3 Days in Kollam for an Active Getaway

Kollam is one of those places where adventure sneaks up on you. One minute you're cruising the backwaters, the next you're hiking through spice-scented forests or kayaking past sleepy villages. I love how this coastal town mixes water, wilderness, and culture in ways that keep you moving and discovering.

Kerala, kerala
3 Days
Adventure
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Sunrise kayaking through the quiet backwater canals before the houseboats wake up
Climbing the 200-year-old Tangasseri Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views
Biking through cashew plantations with stops at local toddy shops
Night fishing with locals off Munroe Island using traditional lanterns

Best Time to Visit

NovemberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Kollam

Start your Kollam adventure with its most iconic spots, from serene backwaters to historic landmarks and bustling markets.

Activities

Morning at Ashtamudi Lake
Morning at Ashtamudi Lake

Kick off your day with a peaceful houseboat cruise on Ashtamudi Lake, Kerala's second-largest lake. Glide past coconut groves, watch local fishermen at work, and spot migratory birds. The early morning light makes the water shimmer beautifully.

Ashtamudi Lake Boat Jetty, near Kollam town7:30 AM - 10:00 AM (best before the midday heat)INR 800-1500 per person for shared houseboats
Tips:
  • Bargain politely for houseboat rates
  • Carry sunscreen and a hat
Explore Thangassery Lighthouse & Beach
Explore Thangassery Lighthouse & Beach

Climb the 144 steps of this 19th-century British-built lighthouse for panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and Kollam's coastline. The adjacent beach is quiet, with golden sands and remnants of Portuguese/Dutch forts.

Thangassery, 5 km from Kollam town10:30 AM - 12:00 PM (lighthouse closes at noon for lunch break)INR 10 entry for lighthouse
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the spiral staircase
  • Try fresh coconut water from beachside vendors
Lunch & Shopping at Kollam Market

Dive into Kollam's vibrant local market near the bus stand. Sample Malabar-style biryani from tiny eateries, then browse for spices, cashews, and coir products. Don't miss the 'kada' (small shops) selling banana chips fried in coconut oil.

Main Market Road, near KSRTC Bus Stand12:30 PM - 2:00 PMINR 150-300 for lunch
Tips:
  • Market gets crowded—keep valuables secure
  • Ask for 'meen curry' (fish curry) if you love seafood

Must Try Foods

Kollam-style karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish grilled in banana leaf)
Kappa (tapioca) with meen curry
Elaneer pudding (tender coconut dessert)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Kollam Junction (1 km from town center, 5-min auto ride)
Nearest Bus Stop
KSRTC Bus Stand (central location, frequent buses to all activity spots)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and taxis readily available; use Ola or Uber for better rates

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Day 2

Day 2 in Kollam

Dive deeper into Kollam's rich culture and natural beauty with a mix of historic sites, serene backwaters, and local flavors.

Activities

Visit the Palaruvi Waterfalls
Visit the Palaruvi Waterfalls

Start your day with a refreshing trip to Palaruvi Waterfalls, one of Kerala's most beautiful cascades. The 300-foot waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and the pool at the base is perfect for a quick dip. The drive through the Western Ghats offers stunning views, making the journey as memorable as the destination.

Palaruvi Waterfalls, Aryankavu8:00 AM - 11:00 AM (best to go early to avoid crowds)INR 50-100 per person (entry fee)
Tips:
  • Wear sturdy shoes for the short hike to the falls
  • Carry a change of clothes if you plan to take a dip
Explore the Thenmala Ecotourism Zone
Explore the Thenmala Ecotourism Zone

Head to Thenmala, India's first planned ecotourism destination. Walk through the butterfly park, try the rope bridge adventure, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings. The Deer Park and Sculpture Garden are highlights, offering a peaceful retreat in nature.

Thenmala Ecotourism Zone, Thenmala12:00 PM - 3:00 PM (includes lunch break)INR 100-300 per person (depending on activities)
Tips:
  • Try the local honey sold at the entrance—it’s delicious
  • Book adventure activities in advance during peak season
Sunset Houseboat Cruise on Ashtamudi Lake
Sunset Houseboat Cruise on Ashtamudi Lake

End the day with a relaxing houseboat cruise on Ashtamudi Lake. Unlike the morning visit on Day 1, this evening cruise offers a golden-hour view of the lake, with the sun setting over the palm-fringed shores. Enjoy freshly cooked Kerala seafood on board as you glide past quaint villages and coconut groves.

Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam5:00 PM - 7:00 PMINR 1500-3000 per group (depending on boat size)
Tips:
  • Bargain for a better rate if booking on the spot
  • Carry a light jacket—it can get breezy on the water

Must Try Foods

Kallummakaya (mussels) curry
Karimeen (pearl spot fish) pollichathu
Puttu with kadala curry

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Kollam Junction (15-20 minutes to most attractions)
Nearest Bus Stop
Kollam KSRTC Bus Stand (frequent buses to Thenmala and Aryankavu)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs and auto-rickshaws are easily available; pre-booking is recommended for long-distance trips

Day 3

Day 3 in Kollam

A relaxed day diving into Kollam's hidden gems, cultural spots, and local flavors, wrapping up your trip with a taste of authentic Kerala life.

Activities

Visit the Kollam Adventure Park

Start your day with some fun at this lesser-known park, perfect for families or anyone looking to unwind. The park has zip-lining, rope courses, and a peaceful lake for paddle boating. It's a great spot to enjoy nature without the crowds.

Kollam Adventure Park, near Chinnakada9:00 AM - 12:00 PM (best in the morning before it gets too hot)₹100-300 per activity
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the adventure activities
  • Carry water as it can get warm
Explore the Sasthamkotta Lake & Temple
Explore the Sasthamkotta Lake & Temple

Head to Kerala's largest freshwater lake, Sasthamkotta, surrounded by lush hills. Visit the ancient Sastha Temple nearby, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The serene atmosphere and local legends make it a quiet retreat.

Sasthamkotta Lake, about 25 km from Kollam city1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (afternoon is peaceful, but avoid temple visit during noon rituals)Free (donations at temple optional)
Tips:
  • Try the tender coconut sold by lakeside vendors
  • Dress modestly for the temple visit
Evening at Kollam Beach & Local Eats
Evening at Kollam Beach & Local Eats

Wrap up your trip with a laid-back evening at Kollam Beach (different from Thangassery). Watch the fishermen bring in their catch and stroll along the quieter stretches. Then, head to a local eatery for some final Kerala treats.

Kollam Beach, near the city center5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (perfect for sunset)Free (food costs extra)
Tips:
  • Try the beachside 'shack' stalls for fresh seafood
  • Bargain if buying souvenirs from vendors

Must Try Foods

Kallummakaya (mussels) fry
Karimeen (pearl spot fish) pollichathu
Elaneer (tender coconut) drink

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Kollam Junction (1 km from city center, auto-rickshaws available)
Nearest Bus Stop
Kollam KSRTC Bus Stand (frequent buses to Sasthamkotta and nearby areas)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs and auto-rickshaws easily available; pre-book for longer trips like Sasthamkotta

Travel Tips

Pack quick-dry clothes - you'll be in and out of boats constantly
Bargain hard for water sports at Ashtamudi Lake - prices drop if you walk away
Try the spicy pearl spot fish curry at any thatched-roof eatery near the docks
Hire bikes from Kollam town instead of taking tours - more freedom to explore

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