GOD OWN

Comprehensive Internet Overview with AI

• “God’s Own Country” Connection: Kollam is an integral part of Kerala, a state famously known as “God’s Own Country” due to its unparalleled natural beauty, including serene backwaters, picturesque beaches, lush green forests, and misty hills.
• Historical Significance:
  • Once known as Quilon, Kollam was an ancient and flourishing port city with a rich history of trade dating back to the Pandya dynasty (c. 3rd century BC–12th century).
  • It was considered one of the four early entrepots in global sea trade during the 13th century.
  • The city had commercial ties with Phoenicians and Ancient Romans, exporting spices, pearls, diamonds, and silk.
  • Kollam is also home to one of the oldest mosques in the Indian subcontinent, believed to be built during the era of Malik Dinar.
  • The Malayalam era (Kollavarsham) is associated with Kollam.
• Geographical Location:
  • Located on the southwestern coast of India, in the state of Kerala.
  • Bounded by the Arabian Sea to the west, Tamil Nadu to the east, Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta districts to the north, and Thiruvananthapuram district to the south.
  • Characterized by a long coastline, a major seaport, and the prominent Ashtamudi Lake.
• Gateway to Backwaters: Kollam is often referred to as the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala, with the Ashtamudi Lake being a major highlight for houseboat tours and eco-resorts.
• Key Industries:
  • Cashew Industry: Kollam has been a center of the cashew industry since the 16th century and remains the largest processed cashew exporter in India.
  • Coir Manufacturing: Known for its coir production.
  • Marine Industry: Supported by fishing harbors and ports like Neendakara and Thangassery.
• Major Tourist Attractions:
  • Jatayu Nature Park: A rock-themed eco-park featuring the world’s largest bird sculpture of Jatayu from the Ramayana, with a 6D theater, cable car, and Ayurvedic cave retreat.
  • Ashtamudi Lake: A massive, multi-branched lake known for its backwater cruises, houseboats, and rich biodiversity.
  • Kollam Beach (Mahatma Gandhi Beach): A scenic beach and the first “Beach Wedding Destination” in Kerala, known for its clear waters, golden sands, and the nearby Mahatma Gandhi Park.
  • Thangassery Lighthouse: The second-tallest lighthouse on the Malabar Coast, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and Kollam city, surrounded by colonial ruins.
  • Palaruvi Falls: A stunning 300-foot-tall waterfall nestled in green environs, often called “Stream of Milk.”
  • Munroe Island (Mundrothuruthu): A majestic inland island group at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River, popular for canoeing and tranquil experiences.
  • Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected area in the Western Ghats, named after the endemic Shenkuruny tree, offering opportunities for wildlife sighting and trekking.
  • Kottukkal Cave Temple: An ancient rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nandi, known for its masonry.
  • Sasthamkotta Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Kerala, a primary source of potable water for Kollam.
  • Thenmala: India’s first planned ecotourism destination, offering activities like boating, trekking, and a musical fountain.
  • Thirumullavaram Beach: A calm and serene beach ideal for relaxation, with golden sands and gentle waves.
  • Punalur Suspension Bridge: The oldest motorable bridge in Kerala, a historical attraction known as the “London Bridge of Kerala.”
  • Kollam Adventure Park: Located on the Ashtamudi backwaters, offering various rides, boating options, and hiking trails.
• Activities and Experiences:
  • Houseboat cruises on Ashtamudi Lake.
  • Canoeing and kayaking in the backwaters, particularly around Munroe Island and Paravur.
  • Trekking and wildlife tours in Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Paragliding in nearby Varkala.
  • Visiting historical sites and temples.
  • Enjoying local cuisine, which is primarily based on rice and coconut, with a focus on seafood.
  • Shopping for cashews, spices, and local handicrafts.
• Climate and Tourism Season: Kollam experiences a tropical climate with a generally sunny weather. The monsoon falls from June to September. The ideal tourist season is from August to March.