Positioned at 71 kms to the north of Thiruvananthapuram, the town of Kollam is the hub of the country�s cashew trading and processing industry. In fact it was the hub of international spice trade and even till today it is a flourishing commercial centre. Kollam stands along the famous Astamudi Lake. Many foreign explorers and historians have visited Kollam at various points of time in India�s history. Kollam was one of the earlier centres of Christian activity in Kerala. The soaring popularity of Kollam has been actually established by the scenic beauty, the historical biases attached to it and the culture of the people. The several tourist attractions in Kollam will charm its visitors completely.

Constructed in 1902, the 144 feet Thangassery Lighthouse is a centre of tourist interest in Kollam. The Ananda Valleeswaram Temple is another of the several tourist attractions of Kollam that draw several people throughout the year. There are also quite a few Churches and Mosques around Kollam. The Pullichira Church was built in 1700 A.D. One of the most ancient and major mosques in Kollam is the Chinnakkada Palli. The Thangal Kunju Musaliar College of Engineering, the first of its kind in Kerala, is situated at Kilikolloor, at approximately 7 km east of Kollam town.

Mahatma Gandhi Beach and park at Kochupilamoodu, Thirumullavaram Beach and Ashramam picnic village are some of the major places of local sightseeing. Mahatma Gandhi Beach is located barely 2 km from Kollam and Thirumullavaram Beach is located at 5 km from Kollam. Swimming and bathing are the most engaging activities to be undertaken here. Ashramam picnic village is situated within the 48-acre Guest House Complex.

The children�s Traffic and Entertainment Park, planned by NATPAC, is also worth visiting in Kollam and is in fact one of eth most visited Kollam tourist attarctions. It is actually the largest traffic park in Kerala. The Adventure Park, set in Kollam village along the coast of the Astamudi backwaters, is an innovative experiment in the country. Various kinds of boats like luxury cruise boats, powerboats and motorboats are available on rental basis from the boat jetty near the Adventure Park.

Log on to www.touristplacesinindia.com which gives online information on the tourist attractions in Kollam on your tour to Kerala India.