coffee House is a popular café that serves delicious coffee and snacks. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy some people-watching.

Cultural Experiences

Kollam has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture, art, and music.

– Theyyam: Theyyam is a traditional dance form that originated in the northern parts of Kerala. Kollam has many Theyyam performances, and witnessing one is an unforgettable cultural experience.

– Kathakali: Kathakali is a classical dance form that is popular in Kerala. There are many Kathakali performances in Kollam, and it’s a great way to experience the beauty of Indian classical dance.

– Craft Village: The Craft Village is a great place to learn about local crafts and meet local artisans. You can watch them working on their craft and even buy some souvenirs to take back home.

Local History

Kollam has a rich history that dates back to ancient times.

– The Portuguese Fort: The Portuguese Fort was built in the 16th century and is a great place to learn about the city’s colonial history.

– Tangasseri: Tangasseri is a historic neighborhood that has many well-preserved colonial buildings from the Dutch and British eras.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

There are many off-the-beaten-path destinations in Kollam that are worth a visit.

– Amritapuri: Amritapuri is a spiritual destination that is home to the Mata Amritanandamayi ashram. You can participate in meditation and yoga sessions or volunteer at the ashram.

– Munroe Island: Munroe Island is a hidden gem that is located in the backwaters of Kollam. You can take a boat ride to explore the island’s scenic beauty and enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch.

– Thirumullavaram Beach: Thirumullavaram Beach is a secluded beach that is perfect for a peaceful getaway. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Conclusion

Kollam is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of Kerala. Whether you want to explore the city’s history, indulge in its delicious cuisine, or relax on its beautiful beaches, Kollam has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to have an unforgettable vacation in Kollam.