Here is a detailed guide on travel safety, tips, and important contacts for tourists visiting Kollam, Kerala. Kollam is a peaceful city with rich cultural heritage, beautiful backwaters, and tranquil beaches, but like any travel destination, it’s important to stay informed to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. This guide covers practical tips, safety advice, and essential contact information for tourists.
Travel Safety Tips for Kollam
1. Safety and Health
- Health Insurance: Always travel with travel insurance that covers health and emergencies. This will provide peace of mind if you need medical attention during your stay.
- Water Safety: Kollam is a coastal city, so if you plan to swim or take part in water activities, always follow safety guidelines. Avoid swimming in areas where lifeguards are not present.
- Personal Safety: Kollam is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any city, it’s advisable to take basic precautions:
- Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit areas.
- Keep your valuables (phones, wallets, etc.) secured in a safe place.
- Use reputable taxis or auto-rickshaws and avoid accepting rides from unregistered or unsolicited sources.
2. Dress Code
- Casual and Comfortable: Kollam has a tropical climate, so lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for sightseeing. However, while visiting temples or religious sites, modest attire is recommended (shoulders and knees covered).
- Footwear: Comfortable shoes are recommended for sightseeing, especially when visiting places like Ashtamudi Lake, Palaruvi Waterfalls, or the Kollam Municipal Market.
3. Food and Water Safety
- Eat at Reputable Restaurants: While street food is a highlight of Kollam, it’s important to eat from well-established vendors to avoid foodborne illnesses. Look for places that are busy and have a good reputation.
- Bottled Water: It’s recommended to drink bottled water, especially for tourists. Avoid tap water unless it has been purified.
4. Traffic Safety
- Roads and Traffic: Traffic in Kollam can be busy, especially around Chinnakada and the beach areas. Always use pedestrian crossings when available. If you’re renting a vehicle, ensure you have the necessary license and familiarize yourself with local traffic rules.
- Auto Rickshaws and Taxis: Always agree on a fare before starting the journey in an auto rickshaw. Taxis with meters or app-based cabs like Uber are recommended for tourists.
Travel Tips for Kollam
1. Best Time to Visit
- Optimal Time: The best time to visit Kollam is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Avoid the Monsoon: The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains, which may disrupt outdoor activities and sightseeing plans.
2. Currency and Payments
- Currency: The local currency is Indian Rupee (INR). Many shops, hotels, and restaurants in Kollam accept card payments, but it’s always advisable to carry cash for small purchases or in more remote areas.
- ATMs: Kollam has several ATMs located near Kollam Junction, Chinnakada, and other central areas. Ensure your ATM card works internationally if you’re withdrawing cash from a local ATM.
- Currency Exchange: Forex services are available at banks like ICICI, SBI, and HDFC, as well as at currency exchange counters around the city.
3. Connectivity
- Mobile Network: India has reliable mobile networks, and tourist SIM cards can be purchased from mobile shops. Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone offer good coverage in Kollam.
- Wi-Fi: Many hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, but it’s always a good idea to have a mobile data plan for convenience.
4. Transportation
- Public Transport: Kollam has a well-connected bus service, with buses running between key tourist spots and nearby cities. The KSRTC Bus Station is the main hub for intercity travel.
- Auto Rickshaws: These are a common mode of transport within the city. Agree on a fare before starting your journey.
- Taxi Services: Taxis are available through local agencies or app-based services like Uber and Ola for more comfort and safety.
5. Things to Do
- Backwater Cruises: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat ride on Ashtamudi Lake or the backwaters around Kollam. You can hire a traditional houseboat for a more leisurely experience.
- Beaches and Waterfalls: Visit Kollam Beach for relaxation or head to Palaruvi Waterfalls for a scenic and refreshing experience.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit places like the Sree Krishnaswamy Temple, Thevally Palace, and Jatayu Earth’s Center to explore the cultural and historical richness of the region.
Important Contacts in Kollam
1. Emergency Numbers
- Police: 100
- Fire Department: 101
- Ambulance: 102
- Disaster Management: 1077
- Tourist Helpline: 1363
2. Hospitals and Medical Assistance
- District Hospital Kollam
- Location: Kollam District
- Contact: +91 474 275 4740
- Sree Gokulam Medical College & Hospital
- Location: Near Kollam Bypass
- Contact: +91 474 291 4090
- Kollam Medical Centre
- Location: Near Asramam
- Contact: +91 474 276 4740
3. Taxi Services
- Orchid Taxi Service
- Contact: +91 474 276 7777
- Siva Taxi Service
- Contact: +91 474 272 7272
- Kollam Travels
- Contact: +91 474 280 2020
4. Tourist Information Centers
- Kollam Tourism Information Centre
- Location: Kollam Junction Railway Station
- Contact: +91 474 276 7111
- Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC)
- Location: Kollam City Center
- Contact: +91 474 276 3838
5. Banks with Forex Services
- State Bank of India (SBI)
- Location: Kollam Junction and other branches
- Contact: +91 474 274 3150
- ICICI Bank
- Location: Kollam City Center
- Contact: +91 474 274 7373
- HDFC Bank
- Location: Near Chinnakada
- Contact: +91 474 276 5353
Additional Travel Tips
- Respect Local Customs: Kollam is a culturally rich city with a strong connection to Hindu traditions. While visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly and maintain a respectful attitude.
- Stay Hydrated: The weather can be hot and humid, especially in the summer months. Drink plenty of water and carry a bottle with you while exploring.
- Local Shopping: Kollam is known for its coir products, handicrafts, and traditional Kerala sarees. Don’t forget to pick up a few souvenirs during your trip!
- Stay Safe: Kollam is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it’s important to stay vigilant and avoid isolated areas after dark.
This travel guide ensures that tourists visiting Kollam have all the necessary information for a safe and enjoyable stay. From emergency contacts to practical tips and places to visit, this guide has you covered!