Mayyanad

Mentioned in Greek literature from the first century, Kollam or Quilon has been a thriving trading port for centuries. The surrounding region produces pepper (after which the city is named), cashews, coir and other agricultural products. Local communities include Christians, Muslims and Hindus. A historical Chinese population is known to exist, and the town's market is still named after them. Fishing occurs right along the coast as in other parts of Kerala.