Kollam or Quilon in the state of Kerala, an old sea port town on the Arabian coast, stands on the Ashtamudi lake. In the ancient times, Kollam, had a sustained commercial reputation around the world. Fed by the Chinese trade, it was regarded by Ibn Batuta, as one of the five ports, which he had seen in the course of his travels during a period of 24 years, in the 14th century AD.

Kollam Festivals

Oachirakkali Festival: The Oachira Temple is the venue of the famous Oachirakkali (Oachira dance) held in June, a sort of ancient choreographed mock battle. Unlike other temples, there is no shrine or idol at the Oachira temple, located nearly 32 kms from Kollam. The principal deity is a concept called Parabrahmam (Cosmic Consciousness). Rows of men dressed up in ancient soldier's costumes wave wooden swords and shields and advance and retreat to the rhythm of traditional drums.

Kollam Attractions

Thevalli Palace : This is a beautiful and historically renowned palace situated on the banks of Ashtamudi Kayal (backwater) Sasthamkotta 26 Km north-east of Kollam city. Sasthamkotta is situated on the bank of Kallada river. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Sastha. Sasthamkotta Lake The place in known for the Sasthamkotta fresh water lake. The natural gift is set amidst scenic surroundings covered by hills on the three sides.

Thangasseri Beach : 5 km from Kollam town, this seaside village of historic importance has the ruins of an Old Portuguese Fort and churches built in the 18th century. The Thangasseri lighthouse is open to visitors from 1530-1730 hrs. Once a British enclave, the place is a great draw. One can stand there to see the sunrise and the sunset.

Dharmasastha Temple at Sasthamkotta : The deity here is Lord Ayyappa. Here the temple roof is of corrugated GI sheets as against tiles in most of the shrines in Kerala. This is just to save the roof from the wrath of monkeys in large number as if they are the devotees. The custom here is that devotees have to step on the droppings of the primate. The temple is close to Sasthamkotta lake which meets the drinking water needs of the entire district.

Getting there

By Air : Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram (71 km).

By Rail : Kollam is an important railhead of the Southern Railways.

By Road : An excellent road network links Kollam to all major towns and cities in Kerala.

Climate : The climate is of tropical humid type with an oppressive summer and plenty of seasonal rainfall. The summer, lasting from March to May, is followed by the southwest monsoon from June to September. The northeast monsoon occurs from October to November. The rest of the year is generally dry.

Best time to visit : Between March to October.

Airports Nearby : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.