Kollam
 
KOLLAM
n Area: 2579 Sq. Km
n Population : 2,398,285 (1991 census) 
n Average size of family : 4.29
n Rainfall (Annual): 278 cm

n Altitude: 935 to 2817 m above Sea level
n Climate: Tropical
n Tourist Season: September to March
n Telephone access code: 91 474

  
Located 71 km to the north of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollom the center of the country cashew trading and processing industry. One of the oldest ports on the Malalabar coast, Kollam was once the port of international spice trade. The renowned Ashtamudi Lake, making it the gateway to the magnificent backwaters of Kerala, covers thirty per cent of this historic town. The eight hour boat trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest and most enchanting experience on the backwaters of Kerala. The district also has some interesting historic remnants and a number of temple built in the traditional ornate architectural style.

GETTING THERE & AWAY
 
Air
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram (71 km) 
 
Train 
Kollam is an important railhead of the Southern Railways. (Railway enquiry Ph: 131) 
 
Road
An excellent road network links Kollam to all major towns and , cities in Kerala. 
 
Ferry services
The ferry station is adjacent to the central bus station (3 km from the railway station). 
 
Public utility services

  • KSRTC, Central Bus Stn. Ph: 752008·
     

  • Railway (enquiry) Ph: 131
     

  • Head Post Office, Chinnakkada Ph: 746607
     

  • Speed Post Counter, Chinnakkada Ph: 742355
      

  • Telegraph Office, Chinnakkada Ph: 740817
      

  • Rail Mail Service, Railway Stn, Kollam Ph: 742049
      

  •  Cantonment Post Office, Near Railway Stn. Ph: 748995