Kollam Backwaters In Kerala
Located 71 km to the north of Thiruvananthapuram, this historic coastline district known for its marine and cashew industries was one of the oldest ports on the Malabar coast and a major international trading point in days gone by. The district also has some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the traditional ornate architectural style. Around 30% of this historic town is covered by the renowned Ashtamudi Lake, making it the gateway to the magnificent Backwaters of Kerala. Backwaters A picturesque town standing on the banks of the Lake Ashtamudi is the gateway to the exceeding beautiful backwaters of Kerala. The long 8 hrs boat trip from Kollam to Alleppey is the best and most comprehensive introduction to the delights of Kerala's backwaters as one passes through lakes, canals water-bound villages. The famous "Cheenavala" or Chinese fishing nets can also be seen along the backwaters. Alumkadavu: Located about 23 kilometers from Kollam. Alumkadavu is halfway on the route to Alappuzha from Kollam. This quiet little backwater village in Karunagappally town is famed for its boat building yard. It is here that the gigantic Kettuvallams (cargo boats of rural Kerala) were built. Today the Kettuvallams which were long replaced by modern means of transport, have been converted into houseboats. Along the vast expanse of the Kayamkulam Lake is the picturesque little village of Alumkadavu. This village is the home of the skilled artisans who crafted the enormous Kettuvallams in yester years. The Ashtamudi Lake (literally, having eight arms): which covers a major portion of Kollam district in the south, is the second largest and is considered the gateway to the backwaters. The eight hour trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest backwater cruise in Kerala. The splendid town of Kollam on the Ashtamudi Lake is renowned for being the gateway to the beautiful backwaters of Kerala. You may opt for an of the backwater tour and cruise that commence from Kollam. The backwater tour from Kollam to Alappuzha is the longest cruise in Kerala. Do not forget to catch on the cashews on your tour to Kollam. |
