Cheena Kottaram, Heritage building in Kollam, India.
Cheena Kottaram is a red-brick heritage building in Kollam with a single story and seven rooms, containing a mix of Indian, European, Islamic, and Moorish design elements. The structure incorporates these architectural styles throughout its facades and interior spaces.
Built in 1904 during the reign of Moolam Thirunal Rama Varma, the structure served as a rest house connected to the completion of the Quilon-Madras railway line. It was part of the transportation infrastructure development that connected the region during that period.
The building takes its name Cheena Kottaram from local residents who recognized similarities with traditional Chinese architectural styles they had encountered. This naming reflects how the blending of different architectural influences was interpreted by the people who lived and worked in the surrounding community.
The building is located near Quilon Junction railway station and is easily accessible by public transport. Visitors should be aware that ongoing restoration work may affect access or hours, so checking conditions beforehand is helpful.
The building once functioned as a rest stop for Travancore royalty traveling through Kollam when it was the region's main trading center. Its location was deliberately positioned to serve these important journeys.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
