Top reasons to visit Kollam
- Stunning Beaches: Kollam is renowned for its beautiful beaches, including the tranquil Kollam Beach, perfect for relaxation and scenic views.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Visitors can explore historic palaces and immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture, offering a unique glimpse into Kerala's traditions.
- Scenic Lakes: The serene backwaters and lakes provide opportunities for enchanting boat rides and sunset cruises.
- Outdoor Adventures: Kollam is ideal for outdoor activities, including golfing and leisurely strolls along picturesque paths.
- Diverse Accommodation: A variety of lodging options, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, cater to all preferences and budgets.
Find great hotels in and around Kollam
Explore a range of accommodation options in Kollam, Kerala, from inviting hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly haven, a beachfront retreat, or facilities tailored for business travellers, Kollam has something for everyone. Discover an array of resorts and hotels, alongside competitive prices to suit your budget, ensuring a memorable stay in this picturesque coastal destination.
- The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel: This 4.5-star resort offers a serene escape in Kollam, perfect for families and those seeking a rejuvenating spa experience. Rated 8.4 out of 10, The Leela Ashtamudi is renowned for its family-friendly amenities, including supervised childcare and various activities for children. Guests can indulge in a full spa service featuring body scrubs, massages, and a steam room. The outdoor pool area, complete with sun loungers, provides a refreshing retreat. With its picturesque surroundings and extensive facilities, this hotel combines luxury with comfort for an unforgettable stay.
- Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort & Ayurveda Spa: Holding a prestigious 5-star rating and an impressive guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, this resort is a haven for families, business travellers, and spa enthusiasts alike. The property offers an array of children’s amenities, including a playground and arcade game room. Guests can unwind in the outdoor pool and enjoy the rejuvenating treatments available at the Ayurveda spa. With its scenic backwater views and luxurious facilities, Fragrant Nature promises a tranquil and enriching experience in the heart of nature.
- Thiruvambadi Beach Retreat: Situated 19km from Kollam, this charming 3-star retreat is ideal for families seeking a relaxing beach holiday. The property features a range of children’s amenities such as a playground and an indoor pool, ensuring a fun-filled experience for younger guests. Visitors can also enjoy the full-service spa and outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to the beach, Thiruvambadi Beach Retreat offers a delightful escape for those looking to soak in the sun and enjoy family time.
Where to stay in Kollam
Kollam, Kerala, offers a splendid vacation experience with its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. Explore the serene Kollam Beach, just a minute's walk away, where relaxation meets scenic beauty. The friendly atmosphere and family-friendly excursions make it perfect for romantic getaways and outdoor adventures. Discover the charm of Kollam city and its surrounding districts, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy memorable moments with loved ones.
- Munroe Island: Nestled within the backwaters near Kollam, Munroe Island is a picturesque village that offers a unique blend of nature and culture. Known for its stunning landscapes, the island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing exceptional opportunities for adventure and scenic experiences. Visitors can explore the tranquil beaches, lush botanical gardens, and dramatic cliffs that define the area. The best times to visit are during the peak months of June to July and December, when the island comes alive with vibrant local festivities and an influx of travellers seeking its serene beauty.
- Paravur: Located just a short distance from Kollam, Paravur is a charming village that boasts a rich outdoor and scenic experience. The area is renowned for its pristine beaches, striking cliffs, and serene lakes, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration. With a moderately steady flow of visitors throughout the year, peak months such as April, September, and December attract those eager to enjoy the local shopping centres, spas, and vibrant marketplace. Paravur offers a delightful blend of leisure and adventure, ensuring a memorable getaway.
- Kundara: A culturally rich village located within the Kollam district, Kundara is known for its romantic ambiance and historic significance. The area features beautiful beaches and lakes, alongside a majestic historic palace that narrates tales of the past. Travellers typically flock to Kundara from December to February, seeking a culturally themed experience amidst the scenic landscapes. The village offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and cultural exploration, making it an ideal location for those wanting to immerse themselves in Kerala's heritage.
Things to do in Kollam
Shopping
Kollam offers a vibrant shopping experience with local markets like the Kollam Market, where you can find spices and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the SRS Mall, about 16km away, featuring a range of retail stores and dining options.
Recreation
Experience rejuvenation at the Ayurvedic Healing Village, where traditional therapies and serene surroundings promote relaxation. Engage in yoga sessions by the backwaters, offering tranquility and a connection to nature amidst lush landscapes.
Visit Ashtamudi Lake for a scenic houseboat cruise, allowing you to unwind while enjoying the picturesque views and vibrant local culture along the waterways.
Adventure
Explore the enchanting backwaters of Kollam through kayaking, where you can paddle amidst lush greenery and local wildlife. For thrill-seekers, embark on a paragliding adventure over stunning landscapes, experiencing the beauty of Kerala from above.
Nightlife
Kollam's nightlife offers a blend of relaxation and entertainment. Enjoy a laid-back evening at the Beach Lounge, where you can sip cocktails by the sea. For a vibrant atmosphere, visit the local pubs and bars in the city centre, where live music and good company await.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kollam
Kollam presents numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions such as Kollam Beach, Ashtamudi Lake, and Thirumullavaram Beach. For affordable transport, consider using auto rickshaws or buses. The best months to visit for lower prices are February and May to June, with Wednesdays being the cheapest days to book accommodation. Use Expedia to find the best hotel deals, including eco-friendly options, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Look out for app deals and last-minute offers to further reduce costs.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kollam are February and May to June, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kollam is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kollam is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Kollam is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Kollam with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Kollam
Kollam is an ideal destination for outdoor and romantic getaways, featuring stunning beaches, serene lakes, and historic palaces. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the picturesque scenery. Whether you seek relaxation by the beach or wish to explore the rich heritage, Kollam offers a variety of attractions that cater to both leisure and adventure seekers, making it a perfect spot for a memorable holiday.
- Kappil Beach: Located 16km from Kollam, Kappil Beach offers a serene escape with its golden sands and gentle waves. The tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and beachside relaxation, complemented by stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
- Tangasseri Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse, situated in Kollam, stands as a testament to the region's maritime heritage. Visitors can explore its rich history and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline from the top, all while immersing themselves in the local culture.
- Thevally Palace: Nestled in Kollam, Thevally Palace showcases exquisite architecture and lush gardens. This historic site reflects the cultural legacy of the area, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the region's royal past.
Best time to go to Kollam
The best time to visit Kollam can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kollam falls in April, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Kollam falls in August, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Kollam
To visit Kollam, Kerala, you can fly into three major airports. Cochin International Airport (COK) is approximately 143km away, with excellent hotels nearby such as the 5-star Port Muziris, Courtyard by Marriott, and Saj Earth Resort, all within 1km of the airport. Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) is closer at 58km, featuring luxurious options like The Leela Kovalam, Hilton Garden Inn, and Vivanta, all within 11km. Lastly, Tuticorin Airport (TCR) is about 158km away, with options like SRM Hotel and Regency Tuticorin, offering various transportation services to the airport.