Quilon dates back to the 9th century AD and is one of the oldest ports along the Malabar coast. Phoenician, Persian, Greek, Roman and Arab vessels traded here long before the present-day town was founded. China established trading posts here during the T'ang Dynasty. Tangesseri, with its lighthouse, ruined forts and slumbering Portuguese, English and Dutch cemeteries, lies 2 miles away. Quilon is the starting point of one of the most beautiful inland waterways - 53 miles of backwaters winding under coconut palms all the way to Alleppey, a thriving commercial centre with several canals criss-crossing the town. The town comes alive in August when the colourful Snake Boat Race is held.
Kollam is considered as a leading spice market in the world. The name 'Kollam' is derived from the Sanskrit word Kollam which means pepper. It is believed that the present town area was built by Sapir Iso, a Syrian merchant during 9th century.
It is believed that the first foreign community to settle in Kollam was Chinese and in the past era this place was famous for its palaces and known as the City of Palaces. The district has some interesting historic remnants and temples, having traditional ornate style of architecture.
Kollam is a sighting place for the one who is seeking lagoons, backwaters and beaches. There are various buildings and structures to explore, but the major travel places are temples and mosques. While visiting the temple, women should be in sari while men in dhoti (mundi).
