Bangalore to Kollam Road Trip: Backwaters, Beaches & Heritage Vibes

Welcome to Kollam, one of Kerala’s oldest ports, famous for its stunning backwaters, uncrowded beaches, cashew trade, and spiritual heritage. Located along the Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. A road trip from Bangalore to Kollam is a gateway to southern Kerala's peaceful and scenic charm.

Route Details

By Road:

• Distance: Approx. 715–735 km
• Driving Time: 11–12 hours
• Suggested Route:
• Bangalore → Salem → Madurai → Rajapalayam → Tenkasi → Punalur → Kollam
• (Scenic ghats via NH44 & SH39 – recommended for nature lovers)

Alternate Highway Route:

Bangalore → Salem → Coimbatore → Palakkad → Thrissur → Alappuzha → Kollam

(via NH544 and NH66 – longer but smoother roads)

By Train or Flight:

• Nearest Railway Station: Kollam Junction – well-connected across Kerala
• Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (around 70 km from Kollam)

Places to Cover on the Way:

• Tenkasi & Punalur: Stunning views, waterfalls, and hill sections
• Thenmala: Eco-tourism destination, perfect for a mid-way adventure stop
• Kuttalam Falls (Courtallam): Popular monsoon waterfall in Tamil Nadu en route

Best Time to Visit:

• October to March: Pleasant weather for backwaters, beach stays, and sightseeing
• June to September: Lush monsoon season with light rain — ideal for photography
• April–May: Hot and humid; suitable for budget travelers and indoor cultural visits

Attractions and Activities in Kollam

Backwaters & Lakes:

• Ashtamudi Lake: Second largest lake in Kerala; houseboat cruises, birdwatching, and village life
• Munroe Island: Serene island village famous for canal cruises and kayaking
• Alumkadavu: Origin of traditional kettuvallam (houseboats)
• Sasthamkotta Lake: Largest freshwater lake in Kerala, a peaceful detour from city bustle

Beaches:

• Thirumullavaram Beach: Quiet and ideal for long walks or sunrise views
• Kollam Beach: Family-friendly with a children’s park and lighthouse
• Paravur Beach: Where backwater meets the sea – perfect for photos
• Tangasseri Beach: Features colonial-era ruins and a historic lighthouse

Historical & Spiritual Places:

• Thangassery Light House: 144 ft tall and offers panoramic views of the coastline
• Rameshwara Temple: Ancient temple with mural art and elephant idol
• Sree Mahaganapathy Temple, Kottarakara: A prominent Ganesha temple nearby
• Thevally Palace: Colonial-era palace by the lake with scenic surroundings

Eco & Adventure:

• Thenmala Ecotourism (nearby): India’s first planned eco-tourism project with biking, boating, canopy walks
• Adventure Kayaking & Canoeing: Available in Munroe Island and Ashtamudi

Local Cuisine and Dining:

• Must Try: Cashew-based sweets, seafood curry meals, Malabar biryani
• Specialties: Karimeen fry, Appam with stew, tapioca with fish
• Top Restaurants: Ramees, All Spice Restaurant, Hotel Prasanthi

Accommodation Options:

• Houseboats on Ashtamudi Lake
• Resorts in Munroe Island and lakeside stays
• Budget hotels and heritage homestays near Kollam town or Thangassery

Safety and Travel Tips:

• Roads through the hills near Punalur and Thenmala are scenic but narrow – drive carefully
• Book houseboats and lake-view rooms in advance, especially during peak season
• Respect temple customs – traditional attire may be required for entry

Budgeting:

• Fuel: ₹4000–₹5000 round trip
• Accommodation: ₹1000–₹8000/night (budget stays to premium lake resorts)
• Food: ₹400–₹700/day
• Activities: Boating (₹600–₹2000 depending on duration), eco-park tickets ₹50–₹100

Personal Experience:

Kollam feels like a slow-motion version of life — where houseboats move gently on still waters, where locals greet you with a smile, and coconut trees dance in the breeze. It’s a destination that calms your senses and lets you truly disconnect.

Photo Highlights:

• Canoeing through narrow canals at Munroe Island
• A golden sunset at Thirumullavaram Beach
• View from Thangassery Lighthouse
• Traditional kettuvallam gliding on Ashtamudi Lake

Responsible Travel:

• Choose eco-certified houseboats and local homestays
• Don’t litter beaches or water bodies — carry waste bags
• Support village-based tourism in Munroe Island & Thenmala

Contact Us:

Planning a relaxed escape or a backwater drive?

T2TClub can arrange your travel group, carpooling, stays, and houseboat bookings from Bangalore to Kollam.