Kollam, also known as Quilon, is a coastal city in Kerala rich in history, backwaters, beaches, and cultural landmarks. From serene lakes and beaches to historic temples and scenic hillocks, the city offers a variety of options for one-day getaways. Here’s a detailed guide to the Top 21 Weekend Getaways from Kollam, complete with reasons to visit, major attractions, best times, and dining recommendations.
1. Ashtamudi Lake
Why You Should Visit:
Located within Kollam, Ashtamudi Lake is the second-largest lake in Kerala and a hub for backwater tourism.
Major Attractions:
- Houseboat Cruises: Explore the tranquil backwaters.
- Fishing Villages: Witness traditional village life along the lake.
- Munroe Island: Known for its scenic beauty and narrow canals.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to evening (6:00 AM – 5:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- The Riverside Restaurant: Known for seafood.
- Keraleeyam Café: Offers authentic Kerala meals.
2. Kollam Beach
Why You Should Visit:
Located 5 km from Kollam city, Kollam Beach is a serene destination for a relaxing day.
Major Attractions:
- Lighthouse: Climb to the top for panoramic views.
- Beach Activities: Perfect for evening walks and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning or evening (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Seashells Restaurant: Famous for seafood.
- Beachside Café: Offers snacks and beverages.
3. Munroe Island
Why You Should Visit:
Located 15 km from Kollam, Munroe Island is a network of eight small islands known for its pristine backwaters.
Major Attractions:
- Canoe Rides: Navigate through narrow canals and lush greenery.
- Birdwatching: Spot exotic bird species.
- Coir Making Units: Learn about traditional coir production.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to afternoon (6:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Munroe Island Café: Offers local Kerala meals.
- Island Retreat Dhaba: Serves tea and light snacks.
4. Thenmala Eco-Tourism
Why You Should Visit:
Located 65 km from Kollam, Thenmala is India’s first planned eco-tourism destination.
Major Attractions:
- Adventure Zone: Try activities like zip-lining and mountain biking.
- Sculpture Garden: An artistic display amidst natural surroundings.
- Butterfly Park: Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to afternoon (7:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Eco Café: Known for light meals.
- Green Retreat Dhaba: Offers vegetarian meals.
5. Palaruvi Waterfalls
Why You Should Visit:
Located 75 km from Kollam, Palaruvi Waterfalls is one of Kerala’s most beautiful cascades.
Major Attractions:
- Natural Pools: Enjoy a refreshing dip.
- Trekking Trails: Explore the surrounding forested area.
Best Time to Visit:
- Monsoon and post-monsoon mornings (July to December) (6:00 AM – 12:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Falls View Café: Offers snacks and tea.
- Forest Retreat Dhaba: Known for Kerala thalis.
6. Jatayu Earth’s Center
Why You Should Visit:
Located 40 km from Kollam, this is a unique park centered around the world’s largest bird sculpture.
Major Attractions:
- Jatayu Sculpture: A magnificent 200-foot-long sculpture.
- Adventure Park: Activities like zip-lining and rock climbing.
- Cable Car Ride: Scenic views from above.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to afternoon (7:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Jatayu Café: Serves snacks and beverages.
- Rockside Restaurant: Known for Kerala meals.
7. Thangassery Lighthouse
Why You Should Visit:
Located 5 km from Kollam, this 144-year-old lighthouse is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Major Attractions:
- Lighthouse Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Arabian Sea.
- Thangassery Beach: A peaceful spot for a stroll.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning or evening (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Thangassery Dhaba: Known for seafood dishes.
- Beacon Café: Offers snacks and light meals.
8. Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
Why You Should Visit:
Located 66 km from Kollam, this sanctuary is part of the Western Ghats and offers a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
Major Attractions:
- Nature Trails: Guided treks through dense forests.
- Wildlife Spotting: See elephants, leopards, and birds.
Best Time to Visit:
- Winter mornings (November – February) (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Sanctuary Café: Known for light meals.
- Forest Dhaba: Offers Kerala-style meals.
9. Pathanapuram
Why You Should Visit:
Located 35 km from Kollam, Pathanapuram is a small town known for its serene environment.
Major Attractions:
- Maloor Temple: A historic Hindu temple.
- Punnala River: A tranquil spot for a picnic.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to afternoon (7:00 AM – 1:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Village Café: Serves local Kerala dishes.
- River Retreat Dhaba: Known for tea and snacks.
10. Sasthamkotta Lake
Why You Should Visit:
Located 25 km from Kollam, Sasthamkotta Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala.
Major Attractions:
- Scenic Views: Enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
- Birdwatching: Spot migratory birds.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to evening (6:00 AM – 5:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Lake View Café: Offers snacks and tea.
- Sasthamkotta Retreat Dhaba: Known for Kerala thalis.
11. Kulathupuzha
Why You Should Visit:
Located 60 km from Kollam, Kulathupuzha is a quaint village surrounded by forests and known for its spiritual and natural beauty.
Major Attractions:
- Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple: Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
- Kallada River: A serene spot for picnics and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to afternoon (6:00 AM – 1:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Temple Bhojanalaya: Known for vegetarian meals.
- Forest Retreat Café: Serves light snacks and tea.
12. Alappuzha (Alleppey)
Why You Should Visit:
Located 85 km from Kollam, Alappuzha is a backwater paradise and the “Venice of the East.”
Major Attractions:
- Houseboat Cruises: A relaxing ride through the serene backwaters.
- Alappuzha Beach: Perfect for evening walks.
- St. Mary’s Forane Church: A historic church with beautiful architecture.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to evening (6:00 AM – 5:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Halais Restaurant: Famous for Malabar dishes.
- Harbour Café: Known for seafood.
13. Kayamkulam
Why You Should Visit:
Located 40 km from Kollam, Kayamkulam is known for its scenic backwaters and historical sites.
Major Attractions:
- Krishnapuram Palace: A 16th-century palace housing murals and artifacts.
- Kayamkulam Lake: Ideal for boating and birdwatching.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to early afternoon (7:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Palace View Restaurant: Offers Kerala meals.
- Kayal Retreat Café: Known for snacks and tea.
14. Varkala Beach
Why You Should Visit:
Located 45 km from Kollam, Varkala Beach is a serene destination with dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Major Attractions:
- Papanasam Beach: Believed to have holy waters.
- Cliffside Cafés: Enjoy stunning views while dining.
- Janardanaswamy Temple: A historic temple nearby.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to evening (6:00 AM – 5:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Darjeeling Café: Offers international cuisine.
- Coffee Temple: Known for coffee and snacks.
15. Achankovil River and Temple
Why You Should Visit:
Located 75 km from Kollam, this destination combines natural beauty with spiritual significance.
Major Attractions:
- Achankovil Temple: Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa with unique medicinal waters.
- Riverbanks: Perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to early afternoon (6:00 AM – 1:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Temple Bhojanalaya: Serves vegetarian meals.
- River View Dhaba: Offers Kerala snacks and beverages.
16. Pathanamthitta
Why You Should Visit:
Located 70 km from Kollam, Pathanamthitta is known as the “Headquarters of Pilgrimage Tourism” in Kerala.
Major Attractions:
- Aranmula Temple: Famous for the Aranmula Boat Race.
- Handicrafts Village: Explore traditional Kerala crafts.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to early afternoon (7:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Aranmula Café: Known for Kerala meals.
- Pathanamthitta Thattukada: Offers snacks and tea.
17. Kottarakkara
Why You Should Visit:
Located 30 km from Kollam, Kottarakkara is known for its cultural and historical significance.
Major Attractions:
- Ganapathy Temple: A famous temple for Lord Ganesha devotees.
- Kathakali Museum: Explore the art form’s history.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to afternoon (7:00 AM – 1:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Temple Town Dhaba: Offers vegetarian meals.
- Cultural Café: Known for snacks and tea.
18. Paravur Lake
Why You Should Visit:
Located 20 km from Kollam, Paravur Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake merging with the Arabian Sea.
Major Attractions:
- Boating: Explore the calm waters.
- Estuary Views: Witness the confluence of the lake and sea.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to afternoon (6:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Lake View Café: Offers seafood.
- Paravur Retreat Dhaba: Known for traditional Kerala meals.
19. Mannarashala Temple
Why You Should Visit:
Located 70 km from Kollam, Mannarashala is a unique temple dedicated to serpent worship.
Major Attractions:
- Serpent Shrine: A rare cultural and spiritual experience.
- Forest Surroundings: Peaceful and green environment.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to early afternoon (6:00 AM – 1:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Temple Dhaba: Serves simple vegetarian meals.
- Mannarashala Café: Offers snacks and tea.
20. Sasthamcotta Church
Why You Should Visit:
Located 25 km from Kollam, Sasthamcotta Church is a historic church offering a serene atmosphere.
Major Attractions:
- Church Architecture: Admire the beautiful design.
- Peaceful Surroundings: Perfect for meditation and prayer.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning to noon (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Churchside Dhaba: Known for light snacks.
- Faith Café: Offers Kerala-style meals.
21. Eravipuram Beach
Why You Should Visit:
Located 15 km from Kollam, Eravipuram Beach is a lesser-known gem with serene surroundings.
Major Attractions:
- Sunset Views: Ideal for photography.
- Peaceful Shoreline: Perfect for a quiet retreat.
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM).
Restaurants Nearby:
- Seaside Café: Offers snacks and tea.
- Beach Retreat Dhaba: Known for local meals.
Conclusion
Kollam’s central location makes it the perfect base for exploring Kerala’s diverse attractions, from serene beaches and tranquil backwaters to historical landmarks and spiritual retreats. These 21 weekend getaways offer something for everyone, whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration. Use this guide to plan your trips and savor the recommended dining options for a delightful experience. Happy exploring!