Kollam

This is an oldest industrial centre of Kerala. It had trade with The Arab, China, Portugese, etc. It has beautiful backwaters, lovely lakes, picturesque mountains, lush forests, fertile plains with vast green fields producing tropical crops. It was the largest port in the world and its market as one of the finest in India. It is still an important centre for cashew trading and processing and coir manufacturing.
Kollam is connected by road and rail by important cities and tourist places in Kerala. The nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram about 71 km.
Ashtamudi Lake:
It is the second largest and famous lake in Kerala with full of scenic beauty. The lake is named 'Ashtamudi' as it branches off into 8 creeks. The marvellous house boats offer the enchanting beauty of the lakes, canals and bound villages.
Thangassery:
It is about 5 Kms. from Kollam and is known for the churches and bungalows built by Portugese. The 144 feet high light house is the special attraction of the town. The power light from the light house can be visible upto 29 kms. It can be visited between 3.00pm to 5.00pm.
Ochira:
It is 34 km north of Kollam town that the unique Parabrahma Temple is situated. The temple has no idol, no diety and is dedicated to the 'Universal consciousness' instead. Ochira Kali in middle of June and Panthrandu Vilakku in November are the two main festivals celebrated here. Ochira kali is a mock fight enacted between groups of men, highlighting their martial skills.The Panthranwdu Vilakku which means twelve lamps is a festival which last for 12 days.
Matha Amrithananthamayi Ashram:
The Ashram of Matha Amrithananthamayi situated at Amrithapuri near Vallikkavu is also the headquarters of the Matha's Ashram. The ashram can be reached by boat, there is also a road link. Sasthamkotta:- This is an important pilgrim spot29 km from Kollam where the ancient Sastha temple is situated. this town is also famous for Sasthamkotta Lake, which is the only fresh water lake in the state.

Palaruvi Waterfalls:
Located at about 75 kms. from Kollam is a major picnic spot. As name suggests, the waterfalls give an impression of flowing milk.
Picnic Village:
This centre of recreational activities is located at Ashramam, along the backwater front. The tourist complex has a 200 year old Govt. guest house, a tourist boat club, an adventure park, a traffic park for children imparting the important knowledge of traffic rules and a Yathri Nivas.
Jatayu Para:
This is a huge rock at Chadayamangalam. It has a mythological importance. The history says, after his battle with Ravana to save Sita, he made his last breath at this rock and thus named Jatayu para.