Kollam,Kerala
Quilon (also Kollam) is situated in the southwest corner of India in the state of Kerala. The district is encircled by Alappuzha in the north, Pathanamthitta in the northeast, Thiruvananthapuram in the south, Tirunelveli (Tamilnadu) in the east, and the Arabian Sea in the west.
Kollam pronounced as koy-lon) is a city in the Indian state of Kerala. The city is situated about 71 kilometres (44 mi) north of the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram. It is the headquarters of the Kollam district. Kollam is the fourth largest city in Kerala and is known for cashew processing and coir manufacturing. The city lies on the shores of Ashtamudi Lake. It is the southern gateway to the Kerala Backwaters of Kerala and is a prominent tourist destination.
The Malayalam calendar, or Kollavarsham, was created in Kollam at meetings held in the city in 825 CE. The name Kollam is believed to have been derived from the Sanskrit word Kollam, meaning pepper.The Malayalam calendar, or Kollavarsham, was created in Kollam at meetings held in the city in 825 CE. The name Kollam is believed to have been derived from the Sanskrit word Kollam, meaning pepper.
Kollam was formerly called Quilon and Tarsish. During the rule of the Travancore monarchy in southern Kerala, Kollam was the focal point of trade. Today, Kollam is a major business and commercial centre in the central Travancore region of Kerala.
Tourist Attraction in and around Kollam
1. Thangassery beach & Light House
Thangassery Beach, located 5 km from Kollam in a seaside village of historical importance, is one of the major attractions to visit. Near the beach are the leftovers of the Old Portuguese Fort and churches built in the 18th century. However, the 144 m high Thangassery lighthouse, built in 1902, remains the centre of attraction and is open to visitors every day. Water sports, like scuba diving, parasailing, fishing, and catamaran riding are also present to delight adventure lovers.
2. Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi, derived from 'Ashta' meaning 'Eight' and 'Mudi' meaning 'Branch', is a lake known for merging of eight backwaters. In the 14th century AD, the Ashtamudi Lake was considered one of the five important ports used for Chinese trade. Today, it is known as the stairway to heavenly backwaters of Kerala and is a hub of houseboat cruises. The scenic beauty, coupled with sightings of animals, birds, and butterflies attracts thousands of visitors year around.
3. Police Museum
Sardar Vallabhai Patel Museum situated in Kollam district is a one-of-a-kind in India. The museum displays the developments of the police force in our country. Arms and ammunitions used in the 18th and 19th centuries - various guns, bullets, machines, and other weapons are to be spotted here. Apart from this, the museum houses various details and charts about the fingerprints, DNA tests, snaps, and medals awarded to policemen.
4. Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum
Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum, located in the Kollam district, was established in the memory of the father of Kathakali, Kottarakkara Thampuran. Dedicated to the popular art form Kathakali, various models of it, like costumes, ornaments, musical equipments, sculptures, and many other things are kept here on display.
5. Sasthamkotta Lake
Sasthamkotta Lake, situated 19 km from Kollam in the beautiful village of Sasthamkotta, is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala and serves the drinking water needs of about half a million people of the Kollam district. Surrounded by hills on all sides, Kollam is home to the popular Sasthamkotta Dharmasastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, which serves as an important pilgrim centre drawing many devotees on a daily basis.
6. Neendakara
About 8 km north of Kollam, Neendakara is the headquarters of Indo-Norwegian Fisheries Community Project, established in 1953. The boat building yards at Sakthikulangara, the fishermen's training institute, the ice factory, and the refrigeration plant are the important institutions that come under this project. Also, located here is the hub of fishing activities, the Neendakara port.
7. Punalur
Situated 45 km north of Kollam, Punalur is the second largest town of the district and is one of the important industrial towns in Kerala. The 400-feet long concrete suspension bridge, built in 1877 by Albert Henry across the Kallada River, is the only one of its kind in the entire South India.
8. Alumkadavu Backwaters
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Located about just 23 km from Kollam along the lakeside of Kollam-Alappuzha National Waterway is an ideal place to take a quiet and relaxing houseboat cruise with blue green stretches of backwaters and breezy green expanse of coconut and palm groves. And with hundreds of artisans seen working together to build a traditional houseboat, it is one of the definite places to pay a visit!
9. Mayyanad Village
Mayyanad is a beautiful village, situated 10 km south of Kollam District along the banks of Paravur Lake and along the coastal line of Arabian Sea. The village is an important fishing as well as pilgrim centre with several temples and shrines like Umayanallor, dedicated to Lord Subramanian, Valiyavila Temple, three churches, and a mosque. The shrine is said to have been consecrated by the great Hindu philosopher Sree Shankaracharya of Kaladi.
10. Thenmala
Boating, trekking, mountaineering, cycling, butterfly safari, gardens, musical dancing fountain, and sculpture garden - all packed in one fabulous destination, Thenmala. Thenmala is the first planned eco-tourism destination of India and attracts locals and foreign tourists alike. However, a tree house stay in the deer rehabilitation centre that's nearby is the focal point of places to be at.
11. Kollam Backwaters
Kollam is famous for its beautiful backwaters and a boat ride through the meandering lagoons and rivers is sure to be a mind-blowing experience.
12. Adventure Park
This delightful amusement park is located near the Kollam bus stand and never fails to amuse kids and adults alike.
13. Ariankavu Pilgrimage
This popular pilgrim center is located at some distance from Kollam, yet is worth the visit. The temple holds its annual festival in December and is a grand spectacle to watch out for.
14. Mahatma Gandhi Beach
This beautiful beach is located just 2 kilometers from Kollam and is a fascinating place for taking long walks along the seashore. The sea is calm over here, which makes it ideal for bathing, and swimming.
15. Palaruvi Waterfalls
The Palaruvi waterfalls are a series of beautiful rapids, cascading through steep heights and falling down below to make a shallow pool. The water over here is almost white in color giving an impression that it is milk instead of water.
16. Picnic Village
The Picnic Village is located at Ashramam, along the backwater front and is the main centre of recreational activities in Kollam. The tourist complex has a 200 year old Government Guest House, an Adventure Park, a Tourist Boat Club, a Children’s Traffic Park and a Yatri Niwas.
The rulers of Kollam (Desinganadu) and China, exchange embassies and there was flourishing Chinese settlement at Kollam. Merchant Sulaiman of Siraf in Persia (9th Century) found Kollam to be the only port in India, touched by the huge Chinese junks, on his way from Carton of Persian Gulf. Marco Polo, the great Venician traveller, who was in Chinese service under Kublahan in 1275, visited Kollam and other towns on the west coast, in his capacity as a Chinese mandarin.
The Portuguese were the first Europeans to establish a trading center at Kollam in 1502. Then came the Dutch followed by the British in 1795. A British garrison was stationed at Kollam in pursuance of a treaty between Travancore and the British.
Velu Thampi Dalawa of Travancore, did much for the improvement of the Kollam town. He build new bazaars and invited merchants from Madras and Thirunelveli to settle here. Kollam later became the capital of the enlightened and liberal rulers of Desinganad.
Once a city of palaces, Kollam has been known to the outside world, by the time honoured proverb, "Once you have seen Kollam you would no more need your illam (Home)".
The history of the district as an administrative unit can be traced back to 1835, when the Travancore state consisted of two revenue divisions with headquarters at Kollam and Kottayam. At the time of the integrating of Travancore and Cochin in 1949, Kollam was one of the three revenue divisions in the state. These three revenue divisions were converted into districts. Shencottah taluk was merged with Madras state consequent on the implementation of the state Reorganisation Act of 1956.
Two rivers Kallada and Ithikkara flows through this District. The Sasthamcotta lake, the only major fresh water lake in the state is in Kollam District.
The Ashtamudi lake (literally, having eight arms) 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.
According to Government of Kerala estimates 81,438 hectares (314.43 sq mi) of land is under forest cover, mainly in the eastern portion of the district (including the Thenmala, Punalur and a portion of the Achencoil forest divisions). The Thenmala Range, Aryankavu Range and Shendurney Sanctuary comprise the Thenmala division and the Achencoil, Kallar and Kanayar Ranges make up the Achencoil division. The Pathanapuram and Anchal Ranges constitute the Punalur division.
The Shenduruny wildlife sanctuary, 66 kilometres (41 mi) from Kollam, is situated on the southern part of the Western Ghats (8°50' and 8°55'N; 77°5'and 77°15'E) in the Pathanapuram taluk of the district.The name "Shenduruny" is derived from the name of a tree species locally called "Shenkuruny" or "Chenkuruny" (Gluta travancorica), a tree mainly found in this area. An artificial lake of about 26 square kilometres (10 sq mi) has developed following construction of a dam across the Kulathupuzha River. Remnants of Stone Age culture from a large cave situated at the northwestern part of the Shenduruny River was excavated from this sanctuary. These remains belong to the Mesolithic period.
This tropical rain forest has a wide variety of wildlife, and some endangered species are found here. Species found in the sanctuary include bonnet and lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langur, gaur (or Indian bison), sambar deer, muntjac (or barking deer), Indian Spotted Chevrotain (or mouse deer), wild boar, Indian elephant and different species of squirrels, such as the Indian giant and Indian palm squirrels.
The maximum summer temperature recorded in Kollam is 34°C and the minimum temperature recorded during the winters is 21°C. Because of the city's close proximity to the Arabian Sea, the disparity between the summer and winter temperatures are moderated. Summer months in Kollam last from March to May. The cool sea breeze from the Arabian Sea has casts a soothing effect over Kollam. The average rainfall in Kollam city varies between 1100 mm to 1500 mm per annum.
The humidity in Kollam city is approximately 90% during the rainy months. Kollam experiences rainfall during the months of October and November from the north east monsoons. It gradually fades away by the end of November. South west monsoons descend over Kollam in the month of June and drags till September. Winter rains are common phenomena in Kollam climate. It receives a considerable amount of rainfall from the retreating monsoons. The city is one of the 'wet spots' of Kerala.
The dry weather in Kollam sets in at the beginning of December and lasts till the month of February. December, January and February are the winter months, whereas March, April and May are hot and humid. The best time to visit Kollam is between the months of November to March.
The pleasant climate of Kollam attracts thousands of tourists to this exotic sea side resort.
Paravoor K.C.Kesava Pillai, a gifted poet, prose writer, dramatist and Scholar, originated the musical play in Malayalam through his work Sadarama. His Kesaveeyam, a Mahakavyam, is of outstanding literary importance. In the history of Malayalam music, he has a prominent place as a gifted composer of songs. Paravoor Kesavan Asan, the founder editor of Sujananandini, another prominent literacy figure, was a journalist and a prose writer of eloquence. His Saratchadrika is a contribution to the study of Ayurvedic system of medicine. E.V.Krishna Pillai, another literacy celebrity has etched his name in the field of humor and satire. C.V.Kunjuraman, editor of Kerala Kaumudi and Malayalarajayam was a poet, literacy critic, prose writer and journalist of outstanding distinction.
Coming to modern times, Elamkulam Kunjan Pillai and Sooranadu Kunjan Pillai, noted literary luminaries hailing from this district. Oyoor Kochu Govinda Pillai, the Katha Kali artist, Paris Viswanathan and Jayapala Panicker the renowned artists also belong to this district.
Leaders like T.M.Varghese, C.Kesavan and Kumbalathu Sanku Pillai, were the architects of freedom movement in Kollam. R.Shanker, who played a prominent role as an educationalist and social reformist, hails from Kolam. The district gave birth to well known freedom fighters like Chandiran Kali ambi (Kadakkal Manthri) and Franco Raghavan Pillai.
The principal crops are paddy, tapioca, coconut, rubber, pepper, banana, mango and cashew. About 70 per cent of the work force is engaged in agriculture.
Coconut gardens extend to about 75,454 hectares. About three hundred and forty three million coconuts are produced every year.
The five major crops: paddy, tapioca, coconut, rubber, pepper - are cultivated in an area of 1,73,847 hectares. Small and marginal farmers constitute more than 95% of the farming community and the average per family holding is 0.21 hectare.
All the 71 Panchayat of the district are covered by separate Krishi Bhavans.
There is an Oil Palm Plantation at Bharatheepuram near Anchal, in an area of 4000 hectares, under the Oil Palm India Ltd., a state government undertaking.
The Rehabilitation Plantations, another State Government undertaking, is located at Kulathupuzha near Thenmala.
Rail : Kollam is an important rail head.
Road : Well connected by roads with other tourist centres.
Quilon (also Kollam) is situated in the southwest corner of India in the state of Kerala. The district is encircled by Alappuzha in the north, Pathanamthitta in the northeast, Thiruvananthapuram in the south, Tirunelveli (Tamilnadu) in the east, and the Arabian Sea in the west.
Kollam pronounced as koy-lon) is a city in the Indian state of Kerala. The city is situated about 71 kilometres (44 mi) north of the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram. It is the headquarters of the Kollam district. Kollam is the fourth largest city in Kerala and is known for cashew processing and coir manufacturing. The city lies on the shores of Ashtamudi Lake. It is the southern gateway to the Kerala Backwaters of Kerala and is a prominent tourist destination.
The Malayalam calendar, or Kollavarsham, was created in Kollam at meetings held in the city in 825 CE. The name Kollam is believed to have been derived from the Sanskrit word Kollam, meaning pepper.The Malayalam calendar, or Kollavarsham, was created in Kollam at meetings held in the city in 825 CE. The name Kollam is believed to have been derived from the Sanskrit word Kollam, meaning pepper.
Kollam was formerly called Quilon and Tarsish. During the rule of the Travancore monarchy in southern Kerala, Kollam was the focal point of trade. Today, Kollam is a major business and commercial centre in the central Travancore region of Kerala.
District Profile
| District Name | Kollam (Quilon) |
| State | Kerala |
| Country | India |
| Area | |
| Population | 25,84,118 (Approx) |
| Rain Fall | 270 cm (annual) |
| Temperature | Min 22.4 °C - Max 36 °C |
| Geographical location | North Latitudes : 9 16′ 48″ N' East Longitudes : 76 16′ 48″ E'. |
| Tourist Seasons | October and March |
| STD Code | 0474 |
District Map
1. Thangassery beach & Light House
Thangassery Beach, located 5 km from Kollam in a seaside village of historical importance, is one of the major attractions to visit. Near the beach are the leftovers of the Old Portuguese Fort and churches built in the 18th century. However, the 144 m high Thangassery lighthouse, built in 1902, remains the centre of attraction and is open to visitors every day. Water sports, like scuba diving, parasailing, fishing, and catamaran riding are also present to delight adventure lovers.2. Ashtamudi Lake
Ashtamudi, derived from 'Ashta' meaning 'Eight' and 'Mudi' meaning 'Branch', is a lake known for merging of eight backwaters. In the 14th century AD, the Ashtamudi Lake was considered one of the five important ports used for Chinese trade. Today, it is known as the stairway to heavenly backwaters of Kerala and is a hub of houseboat cruises. The scenic beauty, coupled with sightings of animals, birds, and butterflies attracts thousands of visitors year around.3. Police Museum
Sardar Vallabhai Patel Museum situated in Kollam district is a one-of-a-kind in India. The museum displays the developments of the police force in our country. Arms and ammunitions used in the 18th and 19th centuries - various guns, bullets, machines, and other weapons are to be spotted here. Apart from this, the museum houses various details and charts about the fingerprints, DNA tests, snaps, and medals awarded to policemen.4. Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum
Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum, located in the Kollam district, was established in the memory of the father of Kathakali, Kottarakkara Thampuran. Dedicated to the popular art form Kathakali, various models of it, like costumes, ornaments, musical equipments, sculptures, and many other things are kept here on display.5. Sasthamkotta Lake
Sasthamkotta Lake, situated 19 km from Kollam in the beautiful village of Sasthamkotta, is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala and serves the drinking water needs of about half a million people of the Kollam district. Surrounded by hills on all sides, Kollam is home to the popular Sasthamkotta Dharmasastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, which serves as an important pilgrim centre drawing many devotees on a daily basis.6. Neendakara
About 8 km north of Kollam, Neendakara is the headquarters of Indo-Norwegian Fisheries Community Project, established in 1953. The boat building yards at Sakthikulangara, the fishermen's training institute, the ice factory, and the refrigeration plant are the important institutions that come under this project. Also, located here is the hub of fishing activities, the Neendakara port.7. Punalur
Situated 45 km north of Kollam, Punalur is the second largest town of the district and is one of the important industrial towns in Kerala. The 400-feet long concrete suspension bridge, built in 1877 by Albert Henry across the Kallada River, is the only one of its kind in the entire South India.8. Alumkadavu Backwaters
Located about just 23 km from Kollam along the lakeside of Kollam-Alappuzha National Waterway is an ideal place to take a quiet and relaxing houseboat cruise with blue green stretches of backwaters and breezy green expanse of coconut and palm groves. And with hundreds of artisans seen working together to build a traditional houseboat, it is one of the definite places to pay a visit!9. Mayyanad Village
Mayyanad is a beautiful village, situated 10 km south of Kollam District along the banks of Paravur Lake and along the coastal line of Arabian Sea. The village is an important fishing as well as pilgrim centre with several temples and shrines like Umayanallor, dedicated to Lord Subramanian, Valiyavila Temple, three churches, and a mosque. The shrine is said to have been consecrated by the great Hindu philosopher Sree Shankaracharya of Kaladi.10. Thenmala
Boating, trekking, mountaineering, cycling, butterfly safari, gardens, musical dancing fountain, and sculpture garden - all packed in one fabulous destination, Thenmala. Thenmala is the first planned eco-tourism destination of India and attracts locals and foreign tourists alike. However, a tree house stay in the deer rehabilitation centre that's nearby is the focal point of places to be at.11. Kollam Backwaters
Kollam is famous for its beautiful backwaters and a boat ride through the meandering lagoons and rivers is sure to be a mind-blowing experience. 12. Adventure Park
This delightful amusement park is located near the Kollam bus stand and never fails to amuse kids and adults alike.
13. Ariankavu Pilgrimage
This popular pilgrim center is located at some distance from Kollam, yet is worth the visit. The temple holds its annual festival in December and is a grand spectacle to watch out for.
14. Mahatma Gandhi Beach
This beautiful beach is located just 2 kilometers from Kollam and is a fascinating place for taking long walks along the seashore. The sea is calm over here, which makes it ideal for bathing, and swimming.
15. Palaruvi Waterfalls
The Palaruvi waterfalls are a series of beautiful rapids, cascading through steep heights and falling down below to make a shallow pool. The water over here is almost white in color giving an impression that it is milk instead of water.
16. Picnic Village
The Picnic Village is located at Ashramam, along the backwater front and is the main centre of recreational activities in Kollam. The tourist complex has a 200 year old Government Guest House, an Adventure Park, a Tourist Boat Club, a Children’s Traffic Park and a Yatri Niwas.
History
Kollam or Quilon, an old sea port town on the Arabian coast, stands on the Ashtamudi lake. Kollam, the erstwhile Desinganadu, had a sustained commercial reputation from the days of the Phoenicians and the Romans. Fed by the Chinese trade, it was regarded by Ibn Batuta, as one of the five ports, which he had seen in the course of his travels during a period of twenty four years, in the 14th century.The rulers of Kollam (Desinganadu) and China, exchange embassies and there was flourishing Chinese settlement at Kollam. Merchant Sulaiman of Siraf in Persia (9th Century) found Kollam to be the only port in India, touched by the huge Chinese junks, on his way from Carton of Persian Gulf. Marco Polo, the great Venician traveller, who was in Chinese service under Kublahan in 1275, visited Kollam and other towns on the west coast, in his capacity as a Chinese mandarin.
The Portuguese were the first Europeans to establish a trading center at Kollam in 1502. Then came the Dutch followed by the British in 1795. A British garrison was stationed at Kollam in pursuance of a treaty between Travancore and the British.
Velu Thampi Dalawa of Travancore, did much for the improvement of the Kollam town. He build new bazaars and invited merchants from Madras and Thirunelveli to settle here. Kollam later became the capital of the enlightened and liberal rulers of Desinganad.
Once a city of palaces, Kollam has been known to the outside world, by the time honoured proverb, "Once you have seen Kollam you would no more need your illam (Home)".
The history of the district as an administrative unit can be traced back to 1835, when the Travancore state consisted of two revenue divisions with headquarters at Kollam and Kottayam. At the time of the integrating of Travancore and Cochin in 1949, Kollam was one of the three revenue divisions in the state. These three revenue divisions were converted into districts. Shencottah taluk was merged with Madras state consequent on the implementation of the state Reorganisation Act of 1956.
Boundaries
Kollam District is situated on the South west coast of kerala. The District is bound on the north by Alappuzha and north east by Pathanamthitta Districts on the east by Thirunelveli District of Tamilnadu, on the South by the Thiruvavanthapuram District and on the west by Arabian sea.Two rivers Kallada and Ithikkara flows through this District. The Sasthamcotta lake, the only major fresh water lake in the state is in Kollam District.
Geography & Location
Kollam district is located on the southwest coast of India, bordering Arabian Sea in the west, the state of Tamil Nadu in the east, Kerala district of Alappuzha in the north, Pathanamthitta in the northeast and Thiruvananthapuram in the south. It covers 2,492 square kilometres (962 sq mi), is the seventh-largest district in Kerala and is densely populated. Sasthamkotta Lake, the only freshwater lake in Kerala, is located in Kollam; this lake provides drinking water to the city of Kollam. Two major rivers (the Kallada and the Ithikkara) drain the district. Ashtamudi Lake and Paravur Kayal are two important lakes in the district. Ashtamudi Lake covers 30 percent of total area of the district. Kollam is located on Ashtamudi Lake, Neendakara, a major fishing port in southern Kerala, is also located on this scenic lake. Edava and Nadayara Lakes are also partly located in Kollam district.Rivers
These two rivers Kallada and Ithikkara flows through this District.
Kallada River
The Kallada river is one of two major rivers that flow through the Kollam District of Kerala, India. It originates in the Western Ghats and travels for 121 km, finally ending at Ashtamudi Lake.Ithikkara River
Ithikkara River is a 56 km long river in Kerala, India. It originates in Ponmudi in Thiruvananthapuram District and flows through Kollam District, finally emptying into Paravur Kayal.Backwaters
Ashthamudi Lake
Situated some 71 km from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram along the coastline of Ashthamudi lake, Kollam is host to some beautiful buildings and structures. The most notable and astoundingly beautiful feature of Kollam is the Ashthamudi lake that covers around 30% of the city. One enjoys a variety of backwater tours offered by the city on this wondrous lake. The eight hour long journey on boat from Kollam to Alappuzha is a must for anyone who visits the fascinating city of Kollam in Kerala, South India.The Ashtamudi lake (literally, having eight arms) 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.
Forest
The area under forest in Kollam district is 81438 ha. and it falls in Thenmala, Punalur and a portion of Achencoil forest division. Thenmala range, Aryankavu range and Shendurney Sanctuary constitutes the Thenmala division. Achencoil range, Kallar range and Kanayar range, make up the Achencoil division while Punalur division includes Pathanapuram and Anchal Ranges. Teak and softwood form the major forest plantations in the district.According to Government of Kerala estimates 81,438 hectares (314.43 sq mi) of land is under forest cover, mainly in the eastern portion of the district (including the Thenmala, Punalur and a portion of the Achencoil forest divisions). The Thenmala Range, Aryankavu Range and Shendurney Sanctuary comprise the Thenmala division and the Achencoil, Kallar and Kanayar Ranges make up the Achencoil division. The Pathanapuram and Anchal Ranges constitute the Punalur division.
The Shenduruny wildlife sanctuary, 66 kilometres (41 mi) from Kollam, is situated on the southern part of the Western Ghats (8°50' and 8°55'N; 77°5'and 77°15'E) in the Pathanapuram taluk of the district.The name "Shenduruny" is derived from the name of a tree species locally called "Shenkuruny" or "Chenkuruny" (Gluta travancorica), a tree mainly found in this area. An artificial lake of about 26 square kilometres (10 sq mi) has developed following construction of a dam across the Kulathupuzha River. Remnants of Stone Age culture from a large cave situated at the northwestern part of the Shenduruny River was excavated from this sanctuary. These remains belong to the Mesolithic period.
This tropical rain forest has a wide variety of wildlife, and some endangered species are found here. Species found in the sanctuary include bonnet and lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langur, gaur (or Indian bison), sambar deer, muntjac (or barking deer), Indian Spotted Chevrotain (or mouse deer), wild boar, Indian elephant and different species of squirrels, such as the Indian giant and Indian palm squirrels.
Climate
The climate of Kollam is essentially tropical. It is characterized by hot and humid summers and plenty of seasonal rainfall. The Arabian Sea, located to the west of Kollam influences the weather of Kollam. It moderates the disparities between the extreme summer and winter temperatures. The maximum summer temperature recorded in Kollam is 34°C and the minimum temperature recorded during the winters is 21°C. Because of the city's close proximity to the Arabian Sea, the disparity between the summer and winter temperatures are moderated. Summer months in Kollam last from March to May. The cool sea breeze from the Arabian Sea has casts a soothing effect over Kollam. The average rainfall in Kollam city varies between 1100 mm to 1500 mm per annum.
The humidity in Kollam city is approximately 90% during the rainy months. Kollam experiences rainfall during the months of October and November from the north east monsoons. It gradually fades away by the end of November. South west monsoons descend over Kollam in the month of June and drags till September. Winter rains are common phenomena in Kollam climate. It receives a considerable amount of rainfall from the retreating monsoons. The city is one of the 'wet spots' of Kerala.
The dry weather in Kollam sets in at the beginning of December and lasts till the month of February. December, January and February are the winter months, whereas March, April and May are hot and humid. The best time to visit Kollam is between the months of November to March.
The pleasant climate of Kollam attracts thousands of tourists to this exotic sea side resort.
Demographics
According to the 2011 census Kollam district has a population of 2,629,703, roughly equal to the nation of Kuwait or the US state of Nevada This gives it a ranking of 155th in India (out of a total of 640 districts).The district has a population density of 1,056 inhabitants per square kilometre (2,740 /sq mi) Its population growth rate over the decade 2001-2011 was 1.72 percent.Kollam has a sex ratio of 1113 females for every 1000 males,and a literacy rate of 93.77 percent.Culture
Kollam, the capital of the erstwhile Venad, was a great centre of learning and culture. It attracted distinguished scholars from all parts of south India. Leelethilakam and Unnuneeli Sandesam, two outstanding literacy works of historical importance, is contributions o0f 14th century Kollam. The dance from of Kathakali in its new version of Ramanattam was the creation of Kottarakkara Thampuran, who also improved Krishnanattam by substituting Malayalam for Sanskrit.Paravoor K.C.Kesava Pillai, a gifted poet, prose writer, dramatist and Scholar, originated the musical play in Malayalam through his work Sadarama. His Kesaveeyam, a Mahakavyam, is of outstanding literary importance. In the history of Malayalam music, he has a prominent place as a gifted composer of songs. Paravoor Kesavan Asan, the founder editor of Sujananandini, another prominent literacy figure, was a journalist and a prose writer of eloquence. His Saratchadrika is a contribution to the study of Ayurvedic system of medicine. E.V.Krishna Pillai, another literacy celebrity has etched his name in the field of humor and satire. C.V.Kunjuraman, editor of Kerala Kaumudi and Malayalarajayam was a poet, literacy critic, prose writer and journalist of outstanding distinction.
Coming to modern times, Elamkulam Kunjan Pillai and Sooranadu Kunjan Pillai, noted literary luminaries hailing from this district. Oyoor Kochu Govinda Pillai, the Katha Kali artist, Paris Viswanathan and Jayapala Panicker the renowned artists also belong to this district.
Leaders like T.M.Varghese, C.Kesavan and Kumbalathu Sanku Pillai, were the architects of freedom movement in Kollam. R.Shanker, who played a prominent role as an educationalist and social reformist, hails from Kolam. The district gave birth to well known freedom fighters like Chandiran Kali ambi (Kadakkal Manthri) and Franco Raghavan Pillai.
Agriculture
The district has a prominent place in the field of agriculture. The total extent of land under cultivation is 2,18,267 hectares. The principal crops are paddy, tapioca, coconut, rubber, pepper, banana, mango and cashew. About 70 per cent of the work force is engaged in agriculture.
Coconut gardens extend to about 75,454 hectares. About three hundred and forty three million coconuts are produced every year.
The five major crops: paddy, tapioca, coconut, rubber, pepper - are cultivated in an area of 1,73,847 hectares. Small and marginal farmers constitute more than 95% of the farming community and the average per family holding is 0.21 hectare.
All the 71 Panchayat of the district are covered by separate Krishi Bhavans.
There is an Oil Palm Plantation at Bharatheepuram near Anchal, in an area of 4000 hectares, under the Oil Palm India Ltd., a state government undertaking.
The Rehabilitation Plantations, another State Government undertaking, is located at Kulathupuzha near Thenmala.
How to Reach
Air : Nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram (71 km) Rail : Kollam is an important rail head.
Road : Well connected by roads with other tourist centres.
