Something for Everyone - Kollam
Call it a mosaic
of contrasts. A land where its forests, lakes, sea, islands and an ever
bustling city exist in harmony, and showcase an awe inspiring canvas of
ethereal beauty. This is Kollam, a land that nuzzles several gems in its folds.
With a strong history of commerce since
the days of the Phoenicians and the Romans, this port town on the Kerala coast
has been etched in the annals of history for its role in international spice
trade. It is also the centre of country's cashew trading and processing
industry.
Though at the heart is a town bustling
with trade activities, it promises immense possibility for city tours. Thirty
percent of this district is covered by the Ashtamudi Lake. Ferry through these
backwaters in houseboats and as it glides through the palm fringed water way,
take in the spectacular sights of the passing backwater life.
Ashramam Picnic Village along the
shores of the Ashtamudi backwaters, which has an adventure park, a 200 year old
bungalow, where Lord Munroe once stayed, and a children’s traffic park attract
hordes of visitors. The serene beaches of Kollam and Thirumullavaram are ideal
ones for a tête-à-tête with the sea. The Thankasseri Lighthouse and ruins of an
old Portuguese fort are other attractions. The Police Museum, tracing the
growth of the police force and the Eight-Point Art Café, a colonial villa
revamped into an art gallery, are one of a kind.
There are important historical
buildings like the Krishnapuram Palace and the Punalur Hanging Bridge, built in
a traditional ornate architectural style. The President’s Trophy Boat Race,
Parippally Gajamela, Kottamkulangara Chamayavilakku and Malanada Kettukazcha
are the major festivals in Kollam which draw visitors from far and wide.
Created by the backwaters of the Ashtamudi
Lake and Kallada River is the beautiful ‘Munroe Thuruth’, an island named after
Col. Munroe, the British Resident of erstwhile Travancore State. The mystique
highlands of Kollam provide ample opportunities to relish in the bounties of
nature. The Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary and Thenmala, India's first planned
eco-tourism destination are a treat to the senses. Palaruvi and Kumbavurutti
Waterfalls, cascading down steep rocks, provide enchanting visuals. Embark upon
a jungle pilgrim tour at Kulathupuzha, Aryankavu and Achenkovil; all famous for
their temples dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
"One who has seen Kollam, does not
require his home anymore," is a saying on Kollam and visitors even today,
experience the same.
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