Kollam

Head Quarters	Kollam
Area	2491 sq km
Major Religions	Hindu, Muslim, Christian
Population Density	1038 persons/sq km
Literacy	91.18%
Came into existence	July 1, 1946
Main Tourist Centers	Thenmala, Palaruvi, Thirumullavaram beach
Altitude	5m above sea level
Telephone Code	+91-474

About Kollam

Kollam was a famous port and trade center of ancient times and was frequently visited by Arabs, Greeks, Romans and Chinese for spices and other produces. The district has some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the traditional ornate architectural style. Today Kollam is the center of the cashew trading industry. Almost 30% of the district is covered by the Asthamudi Lake.

Tourist Destinations in Kollam

Palaruvi: A breathtaking 300mt waterfall. It is believed that the falling water possess medicinal value.

Thenmala: The name comes from the best quality honey that this place produce. Thriving forests, riverside trekking and tree top huts are other spots of tourist interest.

Shastamkotta: The largest fresh water lake in Kerala is surrounded by hills on threes sides. Also famous for its ayurveda treatment.

Krishnapuram Palace Museum: It is one of the monuments that can rightfully be called the pride of Kerala. The building has been carefully restored to give visitors the feel of how it looked during the early days.

Other places of tourist interest are, Ochira - a famous pilgrim center, Thirumullavaram Beach, Light house at Thangassery (built in 1902 by Portuguese). The eight hour boat trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest and most enchanting experience on the backwaters of Kerala.

Transportation

Air	Trivandrum International Airport, about 70 km from Kollam, is the nearest Airport
Rail	Kollam is an important railhead of the Southern Railways.
Road	A well connected road link with all the other cities in Kerala
Boat	: Boat and Ferry services between Kollam and Alappuzha.