Kollam (Quilon)
Kollam, also known as Quilon, is the headquarters of the Kollam district and one of the most picturesque cities in Kerala. Renowned for its cashew processing and coir manufacturing, it also serves as the southern gateway to Kerala’s stunning backwaters, making it a prominent tourist destination.
A Glimpse into Kollam’s History
Kollam has had many names over the centuries, including Desinganadu, Kollam, and Quilon. This ancient seaport town has been a hub of international trade since the time of the Phoenicians and Romans. The famous traveler Ibn Battuta identified Kollam as one of the five major ports involved in Chinese trade, and the city once flourished as a Chinese settlement due to the exchange of embassies between local rulers and China.
In 1502, the Portuguese were the first Europeans to establish a trading center in Kollam. This was followed by the Dutch and later the British, who took control in 1795 through a treaty with the Kingdom of Travancore. Under the leadership of Velu Thampi Dalawa, the city saw the development of bazaars, attracting merchants from Madras and Tirunelveli. Eventually, Kollam became the capital of the Desinganad Kingdom.
As an administrative hub, Kollam flourished in 1835, serving as one of two revenue divisions in Travancore. After the merger of Travancore and Cochin in 1949, Kollam became one of the three major revenue divisions, which were later reorganized into districts. The Malayalam Era (ME), used as the official calendar of Kerala, originates from Kollam’s founding in the 9th century—a testament to the city’s historical significance.
Geography of Kollam
Located at 9.28'45° N and 76.28'0° E, Kollam covers 2,492 km², making it the seventh-largest district in Kerala. It is bordered by:
North – Alappuzha District
Northeast – Pathanamthitta District
East – Tirunelveli District (Tamil Nadu)
South – Thiruvananthapuram District
West – Arabian Sea
Two major rivers, Kallada and Ithikkara, flow through Kollam. The district is also home to Shasthamkotta Lake, Kerala’s largest freshwater lake, as well as Ashtamudi Lake, Paravur Kayal, and parts of Edava-Nadayara Lake.
Kollam experiences a tropical, humid climate, with hot summers from March to May, followed by the Southwest Monsoon from June to September, bringing abundant rainfall.
Tourist Attractions in Kollam
Once a global trade hub, Kollam remains a thriving commercial center situated on the scenic Ashtamudi Lake. The city also has deep Christian roots, having been an early center of Christian activity in Kerala. The local saying "Once you see Kollam, you won’t need your home anymore" reflects its charm and hospitality.
Key attractions include:
Thangassery Lighthouse (built in 1902) – An iconic landmark offering breathtaking views.
Ananda Valleeswaram Temple – A popular pilgrimage site drawing devotees year-round.
Pullichira Church (established in 1700 A.D.) – A historic place of worship.
Chinnakkada Palli – One of the oldest and most significant mosques in Kollam.
For nature lovers, Kollam offers serene spots:
Mahatma Gandhi Beach & Park (2 km from the city) – Ideal for a peaceful evening stroll.
Thirumullavaram Beach (5 km from Kollam) – A perfect destination for swimming and bathing.
Adventure Park – Located along the Ashtamudi backwaters, this spot promises excitement and fun.
Children’s Traffic & Entertainment Park – Kerala’s largest traffic park, offering a unique educational experience.
Kollam’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural diversity make it a must-visit destination that blends history, spirituality, and recreation seamlessly.