PLACES TO VISIT IN KOVALAM
SAMUDRA BEACH
Samudra beach is the Jewel in the already heavily ornate crown of Kovalam. Regarded as the best places to visit in Kovalam separated from the other beaches by fissures. Massive crowds horde the beach, yet it is one spot for complete peace and serenity.
It is a paradise for couples and lovers who want to be left alone. The horizon gives you amazing sunset views and silhouettes of wooden ships voyaging their way to business.
Activities to pursue: You can easily lay your hands of different water sports activities like kayaking and water surfing.
How to get there: There are good frequencies of buses that can drop you here from the bus stand.
Aruvikkara Dam
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.
Activities to pursue: Fish feeding is done by many people here apart from taking long nature walks along the border of the dam.
How to get there: Many buses are available from all the bus stands in Kovalam.
Vellayani Lake
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.
The spot where water droplets were thrown by the saint converted into a large beautiful lake as it is now visited. The Lake also hosts snake boat racing competition during Onam which is the best time.
Hawah Beach
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.
Activities to pursue: A boat ride, swimming, suntanned routine and shacks for delectable food is what you will enjoy here the most.
How to get there: The beach is very close to the bus stand and can be a good reason to indulge in taking a walk.
Halcyon Castle
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.
Activities to pursue: The place doesn’t offer beyond its structure and architecture. Taking short walks in the vicinity is the best activity here while you also marvel at the creation
How to get there: Roughly 500 meters from the bus stand, it takes only 10 mins in traffic to reach via bus or taxi.
Shri Padmanabhswamy Temple
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.
Activities to pursue: Visit the temple and have a spiritually relaxing time apart from worshipping the Hindu Gods
How to get there: There are buses every 10 mins from the Kovalam bus stop.
Lighthouse Beach
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.
Activities to pursue: You can get an Ayurveda spa by the seashore or indulge your mind and body in enjoying beach volleyball, sunbathing or swimming deep.
How to get there: From the bus stand it is located at a mere 2 kms and is accessible by bus or any other public transport.
THINGS TO DO IN KOVALAM
Artificial Off-shore Coral Reef
Do not consider your tour done if you haven’t visited this man-made wonder which easily qualifies as a must-visit place to visit in Kovalam. India’s first off-shore reef, the location has gained immense popularity. The reef provides a friendly marine ecosystem to all sea life and is open throughout the year for your exploration. Underwater diving with safety types of equipment provide a wonderful activity to pursue.
Kovalam Art Gallery
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.
The German Bakery
Located in the lighthouse beach is where some finger-licking dishes are served with love. A treat for taste buds, and a haven for wonderful ambience, they serve a delicious range of cakes, milkshakes and cookies.If you want to try German sausages and pizzas, go nowhere but rush here to the German Bakery which is one of the most popular Kovalam Places to visit. You can plan a romantic dinner in the starlight and let the shiny cold water present an exotic view amidst the white light of the moon.
PARASAILING
Parasailing is one of the fun and adrenaline rushing activities to partake in. This parasailing in Kovalam is a wonderful way to enjoy and experience the thrill of parasailing. Imagine being up in the air feeling as if you are flying and witness the beauty surrounding you, this sums up the experience of parasailing in Kovalam. Assisted by instructors and hygienic safety equipments this parasailing is amazing. This activity is suitable for anyone above the age of 8. Fly high in the air, as free like a bird while you are dragged behind a high powered boat which will help you sail.