Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent sandy beaches. There are many and diverse leisure options at this beach. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programs and catamaran cruises are some of them. Read on to know about the Top 21 Places to Visit in Kovalam.

Top 21 Places to Visit in Kovalam

1. Samudra Beach

View from a Light House, Samudra Beach — Credits: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

The beach of Samudra is the Jewel in the already heavily ornate crown of Kovalam. Considered the best places to visit in Kovalam, separated by cracks from other beaches. Massive crowds are on the beach, but it’s one spot for total calm and serenity.

It’s a paradise for couples and lovers who want to be left alone. The horizon offers you spectacular views of the sunset and the silhouettes of wooden ships on their way to market. Samudra Beach offers tranquillity along with the sights you will see.

2. Aruvikkara Dam

The dam is famous for Durga Devi Temple and is a great opportunity to drive from the city centre.

3. Vellayani Lake, Kovalam

One of the most popular freshwater lakes, Vellayani Lake, is located 7 km south of Kovalam in Trivandrum, Kerala. Vellayani Lake is also known as ‘Velliyani Kayal’ in the Malayalam regional language. Spread over 7.5 acres, the lake is a significant source of water for irrigation and drinking purposes. Vellayani Lake is located in the premises of Vellayani Agricultural University, which is also a must-see site.

4. Hawah Beach

One of the best beaches in Kovalam, it attracts a lot of tourists to see what Kovalam beaches do not have. Also known as the beach of Eve, you will enjoy every little moment spent here, day or night. The name behind Hawa Beach has a fascinating anecdote, too.

The beach of Eve as it used to be called, a lot of European women went topless to get tanned, and that’s how it got its name as Hawa beach. The coastlines are stunning and the shacks are good that make this a must-see beach in your fun-filled adventure itinerary.

5. Lighthouse Beach

Lighthouse Beach is one of the biggest and most exciting beaches in Kovalam. As the name suggests, it has a lighthouse with a panoramic view from the top of the beach. The lighthouse is situated on a hill named Kurumakal and is open to public viewing. Standing with your partner and enjoying the view of the beach can be ideal for a romantic getaway. Enjoy a stroll or a bike ride on the beach, enjoy a hearty meal near the beach or enjoy beach activities such as parasailing, paragliding, swimming and surfing.

Also Read: Places to Visit in Kannur, Kerala

6. Edakallu

If all you want to do is take a sunset and take pictures without being on the beach, Edakallu is the place for you. Lying between the beach of Lighthouse and the beach of Eve, this spot offers the best view of the sunset that makes perfect polaroid moments for you and your partner. Since Edakallu is a popular sunset point in Kovalam, you can plan your day accordingly and enjoy a breathtaking sunset with your partner.

7. Karamana River

Karamana River is one of the tourist places to visit in Kovalam — Credits: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

The pride of Kerala, this river is a must-visit for a relaxing boat ride in the stunning patches of green delight. The river is blessed with the most serene surroundings and the diversity of fish that you might not have seen before.

Among the places to visit in Kovalam, this site should certainly be on your list. The river begins its journey from the Western Ghats and travels through the beautiful and fascinating green foliage that will mesmerize you. The riverbank is situated just 6 km from Trivandrum and is accessible by local transport from all locations.

Also Read: Places to Visit in Ernakulam, Kerala

8. Halcyon Castle

Also known as Kovalam Castle, it has now been transformed into a luxury hotel. This site gives the magnetic beaches and churches a tough competition for its brilliantly imposing colonial-style structure.

The castle was designed back in 1932 to become a family retreat for the owners. After serving its function for a few decades, it was converted into a luxury hotel in 1964.

As far as tourism is concerned, the place offers an immense promise in terms of the magnificent interiors that give you the charm of the old world. Among the places to visit in Kovalam, Halcyon Castle is certainly one of the best.

9. Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the places to visit in kovalam — Credits: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

The majestic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is more than a century old and is one of the must-visit places to visit in Kovalam for all spiritual tourists. The architecture of the temple is eye-catching and represents the culture of Dravid and Kerala.

The flag post of the temple is 80 feet high and covered in gold sheets. Hindu deities are present in the temple, while their sculptures are finely carved. Visitors must follow strict dress codes where the women must be sari-clad or salwar kurta and the men’s clothing allowed is dhoti.

Also Read: Places to Visit in Trivandrum

10. Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple

Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple is also one of the Places to visit in Kovalam — Credits: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

The temple is very old and is one of the heritage sites of Kerala. Inauspicious occasions, devotees are believed to dive into the holy waters and seek the blessings of their loved ones who are no longer.

The temple is now a protected archaeological wonder under the control of government authorities.

11. Neyyar Dam

Also one of the best places to visit in Kovalam, this dam cum lake is a charming embodiment of beautiful Kerala and pristine waters. A dam is also a great place for picnic lovers and gatherers who want to have fun.

The serenity is extremely pleasing and is excellent for nature lovers to take nature walks. You can also visit the wildlife sanctuary of the Neyyar Dam to enjoy the wilderness.

For those who are only seeking relaxation, you can easily visit the Sivananda Yoga Ashram in the vicinity of the lake to engage in blissful meditation.

12. Chowara Beach

Chowara Beach near Kovalam — Credits: Google Images

Popular for its fishing spots, Chowara Beach is a beautiful destination that attracts a lot of tourists.

It also has an ayurvedic resort nearby, which you need to visit for an incredible ayurvedic experience. Chowara Ayyappa Temple is the highlight of this beach that gives a stunning hilltop view of the shores.

13. Vizhinjam Village

The village is a natural harbour full of colourful boats embarking on its mission. The village offers you a variety of options to enjoy, such as the Vizhinjam marine aquarium, which houses rich marine animals. You can also visit the rock-cut cave of the 18th-century cave temple.

The fishing port here is also a prime attraction, mainly because it has a conversion plant here that converts sea wave energy into electricity. The site is rich in biodiversity and its reputation for the launch of eco-friendly initiatives is on the rise.

The Vizhinjam Lighthouse, too, offers a spectacular view of the evening sea when the sun’s falling rays almost lighten up the water.

14. Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple

Located in the village of Vizhinjam, this is the 18th-century cave temple with unfinished sculptures by Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati. The rock-cut cave temple is one of the best places to visit in Kovalam and is now under the supervision of the Indian Archeological Survey.

The temple is very close to Kovalam Beach and is located at a distance of 17 km from Trivandrum. This is also one of the smallest rock shrines in the south of India.

Also Read: Haunted Places in Kerala, South India

15. Ashoka Beach

Away from the crowd of lighthouse beach, Ashoka Beach is one of the most secluded beaches in Kovalam, making it the best spot for a peaceful getaway. The calm and peaceful atmosphere of this beach is the reason why you’re going to find a lot of Ayurvedic resorts nearby.

16. Kovalam Juma Masjid

India’s first offshore reef, the location has gained immense popularity. The reef offers a healthy marine environment for all aquatic species and is open to exploration all year round.

17. Kovalam Art Gallery

If you are an art connoisseur, don’t miss a visit to the Kovalam Art Gallery. Located close to Hawah Beach, the gallery houses some of the most intricately painted portraits and objects that speak about the history and origins of the artists.

There is a remarkable collection of Fresco paintings & sculpture, and foreign visitors from all over the world love it.

18. The German Bakery

You must try German sausages and pizzas, don’t go anywhere but head here to the German bakery, which is one of the most popular Kovalam places to visit.

19. Valiyathura Pier

Valiyathura Pier is one of the places to visit in Kovalam — Credits: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

The pier is a 214 m long jetty near Valiyathura. It means a big port locally. The pier attracts tourists for its jaw-dropping views of the coast of Malabar and the Arabian Sea. Placid and free from urban activities, the wharf was once used by fishermen during high tides. It’s one of the most beautiful places to see in Kovalam. Capture the sun setting and the rising tides on your phone forever.

Also Read: Places to Visit in Calicut, Kerala

20. Pazhassi Raja Museum

Calicut is the ideal place to be for all history lovers. The Pazhasi Raja Museum and Art Gallery are one of the best places to visit in Calicut.

21. Thikkoti Light House

Thikkoti Light House in Kovalam — Credits: https://en.wikipedia.org/

Known to have been built on the ruins of a shipwreck, the Thikkoti lighthouse is one of the best Calicut attractions to visit. For those who are looking forward to spending a peaceful day by the sea, look no further than the Thikkoti LightRoom.

Can’t wait to plan your next Kovalam vacation with us? Want to Customize your vacation plan according to your needs? We at Pickyourtrail help travellers with customizable itineraries for all their dream destinations. Check out our Kerala travel guide for a few more info about the destination.

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