Neendakara, Kollam is the place where the Ashtamudi Lake and the Arabian Sea converge. A famous fishing harbour, it is known for the natural beauty of its untouched backwaters.
Nature lovers consider Kollam a paradise of flawless beauty and serenity. A visit to the places of interest in and around Neendakara, will tell you, why Kerala is known as God’s own country.
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Ashtamudi Lake |
As its name suggests, the Ashtamudi Lake is the congregation of eight backwaters (Ashta= Eight, Mudi= Branch). It is known as the gateway to the well known Kerala Backwaters. It is also a popular destination for houseboat cruises. The peaceful environment coupled with the striking beauty of the place is sure to take any one’s breath away.
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Alumkadavu Boat Building Yard |
Situated on the northern backwaters of Kollam, Karunagappally is the place where the ‘Kettuvalloms’ better known as the houseboats, are made. A boat building and repairing centre, it is also the best place to see coir being made.
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Mata Amritanandamayi Ashram |
Amritapuri, earlier known as Vallikavu, is the birth place of the eminent spiritual guru, Matha Amritanandamayi. The ashram built in a five acre plot holds a township that includes a post office, bank and library.
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Ochira Parabrahma Temple |
This temple is one of its kind because it neither has a main shrine nor an idol to be worshipped. This temple is dedicated to the ‘Para Brahma’, the Supreme Principle. Ochirakali, is the temple’s annual festival that honors the big battle between the Kayamkulam and Chempakasseri Kings.
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Sasthamkotta Dharmasastha Temple |
This is a temple dedicated to lord Ayyappa. The monkeys in the surrounding woods are respected by the devotees as they were once believed to be the loyal followers of Dharmasastha, the ruling deity. The ten day annual festival celebrated by the temple includes the colourful Kettukazhcha parade and an elephant procession.
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Varkala |
Varkala, situated at a distance of 40 kms from Kollam is famous for its Sivagiri Mutt, the final resting place of Kerala’s famous social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru. Varkala is also well-known for its Papanasam Beach. A dip in the waters of this beach is believed to wash away sins.
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