Top 15 Best Places Visiting in Kollam – Backwaters, Beaches & Cultural Gems

1. Infant Jesus Cathedral

Experience the historical Infant Jesus Cathedral which Portuguese missionaries founded in early 16th century as a Roman Catholic church. This cathedral serves two purposes: first as place for religious worship and secondly as a spectacular demonstration of colonial architectural greatness combined with heritage from a spiritual perspective. Tourists often recognize this site as Kollam’s top attraction because it offers an exceptional one-day visit opportunity.

The church’s interior displays extraordinary glass paintings together with mosaics which show numerous events from Jesus Christ’s lifespan. Complex artistic expressions created in the past showcase both past artistic achievement and magnificence of the cathedral. The cathedral contains a compact chapel which serves as the site for regular worship and prayer services during religious ceremonies. Visitors who want spiritual peace discover a peaceful environment inside.

2. Sree Mahaganapathi Kshethram

The Hindu temple Sree Mahaganapathi Kshethram exists in the town Kottarakkara located within Kerela – the Indian state recognized as God’s own country. Absorbed in a still and peaceful environment the extensive temple rests on a single floor. Shiva stands as the main deity of this temple yet it remains popular because of its Ganpathi shrine. At this temple Lord Ganesha has precedent status in all religious procedures even though worshippers also honor Parvati and Murugan and Ayyapan alongside Nagaraja. A trip to this temple will bring your travels an exceptional perspective.

Activities in the area include visiting all shrines while seeking blessings from the holy rituals and sampling the well-known Unniyappam temple food.

3. Sambranikodi Island

A Hindu temple named Sree Mahaganapathi Kshethram exists in Kottarakkara which forms part of God’s own country Kerela. The expansive temple exists on one level despite its vast size and creates a peaceful environment. The main deity in the temple is Shiva while it gains recognition from its Ganpathi shrine. In all rituals of worship at Sree Mahaganapathi Kshethram Lord Ganesh receives the highest priority before other deities including Parvati, Murugan, Ayyapan as well as Nagaraja. Your travel memories will change when you decide to visit this shrine.

Visitors can experience two essential activities at this place which include temple shrine visits and receiving blessings from both the diverse diet of Unniyappam and temple food selection.

4. Sree Venkatachalapathy Temple

The Sree Venkatachalapathy Temple stands in proximity to District Collectorate with an interesting tale to share about its establishment. This religious structure serves as a Kerela temple even though its design follows Karnataka and Tamil temple traditions. Fifteen Gowda Saraswat Brahmins established the temple in 1822 AD when they migrated from Karnataka to establish what is now known as Kerela. The primary deities of Sree Venkatachalapathy Temple include Sree Venkatachalapathy with Goddess Laxmi and Goddess Bhumi Devi. The temple features multiple small worship areas dedicated to many deities including Lord Ganpathi, Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman thus attracting many pilgrims to this Kollam landmark.

The activities at this religious site include prayer dedication at the temple and exploring the sanctuaries of multiple worship divinities.

5. Palaruvi Waterfalls

Palaruvi Waterfalls exists in a picturesque forest setting of Kerala. A name meaning “milky streams” accurately depicts the 300 feet tall waterfall that displays its white water drops like streams. The Kollam-Shencottah Road provides a picturesque setting for the stunning Palaruvi Waterfalls which attracts visitors who love nature and seek both adventure and romantic relaxation.

Why Visit Palaruvi Waterfalls?

Palaruvi offers its visitors more than visual aesthetic. The waterfall is considered to possess Ayurvedic healing properties which attract visitors to enjoy its therapeutic bath. Palaruvi Waterfalls holds position 32 as highest waterfall in India which makes it an essential stop for Kerala’s visitors.

Best Time to Visit

Early June marks the beginning of an excellent period to view Palaruvi Waterfalls which lasts until January when monsoon and post-monsoon seasons intensify the falls. Visitors appreciate this spot as a scenic picnic destination during the low season because it grants peaceful access to natural landscapes.

6. Ashtamudi Lake

Ashtamudi Lake, the most visited back waters of lake destination in Kerala, is an attractive place which is situated in the heart of Kollam. This magnificent yard of water provides the shelter for the nature loving tourists which is full of dense water which brings the palm and coconut trees standing tall. If you are in search of a destination, which flawlessly encapsulates the beauty of Kerala backwaters then Ashtamudi Lake should be in your top preference.

The name “Ashtamudi” literally translates to “Eight Coned” in Malayalam, refer to the lakes eight arms or channels radiating in different directions. This outstanding form makes it an interesting destination for those who wish to experience Kerala’s backwaters at their best.

Why Visit Ashtamudi Lake?

Ashtamudi Lake is not just a beauty spot, it is an experience that gives the visitors a chance to bond with nature, relax in tranquil surroundings and dips in Kerala’s heritage and culture. Whether you want action, rest or a facet of local living this captivating lake has something for everybody who goes there.

7. Mayyanad: A Spiritual Place

Kollam, a stunning coastal town of Kerala, has many secrets up its sleeve and one of these is the peaceful rural village of Mayyanad. Famous for its profound spiritual meaning and scenic views, Mayyanad is a not to miss destination for those who seek the cultural and religious treasures of Kerala. Kerala which is located 10 km from Kollam ,this nagaram is a pot of history,mainly the Hindu history, holy bhta and natural land.

Mayyanad is got nine important Temples of great faith. Amongst these the most prominent is the Lord Subramaniam Temple attracting pilgrims far and wide. These old temples testify the age-old heritage of the area, and gives a peaceful ambiance to all the seekers of spiritual world. In addition to temples, the village also has historic churches and mosques, making it a village of religious harmony to the utmost degree.

8.Kulathupuzha

Kulathupuzha is an attractive town, situated at 64 km from Kollam, in abundance for its tranquil and cultural sightseeing. This spot is well-known because of the Sastha Temple situated on the banks of the Kulathupuzha River, this place is the pilgrimage spot and tourist destination.

If you are a sect of the follower of Lord Vishnu, a visit to Kulathupuzha in the month of April or May is a must, as it is during this time the grand Vishnu Mahotsava is held. The fest draws dozens of visitors who come to get blessings and enjoy the lively merriments.

While at Kulathupuzha, do not miss to visit the thenmala Eco-Tourism project, it is only 9 km away. This picturesque destination is popular for its scenic views and INDIA-Swiss dairy farm, giving visitors, a thrilling and relaxing experience among natures.

9. Jatayu’s Earth Centre

If you are planning to Kerala and thinking of an un-beaten adventurous experience in the form of Jatayu’s earth Centre in Kollam is something you need to include in your bucket list of things to be done. This magnificent rock-entwined adventurous recreation resort is one among the new attractions of the state and accurately combines mythology, tourism & adventure sports.

Jatayu Nature Park, is also called Jatayu Earth Centre is the tribute to legendary bird Jatayu a character from the Indian epic Ramayana. This extraordinary attraction has the world’s biggest bird sculpture, an awe-inspiring sight that beggars people with their sheer size. Standing atop a slope, the statue of Jatayu is not just an architectural wonder but it represents the defence of Women, as Jatayu is famously known for the attempt of saving Sita from Ravana.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Jatayu Earth Centre is between the months of October to March’s month when it is less rainy. The pleasant breeze and the fair weather add the finishing touches to the picture and thus outings under the open skies become more fun.

10. Asramam Adventure Park

Will situated at the heart of city near bus stand, Asramam Adventure Park is a fantastic place for family and adventure traveler visiting Kollam. This park is not just source point for your children upon a play ground but also it is a wonderful for boom of cruises and enjoy a stunning escape.

Why Visit Asramam Adventure Park?

The park has an assortment of adventures, nature, and relaxation, making it suitable for people of all ages. Exploring the healthy mangroves or speeding on the speedboat, the is generally there for everyone.

11. Rameshwara Temple

Kollam, a place rich in its culture and a stunning natural beauty and has numerous ancient temples. One site to explore is the Rameshwara Temple, a 12th century shrine that bears a thing of elegance and beauty of the Pandian-style architecture. This temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva is historically and spiritually very significant, making it one of the Top Places to Visit in Kollam in One Day.

Temple’s History

The Rameshwara Temple has been attributed to the Pandian era, and for temples. The temple serves as a sample of the excellent craftsmanship of that time,iards upon intricate pillars, stone sculptures, esoteric spirit and original puyuan attracting the faithful and the history enthusiasts of the crowd.

Best Time to Visit

The temple remains open round the year, but visiting early in the morning or towards the evenings enables one to witness the divine rituals in cooler, more serene atmosphere. The temple alike also experiences special festive celebrations during significant Hindu festivals like Maha Shivaratri which makes it an great period of cultural expedition.

12. Thenmala Deer Park

Located in the midst of the lush green Kallada riverside forest, Thenmala Deer Park is a visit not to be missed for all the nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts. This peaceful park offers a rare chance to see deer of various species in their natural settings, where one can experience the picturesque Kerala’s first ever planned ecotourism site.

Best Time to Visit

• The best time to visit Thenmala Deer Park is from October to February when the temperature is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

13. Karunagappally

Located 27 Km north of Kollam, Karunagappally is a beautiful town famous for its beautiful landscape, جمهوری and peaceful backwaters. This stunning place to visit provides tourists with an ultimate mix of leisure and cultural exploration as it is a place to visit in Kerala.

Karunagappally is a haven for the nature lovers. A town of lush greenery, a peaceful backwater and an infinite gold sand beach this town is one of the best place to escape off for all who needs relax. The famous one here is the houseboat facility at Alumkadavu, 3 kms away from the town.

History buffs can certainly find Karunagappally interesting as a famous Buddhist site of old times. One of the must see is the Krishnapura Palace and within it, a Buddha deity. This palace throws light on rich heritage and vibrant cultural influences of this land. The complex architecture and the spiritual vibrations, it makes so bold of the place to see visit.

14. Thirumullavaram Beach

Thirumullavaram Beach, situated just 6-km from city hub of Kollam is a breathtakingly beautiful beach dotted with golden sand, placid waters and beneficial for pilgrimage also. Being one of the twin beaches in ‘Cashew Capital of the World’ Thirumullavaram Beach is a marvelous place for leisure time, adventure and cultural thrill.

This beautiful beach is a calm abode to its visitors, which is why it is a favorite among the nature enthusiasts, solo individuals and families. Surrounded by lush greens and being embraced by the Arabian sea, Thirumullavaram Beach is a fantastic place where you could wind down and be hated by nature’s beauty.

Cultural Significance: Karkidaka Vavubali Ritual

One of the unique things regarding Thirumullavaram Beach is its link to annual Karkidaka Vavubali ritual. This south Indian Hindu rite, ceremony to ancestral iot by people from all over Kerala. The tranquil and sacred ambiance of the beach serves to be a suitable place for doing religious rituals.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for visiting Thirumullavaram Beach is during the period beginning from October to March when the weather is favorable and perfect for carrying out outdoor activities. Early morning and late evening views of the beach are the most breathtaking.

15. Kollam Beach

Destination wedding is indeed a buoying trend and of all the wedding destinations of Kerala, Kollam Beach can be considered to be one of the most preferred wedding destinations. And as a matter of fact it is considered as the first beach wedding destination in Kerala! Fascinating with its golden sands, calm waves and amazing sunsets, this beach creates the best setting for the couples, whom wish to marry in a romantic setting.

Though Kollam Beach is popularly known as a romantic destination for weddings, but at the same time it’s one of the breathtaking and stunning places to be visited for couples. If you are looking for a honeymoon, a romantic getaway, or just a relaxation beach that is this is the place, it is an ambiance to love.

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