Koavalam: The Pearl of Kerala

Kovalam is one of the most famous beaches and major tourist attractions in India. This place has evolved from being a quaint fishing village to Kerala’s most developed resort over a period. In Malayalam, Kovalam means ‘grove of coconut trees’ which is characterised by the presence of verdant rows of coconut trees covering the entire area and three adjoining crescent beaches. Due to its ethereal beauty and natural richness, Kovalam has also earned a special title as ‘the paradise of the south.’  The town woke up from a slumber in the 1970’s when it became an essential destination of the famous Hippy Trail. Consequently, its fame grew as an exotic location, which translated into surge in tourism. There are many tourist places to explore in Kovalam, let us talk about them:

Lighthouse Beach:

Majestically standing as the beacon of Kovalam, the Lighthouse Beach is 35 meters tall, appears magnificent as it blends well with swift waves, crystal-clear seawater, and glinting sand to create a gratifying panorama. This beach earned its name from the old Vizhinjam lighthouse, which stares at the entire region from a rocky hillock named as the Karumkal Hill. The Lighthouse Beach is the biggest of the three beaches in Kovalam area and offers a wide space to enjoy a lot of activities – sunbathing, swimming, long walks by the shoreline and beach volleyball. For your gastronomic delights – there are many food stalls on the shore, which serve delectable seafood. Besides that, tourists can also enjoy rejuvenating treatments at beachside spas and Ayurvedic massage parlours.

Samudra Beach:

One of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in Kovalam – the Samudra beach is the least populated beach in the region and a home to many fishermen. Those who want to behold the beauty of nature amidst tranquil ambience favour this beach. The entire place is characterised by a profound sense of solitude and makes you feel close to your inner self. Other notable attractions of this area are the Ashoka beach and the Vizhinjam port.

Hawah Beach:

Hawah Beach or Eve’s Beach offers a great opportunity to observe the various fishing activities. Complimented by a rock promontory and a serene bay of blue waters, this beach offers a stunning view of the seawater on moonlit nights. Interestingly, this beach earned widespread fame as the first and the only topless beach in India before such activities were strictly banned by the authorities. Hawah beach is a perfect destination for those seeking natural beauty and recreation. There are a few bars and shops on this beach, where you can relax and enjoy.

Vellayani Lake:

Vellayani Lake is 7km away from Kovalam. It is the largest fresh water lake in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala and also known as Vellayani Kayal in local language. It is considered as a perfect picnic spot in Kovalam. One can enjoy an awe-inspiring view of the lake during a moonlit night. The entire place turns into a massive carnival site during the festival of Onam, when the annual boat race is organised on the lake. This lake is famous for its amazing ecosystem, created by a variety of flora and fauna.

The Vizhinjam Village

The Vizhinjam Village is a perfect destination for those looking for an ultimate Ayurvedic centre in Kerala. Undoubtedly, this village has one of most popular Ayurvedic centres in Kerala. The other attractions are: quaint fishing harbours, rock cut temples and vast beaches. The village still practises the old Ayurvedic methods with roots tracing back to the 11^th century.

The German Bakery:

The German bakery is hugely famous among tourists and locals for its assiduously prepared breakfast menu and specialities. It is a mid-priced eatery in Kovalam, located on the lighthouse beach. You would love to relish the delicious pancakes and soul-stirring shakes, which attract everyone towards the German Bakery. Besides enjoying sumptuous dishes, one can also savour the spectacular view of the coastline from its beach-facing terrace.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from the month of September to the month of March.

How to reach:

Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 16 km.

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 10 km.