Kottarakkara (IAST: Koṭṭārakkara), also transliterated as Kottarakara, is a town and municipality in Kollam (formerly known as Quilon) District, in Kerala state, India. The town is close to Kollam Port, which has a rich history linked to the early medieval period as well as a reputation as an important commercial, industrial and trading center. Kottarakkara lies 27 kilometres (17 mi) to the east of Kollam city center and 18 kilometres (11 mi) to the west of Punalur city on National Highway 208/220. It lies 35 kilometres (22 mi) north-east of Paravur.