72 km off Thiruvananthapuram,Kollam is a trade-nerve in Southern Kerala. Its trading-tradition dates back to early centuries when Chinese, Greeks, Arabs and Romans haunted the shore for ship-loading Kerala spices and produces. Today Kollam is the major cashew trading and processing centre in the country. Also a hub of marine industry.

Alumkadavu
A traditional boat-building centre.

Thankassery Light House
Century-old light house at Thankassery beach. Remains of colonial culture are visible. Anglo-Indian families are concentrated here.

Neendakara
A major fishing harbour in Kerala. Centre of Indo-Norwegian Fisheries Community Project, since 1953.

Sasthamkotta
The biggest freshwater lake in Kerala and picturesque Sasthamkotta temple.

Thenmala
Reservoir, wildlife sanctuary, eco-tourism centre.

Palaruvi waterfalls
35 kilometers east of Punalur on Kollam - Shenkottah road.

Getting There
By Air
The nearest airport, Thiruvananthapuram, 72km away.

By Rail
Kollam station, enroute Thiruvananthapuram-Mangalore line. Stop for all services.

By Road
N H 47 goes via the district, touching Kollam town. MC road, parallel to the National Highway connects Kollam with Kottayam.