From Forests to Islands

• Staff reporter

Kollam district is divided into three distinct physical regions: the coastal lowlands, the midlands with rolling hills and valleys, and the forest-covered mountain ranges on the eastern border. The land gradually rises from the coast towards the Western Ghats, with the region reaching an average elevation of around 4000 feet above sea level. The Achankovil Pass, located in the eastern part of Pathanamthitta taluk, provides an easy route to the nearby Thirunelveli district, accessible by both rail and road. The scenic journey through the Ghatt section, from Punalur to Aryankavu, offers a beautiful view of the surrounding forests. Two main rivers—Kallada and Ithikkara—flow entirely through the district.

Sasthamkotta Lake: The Largest Freshwater Lake in Kerala

Kollam is home to Sasthamkotta Lake, Kerala’s largest freshwater lake, which lies on the right bank of the Kallada river. Surrounded by hills on three sides, it is protected by a mud wall along its eastern edge. The lake spans approximately 1.44 square miles and reaches depths of up to 47 feet. Unlike most lakes, its main water source is underground springs, as no rivers feed into it.

Climate and Weather Patterns

Kollam experiences a tropical humid climate with distinct seasons. Summers, from March to May, are hot, while the southwest monsoon brings heavy rains from June to September. The post-monsoon period spans October and November, followed by the northeast monsoon from December to February. The rest of the year is generally dry. The southwest monsoon, known as Edavappathi, and the northeast monsoon, or Tulavarsham, are both crucial for the region’s agriculture. The hottest period in Kollam lasts from February to the end of May, with temperatures in the interior areas occasionally reaching as high as 39°C. Coastal areas enjoy slightly cooler temperatures due to sea breezes. During the monsoon season, the weather remains pleasant, and while daytime temperatures rise after September, nighttime temperatures become cooler.

Monroe Thuruth: A Scenic Island Retreat

Monroe Thuruth is a cluster of islands situated between Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River in Kollam. Covering an area of 13.37 square kilometers, the region is easily accessible by road, rail, and water, located about 25 km from Kollam town. At the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River, visitors can experience prawn enclosures, mangrove forests, and trees leaning toward the water, offering a scenic boat ride through narrow channels. Once a cluster of eight islands interconnected by nearly a thousand small canals, Monroe Thuruth was entirely surrounded by water. While many of these canals have been drained, the islands still preserve a unique rural landscape. Named in honor of Colonel Monroe, the Diwan of Travancore, Monroe Thuruth continues to attract visitors with its picturesque beauty and tranquil atmosphere.