Kollam City Guide

Local dishes like seafood curries and appam are popular. International food exists but is limited. Vegetarian and vegan options are common. Late-night food options exist but are few.

Nightlife is quiet with few bars or clubs. It’s mostly calm after dark.

Coffee culture mixes traditional South Indian filter coffee with some modern cafes.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Usually rounding up the bill or small amounts of 5-10% in restaurants; small tips for hotel staff and spa therapists.

Local SIMs are easy to buy with passport and visa. Main providers include Jio, Airtel, and Vi. eSIMs may be available depending on your phone.

Cleanliness varies; main tourist areas are fairly well maintained but waste management is still a challenge.

Some pharmacies and minimarts open late, but 24/7 services are limited. Late-night food is sporadic.

Fresh local markets are common and good for produce. Supermarkets like Reliance Fresh, More, and Spencers offer general groceries. Shops mostly open 9 AM to 8/9 PM; smaller shops may close on Sundays.

Cards work in big shops, hotels, and some restaurants, but cash is still common for small shops and markets.

ATMs are widely available across the city. Foreign cards may incur fees, so check with your bank beforehand.

Schools teach in Malayalam and English. International schools are limited; bigger cities nearby have more.

Small nomad scene with few organized meetups or co-living spaces. Some cafes have Wi-Fi but limited spots.

Parks like Mahatma Gandhi Park and lakeside areas provide green space with shaded walkways for running and relaxing.

Good running routes along Kollam Beach and lakeside areas; generally safe but watch busy roads.

Gyms include national chains and local spots. Check hotel gyms for options.

Some courts exist at private clubs or hotels but are not widely available.

Padel courts are not common.

Yoga centers and Ayurvedic spas are present, with some English-speaking instructors.

Traditional Kalaripayattu schools and some karate or taekwondo dojos are in the area. English instruction varies.

Not available due to tropical climate.

Boat rides, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular on the backwaters. Kollam Beach offers options like parasailing and jet-skiing.

No surfing in Kollam, but nearby Varkala (1 hour south) offers good surfing spots and lessons.

Limited diving directly in Kollam; not a known diving spot.

There are private and public hospitals; private ones usually have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and often open late.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.

Parks like Mahatma Gandhi Park and Adventure Park offer space for kids. Baby supplies are available but kid-friendly cafes are limited.

Moderate acceptance in Kerala but public spaces and pride events are rare in Kollam.

Pet policies vary; vet services exist but pet-friendly facilities are limited.