Kovalam – Treebo Blog https://www.treebo.com/blog Tue, 04 Feb 2025 06:01:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.1.4 Top Places in Kovalam for Shopping- A Shopper’s Dream Come True https://www.treebo.com/blog/shopping-places-in-kovalam/ https://www.treebo.com/blog/shopping-places-in-kovalam/#respond Tue, 13 Mar 2018 10:09:58 +0000 https://preprod.treebo.com/blog/?p=6293 Situated on the coast of the stunning Arabian Sea, Kovalam is blessed with nature’s bounty in the form of clear blue waters, rows of coconut trees and unending stretches of ...

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Situated on the coast of the stunning Arabian Sea, Kovalam is blessed with nature’s bounty in the form of clear blue waters, rows of coconut trees and unending stretches of sandy beaches. It is the Maharaja of Travancore who will always be credited for popularising this sleepy fishing town as he spent a lot of time here along with his European guests. Apart from the magnificent beach fronts, endless sunsets and serene backwaters, you can explore unique shopping places in Kovalam.

Lose track of time as you explore the best shopping places in Kovalam

Beachside Shacks

The shops in Kovalam are sure to attract the most discerning shoppers due to an attractive variety of clothes, artifacts and food specialties of the South. The beaches are lined with small and large shacks that are filled with goodies that beckon you. The skill of bargaining is a must if you are planning to buy at the beachside shopping markets in Kovalam. International tourists would do well to understand the few basic words of the local language so it becomes easy to bargain.

Artefacts made from teakwood and rosewood are extremely popular and tourists instantly are attracted to these. While you are out for street shopping in Kovalam, make sure you approach the authentic shops and get the real deal, especially where wooden articles and furniture is concerned.
Kovalam is a popular holiday destination for international and Indian tourists and the shopping districts of this quaint town reflect this quite effectively. You will not only find the local produce here for sale but speciality stuff from all over India. Keep looking for you wouldn’t know what treasure you could stumble upon while street shopping in Kovalam.

SM Handloom Centre is one place that tourists flock to for dresses made locally. The handloom centre is a shopper’s delight.

Tibetan Handicrafts

Tibet in Kovalam? The old shop owner is full of advice on what to buy and does not ever come across as a pushy salesman. The shop is named Little Tibet Arts and is a great place to shop for miniature Buddhas, meditation bowls, Tibetan pots and other handicrafts. Don’t forget to pick up a scarf or two for friends and family.

Spices

Joseph and Sons at Lighthouse Beach is the best place for shopping in Kovalam if you have spices on your mind. Make your choice from a massive range of cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom, saffron, fenugreek, dry ginger amongst dozens of other great smelling spices. Chat up with the owner for a while and soak up the wealth of knowledge while inhaling a wonderful concoction of spice scents that abound in this shop.

Sarongs or Lungis

This is the traditional wear of men from this region and is available at every junction of Kovalam. Take your pick from a range of colours and designs (checks mostly), while bargaining at your aggressive best. Be wary of the quality though and ensure you check your stuff before you pay.

Books

If you are an avid Bibliophile and cannot survive without your daily fix of books, Kovalam does not disappoint you in this area too. Though there are not too many bookstores in shopping markets in Kovalam, Ancy’s Bookstore at the Lighthouse Beach is filled to the brim with English, French, German and Swedish titles. Spread that mat under one of those coconut trees and spend a beautiful morning lazing at the beach, with your favourite book in hand.

Seashell Jewellery

Seashell Jewellery is available in abundance and there are many local shops you can try out. This is a speciality here and you will love to try these on for yourself and for friends. Bargain as hard as you can and you will be surprised how much you have saved in the bargain. Varkala Beach is one of the most common markets for such jewellery items amongst the shopping places in Kovalam and it is certainly worth the trip here. Tibetan junk jewellery is a good option if you love their large earrings and necklaces.

Kovalam is a retreat waiting to be discovered. Share all your experiences (Good and not-so-good ones) with us once you have visited this beautiful coastal town.

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9 Best Hangout options in Kovalam for Night Birds https://www.treebo.com/blog/places-to-visit-in-kovalam-at-night/ https://www.treebo.com/blog/places-to-visit-in-kovalam-at-night/#respond Tue, 29 Aug 2017 18:28:33 +0000 https://preprod.treebo.com/blog/?p=5358 Along with the beautiful shoreline of this beach in Kerala, Kovalam is

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Along with the beautiful shoreline of this beach in Kerala, Kovalam is an ideal destination for food lovers with its amazing variety of vegetarian and seafood restaurants along its coastline. Tourists can spend their time in the cooler evenings with a pleasant walk along the long and sandy coastline, or gaze at the sunset while relaxing on the beach.

Nightlife in Kovalam is not as vibrant as some of the other popular beach destinations in India. You can spend your time drinking or snacking at the numerous bars and cafes, most of which operate up to 11 in the night.

This article lists the few places to visit in Kovalam at night that you can try if you are a night lover or an early morning person.

9 Places to Visit/Things to do in Kovalam at Night

1. Sky Bar at the Leela Kempinski

Perched on the cliff top, the Sky Bar of the Leela Kempinski is an ideal location to watch the sunset and to spend some quality time with your friends or family. The bar serves a variety of Indian and international spirits, along with its preparation of popular cocktails and mocktails. Operating from 5.30 till 11 in the evening, the Sky bar is one of the best places to visit in Kovalam at night.

2. Neera Bar at Vivanta By Taj

Along with the choicest collection of cocktail drinks and wines, this high-on-energy bar, located within the premises of Vivanta By Taj hotel, plays a collection of international music and also has a billiards table. Along with its modern interiors, this bar offers an amazing view of the Kovalam beach after sunset and this makes it one the places to visit in Kovalam at night.

3. Jeevan Music Cafe

Located by the Lighthouse beach in Kovalam, Jeevan Music Café is one of the best places to visit in Kovalam at night with its live music band and old English songs. Operating till 10 in the evening, you can relax here with a mug of beer.

4. Spend the night in a houseboat

Kovalam is blessed with serene backwaters, surrounded by natural greenery and freshness. You can opt for the luxury of a houseboat in the Karamana or Ashtamudi river and spend the night in the tranquil setting of the backwaters.

5. Sunset at Valiyathura Pier

Located around 10 km from Kovalam beach, this beach pier is one of the best places to visit in Kovalam for an enchanting sunset view. The pier also offers a clear view of the Kovalam coastline.

6. Vellayani lake

Located about 7 km from Kovalam beach, this lake is one of the few freshwater lakes in Kerala. One of the places to visit in Kovalam at night, you can hire a boat on this lake to treat yourself to a spectacular view of the lake on moonlit nights. Alternatively, you can enjoy a moonlit walk along Kovalam beach itself with the sound of its waves and moonlit waters.

7. Ayurvedic massage

No trip to Kerala is complete without an Ayurvedic massage, which is one of the things to do in Kovalam at night. Kovalam has numerous ayurvedic massage centers including Divya- The Health Spa at the Leela Kempinski beach resort and the Ideal Ayurvedic resort. Book your session in advance to avoid disappointment at the last moment.

8. Cultural programs

One of the things to do in Kovalam at night is to attend cultural programs such as Kathakali dance performances and Kerala’s Kalari martial arts show, which are generally organized by any of the popular hotels or resorts. If you are visiting in January, you can attend the 10-day long Gramam Village Fair festival, which showcases the best in Kerala’s rich culture and arts.

9. Early morning activities

If you are an early morning person, you can come down to the beach to see the sunrise or visit the Samudra beach to see the fisherman working at their fishing nets for the day’s fish catch.

Although the nightlife in Kovalam is not very vibrant as some of the other destinations, you can still treat yourself to most of the above activities for a memorable experience. We would love to hear about your nightlife during your visit to Kovalam. Do share your travel experiences with us.

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Treat Yourself to the Best Street Food in Kovalam https://www.treebo.com/blog/best-street-food-in-kovalam/ https://www.treebo.com/blog/best-street-food-in-kovalam/#respond Tue, 29 Aug 2017 17:03:00 +0000 https://preprod.treebo.com/blog/?p=5350 Literally meaning a grove of coconut trees, Kovalam beach

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Literally meaning a grove of coconut trees, Kovalam beach is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, located in the Thiruvananthapuram district. Popular street food in Kovalam is a treat for both vegetarian and seafood lovers, with a range of South Indian food and Indianized version of European dishes.

Here is the list of the best street food in Kovalam, along with the top eating outlets on the beach. Try these to complete your Kovalam experience!

Famous Street Food in Kovalam

Be it an early morning breakfast or a dinner by the beach, Kovalam beach has a variety of food items to offer to its visitors. While South Indian breakfast items such as idlis, dosas, and uthappams are commonly served, you must try some of the following local specialities, which can be listed among the best food in Kovalam.

1. Puttu

An authentic breakfast food that is served in Kerala, Puttu is a healthy steamed dish made of rice flour and layered with coconut. This soft and light food item are usually consumed with Kadala curry or red bananas, making it among the top picks for famous food in Kovalam.

2. Kerala Appam

One of the well-known street foods in Kovalam, Appam is a popular breakfast in Kerala. Prepared using fermented rice and coconut pulp dough, Appam is served with vegetable stew or with chicken or other meat dishes.

3. Kappa

Looking for some health-packed food in Kovalam? Kappa (or Tapioca) is a spicy dish, packed with rich proteins and vitamins. Kappa is basically a rich herb, cooked with rock salt and garnished with grated coconut or coconut water. Among the famous food of Kovalam, Kappa tastes best when paired with fish curry.

4. Karimeen

Fish lovers can get a taste of the local fish cuisine when in Kovalam, with the Karimeen (or pearl spot fish) preparation. This local fish is commonly found in the backwaters of Kerala and is cooked in different ways for a range of exotic dishes. If you are fond of seafood, dishes made using crabs and lobsters are common and among the best food in Kovalam.

5. South Indian plate

The best way of enjoying the rich mix of dishes in Kerala is by ordering a South Indian plate. Usually served on a banana leaf, a typical South Indian plate/meal comprises rice, chapatti, mixed vegetables, dal, curd, and dessert. Served as a common street food in Kovalam, there are several varieties of the South Indian plate.

Best Food Places in Kovalam

Along with sunny beaches and great food, Kovalam beach is dotted with numerous eating joints and restaurants, some of which are associated with beach hotels.

Here is the list of the best food places in Kovalam that you must give a try for a range of Kerala vegetarian and seafood cuisines.

1. German Bakery and Waves Restaurant

Located on the beach front, the German Bakery and Waves restaurant offers a spectacular view of the Lighthouse beach. Famous for its Asian and Continental cuisine along with bakery items, this restaurant also offers choicest seafood preparations and a range of vegetarian dishes, making it the ideal choice for the best food in Kovalam.

2. Suprabhatham

Among the best food places in Kovalam for authentic vegetarian Kerala cuisine, Suprabhatham has located slightly away from the Lighthouse beach and is practically open through the day. Along with the best of local dishes, this restaurant with its rustic settings is also easy on your pocket.

3. Malabar Cafe

Located right on the Lighthouse beach, Malabar Café is a complete treat for seafood lover and serves some of the best food in Kovalam. Depending on the morning catch, their seafood offering can vary from Pomfret, sea salmon, red or white snapper fish, along with the servings of crab and lobster dishes. This beautiful café is recommended for its butter garlic fish and tandoori fish, and a wide range of pasta and curries for vegetarians.

4. Swiss Cafe

If you are a fan of the Swiss cuisine, you cannot skip this café, located on the beach front of the Lighthouse beach in Kovalam. Along with the soothing view of the ocean (particularly during sunset), this restaurant serves the best food of Kovalam when it comes to Swiss treats like the Rosti (made of grated potatoes), the Zurich schnitzel (made of chopped chicken) and a wide variety of Swiss-made pizzas.

5. Devi Garden Restaurant

One of the best food places in Kovalam for home-cooked meals, Devi Garden restaurant is part of the Devi Holiday Inn hotel on the Kovalam beach road. This family-run restaurant serves freshly-prepared Indian delicacies and is pocket-friendly.

Food lovers visiting Kovalam beach can treat themselves to a range of gastronomical delights from South Indian breakfast, bakery delicacies, and a variety of seafood delicacies.

We would love to hear about your favorite food item that you had on your trip to Kovalam beach. Do share with us, along with the name of the restaurant where you tasted the dish.

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Discover the Top 12 Things to do in Kovalam, Kerala https://www.treebo.com/blog/things-to-do-in-kovalam/ https://www.treebo.com/blog/things-to-do-in-kovalam/#respond Tue, 29 Aug 2017 14:49:04 +0000 https://preprod.treebo.com/blog/?p=5341 In what was a sleepy little town by the Arabian Sea, Kovalam has

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In what was a sleepy little town by the Arabian Sea, Kovalam has metamorphosed into a beach town buzzing with activity. True to its name, Kovalam (meaning a grove of coconut trees in local language) has rows and rows of coconut trees swaying in the sea breeze and is one of the most beautiful sights to behold. However, do not mistake this for a laid-back destination as there a host of exciting things to do in Kovalam.

Here’s a ready-reckoner about things to do in ‘Kovalam’ for first-timers

With the magnificent Arabian Sea as its constant companion, it is no wonder that the beaches of Kovalam are extremely popular amongst the tourists as well as locals. But that’s not all. The list of top things to do in Kovalam just begins here. Here’s a glimpse of what you can do in Kovalam.

1. Lighthouse Beach

Lighthouse in Kovalam
Lighthouse in Kovalam

This is unarguably the most popular attraction of Kovalam and it’s not without a reason. Counted amongst the best things to see in Kovalam, the beach offers enough space to take long, unhurried walks (romantic or otherwise), play beach ball or swim in its clear, soothing waters.

Read More: 9 Best Hangout Options in Kovalam for Night Birds

2. Veli Tourist Village

Veli Tourist Village, Kovalam
Veli Tourist Village, Kovalam

If you want to spend a relaxed afternoon, watching time slip by lazing on a rowboat, this is the place to be. Enjoy pedal boats and motorboats and feast on Kerala banana chips and fresh coconut water.

Must Read: Treat Yourself to the Best Street Food in Kovalam

3. Vellayani Lake

Vellayani Lake, Kovalam

Located just seven kilometres from Kovalam, this is a freshwater lake. And if you come here during the Onam festival, you can witness the renowned Annual Snake Boat race.

Must Read: 13 Best Places to Visit in Kovalam

4. Vizhinjam Lighthouse

Vizhinjam Lighthouse, Kovalam
Vizhinjam Lighthouse, Kovalam

This working lighthouse is an astounding structure on the Kovalam Beach and this part of the beach gets its name from this candy-striped edifice. The climb is quite steep and this is where the newly erected elevator comes in handy. Truly one of the essential things to do in Kovalam at night. Swimming in the blue waters is definitely one of the best things to do in Kovalam Beach.

Must Read: The Complete List of 24 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala

5. Kovalam Art Gallery

If you are keen to spend a calm, relaxed afternoon browsing through art, just head to the Kovalam Art Gallery. Check out some exceptional artwork and artefacts by Indian and international artists.

Book budget hotels in Kovalam for a relaxed and enjoyable stay.

Off The Beaten Track: Some Not-So-Touristy Things To Do in Kovalam

Kovalam is a traveller’s delight as it offers scenic beauty, food, history, activities, and not to forget shopping. Add these to things to do in Kovalam and take the untrodden path and you are sure to be rewarded with some truly unique sights.

1. Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave temple

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Temple, Kovalam

This unique, unfinished and elaborate temple dates back to the 18th century and has exquisitely carved statues of Shiva and Parvati on its outer walls. You will not find this on the popular tourist circuit, but it is a wonderful place to see an authentic single-rock cut cave, which is why it is considered one of the important and interesting things to see in Kovalam.

2. Karamana River

Karamana River, Kovalam
Karamana River, Kovalam

Charge that camera battery before going on a boat ride along this mesmerising river that meanders through the city of Thiruvananthapuram, as some truly awesome views await you. The backwaters and the greenery are more than a fair reward for the effort and you might just wish that the cruise never ended.

Must Read: 15 Splendid Places to Visit in South India

3. Suprabhatam

If you are a foodie, a trip to the lighthouse beach cannot be complete without visiting Suprabhatam, an authentic Kerala eating house that serves vegetarian thalis (full meals) and mouth-watering fresh fruit juices. You would need to ask someone as Suprabhtam is a hidden gem.

4. Kovalam Fish Market

Crabs, lobsters, prawns–you name it and it’s found in abundance at the Kovalam Fish Market. And this makes a trip to the fish market one of the top things to do in Kovalam. The sights and smells of fresh fish will work up a healthy appetite.

5. Surfing and other activities

Surfing
Surfing

Kovalam is home to some of the most fascinating water sports and activities like surfing, swimming, rowing and boating (catamarans). The clear blue waters and wide beach expanses are enough motivation for you to try out some, if not all, of these top things to do in Kovalam and take back some truly unforgettable memories.

6. Ayurvedic Massages

Ayurvedic Massage
Ayurvedic Massage

A trip to Kovalam is incomplete if you do not experience the famous Kerala Ayurvedic massages that are designed to soothe frayed nerves. Schedule a traditional massage either after a tiring day of sight-seeing or early in the morning. Definitely one of the best things to do in Kovalam for rejuvenation.

Explore the many attractions of Kovalam on your next trip there, and do share your experiences with us.

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13 Best Places to Visit in Kovalam Kerala https://www.treebo.com/blog/places-to-visit-in-kovalam/ https://www.treebo.com/blog/places-to-visit-in-kovalam/#respond Sun, 21 May 2017 03:30:47 +0000 http://www.treebo.com/blog/?p=4955 Deriving its name from the long coastline and the numerous palm trees, Kovalam is a paradise for anyone who is looking for a relaxing vacation. Its numerous beaches, good eateries ...

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Deriving its name from the long coastline and the numerous palm trees, Kovalam is a paradise for anyone who is looking for a relaxing vacation. Its numerous beaches, good eateries and a laid-back vibe is for the beach lover in you. If you are still wondering what to do in Kovalam, there are many worthwhile places to visit in Kovalam which includes enticing attractions such as beach activities, walk through the heritage places, and the mesmerising architecture of the old castles, temples, churches and towers.

How to reach Kovalam

  • By Air: Trivandrum International Airport in Thiruvananthapuram is 15 km away from the city. There are private cabs and public transportation available for tourists to reach the city comfortably. 
  • By Rail: If you are planning to take a train, you need to reach Trivandrum Central Railway which is 12 km from the city. You can take private cabs or public transport to reach the city safely and comfortably. The railway station is perfectly connected to all the main cities of Kerala. 
  • By Road: Kerala and Karnataka State Transportation has luxurious and comfortable buses from Kerala, Karnataka and nearby states. These buses are easily available at a reasonable rate for the tourists to reach Kovalam. You can also drive from Bangalore and nearby cities. 

Best Time to Visit

  • November to February: Winter season is the best time to visit Kovalam if you are looking for a warm-weather winter vacation. The minimum temperature during this season is 16-degree Celsius and the maximum temperature is 30-degree Celsius. This is the peak season for visiting Kovalam. 
  • June to August: Monsoon season is another best time to visit Kovalam because of the lush greenery of the place. In this season, you can enjoy the flora and fauna of Kovalam. It is perfect weather for sightseeing in Kovalam.  

How long to stay

  • 4-5 days: If you are planning to stay for 4 nights and 5 days trip to Kovalam, you can enjoy the true essence of Kovalam. You can relax and bask in the beautiful blue beaches, stunning nature, fresh backwaters and lush green mountains. The place has more to offer than just beaches, there are many things to do in Kovalam such as, adventure sports and Ayurvedic therapies that can relax your mind, body and soul.  
  • 2-3 days: A 2-nights and 3-days trip will be a short but a memorable one. On day 1, you can visit the main beaches of Kovalam. The next day can be reserved for the temples and evening can be relaxing with a spa session. On the final day, you can do a little bit of shopping and visit the museum and art gallery. 

For a comfortable stay, book Treebo Hotels in Kovalam.

In this blog, we have discussed the top places to visit in Kovalam for a romantic getaway, an adventurous experience, off-beat attractions, and to experience the cultural heritage of the town. Find out some fun things to do in Kovalam.  

A Romantic Getaway in God’s Own Country

1. Lighthouse Beach- For All the Beach Activities You Always Dreamed of

Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam
Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam

Lighthouse beach is one of the largest and most happening beaches in Kovalam. As the name suggests, it has a lighthouse offering a panoramic view of the beach from the top. The lighthouse is located on a hill called Kurumakal and is open for public viewing. Standing with your partner and enjoying the view of the beach can be perfect on a romantic getaway. 

  • Things to do: Enjoy a stroll or a ride a bicycle on the beach, enjoy a hearty meal near the beach, or indulge in beach activities such as parasailing, paragliding, swimming, and surfing. 
  • Tips: Carry a swimming costume and keep your phones and camera charged for beautiful photo ops. 
  • Timings: The lighthouse is open every day except on Monday from 10 am to 5:45 pm. It is closed from 12:45 pm – 2 pm

Read: Kovalam Sightseeing Places 

2. Hawa Beach- For Stress-Free Sand Walk

Hawa Beach, Kovalam
Hawa Beach, Kovalam

Famous for being the first and one of the few topless beaches in India, Hawa beach today does not allow topless sunbathing. However, this almost untouched beach is perfect for enjoying long strolls on the sandy shores or even wading into the waters for a refreshing dip. 

  • Things to do: Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise with your partner at Hawa Beach. Take a stroll through the coastline and enjoy the natural beauty of the place. You can also go for a catamaran ride.
  • Tips: Avoid swimming in the water as the water current is strong here. You can carry your sunglasses, beach hats and bikini for a sunbath.  
  • Timings: The beach is open 24 hours but the tourists are allowed from 7 am to 9 pm

Check out: 37 Best Beaches in South India

3. Edakallu- For a Perfect Polaroid Moment 

Edakallu, Kovalam
Edakallu, Kovalam

If all you want to do is catch the sunset and take pictures without being on the beach, Edakallu is the place for you. Lying between the Lighthouse beach and Eve’s beach, this spot offers the best views of the sunset that make for perfect polaroid moments for you and your partner. 

  • Things to do: As Edakallu is the popular sunset point in Kovalam, you can plan your day accordingly and enjoy a breathtaking sunset with your partner.  
  • Tips: Keep your phones and camera charged for beautiful photo ops. As a lot of tourists flock to this place during sunset, reach early to ensure the best view. 
  • Timings: Edakallu is open daily from sunrise to sunset for the tourists to visit. 

Also, read: What to do in Kovalam at Night?

4. Karamana River- To Enjoy a Moonlit Boat Ride

Boat House, Karamana River
Boat House, Karamana River

Even though beaches are the most famous places in Kovalam, it is worthwhile to take a boating trip down the Karamana river. A trip down this river will give you a view of the lush greenery of Kovalam. There are many boat clubs on the banks of the river for booking such as boating, kayaking, canoe rides and houseboat cruises.

  • Things to do: Go for a canoe ride, kayaking, houseboat cruises, or spend a night in the boathouse with your partner. 
  • Tips: There are very few but some good boat clubs available near the river. Be sure to carry an extra pair of clothes if you are planning to go for a swim. 
  • Timings: Open 24 hours but canoe rides are open from morning till afternoon. Enjoy a moonlight boat ride at night. 

Read more: 25 Best Honeymoon Places in India

To Add Some Thrill and Adventure to Your Trip

1. Off-Shore Coral Reef – To Take a Dive or Surf

Diving in Off-Shore Coral Reef, Kovalam (Credit: NIE)
Diving in Off-Shore Coral Reef, Kovalam (Credit: NIE)

A trip to India’s first-ever off-shore coral reef is a must-do for the people who are visiting Kovalam for the first time. This artificial reef was made by the Government of Kerala in association with the Department of Harbour Engineering with a view of improving the marine ecosystem off the coast of the Lighthouse beach. The reef preserves and improves the marine ecosystem as well as prevents erosion of the shoreline. 

  • Things to do: You can go for an underwater diving guided by an instructor or go surfing. 
  • Tips: Wear comfortable clothing if you are visiting during the summer. Carry protective gears if you are planning to go for surfing. You will be provided with a proper outfit for diving.
  • Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM 

2. Scuba Diving in Kovalam – Once in a Lifetime Opportunity

Scuba Diving in Kovalam (Credit: NIE)
Scuba Diving in Kovalam (Credit: NIE)

You don’t need to be a swimmer to have this breathtaking underwater experience of scuba diving. The dive instructor will give you a proper training session and a safety demonstration. There will be some underwater photo opportunities included in your package for you to remember the experience for the rest of your life. 

  • Things to do: Scuba Cochin Dive Centre in Kovalam offers scuba diving to the tourists. They provide all the safety gears and equipment as well. The package starts from Rs. 6000
  • Tips: Carry an extra pair of clothes, sunscreen, camera and flipflops along with you. 
  • Timings: 10:00AM – 5:00PM

Some Off-Beat Ways to Enjoy Kovalam

1. Veli Tourist Village – Go for Boating with Your Family

Veli Tourist Village, Kovalam (Credit: Kerala Tourism)
Veli Tourist Village, Kovalam (Credit: Kerala Tourism)

Charging a small entry fee, Veli Tourist Village is a treat for kids and adults alike. Close to Tiruvananthapuram, it provides the best location for a picnic and for boating. Popular among locals, this is a spot you must visit at least once.

  • Things to do: You can book pedal boats or paddle boats for boating or enjoy a speedboat ride across the water.
  • Tips: If you are planning to visit this place, have a good 3-4 hours time in hand to enjoy the beauty of nature.
  • Timings: 8 AM to 6.30 PM
  • Ticket Rates: Rs. 20 (for Adult above 12 years), Rs. 5 (for children between 5 to12 years) and Rs. 40 (for a family of 2 Adults and 2 Children).

2. Aruvikkara Dam – For a Lazy Day Out with Your Family

Aruvikkara Dam, Kovalam
Aruvikkara Dam, Kovalam

Aruvikkara dam is a perfect picnic spot. It is built across the Karamana River and provides water to the city of Thiruvananthapuram. The picturesque location makes it a popular option for people seeking a quiet evening stroll.

  • Things to do: It is a perfect location to bask in the peaceful beauty of nature. You can also enjoy boating here.
  • Tips: Weekends are usually crowded here so weekdays are the best time to visit Aruvikkara dam.
  • Timings: Open from sunrise to sunset.

3. Kovalam Art Gallery- a Walk Through the Artistic Tradition of India

Kovalam Art Gallery (Credit: Kerala Holidays)
Kovalam Art Gallery (Credit: Kerala Holidays)

For the art buff in you, a visit to the Kovalam Art Gallery is a visual treat comprising ancient Indian paintings. The gallery houses some of the beautiful sculptures and paintings that represent the ancient Indian traditions. The art gallery is heavily visited by international visitors to this part of the country.

  • Things to do: Check out the age-old art representing the artistic traditions of the country. 
  • Tips: Confirm the gallery timing and opening days before visiting the place. 
  • Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM.

4. Enjoy Ayurvedic massages – Every Trip Needs Mind and Body Relaxation

 Ayurvedic Massage
Ayurvedic Massage

A spa session is must if you are visiting Kerala for the first time. As therapeutic and wellness Ayurveda is a part of Kerala’s legacy, there are a lot of renowned spa centres. Some of them may also be associated with hotels. Pamper your body with wellness therapies and ayurvedic healing.  

  • Tips: Find out a place with good ratings and schedule the spa session at the end of your trip. 
  • Recommended Places: Divya-The Health Spa, Vydyashala Ayurveda, Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort are some of the few spas you can check out.  

Explore more: Best Street Food in Kovalam

Experience the Historical and Cultural Heritage 

1. Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Temple – Enjoy the Beautiful Sculptures

Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Temple (Credit: Kerala Tourism)
Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Temple (Credit: Kerala Tourism)

The Vizhinjam rock-cut temple is famous for its unfinished sculptures of Lord Shiva and Parvathy and the unique architecture. It is one of the best places to visit in Kovalam as one of the smallest rock shrines in South India. The temple comes under the supervision of the archaeological survey of India.

  • Things to do: Explore the entire village and see the harbour and marine aquarium close to the temple. 
  • Tips: Carry sunglasses, beach hats and wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking. 
  • Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM (Monday closed)

2. Halcyon Castle – a Castle Converted to Luxury Hotel 

Halcyon Castle (Credit: TripNight)
Halcyon Castle (Credit: TripNight)

Halcyon Castle, also known as Kovalam Palace, was built in 1932 using traditional Kerala architecture and boasts of expansive and well-maintained lawns. It is considered as a heritage site and visited by the tourists all round the year. 

  • Things to do: Explore the architectural relics of the castle and take multiple photographs.
  • Tips: Carry an umbrella, sunglasses and wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
  • Timings: The luxury hotel is open 24 hours. It is better to visit the castle during the day time. 

3. Padmanabhaswamy Temple – a Mysterious Hindu Temple

Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Open only to Hindus, the Padmanabhaswamy temple is an architectural delight to view from the outside. It is famed for the untold treasures it hides away in its mysterious locked vaults. It is one of the best temples in terms of divinity and grandeur. The pilgrims believe that a glimpse of the majestic idol of Lord Vishnu is lucky. 

  • Things to do: You can offer your prayers to Lord Vishnu and wonder at the marvellous structure of the temple. 
  • Tips: Check out the timing of the temple before visiting. 
  • Timings: Morning: 3:30 am to 4:45 am, 6:30 am to 7 am, 8:20 am to 10 am, 10:30 am to 11:10 am, 11:45 am to 12 pm. Evening: 5 pm to 6:15 pm and 6:45 pm to 7:20 pm

Also, read: Top 12 Things to do in Kovalam

This list is not exhaustive and there are more to explore in the quaint coastal town of Kovalam. If you are planning to visit Kovalam and know some awesome spots, do share your experiences with us in the comments below.  

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