KOVALAM
Hey everyone! Are you tired of the same old touristy spots? Do you crave a beach getaway that's not just about lazing around and sipping on cocktails? Then Kovalam is the place for you!
Kovalam, a small coastal town in Kerala, India, is a hidden gem that promises to offer more than just sun and sand. With its pristine beaches, delicious seafood, and vibrant nightlife, Kovalam is the perfect place to let loose and have some fun.
But wait, there's more! The town also boasts of Ayurvedic spas that'll make all your stress disappear faster than a magician's rabbit. You can even take a stroll through the local markets and buy some exotic spices and handmade souvenirs to take back home.
If you're feeling adventurous, go for a boat ride or try your hand at surfing (or pretend to be an expert like I did). And if you're lucky enough, you might even spot some dolphins!
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags (and sunscreen) and head over to Kovalam for an unforgettable vacation. Trust me, it'll be shorely worth it!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Kovalam
- How to Reach and getting around Kovalam
- Weather of Kovalam
- Places to Visit in Kovalam
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Kovalam
- Best areas for Accommodation in Kovalam
- Shopping in Kovalam
- Nightlife in Kovalam
- Festivals and Events in Kovalam
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Kovalam
- FAQs
History and Culture of Kovalam
Kovalam is a small coastal town located in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is famous for its pristine beaches, coconut trees, and relaxed atmosphere. The town's name Kovalam means "grove of coconut trees" in the local language. Fun fact: Kovalam was once a fishing village until it was discovered by hippies in the 1960s!
The history of Kovalam dates back to ancient times when it was ruled by various dynasties like the Cholas, Pandyas, and the Travancore kingdom. It was also a prominent trading center for spices and coconuts. Legend has it that the great sage Parasurama created Kovalam by throwing his axe into the sea!
The culture of Kovalam is deeply rooted in its traditional art forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, which are performed at various cultural centers throughout the town. The locals are known for their hospitality and love for seafood. If you visit Kovalam, don't miss out on trying their famous prawn curry!
Today, Kovalam has become a popular tourist destination with visitors from all over the world flocking to its beautiful beaches and serene surroundings. The town offers a range of activities like surfing, snorkeling, and ayurvedic massages. And if you're lucky, you might even spot some dolphins while taking a boat ride!
In conclusion, Kovalam is a unique blend of history and modernity with its rich cultural heritage and thriving tourism industry. It's definitely worth a visit if you're looking for some relaxation and fun in the sun. Just don't forget your sunscreen!
How to Reach and getting around Kovalam
Kovalam is a beautiful coastal town in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is known for its serene beaches and stunning landscapes. If you're planning a trip to Kovalam, there are several ways to reach this scenic destination.
One of the most convenient ways to reach Kovalam is by air. The nearest airport is the Trivandrum International Airport, which is located about 15 kilometers away from Kovalam. Many domestic and international airlines operate regular flights to Trivandrum, making it easy for travelers to reach this destination.
Another option is to travel by train. The nearest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central, which is well-connected to major cities across India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kovalam.
If you prefer road travel, you can hire a taxi or take a bus from nearby cities like Trivandrum or Kanyakumari. There are several private and government-run buses that operate on this route, making it easy for travelers to commute between these destinations.
For those who want to indulge in some adventure, taking a bike ride or driving down to Kovalam can be an exciting option. You can rent a bike or car from nearby cities like Trivandrum and enjoy the scenic drive through lush green forests and picturesque landscapes.
In conclusion, there are several options available for reaching Kovalam. Whether you prefer air travel, train travel, road travel or adventure travel, Kovalam has something for everyone. So pack your bags and embark on an exciting journey to this beautiful coastal town!
Weather of Kovalam
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + Dry
Hot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantKovalam, a beautiful coastal town in the southern state of Kerala, experiences a tropical climate throughout the year. The temperature in Kovalam remains relatively stable, with average highs ranging between 30°C and 33°C and lows between 23°C and 25°C.
The monsoon season in Kovalam starts from June and lasts until September. During this period, the town experiences heavy rainfall, which makes it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities. The sea remains rough during this time, making it unsuitable for swimming.
The best time to visit Kovalam is from October to March. These months are the winter season when the weather is pleasant with comfortable temperatures and low humidity levels. The sea remains calm during this period, making it an ideal time for water sports like swimming and surfing.
April and May are also good months to visit Kovalam as the weather is warm but not too hot. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional showers during these months.
In conclusion, if you're planning a trip to Kovalam, then the best time to visit is from October to March when you can enjoy pleasant weather conditions and indulge in various outdoor activities without any hindrance.
Places to Visit in Kovalam
Lighthouse Beach: This beach is named after the 30-meter high lighthouse that stands tall on its shore. The beach is popular among tourists for its soft white sand, clear blue waters, and breathtaking sunsets.
Hawa Beach: Also known as Eve's Beach, this stretch of sand is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach gets its name from the strong winds that blow through it, making it a favorite spot for surfers.
Samudra Beach: Located to the north of Kovalam, this beach is known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere. It's less crowded than other beaches in the area and offers a great view of the Arabian Sea.
Karamana River: This river offers an exciting kayaking experience to adventure seekers. The river flows through thick mangrove forests, providing a unique opportunity to explore Kerala's rich biodiversity.
Vellayani Lake: This freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery is a great place to unwind and relax amidst nature. Visitors can take a boat ride or go fishing in the lake.
Halcyon Castle: Built in 1932 by M.R.Ry Sri Rama Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran, this castle is now converted into a luxury hotel. The castle's architecture reflects colonial influences and offers visitors a glimpse into Kerala's history.
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Located about 35 km away from Kovalam, this sanctuary is home to an array of flora and fauna including elephants, tigers, leopards, and spotted deer. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the sanctuary's diverse ecosystem.
Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple: This temple dates back to the 8th century AD and features intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology. It's located in close proximity to Lighthouse Beach and offers visitors a chance to learn about Kerala's rich cultural heritage.
Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple: This temple dedicated to Lord Parasurama is located at the confluence of two rivers - Killi and Karamana - making it an important pilgrimage site in Kerala.
Akkulam Lake: This artificial lake located about 10 km from Kovalam offers visitors a range of water activities including boating, kayaking, and fishing. Surrounding the lake are lush green gardens perfect for picnics or simply relaxing amidst nature.
Adventures Activities
Romantic Places
Heritage Places
Relaxing Retreats
Beaches
Hilly Regions
Nearby Forests
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Kovalam
Best areas for accommodation in Kovalam
Kovalam, a coastal town in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, serene backwaters, and Ayurvedic treatments. When it comes to finding accommodation in Kovalam, there are several areas to choose from depending on your preferences.
Lighthouse Beach: This is the most popular area for accommodation in Kovalam, situated around the iconic red-and-white lighthouse. The beach itself is stunning and has plenty of restaurants and cafes. It's a great spot for swimming and surfing.
Hawah Beach: Also known as Eve's Beach, this area is quieter than Lighthouse Beach but still has plenty of accommodation options. The beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Samudra Beach: Located north of Lighthouse Beach, Samudra Beach is a tranquil spot with fewer tourists. It's an excellent place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Kovalam.
Here are three properties for accommodation in Kovalam:
- The Leela Kovalam: A luxury property located on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea. It has multiple dining options, an infinity pool, spa facilities and offers stunning views of the sea.
- Hotel Neelakanta: A budget hotel located near Lighthouse Beach. It offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
- Zostel Kovalam: A hostel located close to Hawah Beach. It's perfect for backpackers looking for affordable accommodation with basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and a shared kitchen. The hostel also organizes activities like yoga classes and cultural tours.
No matter which area or property you choose to stay in Kovalam, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience on this beautiful coastline!
Shopping in Kovalam
Kovalam is a beautiful coastal town located in the southern Indian state of Kerala, famous for its serene beaches and vibrant culture. Shopping in Kovalam is an exciting experience as it offers a wide range of unique products that reflect the local lifestyle and traditions. Here are some things you can buy, markets to visit, and things to avoid while shopping in Kovalam.
Things to buy
- Spices: Kovalam is known for its aromatic spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, and cloves.
- Handicrafts: The local handicrafts are made of coconut shells, wood carvings, bamboo products, and brass items that make great souvenirs.
- Ayurvedic products: Kovalam has many Ayurvedic centers offering herbal oils, creams, soaps, and other beauty products.
- Tea: Kerala is famous for its tea plantations producing high-quality tea varieties such as black tea, green tea, and masala chai.
Markets to visit
- Lighthouse Beach Market: This market offers a variety of souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, clothes and trinkets.
- Hawa Beach Market: It is a popular market for buying beachwear like sarongs or swimsuits along with handicrafts.
- Vizhinjam Fish Market: It's a small fishing village close to Kovalam beach where you can buy fresh seafood.
What to avoid
- Overpriced items: It's common for shops selling goods at inflated prices to tourists. Always bargain before purchasing anything.
- Fake pearls or gems: Some vendors may try to sell artificial pearls or gems claiming they are real. Always check the authenticity before buying any jewelry item.
- Street food from unhygienic places: While exploring street food options in kovalam one should be careful about where they eat from. Avoid consuming street food from unhygienic places or vendors without proper licenses.
- Elephant tusks or ivory products: It's illegal to buy or sell elephant tusks or ivory products under Indian law. Avoid purchasing these items during your trip.
In conclusion, shopping in Kovalam can be an enjoyable experience if you know what to look for and where to go. With an abundance of items like spices, handicrafts and Ayurvedic products available at reasonable prices it would be hard not to find something special that reflects the local culture.
Nightlife in Kovalam
Kovalam, a popular beach town in Kerala, is known for its serene beaches, stunning sunsets, and vibrant nightlife. The town offers a plethora of options to keep tourists entertained throughout the night. From live music performances to beach parties and street food stalls, Kovalam has it all.
If you are looking for some fun activities to spend the night in Kovalam, here are three places that you must visit:
The SkyBar: Located on the rooftop of the famous Uday Samudra Hotel, The SkyBar offers a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea. This place is perfect for those who want to enjoy their drinks while grooving to some peppy music.
Eva's Café: Eva's Café is one of the most popular hangout spots in Kovalam. This cozy café serves delicious food and drinks that you can enjoy while sitting on cushions placed on the beach sand.
Hawa Beach: Hawa Beach is known for its lively atmosphere during the night. You can find numerous street food stalls, small shops selling souvenirs, and live music performances here.
Apart from these places, there are several other options for nightlife in Kovalam such as Ayurvedic spas offering rejuvenating massages, beachside shacks serving cocktails and seafood, and night markets selling local handicrafts.
In conclusion, Kovalam's nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse. Whether you want to dance all night long or enjoy a quiet evening by the beachside, this town has something for everyone.
Outdoor Activities in Kovalam
Kovalam is not just famous for its stunning beaches and nightlife, but it is also a hub for adventure enthusiasts who love outdoor activities. From water sports to trekking, there is something for everyone in Kovalam. The city has some of the best spots for outdoor activities that are sure to give you an adrenaline rush.
Water Sports: Kovalam is known for its water sports activities. You can enjoy various water sports like surfing, parasailing, kayaking, and snorkeling. The beaches in Kovalam are perfect for surfing as the waves are suitable for beginners as well as advanced surfers.
Trekking: Trekking in Kovalam is a mesmerizing experience as it offers breathtaking views of the lush green valleys and mountains. You can go on guided treks to explore the Western Ghats mountain range or hike along the coastline.
Rock Climbing: Rock climbing is another popular activity in Kovalam. The rocky terrain and steep cliffs provide an excellent opportunity for rock climbers to test their skills. There are plenty of guided tours available which cater to both beginners and experienced climbers.
Overall, Kovalam is a perfect destination for adventure lovers who want to indulge in some thrilling outdoor activities. So pack your bags and head out to this beautiful coastal town for an unforgettable experience.
Festivals and Events in Kovalam
Festivals and events are an integral part of the cultural heritage of Kovalam. These celebrations showcase the rich traditions, customs, and beliefs of the local people. They provide a wonderful opportunity for tourists to witness and participate in the vibrant festivities that take place throughout the year. Some of the popular festivals and events in Kovalam are:
Onam (August/September): This is a 10-day harvest festival that marks the homecoming of mythical King Mahabali. It is celebrated with grand feasts, traditional dances like Thiruvathirakali, boat races, and flower carpet decorations.
Navratri (September/October): This is a nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is celebrated with fasting, prayer, and colorful Garba dance performances.
Diwali (October/November): This is a five-day festival of lights that symbolizes the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated by lighting diyas (lamps), bursting firecrackers, exchanging sweets, and decorating homes with rangolis.
Christmas (December): This is a major Christian festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in Kovalam. The beach town comes alive with twinkling lights, carol singing, midnight mass, and feasting.
New Year's Eve (December 31): This is a time for partying, dancing, and enjoying fireworks on the beach.
Apart from these major festivals, there are also various cultural events like music concerts, art exhibitions, food fairs, and yoga retreats that happen throughout the year in Kovalam. These events offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture and indulge in unique experiences that they'll always cherish.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Kovalam
Research the Festivals and Events: Before traveling to Kovalam, do some research about the festivals and events that are happening in the area. This will give you a chance to experience the local culture and traditions, and maybe even participate in some of the festivities.
Pack Appropriate Clothing: The weather in Kovalam can be quite hot and humid, so it's important to pack light, breathable clothing. However, if you plan on attending any religious or cultural events, make sure you have appropriate clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Stay Hydrated: With the hot climate in Kovalam, it's essential to stay hydrated while traveling. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration. You can also try coconut water or fresh fruit juices for a refreshing alternative.
Be Prepared for Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes are common in Kovalam due to its tropical climate. Make sure to pack insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Respect Local Customs: While traveling in Kovalam, it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Make sure to dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites, remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a temple, and avoid public displays of affection which may be seen as disrespectful.
FAQs
What is Kovalam?
Kovalam is a beach town in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is situated about 13 km from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram and attracts tourists from all over the world for its beautiful beaches, serene backwaters, and Ayurvedic treatments.
What are the must-visit attractions in Kovalam?
Some of the must-visit attractions in Kovalam include Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, Samudra Beach, Karamana River, Halcyon Castle, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple, and Vellayani Lake.
Is it safe to swim in Kovalam beaches?
While the beaches of Kovalam are generally safe to swim in, it is always advisable to check with the locals or lifeguards before entering the water. The currents can be strong and unpredictable at times.
What are some popular activities to do in Kovalam?
Some popular activities to do in Kovalam include swimming, sunbathing, surfing, boating, fishing, Ayurvedic treatments, yoga classes, and shopping for local handicrafts.
What is the best time to visit Kovalam?
The best time to visit Kovalam is between September and March when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal. However, if you want to experience Ayurvedic treatments or monsoon season activities like boat races and temple festivals then June to August would be ideal.
How can I reach Kovalam?
The nearest airport to Kovalam is Trivandrum International Airport which has direct flights from major cities across India as well as international destinations. You can also reach Kovalam by train or bus from Thiruvananthapuram or other nearby cities.
Are there any good restaurants in Kovalam?
Yes, there are plenty of good restaurants in Kovalam that serve a variety of cuisines including local Kerala cuisine as well as international dishes. Some popular ones include The Terrace Grill Restaurant & Bar, Curry Leaf Restaurant & Cafe Lounge Bar, Bait Seafood Restaurant & Bar and Malabar Cafe.
