Kovalam

Introduction

Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists, especially Europeans, since the 1930s. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing.

The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night. The beach complex includes a string of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic massage centres.

Hawa Beach
The Hawa beach, also called Eve's Beach is ideal for travelers looking for virgin,secluded & calm stretches of sandy shores. Hawa and Kovalam beaches are separated from each other by the Edakallu foreland.

Lighthouse Beach
In the extreme south of Kovalam is the magnificent Lighthouse Beach. The name comes from the towering Vizhinjam lighthouse which is built on a rocky headland. Though tourists are not allowed to go inside the lighthouse, the memorials of Ayyanappilla Asan and Ayyippilla Asan around the light house.

Samudra Beach
To the north most part of Kovalam beach is yet another scenic jewel called the Samudra Beach. The view of few fishing vessels & ships on the horizon is a beautiful sight to see.

Trivandrum
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is just 16 km away from Kovalam and getting there is no hassle. The City of Thiruvananthapuram has interesting places to see like the Napier Museum, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Ponmudi hill station etc. SMSM Institute, a State owned handicrafts emporium, is the ideal place to pick up ethnic curios and other articles.

Ponmudi
Situated at a distance of 61 km from Kovalam is Ponmudi. It is a place blessed by scenice beauty. Ponmudi is famous for its mountains and beautiful landscapes.A number of tea plantations can be seen in the region. If you like you can go for mountaineering in the Ponmudi mountains it will be an ideal outing.

Ayurvedic Massage
Treat yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic massage at many of the Ayurvedic Massage Centers around and in Spas at Hotels/Resorts.

Kalarippayat, Kathakali shows
Kerala unique matial art in practiced in traditional local gyms nearby. Kayhakali shows operated by private operators. Contact your hotel for timing and rates

Cuisine
The traditional local cuisine is a favourite among tourists. The spicy mouth watering dishes best enjoyed in local restaurants.

Travel Informations

Location
Kovalam the beach destination situated in Trivandrum district of Southern Kerala.

How to reach
Airport: Trivandrum International airport 10 km
Railway Station: Trivandrum 15 km
Bust Station: At Kovalam Town

Mode of Transport in Kovalam
Local Taxis, and 3 wheeler autos available.

Bank Timings
Most banks open from 10.00 to 15.30 hours on weekdays. Closed on sundays and 2nd & 4th saturdays. 24 hours ATM's available around the town.

Foreign Exchange
Hotels and Foreign Exchange outlets exchange foreign currencies and travellers cheques.

Postal & Telephone
Government post offices open 09.00 to 15.00 hrs. Private courier services are also available.
Public telephone with international and national dialling available at hotels and STD/NSD booths.

Shopping
SMSM Institute, a State owned handicrafts emporium, is the ideal place to pick up ethnic curios and other articles.