Tourist Places Kovalam - Kerala

The renowned international destination, most sought after by the global travellers for the scenic beaches and tranquil ambiences prevailing around, Kovalam tops the list of those visiting the God's own country. The long coastal lines offer you the astounding beauty of nature to be enjoyed for limitless time during your trip to this gorgeous location.

Kovalam is accessible easily from the state capital Trivandrum and you can see tourists from different nationalities arriving at Kovalam for an experience of life time. Kovalam is mainly known for the relaxing beach resorts and Ayurvedic Rejuvenation centres. Travelers staying away from their hectic schedules get their body and mind rejuvenated embraced by the nature and its beauty besides these centres.

Kovalam, Hawa, Lighthouse, Samudhra and Varkala are the beaches in Kovalam attracting the tourists and the local residents alike. The Vizhinjam lighthouse, Karamana river,Vellayani lake, Kovalam Art Gallery are the most popular tourist locations.

The spiritual side of Kovalam includes the Thiruvallam Parasurama temple, Vizhinjam Rock cut cave temple thronged by devotees and tourists.

Varkala is the most important of all the tourist locations in and around Kovalam. Varakala is a tourist destination as well as a religious centre. The tranquil beach, 2000 years old Janardhana temple and the Sivagiri monastery are the prime attractions of Varkala. Unlike the other beaches, Varkala is most suitable for those keen to drench themselves in the silent beauty of the nature for any length of time.

Plan a tour to Kovalam, enjoy the nature's abundant beauty and get yourself revitalised.

Popular As: "International Beach Destination".

Prominent Places to Visit:

Lighthouse Beach: The Lighthouse Beach in Kovalam features a 35-meter tall lighthouse which is a prominent attraction in Kovalam.

Hawah Beach: It is a serene beach location and a relaxation spot for weary travelers which is surrounded by verdant coconut and palm groves.

Samudra Beach: Samudra Beach is the most sparsely populated beach in Kovalam which is usually flocked by fishermen.

Halcyon Castle: It was built as a summer retreat in 1932 by Sri Rama Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran. But now it is transformed into a 5-star luxury hotel and is run by Ravi Pillai, an NRI businessman.

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple: Dating back to the 8th century, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple is the smallest rock-cut shrine in South India.

Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple: It is a unique temple which dates back to 2000 years and is dedicated to the mythological originator of Kerala, Parasurama.

Kovalam Art Gallery: Also known as Sree Chitra Art Gallery, it exhibits some valuable and significant paintings of famous painters of Kerala.

Karamana River: Originating from the southern part of Sahyadri Range, Karamana River offers a soothing location for leisure and relaxation and is dotted with paddy fields, coconut, tapioca, and pepper plantations.

Vellayani Lake: It is the largest freshwater lake in Trivandrum that comprises of a wide plethora of flora and fauna.

Valiyathura Pier: This 214-meter long pier is a famous spot in Kovalam for angling and photography.

Best Time To Visit:

Kovalam can be visited throughout the year. But September to March is regarded as the best time to visit Kovalam.

From March till June, marks the summer season in Kovalam. The maximum temperature during this season reaches to 33 degree Celsius. The severe heat and humidity spoil the fun of sightseeing during the summer season. Hence, summers are not recommended as the best season to visit Kovalam. But the Winters are the most comfortable season to visit Kovalam. From November till February, the region experiences very pleasant weather with a maximum temperature of 30 degree Celsius and the nights get pretty much cool with a temperature of 18 degrees Celsius. The moderate climate during this season makes it ideal for sightseeing. Monsoon season is the best time to explore Kovalam in its drenched state during which the temperature decreases to around 28 to 24 degrees Celsius along with moderate to heavy showers.

Things to Do:

To shop:

• Tibetan handicrafts and miniature Buddhas can be purchased from Little Tibet Arts shop.
• Shop for spices from Joseph and Sons at Lighthouse Beach.
• Tibetan junk jewellery and Varkala Beach are a great place to shop for jewellery lovers.
• You can get handmade silk and cotton garments from SM Handloom Center and Silk Sarongs and a variety of lunghis from small shops near the Kovalam Beach.

Travel Tip:

• Please ensure you carry some sort of identity proof with you.
• While visiting the temples, make sure to follow the dress codes.
• Sunscreen, cotton clothes, sunglasses and hats are a must.
• Don't forget to carry Umbrella, especially during monsoon season.

How To Reach Kovalam

Air:Trivandrum is the airport nearest to Kovalam at a distance of 18km. Taxis can be hired to reach your destination.

Train:The railway station nearest to Kovalam is Trivandrum which is a major rail head and many of the trains connecting the major cities of the country halt here.

Road:Kovalam is well connected by road with other cities of Kerala and neighbouring states.