Understand

Step into the captivating world of Kovalam, a coastal town in Kerala, India, renowned for its pristine beaches. These beaches, considered some of the most beautiful in the country, are a favorite among tourists, especially those from the western countries. The shallow waters and gentle waves make it an ideal destination for relaxation and water activities. Kovalam's history as a tourist hotspot dates back to the 1930s when it gained popularity among travelers. It gained further prominence in the 1970s when it became a favorite destination for hippies. The town's association with royalty is also noteworthy, as it was chosen by the Queens of Travancore as a place for their private residence. The palace, known as Haylcon Castle, still stands as a symbol of the town's regal past. In the 1930s, the Maharaja of Travancore recognized the tourism potential of Kovalam and invited Thomas Cook & Sons-UK to develop the region. This led to the establishment of the modern tourism industry in South India. Today, Kovalam boasts three main beaches along its 17 km coastline. The southernmost beach, Lighthouse Beach, is the most popular, offering a wide range of hotels, restaurants, lodges, and shops. The northernmost crescent beach, known by various names such as Main Beach, Leela Beach, and Samudra Beach, is a favorite among locals and day-travelers. Hawa Beach, located between the two, is notable for its acceptance of top-less sunbathing, a delight for adventurous tourists. The beach also has a vigilant life guard service provided by the tourism department. While many tourists visiting Kovalam fall into the age group of 40 to 60 years, the relaxed atmosphere of the town appeals to people of all ages. Come and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty and warm hospitality that Kovalam has to offer!

Get in

Getting to Kovalam Kovalam is just 16 km away from Trivandrum, and you can easily reach it by taxi in about 20 minutes. Taxis charge around 400-500 rupees for the trip. At Trivandrjm International Airport, you'll find a pre-paid taxi counter at arrivals. Just let them know you want to go to Hawa Beach, Leela Beach/Main Beach, or Lighthouse Beach in Kovalam. The one-way trip to Leela Beach from the airport costs 550 rupees for a sedan and 650 rupees for a 7-seater. If you prefer to travel by auto-rickshaw, a fair price is around 150-170 rupees. It's best to ask them to use the meter, but keep in mind that the meters often don't work. If they try to overcharge you, simply find another rickshaw and they will likely offer you a fair price. Public buses are also available from Trivandrum-East Fort to Kovalam Beach, costing only 8 rupees for a half-hour trip. In Kovalum Junction, you can catch buses to Trivandrum, as well as find Ambassador taxis and autos to various destinations. Just be cautious when walking around the junction, especially at night, as there are no traffic lights and minimal street lighting. Stay safe while exploring!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)Butter chicken is a rich and creamy curry made with marinated chicken pieces cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The dish originated in the Indian subcontinent and gained popularity in Canada due to the large population of Indian immigrants. It's typically served with basmati rice and naan bread. Butter chicken contains meat – chicken.

Dish: BiryaniBiryani is a popular rice dish made by cooking Basmati rice with meat (usually chicken, goat, or fish), vegetables, yogurt, and a blend of spices. It originates from the Indian subcontinent and is often considered the national dish of Pakistan. It's known for its flavorful layers and distinct aroma. Biryani contains meat – primarily chicken, goat, or fish.

Dish: SamosasSamosas are deep-fried or baked pastry snacks filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, onions, peas, and sometimes meat. They originate from South Asia and have become a popular street food across India. Often served as an appetizer or a quick snack, samosas can be found at roadside stalls, train stations, and even weddings. Samosas can contain meat – typically potatoes, onions, and peas, but some varieties may include meat such as chicken or lamb.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing