A district in Trivandrum, well known for its unblemished sea shores, Kovalam is a wonderland for spending a loosening up excursion. In the local language, Kovalam signifies 'coconut,' which is found in overflow here and that is the reason the spot is named so. A universally acclaimed locale, Kovalam is a well known vacation spot in India among sightseers across the world. The spot has become famous for its different sea shores, tropical towns, ayurvedic wellbeing resorts, tempting exercises, old sanctuaries, chapels and old palaces throughout the long term.
Kovalam, situated a good ways off of around 18 kilometers from the capital of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, has been a most loved ocean side place to get-away starting around 1930. It got consideration when Her Greatness The Sovereign of Travancore Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bai constructed her ocean side retreat, Halcyon Palace. In 1936, Sovereign GV Raja carried this spot to individuals. He found massive traveler potential in Kovalam and in this manner welcomed Thomas Cook and Children (UK) to foster the spot. He began welcoming European families living in Madras (presently Chennai) and Bombay (presently Mumbai) and advanced Kovalam as a first rate travel objective.
One of the biggest tourist attractions in Kovalam is Lighthouse Beach. An iconic feature of this pristine beach on the Arabian Sea coast is the 35-meter-tall Lighthouse at the southern end, which provides an amazing panoramic view of the surrounds. The lighthouse is entirely formed of stones and is painted in bands of red and white colour. It is positioned at the summit of Kurumkal Hill. Additionally, there is a viewing platform from which you can see Beemapalli mosque on one side and Poovar on the other.
Lighthouse Beach is a popular beach in Kovalam and a great place to enjoy a variety of water sports. The area is also well-known among photographers for its ideal beachscapes with blue sea,, palm fringes, rocking waves, glistening sand and a lighthouse.
One of Kovalam's three renowned beaches is Samudra Beach (the other two are Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach). It is separated from the other two beaches by a large headland and is situated to the north of Kovalam. Samudra Beach attracts visitors all year long who want to unwind during their Kerala vacation because of its tranquilly and other alluring attractions.
Because there is a ridge separating the north and south coasts, the beach has gone undiscovered. One of the best places for a honeymoon getaway is this beach because of its seclusion, tranquilly, and unspoiled beauty. Samudra Beach has gained popularity in the travel sector for yet another reason.Homestays run by local people that offer authentic Kerala vibes have been flourishing in this place. You can get a comfortable stay in a home-like ambience at affordable rates in the homestays on Samudra Beach.
Edakallu must be on your list of must-see locations in Kovalam if you want to view a gorgeous sunset from anywhere other than the beach. Between the Lighthouse and Hawa Beach, there is a rock that is the perfect spot to take in a breathtaking sunset.
Kovalam Art Gallery must be seen as part of any trip to Kovalam. Age-old artefacts, paintings, and sculptures are displayed at this stunning art collection. The majority of the artworks depict India's traditional traditions. The greatest thing to do for folks who want to learn about traditional Indian art is to go to an art gallery.
This gallery features several works by Nicolas Roerich, Svetlova, and Raja Ravi Varma. Ancient fresco paintings are featured in the items of art.
Top tourist destinations in Kerala and Kovalam both include Hawa Beach. The beach is renowned as a natural wonder that resembles a line dividing the sea from the rest of Kovalam. The huge expanse of sand sparkles in the sunlight that streams down from the brilliant blue sky, which contrasts with the blue ocean and green palm palms that are scattered throughout.
It is regarded as one of India's undeveloped beaches and is just 1.5 kilometres from the lighthouse beach. It is advised against swimming here, nevertheless, because to the strong water current.
One of the picturesque spots to visit in Kovalam is the Karamana River. It rises in the southern Western Ghats and passes into Karamana, a small Kovalam neighbourhood. Along its course, the river is surrounded by lush tropical surroundings, drawing visitors from all over India to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Kerala has some stunning backwaters, one of which being the Karamana River. To get a close-up view of nature, you can stay aboard one of the houseboats on the river. Both sides of the river are connected by a number of bridges. There are rice, pepper, and vegetable crops in the Karamana River's watershed region. Two dams (Aruvikkara and Peppara) are also visible above the river.
A place to unwind in the great outdoors is Veli Tourist Village. It is a well-known picnic and boating area located where the Arabian Sea and Veli Lake converge. This unusual location is 12 kilometres from Kovalam City and is well-maintained. People can enjoy some wonderful time in the outdoors and choose from a variety of boating activities at their convenience.
A cosy picnic area called Aruvikkara Dam can be found outside of Thiruvananthapuram City. In order to aid in the city's water supply and agricultural endeavours, it was constructed over the Karamana River. This charming location is perfect for weekend getaways in Kerala. Along with visiting this location, you can also visit the Karamana River.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest sites of worship in the world, is an architectural wonder from the outside. It is one of the popular tourist destinations in Kovalam and is barely 10 kilometres away from the town. The architecture combines Chera and Dravidian elements. The temple's grounds are enclosed by high walls and a gopura from the 16th century.
Lord Vishnu is the temple's principal deity (Padmanabhaswamy). You may locate Padmanabhaswamy's yogic position of eternal sleep here. Padmanabhaswamy is the guardian god of the Travancore royal dynasty.
A fishing port called Valiyathura Pier has been promoted as a tourist destination because it provides an incredible panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. It is also a popular location in Kerala to observe sunsets.
It used to be the largest portion of Kerala's southern coastline area, which was utilised to transport goods to other nations. It is now only a fishing port and a popular destination for those who enjoy the water. This cement and steel pier, which is 60 years old, is supported by 127 pillars.
The Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Cave Temple is one of Kerala's most popular tourist attractions. This tiny rock temple, which dates back to the eighth century, is roughly 17 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram City. Include this location in your schedule for your Kerala tour if you are genuinely interested in learning about ancient temple architecture.
Since 1965, it has been preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India. Shiva (Tripurantaka), armed with a bow and arrow, and his spouse Parvati are depicted at the temple. One of Kerala's oldest temples is the Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Temple.
The royal family of Travancore, now known as Kerala, used Halcyon Castle as a getaway in 1932. It is additionally known as Kovalam Palace. Her Highness Maharani Sethu Lekshmi Bai's husband, M.R. Sri Rama Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran, erected the palace. The castle, which has architecture in the traditional Kerala style, served as the royal family's summer residence until 1964.
The Kerala Government purchased Kovalam Palace in 1964, and it was later transformed into a posh hotel. It was eventually sold to a private company of hotels after a number of years. An international beach resort currently includes the palace.
The greatest time of year to visit Kovalam is from November to February since the weather is mild and ideal for sightseeing, beach hopping, or honeymooning. During this time of year, the minimum temperature is 16 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature can reach 34 degrees Celsius.