Places Visit In Kovalam

Lighthouse Beach,Kovalam

Popular beach featuring restaurants, lodging & an iconic lighthouse with panoramic views.Light House Beach Rd, Near Malabar Restaurant, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695527.

Overview

The shining star of Kovalam, the Lighthouse Beach is a magnificent mix of gleaming sand, rocking waves, swaying palm fringes and blue aquamarine waters. The most frequently visited beach in Kovalam, the Lighthouse beach got its name from the old Vizhinjam lighthouse, which stands tall on a rocky headland. Long walks by the coastline, sunbathing, surfing, beach volleyball and swimming are some of the activities that can be enjoyed at the beach. Exquisite sea food is also available at the stalls lining the shore. Ayurvedic massages and beachside spas are a hit with tourists frequenting the Lighthouse beach.

The 35 m lighthouse at Kovalam is perched atop the palm-covered Kurumkal Hill jutting out on to the sea. Visitors can climb the spiraling staircase inside to the top of the red and white tower and enjoy a spectacular view of the surroundings.

Lighthouse Beach provides the city's largest shoreline, shaded by palms and known for its silver sand. Named after the 30 m (98 ft) high lighthouse located near the southern tip, the beach became a popular tourist attraction, especially attracting water sport enthusiasts. In addition to swimming, thrill seekers can go surfing, parasailing, and paragliding. The area offers upscale resorts and restaurants featuring local seafood dishes. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Lighthouse Beach by using our Kovalam trip itinerary planner.

Lighthouse Beach is a small section of the Fire Island National Seashore that is adjacent to Robert Moses State Park on New York's Long Island. It was notable for having sections that were officially designated as clothing optional prior to 2013. The beach is named for the nearby Fire Island Lighthouse and was formerly the largest recognized clothing optional beach in New York. On February 5, 2013, the Fire Island National Seashore announced its plan to begin enforcing New York State anti-nudity laws on all Fire Island beaches, including Lighthouse Beach, ending clothing optional usage. The beach is approximately one mile (1.6 km) long and can be defined as the ocean facing beach between Robert Moses State Park and the community of Kismet. Technically, it is in the Town of Islip.

Access

Since there is no vehicular traffic permitted in the Seashore,visitors must come in from the Robert Moses State Park in the west or the community of Kismet in the east.There is currently no handicapped access to the beach. In the past, there were accessible ramps from the westernmost boardwalk, but these have been destroyed by winter storms and have not yet been replaced.

Services

There are very limited services at this beach. There are no lifeguards or concessions. There are no trash receptacles making it a Carry in, Carry out facility. As with the rest of the Seashore, law enforcement is provided by National Park Service Rangers with occasional visits from the Suffolk County Police. At least two volunteer organizations work to ensure users are aware of appropriate behavior.

History

There are some reports of nudists using the beach as far back as World War II, getting to the island by rowboat.[citation needed] After the Robert Moses Causeway was extended to Fire Island in 1964, word slowly spread, resulting in the clothing optional usage expanding greatly in the 1970s.

Situated in upper and middle Shivaliks at a distance of 21 km from Nahan, the Suketi Fossil Park is located on the banks of Markanda River and is linked by a 4 km road from Kala-Amb in Haryana. This park is built on a site from which fossils were actually unearthed and contains one of the world's richest collections of the fossil remains of mammals.Suketi Fossil Park is well known for its six life size fibreglass models of pre-historic animals, whose fossils and skeletons were found at the park. The depicted animals are models of the extinct grand elephant, an extinct genus of giraffe, a hippopotamus with six incisors, a giant land tortoise and cheloni, a Sabre Toothed tiger and Crocodilia all of which once thrived in the region.

Originally, the entire stretch of beach was clothing optional, however there have been some complaints from users objecting to the nudity going back to the 1980s. These complaints were largely from parents who visited the lighthouse and were surprised by the nudity on the beach.

In 1994, due to negotiations between Friends of Lighthouse Beach and the National Park Service, the center section was made non-clothing optional or textile so that visitors from the lighthouse who did not want to see nudity could enjoy the beach.

Since February 5, 2013, the entirety of Lighthouse Beach has no longer been clothing optionalBathing suits are required at all times, and violators face a maximum penalty of a $5,000 fine and six months in prison.Note that in New York State, women are legally permitted to be topless and continue to do so at this beach. The beach is widely regarded as family friendly.

Veli Tourist Village,Kovalam

Scenic lake with a beach, playground, floating cafe & sculptures, plus activities such as boating.

Overview

Picnic at Veli Tourist Village, where you can rent a pedal, paddle, or speedboat to explore a charming lagoon. The popular destination also offers a children's park and a floating cafe. By using our Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) vacation trip planner, you can arrange your visit to Veli Tourist Village and other attractions in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum).

This picnic spot, where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea, offers boating facilities. Pedalboats and paddleboats can be hired to explore the charms of the lagoon in a leisurely manner. For a quick ride over the waters, speedboats are available for hire. Children enjoy climbing over the huge sculptures which dot the landscape. Veli Tourist Village also has a children's park and a Floating Cafe by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC).

The Veli tourist village center is located close to the airport and is an ideal place for having a small picnic, boating, and to enjoy a relaxing view of the Arabian Sea. Highlights include a floating café, children’s park, speedboat/boating in the Veli lake and a swimming pool. Tourists love coming to Veli because of its majestic scenic beauty and the various local markets that are ideal for souvenir shopping and traditional crafts. There are many exploration opportunities also in Veli with attractions like horse riding, long walkway connecting Aukulam Lake, water activities in Veli Lake and the multitude of birds and fishes that can be seen. All of these exciting attractions make Veli tourist village one of the best places to visit in Trivandrum.

There are also a wide range of attractions such as play areas for children. Visitors can book various boat rides in Veli Lake. There are speedboats, paddle boats and other boats for a leisurely ride. Opt for horse rides or enjoy games at the shopping stalls. Birds such as pigeons and swans, fish and tortoises inhabit the area. It is idyllic for an outing with family. Ideal for picnics, relax in the blessed environs. The Floating Cafe by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) gives you an amazing array of food products which might match your taste buds. When you are in Kovalam, do not miss to spend some time in the Veli Tourist Village.

Veli Tourist village is one of the popular tourist spots located at the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram, at a distance of 8 km away. Veli Tourist village lies at the spot where Veli Lake is separated from the Arabian Sea by a sand bar. The clear water of Veli Lagoon offers water sports activities.

History

Veli tourist village is a popular picnic destination in Thiruvananthapuram district. It consists of a large garden on the southern banks of Veli lagoon. A floating bridge connects this garden to the Veli beach. This picnic destination offers a wide range of attractions such as play areas for children, various boat rides in Veli lake, games, horse rides, swimming pool, shopping stalls, cafeterias, a floating restaurant, a long walkway connecting to Aakulam lake, stone and grass sculptures by Kanayi Kunhiraman which dots the garden landscape, a collection of pet birds such as pigeons and swans, small ponds with fish and tortoises and more!

Veli tourist village is located about 10km from Thiruvananthapuram city. You can take a bus, auto or a taxi to reach Veli. If you are driving from Thiruvananthapuram city, take the airport road via Chacka. From All Saints College Jn. (7km from city) head straight towards Kochu Veli Railway Station. After a distance of around 400 metres from Kochu Veli Railway Station, take a left turn towards Veli Tourist Village. About 200 metres or so along this road you will find the first parking slot on the left side. If parking here is full, head another few metres to park on the right side. You need to pay a small parking fee (Rs. 10).

Veli Tourist Village Tickets Prices

Entrance Fee is INR 5 per person and parking is INR 10.

Boat rides:

Safari boat: INR 60 per head
Speed boat: INR 600 for 4 persons
Pedal boat: 2 seater - INR 60 for half an hour.

Timings:8 AM to 6 PM Boat Rentals:10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Vellayani Lake,Kovalam

Vellayani Lake, or Vellayani Kayal as known in local language, is the largest fresh water lake in Thiruvananthapuram district, of Kerala, India.

Overview

The Vellayani Lake flows through the district of Thiruvananthapuram and happens to be the largest fresh water lake of the district. Locals refer to the lake as ‘Vellayani Kayal’. The lake is a favorite picnic spot among the locals as well as the tourists since it is at a distance of only 9 km from the main bus station of Thiruvananthapuram. If you are in Kovalam then make it a point to visit the lake at least once.

Vellayani Lake also known as Vellayani Kayal in local dialects is the largest freshwater lake in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, India. Blessed with brilliant nature’s finest art forms and tranquillity, Vellayani Lake though not much popular as tourist spot, wins the heart of visitors with its captivating appeal.

Location

The Vellayani Lake is located roughly at a distance of 9 km from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram and just 7 km away from the popular beach destination of Kovalam.

Attractions and features

Spread over an area of 7.5 square kilometres, Vellayani Lake is the treasure trove of nature. Surrounded with scenic landscapes, swaying coconut groves and stretch of thriving paddy field, the crystal clear water of the lake provides much needed peace and treats to the eyes of the visitors. Especially during the moonlit nights when the beam of the moon light falls on the lake, the picture created here is indeed a craze for the minds. In addition, the blossoming lotus flowers floating on the lake against the hue of greenery adds more to the beauty of the lake. Apart from its scenic charm, the annual boat race organised during the auspicious occasion of Onam festival makes the place more vibrant and lively.

Activity

The crystal clear water of the lake offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy and adorn the fun and excitement of boat ride. Boating in the pristine water of the lake let you immersed yourself in the unparallel nature beauty of the place. In addition, the place is the areas surrounding the lakes also serves as a perfect picnic spots for those who are planning for a memorable day out with friends and family.

Best time to visit

The most suitable time when you can witness the best of the nature and the lake is from August to February. If you are packed with your unchangeable schedule you can also visit the lake during the festival of Onam.

History

Vellayani Lake is a freshwater lake and a popular picnic spot located at a distance of 7 km from Kovalam. Tourists come here for a boat ride or to spend the time hailing the charm of the landscape while they chat. During Onam festival enthusiasm takes over as the popular traditional boat races are organized here. This lake has many stories that tell about its inception; like the story which tells about a thirsty beggar. The beggar visited a saint who was meditating. Upon seeing the beggar the saint started pouring water to his palms from the pot which was nearly empty. The saint chanted a hymn and threw the empty pot a few meters away. Gradually, a big lake emerged where the pot had landed and this lake is Vellayani Lake.

Hawa Beach,Kovalam

Hawah Beach Resort, Kovalam, offers spectacular view of the tranquil Hawa beach straight from the resort. Spacious balconies, airy rooms and intricate furnishings add on to the pleasant experience. The relaxing ambience is complimented beautifully with the gratifying hospitality rendered by the staff.

Hawa beach or Eve's beach lies opposite to the Light house beach. Many tourists claim it to be the most beautiful among the beaches in Kovalam. The exquisiteness of this Kovalam beach is enhanced by the stack of palm grooves which reward a unique elegance to this place.

The beach in the early morning is found crowded with native fishermen who rely completely on the sea for their living. Chanting and singing of these people in their local language along with the cadenced waves create a great acoustic treat for the visitors here. Hawa beach is separated from other beaches by the foreland of Edakkalu. From here, you can get the majestic view of sunset at its apex grace. After the sun sets, the calm cove of waters in the beach provides a visual charm of moonlit nights.

Kovalam tourism is also famous for the mouth watering cuisines here. To satisfy your taste buds you need not have to get into any high class Kovalam beach hotel; there are lots of small restaurants all along the beach sides. The dishes here not only quench your hunger but also provide a new unique experience. When it comes to accommodation, a typical Kovalam beach resort will definitely include all the facilities which you would love to have. Besides accommodation and food, the management here takes extra care to avail the customers with well tailored customized services as per their demand. Thus you will never feel as if you are far away from your home. There are numerous activities within the resorts itself and you will always be kept entertained.

There are lots of tourist places in Kovalam but honeymooners always prefer to be in beaches and Hawa beach is obviously a sensible choice for them. With your soul-mate's hand in yours, you can simply walk through the long sandy shores and relax. If you love adventure, you can enjoy any of the adventure sports at Kovalam beach together and please make sure that you adhere strictly to the instructions provided. The currents in this beach are quite stronger than other beaches of Kovalam and this must be always kept in mind to assure your safety.

Though you will see lots of westerns taking sun bath in bathing suits, it would be polite to pay a little attention to dressing when you walk near to the mosque or in the palm groves. This will avoid unwanted attention. Kovalam is renowned for the ayurvedic massage parlours here and the herbal treatments available are really affordable by almost every sector of tourists. This is not just a means for relaxation but ayurvedic massages have lots of health benefits which are scientifically proved.

The beach is ideal for all sorts of travellers regardless of their age group and nationality. Those who are looking for a virgin & tranquil stretches of beautiful sandy shores, Hawa beach would be the perfect destination. Hawa beach can be easily reached from Trivandrum city as there are always buses towards the beach. You may also hire taxis or auto-rickshaws for convenience.

Location

Hawah Beach Resort is located at Light House, Kovalam Vizhinjam P O. Thiruvallam Parasurama temple (Approx. 7km) and Karamana river (Approx. 9km) are two attractive destinations found at the vicinity of the hotel. Dedicated to Lord Parasurama, the Thiruvallam Parasurama temple is a 2000 year old temple where devotees pray for their departed souls by taking a dip in the holy water of the temple. Other interesting places worth exploring include Aruvikkara, Hawa beach and the Lighthouse. Distance from Trivandrum International Airport: 15 km (approx.) Distance from Trivandrum Central Railway Station: 17 km (approx.)

History

Hawa Beach, popularly known as Eve's Beach, is the most popular of the three beaches of Kovalam. This beach lies opposite to Lighthouse Beach and is full of palm groves. Swimming is not preferred at this beach as the currents are quite strong. Tourists can be seen sunbathing and getting herbal massages at this beach. Catamaran rides can also be availed at Hawa Beach.

The Hawa beach has an interesting story behind its name. Sometime back, this beach was frequented by topless European women looking to get a perfect tan and thus originated the name Hawa beach. However, at present, topless bathing is banned here, as it is on beaches elsewhere in India

Neyyar Dam,Kovalam

Neyyar dam is a gravity dam on the Neyyar River in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, South India, located on the foot of the Western Ghats about 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram. It was established in 1958 and is a popular picnic spot.

Overview

Neyyar dam is a gravity dam on the Neyyar River in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, South India, located on the foot of the Western Ghats about 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram.It was established in 1958 and is a popular picnic spot. Lying against the southern low hills of the Western Ghats, Neyyar Dam has a scenic lake.

A repository of some of the rarest medicinal herbs, the Neyyar Dam located about 32 km from Thiruvananthapuram, is a popular picnic spot with a lake and a picturesque dam site. The lake formed by the dam across the Neyyar River is the bluest of blue, making boating irresistible for tourists. The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary of which the dam is a part is the habitat of over a hundred species of fauna including Asian Elephant, Tiger, Leopard, Slender Loris and reptiles like King Cobra, Travancore Tortoise, etc. A crocodile breeding centre and a lion safari park are also located in the dam site.

A beautiful lake and a picturesque dam site, Neyyar is the heaven for tourists who search for some serenity and isolation. A Tour to Neyyar Dam will refresh your spirits in such a beautiful surrounding. The dam is a part of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary which is the home of unique species of flora and fauna. From wild boars and elephants to the vast range of medicinal herbs Neyyar is truly a nature lover’s paradise.

Location of Neyyar Dam

Nearest Airport to Neyyar Dam: Trivandrum Airport is 38 km away.
Nearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Railway Station is 32 km away.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to take a tour to Neyyar Dam is from September to May.

Tourist Attractions

The Neyyar Dam Wildlife Sanctuary stretches from Neyyatinkara Taluk to Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. The Neyyar Dam gets its name from the Neyyar River. A Tour to Neyyar Dam will reveal more about these unique species of plant and animal life.

The major tourist attraction near Neyyar Dam is its wildlife sanctuary which has a number of tourist attractions like:

Crocodile Park
Lion Safari Park
Deer Park
Watch Tower

History

The Neyyar Dam located in the Trivandrum district of Kerala is a paradise for nature lovers. Built in the year 1958, the Neyyar Dam is a part of the adjoining Wildlife Sanctuary which is the home of different species of animals. Nestled amidst the greenery of Western Ghats Neyyar also has a number of medicinal herbs and plants. Take a Tour to Neyyar Dam and find more about this wildlife sanctuary and beautiful lake.

The word Kuthiramalika means Horse Bungalow which has got its name from the roof beams which resemble the shape of a horse. The Museum stores ornaments, weapons and rare artifacts of the Travancore Royal family. A Tour to Kuthiramalika will reveal a lot more about the ancient past of Kerala.

Water Sports,Kovalam

Kovalam is a small village situated 14 km from Trivandrum in Kerala. It is a beautiful beach surrounded by rows of green palm groves. It is one of the most picturesque beaches of India with a wide variety of water sports activities.

Overview

Kovalam beach can be divided into three parts. Lighthouse beach, which lies to the South, the northern most part is known as Samudra and Hawah which is located in the centre. All three parts are frequencted by travelers and have a wide offering of restaurants and beach resorts. The water activities which are offered by the sports clubs include parasailing, snorkelling, wind surfing and back water cruise.

Kovalam is a coastal town where there is an abundance of water sports that you can engage in. Going to a coastal town, one always looks forward to several activities. The water sports in Kovalam are a thrilling adventure. With the number of beaches in Kovalam, you can always choose to go for a swim on a pleasant day. Thereafter, you can plan what to do in Kovalam based on your own liking. You can try water sports like surfing at the beaches of Kovalam. You can learn how to surf and paddle board in one day under guidance from a professional at the Kovalam Surf Club. It is cheap and affordable, and will surely be your money’s worth. Other water sports are parasailing, boat sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving and water skiing. Everyone loves a little dose of adventure and this is just a beginning. Kovalam, both-relaxationin God’s own country, is a haven for all those who want tboth relaxationas well as some exciting outdoor activities. It is a place where the temperatures are almost stable and constant throughout the year, your spirits will not be brought down by anything. Water sports can be extremely refreshing and rejuvenating. So treat yourself in Kovalam by booking your desired activities in advance.

Canoeing, Kayaking, Sailing, waterskiing, white water rafting, wind surfing... with 900km backwater stretch, 44 rivers originating from the Sahyadri hills and several beaches, Kerala is a dream come true for water sport enthusiasts. While canoeing and kayaking can be enjoyed along the serene backwaters- which is also the venue for the spectacular snake boat races for the State, catamaran sailing is possible at the beaches of Alappuzha, Varkala and Kovalam. Parasailing is gaining popularity with the Varkala and Alappuzha beaches offering platform, beach and winch boat parasailing. For wind surfing, the beaches of Kovalam and Varkala are the best bet, while the backwaters offer great scope for speed boating and bamboo rafting.

Kovalam is a natural bay ideal for kayaking, swimming, surfing and skiing. One can swim in the shallow blue water and have a sun-bath in the exotic tropical sun lying on the vast silvery fling sands. The coastal area is also rowed with exquisite tatters of coral reefs and also zenith the waves breaking on the shore on logs of fastened woods on catamarans.

About Water Sports in Kovalam

Activities offered : Snorkelling, Parasailing, Wind Surfing, Back Water Cruise
Cost of Activity : Jet Skiing- Rs 450 onwards, Parasailing- Rs 1000 Snorkelling- Approx Rs 2500 per dive
Difficulty Level : Easy- Moderate
Region : Malabar coastline
Time required : Jet Skiing- 10 to 15 mins, Parasailing- 5 to 10 mins Snorkelling- Approx 30 mins
Water Temperature : Aroud 30 degress during peak season

History

Kovalam was quite unknown to the rest of the world until Regent Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi of Travancore took an interest in it. She constructed Halcyon Castle, a beach resort, in the late 1920s. Her nephew, the Maharaja of Travancore, took a keen interest in Kovalam with all its beauty and liked to visit Kovalam for leisure. His fondness for this quaint little town soon reached the ears of his European guests and they soon realised the potential of Kovalam, with its picturesque beach, as a tourist destination. However, Kovalam’s reputation for being a great tourist destination grew in popularity mainly in the early seventies, which saw the arrival of several hippies. The hippies stopped at Kovalam on their way to Ceylon. This was when Kovalam transformed from a simple fishing village into a well-known tourist destination. Perhaps the oldest part of Kovalam is its cave temple, which dates back to the 8th century. The temple has idols of the Hindu deity Shasta. Close by is another ancient temple that contains idols of seven deities.

He always supported the cause of good governance where worries of every citizen are addressed judiciously by the rulers. To get people rid of atrocities of cruel rulers Lord Parshuram eliminated 21 times, cruel and atrocious rulers from the earth. He also killed King Sahastrabahu and his Army as King had attacked Tape ka Tiba Ashram in his absence, to get the Kamdhenu cow from Maharishi. After Maharishi pleaded that the Kamdhenu Cow was given him by Lord Indra in trust and he can not breach the trust by passing it to someone else. Shastrabahu killed Maharishi Jamdagni. Lord Parshurams mother Bhagwati Renuka Ji jumped in the Ram Sarovar and took Jal Samadhi. Purans narrates that Ram Sarovar immediately took the shape of a lady and since then it is known as Renuka Ji Lake.

After eliminating Sahashtrabahu in fierce battle he gave a new life to his father with his divine powers and came on the bank of the Lake and prayed his mother to come out of the Lake. Mother responded to his prayers and lord vowed in her feet. She said that she will permanently live in the Lake, but on the request of Lord Parshuram she promised that she will come out of the Lake on the occasion of Devprabodhini Ekadashi every year to meet her son. Bhagwati also promised that people gracing this pious occasion of mothers affection and sons devotion, would be showered with divine blessings .One day advance, on Dashmi the palanquin of Lord Parshuram is brought to Renuka Ji from the ancient temple in Jamu Koti village in traditional procession known a ‘Shobha Yatra’, attended by lakhs of devotees.Saints from every part of country come at Renuka Ji to witness holy and divine assembly of mother and son. The administration has made all the necessary arrangements for peaceful holding the fair. Elaborate security arrangements are made keeping view on terrorist activities.

Haylcon Castle,Kovalam

Halcyon Castle was built in 1932 in the princely state of Travancore, in the modern-day state of Kerala, India.

Overview

Halcyon Castle was built in 1932 in the princely state of Travancore, in the modern-day state of Kerala, India. It was constructed by M.R.Ry Sri Rama Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran, the consort of H.H. Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, as a retreat for their family.In 1964 Valiya Koil Thampuran sold the entire property the Government of India; since then the property has been converted into a deluxe hotel. A dispute arose when the India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), which was running the hotel, sold it to a private hotel resort group.The NRI businessman Dr Ravi Pillai now owns the hotel and the entire adjoining land area measuring around 65 acres; he has contracted with the Leela Hotel Group to manage the 5-Star, deluxe hotel.

Halcyon Castle is often known as Kovalam Palace too. It was built in 1932, by M.R. Sri Rama Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran. Sri Rama wanted to build a summer retreat for him and his family. Traditional architecture along with expansive lawns emerged as highlights of the palace. In 1964, the owner sold it to Kerala Government and it was eventually turned into a hotel. Years later, it was sold to a private resort group. Over the years, there have been different owners of Halcyon. And today, it is a popular attraction of Kovalam.

Halcyon Caste which is many times referred as Kovalam palace was built by M.R. Sri Rama Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran in the year 1932. The intention of constructing this palace was to make avail his spouse, Maharani Sethu Lekshmi Bai and the entire family with a perfect summer retreat. The palace also reflects the customary traditional Kerala Style architecture and the expansive lawns are maintained with utmost care.

The beautiful palace was sold by Valiya Koil Thampuran to the Kerala Government in 1964. After that it was converted into a luxurious hotel. The Indian Tourism Development Corporation was running this hotel but later they sold the palace to a private resort group. This paved way for many disputes as the Kerala Government claimed it be of historic relevance and demanded it to be considered as a heritage site.

The Castle which is one of the important Kovalam tourist spots is located at the international beach resort of Kovalam. The palace was earlier owned and run by Leela Group and they run 5 star luxury hotels in Kovalam. Recently the Ravi Pillai Group acquired Halcyon Castle from Leela Group. The palace is at a distance of nearly 2 Km from Kovalam and can be reached easily from there. It will take less than 10 minutes normally if you travel by a taxi or auto rickshaw.

Architectural Importace

The Halcyon Castle is built in the colonial architectural style, prevailed in that time in Kerala. This is pure granite structure on 65 acres of land area. It is said that the 'Agasthiya Malai' on the Western Ghats region were quarried to bring rock stones to the construction of this castle. Nearly 800 hard laborers were employed and 200 skilled artisans were used to construct this splendid structure within a decade span of time. There are up to three floors constructed for various purposes. This castle is found in all geometric designs. It has circular edged staircase, large rectangular shaped halls, small square rooms, pyramid shaped parapets and domes, cubical small towers. It totally looked like a European castle in Kerala. Its designs are unique and appropriate for the landscape surrounding near to the Kovalam Beach. There are many verandahs, roof top watch towers and large windows designed to see its largest beach front on the western side of this structure. There are many other edifices built on the surroundings of the castle for the Travancore servants for the princely family residing here. It is surrounded by very lovely garden, huge trees and bushes, over all its landscape is a very amazing. On the interior there are wooden and glass works mostly seen. There are large wooden ceilings and steps built here that are made of teak woods brought from the Idukki forest areas.

History

Halcyon Castle was a present to the Thamburati 'Sethu Lakshmi Bayi' by the Travancore Thamburan Valiya Koil Rama Verma in the year 1932 AD. She was a renowned cultural dance artist, who displayed her talents in this castle court area. In this castle the Princes delivered her two royal daughters named Chithira Thirunal Verma and Karthika Thirunal Verma. In the time of Vaikom Sathyagragh, 'Mahatma Gandhi' Visited here at her court and discussed about the abolishing of untouchables to enter the temples of Hindus in 1925 AD. In that time she was the Travancore regent. This castle saw the last regent of Travancore and greatly known for the last princess to receive the order of the Crown in the year 1924 AD and held the post up to 1931 AD. In the last decade of independence this place was a major ground for freedom fighters. After Independence of India this castle was betrayed to the State Government of Kerala for tourism development purpose. This castle was in controversy when the tourism development authority leased this castle for a private group to convert in to a luxury hotel. Presently it is a Luxury 5 Star Hotel.

Samudra Beach,Kovalam

Samudra beach is one of the three popular beaches of Kovalam, frequented by tourists as well as locals. Spreading in the northernmost portion, this beach offers mesmerizing views of the blue sea waves sloping on the rocks. Visit the beach and soak-in the serenity spread all around. Enjoy mesmerizing sunset views here. If you want, you can also enjoy motorboat ride or even a wooden boat ride at Samudra beach. The beach has a number of restaurants and hotels in close proximity.

Overview

Apart from lighthouse beach and hawa beach, some of the other attractions worth-visiting are Parasurama temple, Valiathura, Thiruvallam, Meshan Mani and Panathura temple. November to February is the best time to visit Samudra beach. Little tourist activity makes it an ideal place to relax.

Samudra beach which is a scenic jewel to Kovalam is located towards the north most region of Kovalam beach. This is separated from other beaches by disjointed fissures and giant promontory. The beach has enormous attractive features among which the most prominent is its isolation and the feel of serenity it offers. You will never find massive crowd of tourists pouring in here. This feature alone draws lots of tourists towards the beach as they can be away from the noisy howls and rushes of their routine city life.

You can enjoy complete privacy here and thus this beach has always remained as an ingredient in almost every honeymoon packages in Kovalam. This is an absolute paradise for the newly-wed and they can stay immersed in their own world of tranquillity here. Samudra beach has remained impervious to the rapid bloom of tourism and even today the beach is successful in preserving its original appeal. Even though Kovalam tourism has flourished to larger dimensions, the beach has remained unnoticed mainly because of a huge ridge present in between the north and south coastlines. Since the place is not always crowded by tourist population, this part of coastline is preferred for fishing by the local fishermen. Here you can see some wooden fishing vessels and the view of ships far away on the horizon will surely be a sight which you will enjoy watching. You can simply sit on the sea wall and appreciate the majestic view from there. Delight yourself with the visual grace of squashy waves which quietly hasten against the hard rocks. The abundance of coconut trees and palms in this beach augments the beauty and regulates the climate perfectly suitable for tourism.

Another factor boosting the scope of tourism in Kovalam is the presence of different options for stay. This not only include any high class Kovalam beach resort or hotels but you may also find cheaper home stays here by the local people. Home stays are run by the local people here and you will get an exact feel of a temporary home away from your own home. However choosing a Kovalam beach hotel would not do much harm to your budget as the rates are genuine and affordable. You will be provided with superb rooms to stay, delicious dishes and much more than you can ever imagine. Almost all hotels and resorts in Kovalam have indoor games and leisure activities which always keep you engaged. Also there will be well equipped reading rooms with wide variety of books and magazines.

There are many other tourist places in Kovalam which can be easily reached from the Samudra beach. Ashoka beach is yet another beach which lies very much close to Samudra beach but it is not much popular among tourists. As Samudra beach is located close to Trivandrum, the capital city, it is not a big deal to access Samudra beach. Once you reach Trivandrum by air or rail, you may prefer hiring a taxi or auto-rickshaw for convenience. However, bus would be the cheapest option.

History

Samudra Beach, which is just 4 km north of Kovalam, is a popular attraction. The beach owes its name to Hotel Samudra, which is operated by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. Forming the northern part of Kovalam Beach, this beach is popular among both Indian as well as international tourists. Numerous basic wooden fishing vessels can be seen near the beach.