Best Places to Visit in Kanyakumari (2024)

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Kanyakumari with our curated guide to the best places to visit. From the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial to the serene shores of Kanyakumari Beach, discover the essence of this coastal paradise. Dive into history at the Padmanabhapuram Palace, or witness the magical confluence of three seas at the Triveni Sangam. Plan your adventure with the best places to visit in Kanyakumari.

One of the most cherished journeys I’ve embarked on was with my mother to Kanyakumari. Those early travels with her remain among my fondest memories, and our trip to Kanyakumari stands out as one of the most memorable experiences to date. Nestled in the southern tip of India, Kanyakumari captivates with its stunning landscapes and is renowned as one of the premier sunset destinations in the country.

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About Kanyakumari

Renowned as ‘The Virgin Princess’ and ‘Cape Comorin,’ Kanyakumari is the southernmost tip of India, nestled within Tamil Nadu. The convergence of the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal creates a mesmerizing spectacle, making it a sought-after destination for breathtaking sunrises, sunsets, and moonrises.

How to Get to Kanyakumari?

By Air

The closest airport to Kanyakumari is in Trivandrum, Kerala state, approximately 70 kilometres away. Trivandrum International Airport is a significant hub for domestic flights, with airlines such as Air India and Spice Jet offering regular services to and from various cities across India. Upon arrival, travellers can opt for the convenience of hiring a local taxi from the airport to reach their destination in Kanyakumari.

By Road from Bangalore

Kanyakumari lies approximately 665 kilometres from Bangalore city, with the journey typically spanning 11 hours and 30 minutes by car. Given the considerable distance, breaking up the journey is advisable by stopping at Tiruchirappalli or Madurai. The most common route leads through Hosur, featuring toll roads for a smoother ride. Alternatively, travellers can opt for the Mysore Road route, albeit slightly longer in duration.

By Public Transport

Kanyakumari boasts a railway station, facilitating convenient train travel from major cities across India. I opted for a train journey from Bangalore to Kanyakumari, which, despite its duration, offered breathtaking scenery characterized by sprawling windmills and picturesque farmlands along the route. For the latest updates on train routes, schedules, and fares, the IRCTC website serves as a reliable source of information.

Where to Stay in Kanyakumari?

When visiting Kanyakumari, you’ll find various accommodation options catering to different preferences and budgets. Here are some recommendations:

1. The Coral Kanyakumari: Located near the beach, this upscale hotel offers comfortable rooms, excellent amenities, and stunning ocean views.
2. Sparsa Resort Kanyakumari: Positioned on Beach Road, this resort provides a tranquil atmosphere, well-appointed rooms, and easy access to the beach.
3. Hotel Sea View: As the name suggests, this hotel offers splendid views of the sea and is conveniently located near the main attractions of Kanyakumari.
4. Hotel Sangam: Situated close to the railway station, this mid-range hotel offers clean, cozy rooms and friendly service.
5. Homestays: For a more personalized experience, consider staying in a homestay where you can interact with locals and immerse yourself in the culture of Kanyakumari.

Review of Sparsa Resort

Situated along Beach Road, Sparsa Resort stands directly opposite the beach, offering guests a prime location and a tranquil escape. With a three-star rating, my stay at this resort was undeniably comfortable, complemented by breathtaking views from my room. Renowned for its luxurious amenities and superb service, Sparsa Resort proudly asserts itself as one of the premier accommodations in Kanyakumari.

Best Places to Visit in Kanyakumari

Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Constructed in 1970 as a tribute to Swami Vivekananda, the Vivekananda Rock Memorial symbolises reverence and is an iconic landmark in Kanyakumari. Legend has it that Swami Vivekananda experienced enlightenment on this very rock, surrounded by the vast expanse of the Laccadive Sea. Additionally, according to local lore, Goddess Parvathi, known as Kanyakumari, undertook rigorous meditation here in devotion to Lord Shiva.

Situated approximately 500 meters offshore, reaching the Vivekananda Rock Memorial entails a brief 15-minute ferry ride from Vivekananda Puram in Kanyakumari. Ferry services operate between 8 AM and 4:30 PM, with a nominal fare of INR 35 per person, payable in cash only.

To explore the memorial, visitors must also pay an entrance fee of INR 10 per person, with visiting hours spanning from 8 AM to 4 PM. It’s advisable to allocate at least an hour for a comprehensive experience of the site’s significance and beauty.

Padmanabhapuram Palace

Padmanabhapuram Palace, located in the town of Padmanabhapuram in Tamil Nadu, is a magnificent wooden palace that served as the erstwhile capital of the Travancore Kingdom. Built around 1601 AD by Iravi Varma Kulasekhara Perumal, this palace is renowned for its intricate architecture, exquisite craftsmanship, and historical significance.

The palace is renowned for its traditional Kerala-style architecture, constructed entirely from wood without nails. Its intricate carvings, detailed ceilings, and polished wooden interiors showcase the mastery of local artisans.

Thiruvalluvar Statue

Standing 41 meters, the Thiruvalluvar Statue pays homage to the esteemed Tamil poet and philosopher Valluvar. Unveiled in 2000, this magnificent sculpture was crafted by the renowned Indian sculptor V. Ganapati Sthapati. Presently, it ranks as the 25th tallest statue in India.

Symbolizing the essence of the 133 chapters of the Tirukkural, authored by Valluvar, the statue embodies Virtue, Wealth, and Love, themes central to the revered literary work. The Tirukkural, also known as Kural, comprises couplets addressing ethical, political, economic, and romantic facets of life, standing as a pinnacle of Tamil literature.

The Thiruvalluvar Statue is a notable landmark in Kanyakumari, conveniently situated just 400 meters from the mainland and a mere 100 meters from the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. Visitors taking the ferry to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial often have the opportunity to admire this iconic statue during their journey.

Things to Do in Kanyakumari

Shop for Seashells

Kanyakumari is a prime destination for purchasing exquisite seashells and souvenirs from local vendors. Delightful hangings and mirrors adorned with intricate shell designs are among the many treasures. During my visit, I couldn’t resist the allure of these unique creations, and each vendor’s offerings seemed more captivating than the last.

When indulging in the shopping experience, embracing the art of negotiation is essential. Don’t hesitate to haggle for the best deals and make your purchases a memorable part of your Kanyakumari adventure.

Watch Sunset

As previously noted, Kanyakumari boasts genuinely spectacular sunsets. During my three-day stay in the area, I was fortunate enough to witness breathtaking and picturesque sunsets each evening. I wholeheartedly recommend taking the time to experience these awe-inspiring sunsets firsthand, ideally from the serene shores of the beach.

Interact with Locals

Kanyakumari is home to warm and welcoming locals accustomed to hosting a steady stream of tourists. I enjoyed engaging with the friendly residents during my visit, who exuded politeness and hospitality. One of the highlights was spending time with the children playing along the beach, where they showed great interest in my camera and photography.

Interacting with the locals truly offers a glimpse into the heart of the community and adds depth to your experience. However, trusting your instincts and exercising caution when striking up conversations is essential. Additionally, I respected local customs by seeking permission from the children’s parents before capturing any photographs.

Is Kanyakumari Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Kanyakumari offers a relatively safe environment for solo female travelers. The locals are generally kind and welcoming, often focusing on their affairs. However, it’s wise to exercise caution, particularly during the evening hours, and always maintain awareness of your surroundings.

Are you new to solo travel or have questions about embarking on solo journeys? Explore our FAQ section dedicated to solo travel, where you’ll find answers to common inquiries and valuable insights to enhance your experience.

Closing Notes

Kanyakumari holds a special place in my heart as one of my favourite destinations in Tamil Nadu. Its rich religious history and unique geographical significance, where the three oceans converge, make it enchanting. I wholeheartedly recommend including Kanyakumari in your South Indian travel itinerary for an unforgettable experience.

Have you had the opportunity to explore Kanyakumari? Feel free to share your experiences with me by reaching out at Solopassport@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you!

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