Kollam previously known as Quilon in Kerala, India is an ancient port located on the edge of the Ashthamudi Lake. Traders visited Kollam in ancient times from lands as far away as Phoenicia, Arabia, Greece, Rome and China. In more recent times the Portuguese established a trading post at Kollam, after which the Dutch and British set up their factories to export spices, sandalwood, ivory and coir. Kollam is also a beautiful destination and a gateway to the Kerala backwaters. You can see the tourist attractions of Kollam on Kerala tours with Kerala Backwater.

The backwaters of Kollam are a great way to observe nature flourishing in its best form here. The shores are lined with many trees and provides shelter to many exotic birds like cuckoos, egrets, ducks, etc. that come out in the water for an occasional swim. The water is a natural habitat for water plants like water lilies and lotus that add charm to the meandering waterways. There are small restaurants lined up on the shores where you can stop and have a taste of local cuisine.

The historic Thangasseri Fort is near Kollam. The ruins of a Portuguese Fort and churches that were constructed in the 18th century, Thangasseri is a remnant of the historic Portuguese presence in Kerala. The 144 feet high lighthouse at Thangasseri is open to visitors and provides fabulous views of the sea and the coast of Kollam in Kerala. See the attractions of Kollam on tours of Kollam while on Kerala Tours with Kerala Backwater.