Kollam is known as the southern approach to the Backwaters of Kerala. Apart from that it is a nice place to relax a few days at the shores of the Ashtamudi Lake.

The lake is part of the Backwaters and covers an area of about 200km^2. In most parts the shores of the freshwater lake are still lined with coconut and palm trees and traditional fishing equipment.

There is a ferry line connecting the small villages at its shore what makes it quite easy and fun to travel around.

Munroe Island in fact is a collection of eight tiny islands in the Ashtamudi Lake. It is possible to visit the island on a canoe boat tour organised by DTPC.

Besides the wonderful landscape knowledgeable guides give insight into village live and traditional  craftsmanship like construction of the barges still used today (The planks are stitched  together!), making of coire (coconut fibres) and fish farming.

At time of the visit the CPI(M) (Communist Party of India (Marxist)) held their 20th party congress in Kollam.

Here are some impressions of a party rally.