Kollam - The City of Cashews and Coir Kollam, best known by its anglicized name Quilon, is a city famed

for its commer ce and culture. As a coastal city lying on the shores of Ashtamudi Lake and as t he headquarters of Kollam district, it contributed massively to the culture and economy of Kerala in myriad ways. History has evidences for the large trade netw ork Kollam had in ancient times with China, Rome and the Middle East. The city h ad internal commercial links with other parts of India and later became one of t he earliest industrial centers. Today Kollam is globally known as the largest pr oducer and exporter of premium quality cashew nuts and is locally referred to as the City of Cashews. The thriving coir manufacturing industry has given the cit y a facelift as one of the major hub of cottage industries. hriving Cultures The city of Kollam has a long trail of culture for it was a learning center and cultural hub in ancient times. Scholars from all over south India are believed t o have visited this place due to the cultural prominence it acquired. It had mad e significant contributions in the field of literature as well: Leelethilakam an d Unnuneeli Sandesam, two groundbreaking works of the fourteenth century Malayal am literature hailed from this city of letters. Kathakali, the unique dance form of Kerala, took a new shape with the efforts of Kottarakkara Thampuram. Many great scholars and writers including K.C.Kesava Pi llai, Paravoor Kesavan Asan and E.V.Krishna Pillai emerged from Kollam making th is region popular both within Kerala and outside. A Feast of Festivals Kollam is home plenty of festivals and celebrations that attract millions of tra velers every year. The Crafts Festival, held annually during December- January, showcases the creations of craftsmen from all over India. The city is widely kno wn for the boat races and elephant festivals which serve as a visual treat to sp ectators. Ashtami Rohini, Onam and Vishu are celebrated in Kollam with great fervor. Oachi rakali (fencing-fight) is held annually during the month of June and attracts tr avelers with its uniqueness. Maramadi Malsaram (Ox Race Carnival), Kollam Pooram , Parippalli Gajamela, Anayadi Elephant Pageantry and Panmana Pooram are the oth er major festivities of the region that have gained attention from all over the country. A Matchless Sightseeing Experience Kollam attracts travelers all round the year with its wide variety of sightseein g options. Kollam Beach, Thangassery Beach, Adventure Park and Thirumullavaram B each provide visitors with leisure that knows no boundaries. Ashtamudi Backwater s, Munroe Island, Neendakara Port, Alumkadavu Boat Building Yard and Sasthamcott a Lake abound with the beauty and wonders of the water. Rameshwara Temple, Achencoil and Mayyanad are the other important sightseeing at tractions and have historical significance as well. Amritapuri Ashram, a pilgrim center for the devotees of Matha Amritanandamayi Devi, draws millions of visito rs every year. Aryankavu, Chavara, Kottarakkara, Oachira and Karunagappally are prominent cultural as well as religious centers of the region. Fantastic Flavors and Welcoming Weather The city of Kollam is best known for its sea food. There are a good number of re staurants in and around the area where travelers can taste the authentic marine

flavors of Kerala including fish, crabs, prawns and squids. The city is well con nected by road and rail since it shares its borders with Thiruvananthapuram, Pat hanamthitta and Alappuzha districts. The climate in the region is pleasant almos t around the year, and the monsoon showers add to the region s emerald beauty. Kol lam has a number of market places for those who want to carry a bit of the city back home. With its unique history, excellent climate, wide array of sightseeing options and flawless flavors, Kollam offers a dream holiday to those who seek a different experience.