Punalur is a city and a municipality in Kollam district in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is situated 45 km north-east of Kollam and 75 km north of Thiruvananthapuram, located at 76.92 °E 9.00 °N, 34 meters above sea level. Some notable locations in the town include the Punalur Paper Mill Ltd., a paper Industry established in 1888 by a British Nationale and currently under the control and management of Mr. Kunal Dalmia and the Punalur suspension bridge, which crosses the Kallada River.

Nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram. Punalur Railway Station is located on the Kollam-Shencotta railway line.

Some of the famous nearby places are Kottarakara, Anchal, Kulathupuzha, Ampalamkunnu.

Some of the tourist spots near Punalur are Thenmala, Palaruvi Water Falls(35 km). Thenmala Ecotourism is only 21 km away from this township. Punalur is on the western edge of Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve.

Main agricultural products of this township include rubber, black pepper, and other spices. The chief commodities of export here are the hill produces, pine-apple, pepper products, plywood and timber, etc

Attractions

Palaruvi Water Falls

A water fall which explores ' tonalities of white ' beautifying more with the chirps of birds and greenery harmonizing the whole mystery with the mist clad blue hills

Punalur - Suspension Bridge

The suspension bridge at punalur is the only one of its kind in south India. Built in 1877 by Albert Henry across the Kallada River, this huge bridge was suspended by three spans and was used for vehicular movement. Construction took more than six years. Now the bridge is only of archeological interest. Punalur is the head quarters of Pathanapuram taluk. A historical extravaganza much appeared for its architectural brilliance built by Britisher's in the late 19th century.

Thenmala

One of chief timber exporting site to all over India, largerly engulfed by rubber and tea plantations

Thenmala Dam

An eco-tourist spot, witness breath taking moments on its Arial view