It is 29 km from Kollam town and is the largest fresh water lake of Kerala  which  is  surrounded by hills on three sides. It is a beauty spot, a health resort and a centre of pilgrimage. The ancient Sastha Temple which lends its name to the town, is an important pilgrim centre. Accomodation is available at the PWD Rest House in the town. There are frequent buses from Quilon. The journey takes one hour.