Kollam or Quilon, formerly Desinganadu, is an old seaport and city on the Laccadive Sea coast of Kerala, India. The city is on the banks Ashtamudi Lake. Kollam has had a strong commercial reputation since the days of the Phoenicians and Romans.[Kollam is the fourth most populous city in Kerala and the fifth largest in incorporated area.
As the ancient city of Quilon, Kollam was a flourishing port during the Chera dynasty, and later became the capital of the independent Venad or Kingdom of Quilon on its foundation in c. 825. Kollam was considered one of the four early entrepots in global sea trade during the 13th century, along with Alexandria and Cairo in Egypt, the Chinese city of Quanzhou, and Malacca in the Malaysian archipelago.
Palaruvi Waterfalls is located at Palaruvi near Aryankavu on the Kollam-Shencottah Road. The height of the waterfall is about 300 ft.
Thirumullavaram Beach is situated 6 km away from the main Kollam town. It is a clean and quiet beach, considered suitable for sunbathing and swimming.
Among popular attractions nearby Kollam, Mahatama Gandhi Beach also stands out for tourists. Lying at a distance of two km from the city, it is a beautiful beach.
Kollam is an interesting gateway to the backwaters of Kerala. Taking the regular ferry to Alleppey, an eight hours ride is the best way for a wonderful backwater experience. Shorter cruises and also also be enjoyed in the larger comforts of the houseboats with idyllic villages like Alumkadavu as your launch base.
Thevally Palace in Kollam is situated on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake. It was constructed during the reign of Gauri Parvathi Bai, from 1811 to 1819. This palace served as the residence of the Maharaja of Travancore whenever he used to visit Kollam for his meetings. The palace has been constructed in English, Portuguese and Dutch architectural styles.
Situated near Kollam, Ariankavu is a famous pilgrimage. The temple serves as a venue for the festival. It is the annual event.