Kovalam - Discovering India

Travelling to Kovalam

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kovalam, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kovalam and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kovalam, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Kovalam for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kovalam

Kovalam is a seaside village located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is famous for its beautiful beaches and tranquil backwaters, and it attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year. The main beach of Kovalam is divided into three parts, each offering a different experience - the Lighthouse Beach, the Hawah Beach, and the Samudra Beach. Additionally, Kovalam is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments, which offer relaxation and rejuvenation. The village is also known for its seafood, distinctive culture, and scenic beauty.

What to visit in Kovalam

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Kovalam, India: 1. Kovalam Beach: This beach is often considered the most popular beach in Kovalam. The crescent-shaped beach is characterized by clear water, clean sand, and towering palm trees. It's a great spot for swimming and surfing.
2. Lighthouse Beach: The lighthouse beach is situated close to the Kovalam beach. It is named after the 30-meter tall lighthouse at the southern end of the beach. The lighthouse dates back to the 19th century and provides panoramic views of the Arabian sea.
3. Hawa Beach: Hawa beach is also known as Eve's beach. It is situated between Lighthouse beach and Kovalam beach. Hawa beach is known for its mesmerizing sunset views.
4. Vellayani Lake: Vellayani lake is a freshwater lake located about 7 kilometers from Kovalam. It's a peaceful and serene place surrounded by scenic views.
5. Karamana River: Karamana river is a major river in the western ghats that flows through Kovalam. The river originates from the Agasthyakoodam peak and goes on to join the Arabian sea.
6. Halcyon Castle: This castle was built in the 1930s by M.R. Sri Rama Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran. It's an impressive structure that's now turned into a hotel. Visitors can take a tour of the castle to see the colonial architecture and art collection.
7. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Neyyar wildlife sanctuary is located about 32 kilometers from Kovalam. It's home to a diverse range of flora and fauna species including elephants, tigers, and leopards.
These are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Kovalam, India.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kovalam.

When to go on holiday to Kovalam

The best time to visit Kovalam, India is during the winter months from November to February, when the weather is pleasant with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). During this time, you can enjoy the beaches without the scorching heat and humidity of summer, making it the perfect time to relax and take in the stunning views of the Arabian Sea. March to May is also a good time for a visit if you enjoy warmer temperatures, although it can be quite humid. However, it is important to note that between June and September, Kerala experiences the monsoon season, which brings heavy rainfall and can make some areas inaccessible, so it is best to avoid visiting during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kovalam

To get to Kovalam, India, you can either take a flight to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV) or a train to Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kovalam. The distance between Thiruvananthapuram and Kovalam is approximately 17 kilometers and takes around 30 minutes to reach by taxi or bus. There are also shared autorickshaws available for a more affordable option.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kovalam, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kovalam

Kovalam is situated in the Indian state of Kerala, which is famous for its unique cuisine. Below is a list of typical foods in Kovalam and a brief description of each: 1. Appam: A pancake made with fermented rice and coconut milk batter. It is crispy on the edges and soft in the middle. It is a popular breakfast food.
2. Puttu: Made with rice flour and grated coconut, this dish is steamed in a special cylindrical container. It is typically served with banana and kadala curry.
3. Fish Curry: Kerala is known for its fish curries, which are made with a variety of fish and cooked in coconut milk, spices, and curry leaves. It is usually served with rice or appam.
4. Avial: A mixed vegetable dish made with coconut paste, cumin, and green chili. Vegetables used vary but include taro, green beans, carrots, and pumpkin.
5. Sambar: A lentil-based stew made with vegetables such as pumpkin, drumstick, and carrot. It is widely served with idli, dosa, and rice.
6. Thoran: A dry vegetable dish made with grated coconut and tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chili.
7. Kerala Parotta: A layered flatbread made with wheat flour, which is served with a spicy curry or kurma.
8. Payasam: A sweet pudding made by slow-cooking rice, vermicelli, or lentils with milk, sugar, and ghee. It is flavored with cardamom and garnished with fried nuts.
9. Banana Chips: Plantain slices that are thinly sliced and deep-fried in coconut oil. They are usually served as a snack or accompaniment to meals.
10. Thattu Dosa: A crispy South Indian dosa served with a spicy onion and tomato chutney, it is a great snack food in the streets.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Kovalam an expensive destination for tourists?

Kovalam can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists, depending on the traveller's budget and preferences. Accommodation prices in Kovalam can vary widely, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The peak season from November to February usually sees higher prices compared to the off-season. Food and drink costs can also vary depending on the restaurant or cafe chosen. Overall, Kovalam can be considered more expensive than some other destinations in India but it still offers good value for money, especially for those looking for a beach getaway. It's recommended to research and plan your expenses ahead of your trip to avoid overspending and make the most of your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Kovalam

The best areas to find accommodation in Kovalam, India are: 1. Lighthouse Beach: This is the most popular and busiest beach in Kovalam, with plenty of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury.
2. Hawa Beach: This is a quieter and less crowded beach than Lighthouse Beach, but still has a good selection of affordable and mid-range hotels.
3. Samudra Beach: This is the northernmost beach in Kovalam and is a great place to escape the crowds. There are some high-end resorts and hotels in this area.
4. Kovalam Beach Road: This area is slightly inland, but still within easy walking distance of all the beaches. There are many guesthouses and budget hotels in this area, perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.
You can check hotel prices at Kovalam here:
Booking.com

Is Kovalam a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kovalam is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, travelers should exercise caution just as they would in any other tourist destination. It is recommended to be aware of your surroundings, take precautions against theft or pickpocketing, and to avoid traveling alone at night. It's also a good idea to check the current travel advisories before planning your trip to Kovalam.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kovalam.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kovalam the most?

Kovalam, India is a great destination that can accommodate all types of travelers. However, it is mostly visited by couples and families. The calm and refreshing atmosphere of Kovalam makes it an ideal destination for couples to spend their honeymoon or to get away from the busy life. Families with kids will find this place as an excellent option to relax as various family-friendly activities and attractions are available in Kovalam. Even though there are some fun activities available in the area, Kovalam is not particularly known for its nightlife, so young people looking for big parties may find the place a little quiet for their taste. But overall, Kovalam is an excellent destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation.

How to get around Kovalam

The most common mode of transportation within Kovalam is auto-rickshaws (also known as tuk-tuks) and taxis. Buses are also available for longer distances and are less expensive but can be crowded. Additionally, some people prefer to rent a scooter or motorcycle to explore the area on their own.

What to see around Kovalam

Certainly! Here are some great places you could visit on a day trip from Kovalam: 1. Vizhinjam Lighthouse - This lighthouse offers stunning views of the coast and the ocean beyond. It's just a 10-minute drive from Kovalam, making it an easy day trip.
2. Poovar Island - This beautiful island is just 20 minutes away by car from Kovalam, and offers picturesque beaches and backwaters.
3. Kanyakumari - This town is at the southernmost tip of India, and is known for its stunning sunrises and sunsets over the ocean. It's about a 2-hour drive from Kovalam.
4. Padmanabhapuram Palace - This ancient palace is a marvel of traditional Keralan architecture, and includes a beautiful temple and surrounding gardens. It's a 1-hour drive from Kovalam.
5. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary - This protected wilderness area is home to a wide range of birds, mammals, and reptiles. It's about a 45-minute drive from Kovalam.
These are just a few suggestions to get you started - there are plenty of other interesting places in the area as well!
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