- Kanyakumari- A Journey to the Lands End
Kanyakumari, once part of the erstwhile princely realm of Travancore
lies at the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula. It is the southern
tip of the majestic Cardamom Hills, a chain of hills along the west
coast of India. It is also the confluence point of three oceans- the Bay
of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean.
Kanyakumari casts a magical spell of its own with its unparalleled
natural splendor, rich culture and varied traditions. Once referred to
as the Alexandria of the East, the place was a well known trading and
commercial center, besides being a hub of arts and culture.
This exquisite land offers a feast for the eyes from the rainbow
beaches with multi colored sand, the spectacular azure ocean lashing the
shore in passionate fury, ravishingly beautiful palm fringed beaches,
the majestic hills to the emerald green paddy fields. Kanyakumari, being
in the border of the two states, offers a blend of Kerala and Tamil
Nadu traditions.
The brilliance of the imposing sunrise and the soft sunset that
dazzles over the confluence of three oceans, leaves one with exuberance.
It is the only place in India where one can view both sunset and
moonrise simultaneously on a full moon day. Every morning countless
visitors flock to the beaches, awaiting the magnificent sight of
daybreak to unfold. The brilliant picture of morning sky, garbed in
glowing hues of pastel colors with the silhouette of fishing boats, as
the sun rises above the horizon will remain forever engraved in ones
memory. Sunsets offer an equally spectacular picture.
- Place of Interest
Kanyakumari is an important Hindu pilgrim center with devotees visiting from across the country. The name Kanyakumari is derived from the Goddess Kanyakumari Amman, an avatar of Goddess Parvati, enshrined in a fascinating legend. One of the major attractions in Kanyakumari is the temple dedicated to goddess Parvati, who is also revered as the protector of Indias shores.
Vivekananda Memorial, built about half a kilometer from the mainland, is seated on the rock where the charismatic philosopher Swami Vivekananda meditated. The memorial has a dhyan mandapam where one could sit and meditate. The statue of legendary Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar stands high as a witness to the golden days of Tamil literature. Kanyakumari is also home to Gandhi Mandapam built in memory of Mahatma Gandhi. The imposing Our lady of Ransom church is a fine example of the Portuguese influence in the region. The Cape Festival, a five-day celebration, organized by the Tourism Department in the month of October, offers a true cultural extravaganza.
Must See
Kanyakumari Temple
Gandhi Memorial
Vivekananda Rock
Thiruvalluvar statue
Thommai Palli (St. Thomas Church)
Vattakkottai
Suchindram Temple
Nagaraja Temple
Thirparappu Water falls
Mathoor Hanging Bridge
- Best Time To Visit
November to February.
- How to Reach
By Flight
Kanyakumari is not directly connected by air; the nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram at a distance of about 80 Km.
By Rail
Well connected to all cities in India.
By Road
Well connected by road and regular bus services link the town with all major south Indian cities.