By Kollam is known more for its backwaters and beaches than extreme adventure sports, but there are still several outdoor activities nearby for adventure enthusiasts.
🚣 1. Kayaking in Ashtamudi Lake
📍 Ashtamudi Lake
- Paddle through backwaters and narrow canals
- Suitable for beginners and families
- Sunrise and sunset kayaking tours available
👉 One of the most popular outdoor activities around Kollam.
🏄 2. Surfing at Varkala
📍 Varkala
- Around 30–40 km from Kollam
- Surf schools for beginners
- Equipment rentals available
👉 Best option if you want a water-based adventure.
🥾 3. Trekking at Thenmala
📍 Thenmala
- Forest trails and nature walks
- Adventure zones and eco-tourism activities
- Good for day trips from Kollam
👉 One of Kerala’s most famous eco-adventure destinations.
🚵 4. Mountain Biking
📍 Around the forested regions near Thenmala
- Off-road trails
- Nature routes through hills and forests
🧗 5. Rock Climbing & Rappelling
📍 Adventure camps near Thenmala
- Beginner-friendly sessions
- Usually organized by adventure groups
👉 Availability varies by season and operator.
🌲 6. Ziplining & Adventure Parks
📍 Thenmala
- Rope activities
- Suspension bridges
- Adventure courses
🏕️ 7. Camping
📍 Forest regions near Thenmala and Varkala
- Nature camps
- Bonfire experiences
- Group activities
👉 Better during cooler months.
🌊 8. Paragliding (Seasonal)
📍 Near Varkala and nearby locations
- Tandem flights available through select operators
- Weather dependent
🛶 9. Bamboo Rafting
📍 Forest eco-tourism areas around Kerala
- Slow-paced nature adventure
- Wildlife spotting opportunities
📸 10. Backwater Exploration & Boating
📍 Ashtamudi Lake
- Canoeing
- Traditional boat rides
- Island exploration
👉 Not extreme, but uniquely Kerala.
Best Choices Near Kollam
For Adrenaline
- Surfing in Varkala
- Ziplining at Thenmala
- Rock climbing & rappelling
For Nature + Adventure
- Kayaking in Ashtamudi Lake
- Trekking in Thenmala
- Camping
For Families
- Backwater boating
- Adventure parks
- Nature trails
