Kovalam is a coastal town located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its beautiful beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and rich cultural and historical heritage. Here is a travel guide to help you plan your trip to Kovalam:
Getting there: The nearest airport to Kovalam is Trivandrum International Airport, which is located about 20 km away. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Kovalam. Kovalam is also well connected by train and bus to major cities in Kerala.
The most famous of Kovalam's beaches is the Lighthouse Beach, which is named after the 30 meter tall lighthouse located at the southern end of the beach. This beach offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The nearby Hawah Beach, also known as Eve's Beach, is a more secluded spot that is popular with couples.
Visitors can also take a dip in the shallows of the Samudra Beach, which is known for its calm waters and is a great spot for swimming and watersports.
In addition to the beaches, Kovalam also offers a variety of cultural and historical attractions, such as the Vizhinjam Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the town, and the Padmanabhapuram Palace, a 16th century palace that is now a museum. Visitors can also take a backwater cruise on the famous Kerala backwaters or visit the nearby Neyyar Dam.
Kovalam offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some popular options include Hotel Samudra, Hotel Sea Pearl, and The Leela Kovalam Beach.
Nightlife: Kovalam offers a wide range of options for nightlife entertainment, including beach parties, bars and restaurants, and cultural shows.
For those interested in Ayurveda, Kovalam is also known for its Ayurvedic massage centers and wellness retreats.Visitors can indulge in traditional Ayurvedic treatments such as massages, herbal steam baths, and yoga sessions.
Tourist spots in kovalam
Kovalam is a popular beach town located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, known for its beautiful beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and rich cultural and historical heritage. Here are some popular tourist spots in Kovalam:
Lighthouse Beach: The most famous of Kovalam's beaches, the Lighthouse Beach is named after the 30 meter tall lighthouse located at the southern end of the beach. This beach offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Hawah Beach: Also known as Eve's Beach, this is a more secluded spot that is popular with couples. The beach is known for its picturesque setting and great for relaxing and unwinding.
Samudra Beach: This beach is known for its calm waters and is a great spot for swimming and watersports. The shallow waters make it ideal for families with children.
Padmanabhapuram Palace: A 16th century palace that is now a museum. The palace is an architectural wonder and is a must-see for history buffs.
Vizhinjam Lighthouse: This lighthouse offers panoramic views of the town and is a popular spot for photography.
Neyyar Dam: Located near Kovalam, this dam is a popular spot for boating and picnicking. Visitors can also take a dip in the cool waters of the dam.
Kovalam Art Village: This village is home to a number of traditional houses and cottages that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Ayurvedic Massage Centers and Wellness Retreats: Kovalam is also known for its Ayurvedic massage centers and wellness retreats, offering traditional Ayurvedic treatments such as massages, herbal steam baths, and yoga sessions.
Where to stay
Kovalam is a popular beach town in southern India, known for its beautiful beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and rich cultural and historical heritage. There are several options for accommodation in Kovalam, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are a few popular options for where to stay in Kovalam:
Luxury Resorts: Kovalam offers a variety of luxury resorts, such as The Leela Kovalam Beach, which offers stunning sea views and a range of amenities like spa, ayurvedic massage centers, and swimming pool.
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses: For travelers on a budget, there are a number of guesthouses and lodges in Kovalam that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation. Some popular options include Hotel Samudra and Hotel Sea Pearl.
Homestays: For those looking for a more authentic experience, homestays in Kovalam offer an opportunity to live with a local family and experience the culture and customs of the region.
Beachfront Accommodation: There are several beachfront resorts and hotels in Kovalam that offer stunning views of the Arabian Sea and easy access to the beach.
Treehouse and Eco-Friendly Stays: There are also eco-friendly and treehouse stays in Kovalam for travelers looking for a unique experience and to be close to nature.
Best Season to Travel
The best season to visit Kovalam is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. During this time, the temperature ranges from 20-35 degrees Celsius and it is not too hot or humid. These months are also considered to be the peak tourist season, so it is recommended to book accommodation in advance. The monsoon season from June to September can be avoided as it can be quite rainy and the sea can be rough.
How to reach
Kovalam is located in the southern Indian state of Kerala and is well-connected to major cities in the state and country by various means of transportation. Here are a few options for reaching Kovalam:
By Air: The nearest airport to Kovalam is Trivandrum International Airport, which is located about 20 km away. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Kovalam. Flights from major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, as well as some international destinations, operate to Trivandrum.
By Train: Kovalam railway station is well connected to other major cities in Kerala, like Trivandrum, Kochi, and Kannur. Trains from major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore also run to Trivandrum, and from there you can take a train or bus to Kovalam.
By Bus: Kovalam is well connected by bus to major cities in Kerala, such as Trivandrum, Kochi, and Kannur. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and private buses run regularly to Kovalam from other parts of the state.
By Car: Kovalam is well connected by road and is accessible from other major cities in Kerala. It is around 14 KM from Trivandrum and well connected by National Highway 66.
Overall, Kovalam is well connected to major cities in India by air, train, bus and car, making it easily accessible for travelers.
Tips
- Visit the popular Lighthouse Beach and Hawa Beach for a relaxing beach experience.
- Take a stroll through the local markets for traditional souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Try the local seafood at one of the many beachfront shacks or restaurants.
- Take a day trip to the Padmanabhapuram Palace, a historic palace and UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Experience Ayurvedic massage and treatments at one of the many wellness centers in the area.
- Visit the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium to learn about the local marine life.
- Take a boat trip to see dolphins and whales.
- Visit the nearby city of Trivandrum to see the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple and other cultural attractions.
- It is advisable to avoid visiting during monsoon (June to September) as the sea can be rough.
- Always carry sunscreen, mosquito repellent and a hat for sun protection.
Overall, Kovalam offers a perfect combination of sea, sun, and sand, making it an ideal vacation spot for those looking to relax and rejuvenate.Kovalam offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors, from its beautiful beaches to its rich cultural and historical heritage. With so many options to explore, it is a perfect destination for a relaxing vacation.Be sure to plan your trip in advance and take advantage of all that this charming town has to offer.
NB: TripTalk will not be held responsible for any inconveniences caused owing to the unavailability of any specific program. The purpose of the TripTalk website is to share travel advice and information with the public.