Kollam (Quilon)

Kollam is an ancient seaport on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake. The Ashtamudi Lake covers a major portion of Kollam district in the south, is the second largest lake in the district. Kollam is also known as the "Gateway to Kerala's Backwaters". The backwaters around Kollam, which extend from the Ashtamudi Lake, are exceedingly beautiful. The boat ride from Kollam to Alappuzha takes eight hours. The famous "Cheenavala" or Chinese fishing nets can also be seen along the backwaters. It is an ancient port located on the edge of the Ashtamudi Lake. The Mata Amrithanandamayi Ashram, is located near Kollam in Vallikavu. This international pilgrimage destination is known for its educational and medical institutes and for the personality of Ma Amrithanandamayi who is also called the hugging saint for her habit of embracing her disciples. The historic Thangasseri Fort is near Kollam. The 144 feet high lighthouse at Thangasseri is open to visitors and provides views of the sea and the coast of Kollam. Alumkadavu in a small backwater village halfway on the route to Alappuzha from Kollam on the vast expanse of the Kayamkulam lake. This quiet little backwater village in Karunagappally town is famed for its boat building yard. It is here that the gigantic Kettuvallams were built. Today the Kettuvallams have been converted into houseboats.