Kovalam

Kovalam is one of the first tourist destinations in Kerala, famed for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and temples. This region is a part of Thiruvananthapuram and was first developed in the early 1920s when the Regent Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi of Travancore constructed the Halcyon Castle to entertain her European guests. The place became notoriously famous during the 1970s when the hippies traveled to Kerala as a part of the now infamous Hippie Trail. These trails are now famous and frequented by millions of tourists from across the world. At GT Tourism, we offer customized Kovalam travel packages that cover this place’s best.

Some of the places you must visit in Kovalam include:

The entire 17km stretch of the Kovalam region has three main beaches. Some of the famous beaches here include Samudra, Hawah, and Lighthouse beaches. Each of these beaches is frequented by tourists who come here to enjoy relaxing Ayurvedic spa massages and sample some of Kerala’s scrumptious cuisine. Samudra is loved by international tourists looking to relax in some privacy. Lighthouse Beach is loved for its gleaming sand, palm fringes, and aquamarine waters. Hawah Beach is also called Eve’s Beach and is the most popular among the three beaches of Kovalam. You can also catch a glimpse of the local fishermen in the morning as they set sail on their fishing vessels.

The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is built in the Kerala and Dravidian style, featuring a 100-foot tall gopuram. Long before the temple became famous for its treasure vaults, it was frequented by locals regularly. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu who assumes the anantha sayanam pose, wherein the Lord is sleeping on the Adishesha, the three-coiled serpent. While the temple was built around the 8th century, it was rebuilt in 1686 by Raja Marthanda Varma after it was destroyed by fire. The idol is in a resting pose and can be seen through three entrance doors. The temple is a few minutes away from Kovalam and is one of the most important Kovalam tourist destinations.

The Karamana River is close to Kovalam and famous for its breathtaking views of the backwaters and the surrounding greenery. Tourists visit Karamana to enjoy a pleasant boat ride. You can also sign up for a cruise or canoe ride through the Thiruvallam Boat Club. Peppara and Aruvikkara Dams built on this river are equally famous. The Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple in Karamana is similarly famous among Hindus looking to pay respect to their deceased ancestors.

Some places close to Kovalam include Kanyakumari, Varkala, and Padmanabhapuram Palace. Most Kovalam travel packages you choose from GT Tourism include all these destinations.

Besides visiting some of Kovalam’s popular tourist destinations, you can indulge in a relaxing Ayurvedic spa massage or enjoy adventure sports. Depending on the Kovalam travel package, you can enjoy a houseboat cruise on the Karamana River. The Kerala Government regularly announces village festivals to showcase the state’s culture, traditions, history, and art. Check with our tour guide about ongoing festivals before booking a tour package.