Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 149

Ashtamudi Backwaters
Spread across a large area of Kollam

Ashtamudi: Much have been said and volumes have been written about
the beauty of the world renowned Ashtamudi Back water system, a placid
waterscape spread across a large area of Kollam and literally means 8
locks of hair for its eight branches extending deep into the country side
making the land very fertile with the aluvial soil and easily accessible by
inland water ways besides gifting an abundance of tasty fresh water fishes.
It is never out of place or superfluous to reiterate the magnetic charm and
charisma of the Ashtamudi Backwaters that draws thousands of tourists
year after year to this gifted land from all corners of the world; she relaxes
you deeply from within, exhilarates your senses and fills your heart with
tranquility, certainly a delightful experience by itself, never affordable to
miss. The eight hour long enchantment offered by the Backwater Boat
Cruise from Kollam to Alappuzha is an experience beyond description and
is the prime attraction in the Kerala Tourism Circuit among the International
Tourists. Kollam DTPC organizes many cruises to explore the charm of
backwaters. It includes visit to Panmana Beach, Coir making unit, house
building yard at Alumkadavu etc.
Mayyanad: (10 km south of Kollam town) Mayyanad is known for its temples
and shrines. Umayanalloor Subrah-manya Temple is the most famous
one. Sree Sankaracharya the Advaita (non-duality) philosopher is said to
have consecrated this temple.
Sasthamkotta: (29 km from Kollam town) The ancient Sastha Temple that
lends its name to the town, is an important pilgrim centre. The vast
fresh water lake surrounded by hills on three sides is the largest of its
kind in Kerala.
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TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS|KOLLAM