Kollam, the headquarters to the Kollam District, is Kerala in a nutshell. From the emerald backwaters to the gurgling palm fringed rivers, golden sea beaches, you can find all of what Kerala stands for to the tourists in Kollam. Kollam is located 71 km to the north of the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. Kollam was formerly known as "Desinganadu" during the rule of the Travancore kings in southern Kerala. Kollam was then the focal point of trade. Kollam is still a haven of cashew cultivation as is a part of the extensive spice plantation in Kerala. The Ashtamudi Lake on the backwaters is also quite a tourism magnet. Kollam is thus now an important tourist destination famous for its exotic beauty. The hotels in Kollam come in a large variety both in terms of rates and the facilities provided. Kollam offers lodging facilities for tourists of all classes welcoming them to explore the serene beauty of the place.
