:: Kollam

Kollam is the centre of the country's cashew trading and processing industry and it is located 71 km to the north of Thiruvananthapuram. One of the oldest ports on the Malabar Coast , Kollam was once the port of international spice trade. Thirty per cent of this historic town is covered by the renowned Ashtamudi Lake , making it the gateway to the magnificent backwaters of Kerala. The eight hour boat trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest and most enchanting experience on the backwaters of Kerala. The district also has some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the traditional ornate architectural style.

Access through:

Air: Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram (71 km)

Rail: Kollam is an important railhead of the Southern Railways. Enquiry Ph: 131

Road: KSRTC, Central Bus Station.

Ferry services: The ferry station is adjacent to the central bus station (3 km from the railway station).

Telephone access code: +91-474.