Thirumullavaram Beach, Kollam

Thirumullavaram Beach is a popular picnic spot for the residents of Kollam. It is conveniently close, just 6 km north of the town, but still far enough from the hustle and bustle of the town. But it is not only for its location that it has become a local favourite. The beauty of Thirumullavaram Beach is enchanting and irresistible. Devoid of commercialisation it is untouched by time, clean and unspoilt. It is quiet and calm, a good place to unwind, ponder or philosophise amidst the soothing lap of nature. You will enjoy doing nothing. Laze in the sand, get a tan, watch the ebbing waves for hours and hours and enjoy the breeze from the swaying coconut palms. You will feel your worries melting away. And refreshingly, there will be no vendors to hassle you.

The Beach in itself is a natural spa. The surrounding serenity and a dip in the calm water will rejuvenate you. And the sun is just strong enough for a good tan. If you are up for some activity then you can even go swimming. The Beach is safe. The waves are remarkably calm and you can also wade pretty far out into the sea.

A major attraction of Thirumullavaram is its water hillock. The Nyarazhicha Para meaning Sunday Rock is about one and a half kilometer inside the sea. It can be clearly seen from the shore during low tide.

Also, there is a famous Sree Vaikundapuram Mahavishnu Temple near the beach. It is one of the ancient temples of Kollam. Legend has it that it was blessed by Parasurama, the legendary creator of Kerala. A strange phenomenon here is that the pond of the Temple has sea water but strangely the water never tastes salty.

If you rise early, you might be able to catch fishermen at work. It is quiet an experience to see them in their wooden boats as they cast their nets waiting expectedly for a catch. If you want to taste more of their life, then visit their tiny hamlet just close to the Beach. The villagers are a friendly lot and you will quickly make friends. They will be more than eager to share stories of their ancestors and their culture.

If you make it to Thirumullavaram do not forget to sample their local cuisine. Like the rest of the state, most of the dishes are richly flavoured with coconut and spices such as black pepper, cardamom, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon. And food is served in a traditional style on a banana leaf.