Every tourist is taken aback by the beauty of the Kerala backwaters. The shinning sheet of water, fringed by palm grooves bending forward to welcome each tourist is a breathtaking sight. Kollam backwaters are very famous. It is an exceedingly beautiful tourist spot. It is situated in the lap of the renowned Ashtamudi Lake and is the gateway to the magnificent backwaters of Kerala. The mesmerizing lake covers about 30 percent of the entire Kollam. This provides provision for house boat ride from Kollam to Alappuzha. The house boat ride is a must-see for tourists visiting this part of the state as it provides a beautiful view of the lake teeming with water lilies and lotuses, listening to the beautiful sounds of the aquatic birds. The boat ride offered in this lake is the longest backwater tour offered by Kerala compared to all other cruises. Kollam district is one of the oldest ports on the Malabar coasts. It is also famous for its marine and cashew industries. The port is famous for its 144 feet tall Thangassery Light House which was built in 1902. Another international pilgrimage destination in Kollam is the Matha Amritanandamayi Ashram at Vallikavu which is also known for its educational and medical institutions.
Kollam is not only a major international trading point, but is also famous for its wide collection of temples, churches and mosques. Some of them are Ananda Valleeswaram Temple, Pullichira church established in 1700 AD. The other places of tourism value are Mahatma Gandhi Beach, Park at Kochupilamoodu, Thirumullavaram beach and Ashramam Picnic Village. Karen Shelton2012-07-27 20:53:31