Tourist attractions in Kollam

Kerala has a reputation that’s hard to beat. Its culture, religions, diversity of geographical landscapes and its historical background make Kerala one of the best states for tourism. Here, the weather is always great, the people are very warm and the bounty of tourist attractions is limitless.

While it’s difficult to visit the entire state of Kerala to enjoy its numerous attractions, a better idea would be travel to Kollam from the Trivandrum International Airport, which is a breezy 71km away and settle down in the majestic The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel. Being located on the banks of the huge Ashtamudi Lake which is also known as the gateway to the backwaters, you can easily enjoy scenic views of the lake. What’s more, the hotel can even arrange a traditional houseboat ride through its backwaters for you. You get to enjoy a surreal otherworld experience gliding through its silent dark green waters. Some of the other tourist attractions here include:

• Ashtamudi Lake is famous for its backwaters, its houseboat trips, Munroe Island and its use of the huge, ancient Chinese fishing nets. The cruises on this lake are very popular, especially the sunset cruises.
• The Mahatma Gandhi Beach is another tourist attraction with its golden sands guarded by coconut grooves on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other. It’s great for a family visit as there is an adjoining park too, along with numerous eateries.
• Thangassery Light House here was built in 1902 by the British and stands at a height of 144feet and offers spectacular views of the Arabian Sea. Nearby are the remains of an ancient Portuguese Fort built in 1517.
• Asramam Adventure Park also known as Picnic Village is a popular weekend getaway with water sports and boat rides and a breezy wooded park for relaxing with nature.
• Rameshwara Temple’s history goes back to the 12th century and provides a calm ambience. It offers beautiful sculptures.
• Mayyanad village lies on the banks of the Paravur Lake and the Arabian Sea. It’s home to numerous ancient churches, mosques and temples.
• The Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum is a memorial to the ‘father’ of Kathakali dance form. Rare memorabilia associated with this dance can be seen here.
• The milky Palaruvi Waterfalls are not too far away and are surrounded by beautiful woods, ideal for a picnic.
• Thenmala Deer Park is a dense wooded forest and includes a dam too. You can enjoy activities like trekking, mountaineering, boating, biking, rope bridge, etc.

Other amazing must-see places include the Jatayu Earth Center, Thevalli Palace, Ochira, Kottukal rock-cut cave temples, Thirumullavarm beach, etc.

And after a fruitful day spent sightseeing, you can relax at the spa at The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel.