Kollam Backwaters
Kollam backwaters are one of the most beautiful destinations in Kerala to visit and enjoy. Located 70 km to the north of the capital city Thiruvananthapuram, the backwaters of Kollam take you to some of the mesmerizing sites in Kerala. Kollam, earlier a popular port on the Malabar coast and international trading point, is a favourite historic coastline district of all the tourists visiting Kerala. The city is also popular for its marine and cashew industries.
What makes Kollam a superb backwater destination is the renowned Ashtamudi Lake, which covers about 30% of this historic town. Moreover, it also makes it the gateway to the magnificent backwaters of Kerala. All the adventure lovers, honeymooners and even the routine vacationers love to enjoy the long 8 hrs boat trip from Kollam to Alleppey. This long and relaxing cruise is the best and most comprehensive introduction to the delights of Kerala's backwaters. With such exciting cruises you can observe enchanting lakes, canals and small water-bound villages closely.
Popular Place To Visit By Boat Cruise
The backwaters of Kollam are a great way to observe nature flourishing in its best form here. Alumkadavu, located about 23 km from Kollam, is a nice place to visit by boat cruises. This is the place where the gigantic Kettuvalloms (now called the houseboats) were built initially. Apart from that a few other naturally blessed places to see near Kollam are:
- Mayyanad (10 km south of Kollam town)
- Thirumullavaram Beach (6 km north of Kollam town)
- Kulathupuzha (64 km from Kollam town)
The Ashtamudi Lake (literally meaning 'the lake with eight arms') boasts of being the second largest lake in the state and is offers a perfect gateway to the other major backwaters in Kerala. The place also lets you the opportunity to see the Chinese Fishing Nets along the backwaters.
Apart from various trees providing shelter to many exotic birds, the shores here are lined with several small restaurants that offer delicious sea food and varieties in local cuisine.
