One of the important industrial centers of Kerala, Punalur is situated 45km from Kollam on the western edge of Agasthymalai Biospere Reserve. Tourist attractions here are the suspension bridge, Punalur Paper Mill, the ancient temples of Punalur Bharanikavu and Pattazhi Devi Temple at Pattazhi and Matherumannu. The Paper mill, built in 1888, is a notable landmark of Punalur. The 400ft long suspension bridge, now only of archaeological interest, was built across the Kallada river during the year 1877. A concrete bridge has been constructed near the suspension bridge. Commodities such as hill produces, pineapple, pepper products, plywood, timber etc. are exported from Punalur.