Kovalam Travel Guide

Facts

Name: Kovalam
Area: 7.94 sq. km. (3.1 sq. mi.)
Population: 20,714 (2011)
Language: Malayalam, English
State: Kerala
Currency: Rupee
Time Zone: UTC+5:30 (IST)
Religions and Beliefs: Hinduism, Christianity and Islam

Situated around 13 km (8.1 miles) from Thiruvananthapuram city, Kovalam, a tiny hamlet of Kerala in southwest India, was once a minuscule cluster of fishing villages engulfing a beautiful beach. But now, Kovalam has expanded into a beautiful resort town popular among the global tourists. The cascading palm trees and stunning sea views make the entire place endearing and charming for tired eyes. Kovalam travel experience is heightened by its addictive weather, high and low sea waves, and flourishing ayurvedic therapy centers. Kovalam is also a shopping destination, rich in spices, wooden statues and handicrafts that can be used for popular takeaway. Overall, exploring the Kerala would be incomplete without heading to Kovalam.

Best Places to Visit

1. Lighthouse Beach
2. Karamana River
3. Samudra Beach
4. Vellayani Lake
5. Thiruvallam Sree Parasurama Temple
6. Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple
7. Hawah Beach
8. Kovalam Art Gallery
9. Aruvikkara Dam
10. Neyyar Dam

One of the biggest attractions for Kovalam travel is undoubtedly the Lighthouse Beach. The powdery gold and black sandy coastline, close to the prime beach of Kovalam, is well-known for its iconic candy-stripped towering lighthouse. Built in the early 1970s, the lighthouse is one of the most recognized structure in the region giving the seashore a soothing view.

The Thiruvallam Sree Parasurama Temple is one of the oldest temples of Southern India. Located close to the banks of serpentine Karamana River, the temple is dedicated to Parasurama – the mythical character from Ramayana. The exquisite rock cut structure of the temple, built in the late 13th century, is believed to be constructed during the Pandyan Era.

Together with other attractions like Halcyon Castle and Karamana River, 1-2 days are enough for a Kovalam travel trip.

Best Time to Visit Kovalam: November to February

The weather of Kovalam is mostly hot and humid during summer season. But, during winter, the weather takes a charming turn. Usually, the climate mostly ranges between 16-35 ℃ (61-95℉),  which makes winter ideal for Kovalam travel and the average temperature of the season is around 27 ℃ (81 ℉).  This time is ideal for honeymooners and couples to explore this scenic beach hamlet.

While packing for the Kovalam travel trip, remember layering is the key. Although the weather during the day is comfortable enough, but at the nighttime the temperature can drop by a degree or two. Include a pair of trousers, cotton shirts, light shirts, and scarfs into the luggage.  Also, pack a pair of socks, handkerchief, and undergarments for the trip. Do include quick dry towel and beachwear.

Read more about Best Time to Visit Kerala

Ranking List of Kovalam Food

•  Kappa with Grated Coconut
•  Spicy Karimeen
•  Lobster Curry

Kovalam food contains elements of South Indian cuisines. These South Indian cuisines are easier on the stomach and enriched in taste quotient. Tourists on Kovalam travel expeditions, are often found exploring the beauty of these delights. Since spices are one of the main heroes of a traditional Malayali cuisine, one can expected the food to be a little spicy. Kappa with grated coconut can be served as a breakfast recipe or as an evening dish, which is made of Tapioca. Spicy Karimeen is a popular delicacy fish and the favorite fish of Kerala people. Marinate with red pepper, lime juice and other ingredients and fry until brown. It's spicy and fresh.

Best Restaurants in Kovalam

1. Devi Garden Restaurant: Beach Rd, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Opening time: 7.30 am to 11.00 pm
Average cost of meal: INR 500 to INR 780 for 2 people

The place is ideal for gorging on delightful breakfast delights like puttu curry or appam.

2. Sanjeevni Restaurant: Behind Ktdc Hotel Koval Beach, Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam, Kerala
Opening time: 8.00 am to 11.00 pm
Average cost of meal: INR800 for 2 people

This is a great place to taste the Keralite seafood, especially the crab curry, so must visit during Kovalam travel.

3. Malabar Café: Light House Beach, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695527
Opening time: 9.00 am to 10.00 pm
Average cost: INR650 for 2 people

Just a few miles off the Kovalam lighthouse, the restaurant serves aromatic vegetarian and vegan delights. It is the place to explore the traditional Malayali cuisines.

4. Bethel Vegetarian Restaurant: Beach Road Light House Beach, Kovalam India
Opening time: 8.00 am to 9.00 pm
Average cost: INR700 for 2 people

The Bethel Vegetarian Restaurant is a vegetarian friendly diner serving Asian, especially Keralite dishes.

Where to Stay in Kovalam – 40% Tourists Choose Hotels near Vizhinjam Lighthouse

Vizhinjam Lighthouse – 40%
Samudra Beach – 40%
Vevila Shree Mahavishnu Temple – 17%

The beaches of the region are popular attractions, and tourists often opt for staying at their Kovalam travel expedition. Apart from that, budget tourist prefers staying at the homestays or backpackers’ hostels. There are a few ayurvedic health resorts and hotels available in Kovalam – ideal for tourists who want to splurge. Aparna Guest House is a recommended stay around the Vizhinjam Lighthouse. It is well known for its services, hospitality and neatness, etc. Located in the most peaceful location of Kovalam, it provides its guests a beautiful sea view from the balcony.

Transportation in Kovalam

Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport to Kovalam, 15 km (9.3 mi) from the city. Tourists can hire a taxi reach Kovalam from the airport. Usually, cabs charge INR 700 for one-way trip to the city. But prices tend to fluctuate based on timing and demand.

One of the best ways to explore Kovalam is by tourist taxi, especially when touring the city with kids or elderly. There are designated taxi stands at the railway stations and airport. The base fare of the taxis is around INR 50, and increases by INR 13 per additional kilometer. Auto-rickshaws and motorcycle taxis are also available. These modes of transport are relatively cheaper and suits the budget travelers.

Top Shopping Markets

1. SM Handloom Center: Near Jeevan House, Kovalam
In this shop, tourists can buy clothes made of silk, linen, cotton, etc.

2. Kovalam Beach
The stores are basically located near lighthouse beach, where you can buy silk skirts in various colors and quality / weight, teak handicrafts and shell jewelry.

In Kovalam, there are many shops selling handicrafts, jewelry, decorations made of mahogany and teak, and shell jewelry. The city is noted for its teak and mahogany statues, carpets and ethnic costumes.

Read more about Most Famous Markets in Kerala