Kovalam

This is located on the banks of the Karamana River and presents itself as a leisure place for picnics. It is surrounded by lush gardens and resting places that can be used as a perfect spot to rest after a day’s tour.The dam also has the famous Durga Devi temple and provides a good opportunity for a great drive from the city centre.

Amidst the thick vegetation of flora and friendly fauna, located at a distance of 9 kms from Thiruvananthapuram is the freshwater lake called Vellayani Lake. The lake also has an interesting story to tell. It narrates the story of a thirsty beggar who saw a meditating saint and approached him for water.The saint wanted to help the thirsty beggar but had only a few drops of water left in his vessel. The saint then collected the little water in his palms and threw it while reciting a prayer.

One of the best beaches in Kovalam, it attracts lots of tourists to see what Kovalam beaches have that others don’t. Also known as Eve’s beach, you will enjoy every little moment spent here day or night. The name behind Hawa beach also has an interesting anecdote.The Eve’s beach as it was earlier called, many European women went topless to get tanned and that is how it got its name as Hawa beach. The coastlines are stunning and the shacks good which make this a must-visit beach in your itinerary of fun-filled adventures.

The Pier has been one of the most famous spots in Kovalam since 1950. The Pier was initially employed for the purpose of cargo transportation and fishermen for installing catamarans but over the years this has also become one place to reckon.The pier is a strong structure that is made at a height of 703 feet and which is supported by 127 tangible tiles. A visit here in the evenings will present with mesmerising views that will not let you leave the place until night. The coastline is full of exotic Malavu fishes despite the place been deserted for most of the time.

One of the chief attractions in Kovalam is the gangling lighthouse beach where the spiral staircases lead you to the top spot of the lighthouse. When you have ascended the stairs, all you can experience is the evening wonder of the sun setting and orange hues in the sky with refreshing breeze rusting through your senses. The site also provides the best vantage points to envision the beauty of the coastline of Kerala. Witness the golden sand and the palm trees swaying in the breeze and water as pure as a child’s soul. The beach too is full of shacks with seafood to gobble on.

The pride of Kerala, this river is a must-visit to get a peaceful boat ride amidst the beautiful patches of green delight. The river is blessed with the most serene surroundings and a diversity of fishes you might not have seen before. Amongst the Kovalam places to visit, this site surely should be there on your list. The river begins its journey from the Western Ghats and voyages through beautiful and fascinating green foliage that will mesmerise you.

Also known as the Kovalam Castle, this has now been converted into a luxury deluxe hotel. This site gives tough competition to the magnetic beaches and churches for its brilliantly imposing structure built in colonial style.In terms of tourist scope, the place presents an immense promise in terms of magnificent interiors that gives you the old-world charm. Amongst the places to visit in Kovalam, the Halcyon Castle surely qualifies as one of the best.

The beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is more than a century old and is amongst the must-visit places to visit in Kovalam for all spiritual tourists. The architecture of the temple is eye-catching and represents the Dravidian and Keralite culture. The stone slab presents as the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The interiors of the temple are full of exquisitely crafted murals and paintings. The flag post of the temple is 80 feet high and covered in sheets of gold.

Situated on the banks of the famous Karamana River the temple is solely dedicated to the brave and great Lord Parasurama. The temple is very old and features as one of the heritage sites of Kerala.The temple goes as old as the 12th century when the then King, Athiyaman Perumal had built this primarily to pay respect to your ancestors. During auspicious occasions, devotees are believed to take a dip in the holy waters and seek blessings from their loved ones who are no more.

Also one of the best places to visit in Kovalam, this dam cum lake is a charming embodiment of alluring Kerala and pristine waters. The dam also poses as a perfect spot for picnic lovers and gatherers who want to have fun. The serenity is extremely pleasing and is excellent for nature admirers to take nature walks. You can also visit the Neyyar dam wildlife sanctuary to enjoy the wilderness.For those who only seek relaxation, you can easily visit the Sivananda Yoga Ashram in the vicinity of the lake to involve yourself in blissful meditation.

Famous for its fishing spots, Chowara Beach is a beautiful destination which attracts a lot of tourists. It also has an ayurvedic resort nearby which you must visit for an amazing ayurvedic experience. Chowara Ayyappa Temple is the highlight of this beach which gives an amazing hilltop view of the shores.

The village is a natural port full of colourful boats embarking on its mission. The village offers you galore options to enjoy like Vizhinjam marine aquarium which houses rich marine animals. You can also visit the rock-cut cave which is an 18th-century cave temple.The fishing harbour here also is a prime attraction mainly because it has a conversion plant here that converts sea wave energy into electricity. The place has a rich biodiversity and its popularity for initiating eco-friendly projects is on the rise here.

Located in the Vizhinjam village this is an 18th-century cave temple which has unfinished sculptures of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati. The rock-cut cave temple is one of the best places to visit in Kovalam and now comes under the supervision of the archaeological survey of India.The temple is very near the Kovalam beach and is located at a distance of 17 kms from Trivandrum. This is also one of the smallest rock shrines in the entire south of India.

Away from the crowd of lighthouse beach, Ashoka beach is one of the most secluded beaches in Kovalam which makes it a perfect place for a quiet getaway. The absolute calm and peaceful atmosphere of this beach is the reason why you'll find many ayurvedic resorts nearby."

Also known as Juma Masjid, Kovalam Juma Masjid is one of the most important travel destinations in Kerala. It is famous for its location at Ashoka Beach. This mosque has a profound religious essentialness among the Muslim community of Kovalam. Juma Masjid also attracts people with its noteworthy architecture.

If you are a connoisseur of art then don’t miss out your visit to the Kovalam art gallery. Located at close proximity to the Hawah beach the gallery houses some of the most intricately painted portrayals and artefacts that speak about the culture and the roots of the artists.There are some rare collection of Fresco paintings & art and is loved by foreign tourists from across the world. Traditional Indian art is displayed in abundance which will make you take pride in the talent our country possesses.