Here’s a detailed guide to useful local apps and websites for tourists visiting Kollam, Kerala. These apps and websites will help you navigate the city, find information on transportation, accommodations, local services, and explore the best things to do in Kollam.
1. Kerala Tourism Official Website
- Website: www.keralatourism.org
- What to Expect: The official website of Kerala Tourism provides comprehensive information about Kollam and other destinations in Kerala. It includes details on tourist attractions, accommodations, travel tips, cultural experiences, and upcoming events.
- Best For: Planning your trip, exploring tourist destinations, and getting official information about Kollam.
- Features:
- Tourist spots in Kollam
- Suggested itineraries
- Travel and accommodation guides
- Cultural events and festivals
2. Kollam District Official Website
- Website: www.kollam.gov.in
- What to Expect: The official government website of Kollam district provides information on local governance, public services, emergency numbers, tourist information, and more.
- Best For: Learning about the administration, local events, and finding official contacts.
- Features:
- Local news and announcements
- District administration details
- Government services
- Tourism and emergency services
3. Sree Krishna Taxi (Local Taxi Booking App)
- App: Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store
- What to Expect: Sree Krishna Taxi is a local taxi booking service in Kollam. The app allows you to easily book a ride around the city. It provides a safe and reliable transportation option for tourists, especially those unfamiliar with the area.
- Best For: Booking taxis for local travel in Kollam.
- Features:
- Easy ride booking
- Transparent pricing
- Multiple ride options (sedans, hatchbacks)
- 24/7 customer support
4. Ola Cabs
- App: Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store
- What to Expect: Ola is a popular ride-hailing app in India, and it operates in Kollam as well. The app offers various ride options such as auto-rickshaws, cabs, and even luxury cars. It’s useful for tourists who want to travel conveniently and comfortably around the city.
- Best For: Comfortable and convenient transportation within Kollam and surrounding areas.
- Features:
- Cashless payments
- Multiple ride categories (mini, sedan, etc.)
- Ride tracking and real-time updates
- Ability to book rides in advance
5. Google Maps
- App: Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store
- What to Expect: Google Maps is a must-have for navigating Kollam and finding directions to tourist spots, restaurants, and other places of interest. It also provides real-time traffic information, public transportation routes, and more.
- Best For: Navigation and finding directions to destinations in Kollam.
- Features:
- Real-time GPS navigation
- Offline maps for areas with no internet connectivity
- Public transportation options
- Street view for easier identification of locations
6. MakeMyTrip
- App: Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store
- What to Expect: MakeMyTrip is an online travel agency that helps you book flights, hotels, taxis, and holiday packages. You can use this app to book accommodation, plan tours, or find activities in Kollam.
- Best For: Booking accommodations, transportation, and holiday packages.
- Features:
- Hotel and flight bookings
- Offers and discounts for tourists
- Easy payment options
- Customer support for travel-related issues
7. TripAdvisor
- App: Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store
- What to Expect: TripAdvisor is a popular travel app that provides reviews, ratings, and recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and accommodations. You can use it to find the best places to eat, stay, and visit in Kollam, along with tips from fellow travelers.
- Best For: Checking reviews and recommendations for places to eat, stay, and visit in Kollam.
- Features:
- User-generated reviews and ratings
- Information on tourist attractions, restaurants, and hotels
- Option to book activities and tours directly from the app
- Personalized travel suggestions
8. BookMyShow
- App: Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store
- What to Expect: BookMyShow is the go-to app for booking tickets for movies, events, and concerts in India. You can use this app to check for movie screenings in Kollam and book tickets online.
- Best For: Booking movie tickets and finding out about local entertainment events.
- Features:
- Movie showtimes and ticket bookings
- Event listings (theater, concerts, sports)
- Reviews and ratings for movies and events
- Easy payment options for booking tickets
9. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC)
- App: Available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store
- What to Expect: The KSRTC app is useful for tourists who want to travel to Kollam from nearby cities or within the city by bus. The app provides information on bus routes, schedules, and online ticket booking.
- Best For: Finding bus schedules and booking bus tickets for travel to and within Kollam.
- Features:
- Bus route and timetable information
- Online ticket booking for intercity travel
- Real-time updates on bus departures
- Information on KSRTC services and promotions
10. Kerala Online Taxi Booking (Kerala Tourism)
- Website: www.keralatourism.org
- What to Expect: This official Kerala Tourism website offers an online taxi booking service for tourists. It connects you to authorized and reliable taxi operators in Kollam, making it easier for tourists to get around.
- Best For: Booking taxis through an official Kerala Tourism platform for city tours and sightseeing.
- Features:
- Reliable and authorized taxi operators
- Easy online booking
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- 24/7 support for tourists
11. Kerala Coir Products (Online Shopping)
- Website: www.coirboard.gov.in
- What to Expect: Kollam is known for its coir products, and you can find a variety of coir-based handicrafts, mats, and décor items available for purchase online. The official Coir Board website offers details on coir products and their online availability.
- Best For: Shopping for coir products, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
- Features:
- Information on local coir artisans
- Online marketplace for coir products
- Insights into the coir industry of Kerala
- Traditional Kerala handicrafts for souvenirs
Conclusion
These apps and websites will be invaluable to tourists visiting Kollam. From navigation and bookings to exploring local attractions and events, these tools will help you make the most of your trip while staying connected and informed. Be sure to download these apps before you arrive to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience in Kollam!