All set to explore Kollam? Well, here are the other tourist places near Kollam that you can visit. There are some very breathtaking spots in Kollam, which is 64 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital of Kerala. There are dozens of sandy beaches in this bustling port located on the Malabar Peninsula, and it is a major trading hub. Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta both mentioned the city’s importance to the spice trade during ancient times. There are stunning lakes, beaches, waterfalls, and more in the city. You can enjoy a surreal vacation in Kerala’s God’s Own Country by exploring some of the best places of interest in Kollam.
Table of Contents
Tourist Places Near Kollam
1. Jatayu’s Earth Centre
The Jatayu Nature Park is the best place for Kollam sightseeing, which is a very recent construction and a rock-themed park. The park has a 6D theatre, an audio-visual digital room, a cable car, and much more. It is constructed to promote mythology and adventure tourism.
A giant bird statue atop a hilltop which is about 200 feet long. This bird sculpture is built for Jatayu, who fought with Ravana according to the epic Ramayana.
Distance from Kollam:
- Approximately 38 kilometers from Kollam. The drive is scenic, offering views of Kerala’s lush landscapes.
How to Reach:
Take the Kollam-Ayoor Rd to Jatayu Nature Park Rd in kannankode. You will reach the destination in about an hour.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Giant Sculpture: View the world’s largest bird sculpture depicting Jatayu from the Ramayana.
- Adventure Activities: Participate in paintball, rappelling, free climbing, zip-lining, and archery.
- Virtual Reality Museum: Experience the story of Jatayu through a virtual reality setup.
- Enjoy Scenic Views: The hilltop offers breathtaking panoramic views.
- Ayurvedic Cave Resort: Experience healing therapies at the Ayurvedic and Siddha cave resort.
Hotels Nearby:
- Best Western Plus Pastures Hotel: Modern amenities in Mexborough, including free WiFi and an on-site restaurant.
- Holiday Inn Doncaster A1 (M), JCT.36: Conveniently located between Doncaster, Barnsley, and Rotherham.
Timings and Entry Fee:
- Timings: Open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm (Monday to Friday) and 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (Saturday and Sunday).
- Entry Fee: ₹400 per head for Indians, and for foreigners, it is ₹600 per head.
2. Paravur Backwaters
Paravur Backwaters is located in southern Kerala. It is renowned for its sheltered and secure waterbody with minimal tidal influence. The lake’s depth does not exceed 10 feet and it spans no more than 1 km, ensuring your safety and preventing disorientation. Motorboats are not allowed in this area to avoid wake or noise pollution. As a part of the West Coast Canal System, Paravur Backwaters connects to the NW3 National Waterway, linking Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.
Distance from Kollam:
- Approximately 4 kilometers from the town of Paravur.
How to Reach from Kollam:
- By Road: Drive from Kollam to Paravur Backwaters. The Paravur Bus Stand is about 2.1 kilometers away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kollam Railway Station, approximately 16.4 kilometers away.
- By Air: The closest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, located about 55.5 kilometers away.
Things to Do:
- Kayaking: Paddle through the serene waters and mangrove forests of Paravur Backwaters.
- Visit Black Devil Snail Sandbar Island: Kayak to this sandbar for swimming, relaxation, and stunning sunrise/sunset views.
- Explore Mangrove Forest: Enjoy a boat ride through the narrow channels surrounded by dense mangroves, and spot local wildlife.
Hotels Nearby:
- Hotel All Season: Comfortable accommodation in Paravur.
- Hotel Sea Pearl: A budget-friendly option with good amenities.
- Hotel Sudarsan: Another convenient choice for your stay.
Timings and Entry Fee:
- Timings: Accessible throughout the day, with early mornings and evenings offering the best experience.
- Entry Fee: No specific entry fee, but charges for activities like boating or kayaking may apply.
3. Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi Lake is a prime spot in the entire Kerala’s tourism and attracts a lot of people from distant cities. Its name comes from its eight arms, or channels, which provide access to the famous backwaters of Kerala. The Kollam to Alappuzha route is one of the best in the backwaters. You will get a deeper view of the backwaters on a cruise here.
Distance from Kollam:
- Ashtamudi Lake is approximately 16 kilometers from Kollam city center.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Drive from Kollam to Ashtamudi Lake, enjoying the scenic route through coconut groves and palm-lined canals.
- By Boat: Take a picturesque boat cruise from Kollam to Alappuzha, or opt for a luxury houseboat for a unique experience.
Things to Do:
- Houseboat Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the lake, observing the serene backwaters and local life.
- Visit Sambrani Island: A beautiful island within the lake, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
- Explore Munroe Island: Take a boat ride to this island known for its greenery and traditional coir-making.
- Sunset Views: Witness stunning sunsets over the lake, with mesmerizing reflections.
- Birdwatching: Ashtamudi Lake is home to diverse bird species; bring binoculars for an enjoyable experience.
Hotels Nearby:
- Ashtamudi Lake Garden Resorts: Located near Thangassery Light House, offering comfortable accommodations with garden views.
Timings and Entry Fee:
- Timings: Open throughout the day.
- Entry Fee: There is no specific entry fee for visiting Ashtamudi Lake, as it is a natural attraction open to the public.
4. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Western Ghats region and one of the best places to visit in Kollam. The sanctuary comes under the control of Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve. It is a tropical semi-evergreen forest where elephants, leopards, bison, sambars, wild boars, Lion-tailed macaques, langurs, deer, and most of the other regular inhabitants of wild, tropical evergreen forests live.
Location: Approximately 75 kilometers from Kollam city.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Drive via NH744 and SH2, the journey takes around 2 hours.
- By Train: The nearest station is Kollam Junction. Take a taxi or a bus to reach the destination.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport.
Things to Do:
- Nature Walks: Enjoy lush greenery and serene surroundings.
- Birdwatching: Spot 267 bird species, including migratory and endangered ones.
- Trekking: Explore scenic forest trails.
- Boating: Visit the artificial lake within the sanctuary.
- Photography: Capture diverse flora and fauna.
Hotels Nearby:
- KTDC Golden Peak: Comfortable rooms with beautiful views in Thenmala.
- Hotel Amban Heritage: Budget-friendly with decent amenities.
- Hotel Sudarsan: Another good option for a comfortable stay.
Timings and Entry Fee:
- Open Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indian citizens, ₹300 for foreign tourists.
5. Sambranikodi Island
When you plan a trip to Kollam, Sambranikodi Island is a must-visit place. The island is located on the southern coast of Ashtamudi Lake and offers a range of exciting activities such as fishing, clam picking, and exploring the surrounding tiny fishing islands. For nature enthusiasts, it is an absolute paradise with its mesmerizing aquatic ecosystem that includes diverse marine life like molluscs, fishes, algae, and birds.
Distance from Kollam: Approximately 13 kilometers.
How to Reach:
- By Boat: Take a boat arranged by the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) in Kollam.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Kollam.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 75 kilometers away.
Things to Do:
- Backwater Cruise: Enjoy a serene backwater cruise on a houseboat. Departures are from the Tourist Reception Centre, DTPC, Kollam, with customizable packages available.
- Fishing: Relax and fish in the tranquil waters.
- Oyster Collection: Visit a manmade island to collect oysters and explore the marine ecosystem.
- Walk through Shallow Lake: Experience a 2 to 4-kilometer walk through the shallow lake.
- Witness Tides: Observe the changing environment with high and low tides revealing submerged ground.
Hotels Nearby:
- Sambranikodi Lagoongate Resorts: Located in Perumanseri, this resort offers a peaceful stay with free private parking. It’s 12 km from Kollam Railway Station and Thangassery Light House.
Timings and Entry Fee:
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Backwater Cruise Timings: 09:00 AM to 01:00 PM and 01:00 PM to 05:00 PM.
6. Palaruvi Waterfalls
Palaruvi is one of the natural tourist places near Kollam means “milky streams”. This stunning waterfall is located a few kilometers from the Kollam-Shencottah Road. The best time to visit this place is from June to January. It is one of the best places to visit in Kollam and a picnic spot even in the low season. In addition to being the 32nd-highest waterfall in India, this waterfall also has Ayurvedic properties, making it one of the eco-friendly tourist places near Kollam for couples.
Distance from Kollam: Approximately 75 kilometers.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Drive about 75 km from Kollam. Alternatively, you can also reach from Tenkasi (29 km) or Trivandrum (86 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Kollam, about 75 km away.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, approximately 72 km from Kollam.
Things to Do:
- Swimming: Enjoy swimming in the small pool at the base of the falls.
- Picnicking: Relax and picnic amidst the lush green surroundings.
- Explore Nearby: Visit Thenmala Dam (11 km) and Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary (31 km).
- Sunset Viewing: Witness beautiful sunsets in the serene environment.
- Ayurvedic Bath: Locals believe in the health benefits of bathing in the falls’ water.
Hotels Nearby:
- Laughing Waters Fine Stay: About 10 km away, rated 8.4/10.
- Hotel Ambai Grand: Approximately 44 km away, rated 8.2/10.
Timings:
8 AM to 4 PM.
7. Thangassery Lighthouse
Thangassery Lighthouse is one of the most popular tourist places near Kollam and the second-highest lighthouse on Kerala’s entire shore. Because of this, it is considered one of the state’s most popular lighthouses. The lighthouse stands 41 meters (135 feet) high and has been in service since 1902. With its painted red and white oblique stripes, the tower stands out in all its splendor.
Distance from Kollam: Approximately 7.5 kilometers.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Drive or take a taxi from Kollam to Tangasseri. The lighthouse is accessible via Thangassery Beach Road.
- By Train: The nearest major station is Kollam Junction. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to the lighthouse.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy the View: Climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and the Arabian Sea.
- Explore Tangasseri: Visit nearby attractions like St. Thomas Fort, the Portuguese Cemetery, and the ancient Port of Quilon.
- Photography: Capture stunning images of the lighthouse and sea.
- Learn History: Discover the historical and colonial significance of Tangasseri.
- Relax by the Beach: Spend time at the nearby Thangassery Beach.
Hotels Nearby:
- Hotel Sea Pearl: Offers comfortable accommodations with sea views.
- Regant Lake Palace Hotel: Provides a serene stay by Ashtamudi Lake.
Timings and Entry Fee:
- Open Hours: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
- Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹3 for children
8. Kollam Beach
Kollam Beach is undoubtedly the Kerala’s inaugural “Beach Wedding Destination.” Freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi visited this beach during his protests against the British. The beach enchants visitors with its lush foliage, serene backwaters, and a plethora of water sports. You can find unique resorts, which are some of the best beach resorts in Kerala to stay and enjoy the beach activities.
In close proximity to the beach lies the Tangasseri Lighthouse, which is another prominent landmark. The spiritually and culturally rich atmosphere at the beach never fails to rejuvenate and inspire those who visit.
Distance from Kollam: Kollam Beach, also known as Mahatma Gandhi Beach, is located in the city of Kollam, Kerala. The beach is approximately 2,300 meters long.
How to Reach:
- By Bus: About 3.1 kilometers from Kollam Bus Station.
- By Train: Approximately 2.4 kilometers from Kollam Railway Station.
- By Ferry: Around 3.1 kilometers from the Ferry Terminal.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy Sunset: Stroll along the beach to witness beautiful sunsets.
- Visit the Lighthouse: Explore the 144-foot Tangasseri Lighthouse, built in 1902.
- Explore Historic Monuments: Discover the ruins of Portuguese and Dutch forts, and 18th-century churches reflecting the area’s colonial history.
- Visit the Fish Market: Check out the vibrant local fish market near the harbor.
- Relax and Unwind: Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the soothing sound of the waves.
Hotels Nearby:
- Hotel All Season: Comfortable accommodation with good amenities.
- Hotel Sea Pearl: Offers sea-facing rooms and a pleasant stay.
- Hotel Sudarsan: Known for its hospitality and proximity to the beach.
Timings and Entry Fee:
- Open Hours: The beach is open throughout the day.
- Entry Fee: Free for visitors.
9. Thenmala
Thenmala comprises the Western Ghats’ foothills in the Kollam, which are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is renowned as India’s first planned eco-tourism destination and its name, Honey Hill, signifies its natural beauty. The Parappar Dam can be found here, spanning the Kallada River.
Additionally, Thenmala is known for its famous forest honey, prized for its medicinal properties. Visitors can enjoy various attractions such as winding pathways, the Sway Bridge, a theatre, musical fountains, boats, and more. In the eastern direction lies the 13-arched Pathimoonam Kannara Bridge on a mountain railway track.
Distance from Kollam: Thenmala is approximately 66 kilometers from Kollam city.
How to Reach from Kollam:
- By Train: Trains from Kollam Junction to Tenmalai run three times daily, with a journey time of about 1 hour and 52 minutes.
- By Taxi/Car: Drive from Kollam to Thenmala, covering around 67 kilometers in about 1 hour and 2 minutes.
Things to Do at Thenmala:
- Jungle Safaris: Explore the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Trekking Trails: Enjoy scenic walks through forest trails.
- Boating: Take a boat ride on the Thenmala Dam.
- Adventure Zone: Engage in activities like skywalk, rock climbing, and zip-lining.
- Leisure Zone: Visit the sculpture garden and the Thenmala hanging bridge.
Hotels Nearby:
- Thenmala Ecoresort: Rated 10/10, offering an excellent stay experience.
- Kandamath Heritage Resort: Rated 8/10, providing comfortable accommodation.
Timings and Entry Fee:
- Timings: Thenmala Ecotourism is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily.
- Entry Fee: ₹480 for activities including boating, and ₹360 for activities excluding boating.
10. Mayyanad
Mayyanad is one of the popular tourist places near Kollam, which has numerous renowned Hindu and Muslim temples, and shrines. It is located along the Arabian Sea and Paravur Lake. Among the nine significant temples in Mayyanad, the most noteworthy is the Subramanya temple in Umayanallor, which was blessed by Shri Shankaracharya of Kalladi. Additionally, there are also ancient mosques and churches nearby.
Distance from Kollam: Mayyanad is approximately 10 kilometers south of Kollam city.
How to Reach from Kollam:
- By Road: Regular bus services connect Kollam and Mayyanad. Buses are available from both Kollam and Kottayam.
- By Train: Mayyanad has a local railway station with connections to Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.
Things to Do:
- Scenic Beaches: Enjoy long sandy beaches perfect for swimming. The area where the lagoon meets the sea offers picturesque views.
- Temples and Churches: Visit the Umayanalloor Sri Balasubramanya Swami Temple and Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church.
- Fishing and Coastal Views: Experience the Arabian Sea coastline and engage in fishing activities.
Hotels Nearby:
- Hotel All Season: Located around 10 km from Mayyanad, offering comfortable accommodations.
- Hotel Sea Pearl: A nearby option with good amenities and proximity to Mayyanad.
- Kollam Beach Hotel: Located closer to Kollam, suitable for visitors to Mayyanad.
Conclusion
These are the top ten tourist places near Kollam that offer a rich blend of natural beauty and adventure to make your trip memorable. Whether you are exploring scenic lakes and backwaters, enjoying nature reserves, or delving into historical landmarks, Kollam promises a diverse and unforgettable travel experience. These vibrant destinations with their unique landscapes are must-visit destinations in God’s Own Country!
