Kollam Must Visit Places
Kollam Beach is a one and half kilometre stretch of golden sand and huge waves. It is perfect for a leisurely walk. Swimming and bathing are strictly prohibited, though sandcastles and fishing boats abound the beach. There is a park for children close by. If you have to swim, go 6 kms from Kollam to Thirumullavaram Beach which is a very quiet place to relax. To interact with the local fishing folk and see the unique phenomenon of ‘Chakara’, Neendakara is the place to be. There you can also see the Ashtamudi Lake beyond which is the Arabian Sea. You can avail houseboat rides to test the lake waters as they meet the sea. Just 5kms from Kollam is Thangassery which is of historical interest. Here you can visit the ruins of a Portuguese Fort and Church. Climb up the 100 year old Lighthouse which promises an amazing sight.
Kollam's Famous Cuisines
Seafood is the thing to crave in Kollam. You will find excellent fish biriyani, crab and lobster curries, all topped with a lot of cashew nut since that is the local specialty. At Thirumullavaram Beach is an old tavern-like place which serves excellent ‘toddy’, the local liquor, perfectly accompanied by cashews. Supreme Bakery has some great stuff like cashew flavoured cookies, cakes and also the nuts in their original form.
Kollam Markets
Kollam is not the place to do much shopping. However you can help out the locals by buying something from the day’s fresh catch.
How To Reach Kollam
Kollam is best accessible by all trains going to Trivandrum from all major cities in the country. The state capital is also the nearest airport. Regular bus services are also available from most places in Kerala.