All India Tours
Kovalam Tourism
Overview
Kovalam: The Beach Town of Kerala
Lauded as the beautiful assortment of sun, sand, beaches and ayurvedic salons, Kovalam is truly a paradise of South India. Located 16 km away from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city, Kovalam is blessed with some of the most sun-kissed beaches of Kerala. The presence of crescent beaches had made Kovalam a major hotspot for Europeans for 1930s.
The beauty of Kovalam's serene beaches caught public attention when Regent Maharani of Travancore Sethu Lakshmi Bayi constructed the first beach resort here in 1920s. Slowly, this beach town witnessed recognition for its immaculate blue beaches and panoramic beauty. It was later properly discovered by the King of Travancore during his leisure trip to this town. He invited his European friends to this spell binding destination, leading to the popularity of the place.
Following are the main attractions of Kovalam:
The Light House beach: Named after its 30m tall Vizhinjam Light house, this beach stretches over the Malabar Coast in Kerala. Located in the southern part of Kovalam, the light house is known for its 142 stairs, 12 ladders and ethereal lighting effect. It is open from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. One can spot the coastal village of Poovar and the Beemapalli Mosque from the top of this light house. One can also engage in para-gliding, swimming and other adventure sports here.
Hawa Beach: Also known as Eves Beach, this is the fishing hub of Kovalam. Unlike Light house Beach, this place is less crowded and is an ideal place for those in search of serene appreciation of the nature's beauty. It is the second largest beach of Kovalam and bears an interesting title of being the first topless beach of India. Though topless bathing is not permitted now, a decade back, many European women enjoyed their topless sunbath here. The place also gives a view of many migratory birds and wildlife.
Ashoka Beach: Derived from the name of Ashoka Hotel, this beach has also a religious taste to it. Koval Jama Masjid and Ganapathi temple are the two holy places located here that can be visited during the trip to the beach.
Surfing, snorkelling and massage: Rising waves in the beaches of Kovalam, makes it a perfect surfing spot. Visitors keen of seeing the underwater life can also try snorkelling on Eves Beach. After you are tired of water sports and fun throughout day, relax yourself with the soothing ayurvedic massage offered by salons near the beaches.
Excursions from Kovalam: Travellers can hop to nearby places like Trivandrum (16km) and Varkala (50km).
Shopping in Kovalam: Travellers can buy handicrafts made of wood and sea shells, spices, decorative items, jewellery made of sea shells, beautiful sandals and colourful sarongs.
When to reach: Best time to visit is between September and March due to favourable conditions. One can also engage in luxurious festivity during the New Year's time.
How to reach:
Air: The Thiruvanathapuram Airport is located 10km away from the shores of Kovalam.
Rail: The nearest railway station is located at Trivandrum Central (20 km)
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