Kanyakumari Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1-2 days

Best Time: October to February Read More

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"Cape Comorin or The Land's End"

Kanyakumari Tourism

Located at the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent, Kanyakumari is a captivating coastal town in the state of Tamil Nadu. Renowned for its breathtaking confluence of three vast water bodies – the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean – Kanyakumari is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance. Also known as Cape Comorin, this town holds a special place in Indian mythology and folklore, with legends associating it with the virgin goddess Kanyakumari Devi.

Kanyakumari is a magnet for tourists, drawing visitors with its unique geographical location and cultural heritage. One of the most peculiar aspects of the town is that of witnessing both sunrise and sunset over the ocean horizon from the same spot called Triveni Sangam, an experience cherished by travelers. Kanyakumari also boasts a breathtaking phenomenon where the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean converge, forming a mesmerizing spectacle. However, the true marvel lies in the distinctiveness of these waters; despite meeting at a single point, they maintain their individual hues of turquoise blue, deep blue, and sea green.

Visitors to Kanyakumari are spoilt for choice when it comes to activities and attractions. From exploring historic landmarks like the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue to indulging in water sports like boating and snorkeling, there's something for everyone. The town's rich religious heritage is evident in its revered temples, including the iconic Kanyakumari Temple dedicated to the goddess Devi Kanya Kumari. Additionally, the Gandhi Memorial Mandapam pays homage to the Mahatma's historic visit to the region.

For nature enthusiasts, the pristine Kanyakumari beach and Thirparappu Waterfalls offer opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. The View Tower provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, while the Tsunami Memorial Park serves as a poignant reminder of the town's resilience in the face of natural disasters. To witness the spectacular sunrise, travelers flock to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, while the sunset can be best enjoyed from the shores near the Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam.

Kanyakumari is well-connected to major cities in South India via railways, with regular train services from Chennai, Trivandrum, Bengaluru and other prominent destinations. The railway station serves as a vital transportation hub, facilitating easy access for tourists eager to explore this enchanting coastal gem.

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History

According to a famous legend, Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati, was supposed to wed Lord Shiva. But Lord Shiva himself failed to turn up for this day and the wedding did not take place. The rice grains and cereals that were supposed to be for the marriage, remained uncooked. It is said, that even today, one can find stones that look exactly like rice grains. Many people believe that they are the remains of the marriage. Kanya Devi, it is said, remained a virgin goddess. During the early 18th Century AD, Islam entered Southern India through the traders. Christianity entered the southern part in AD 52 through St. Thomas. Islam, Christianity and Jainism have significantly contributed to the literary and architectural tradition of the place. The Cholas, the Cheras, the Pandyas and the Nayaks too, have contributed to the beautiful architectures that can be mostly found in the temples of Kanyakumari. During the British Raj, Kanyakumari was given the title of Cape Comorin.

Sunset And Sunrise

One of the unique features of Kanyakumari is the beautiful view of the sunrise and the sunset. It is one of the main tourist attractions. It is a breathtaking sight everyone waits for on the shores every morning. This spectacular sight is one of the many reasons why Kanyakumari is famous. On full moon evenings, one can see the moon rising and the sun setting at the same time. Although a rare sight, one should definitely try to catch the moment at least once in their life. During the sunrise and sunset, the famous Vivekananda Rock and the statue of Thiruvalluvar look even more striking. It is a sight with a beautiful blend of the natural and the man-made. The timings of the sunrise and sunset vary from season to season. However, one can confirm the timings at the hotels they are staying at.

About Kanyakumari and Geography

Kanyakumari is also known as Kanniyakumari is a town in Kanyakumari District in the state of Tamil Nadu India. The name comes from the temple, Devi Kanya Kumari Temple in the region. Kanyakumari town is the southern tip of the Cardamom Hills, an extension of the Western Ghats. The nearest town is Nagercoil, the administrative headquarters of the Kanyakumari District, 22 km away. Kanyakumari has been a town since the Sangam period and is a popular tourist destination. It is the confluence of the Western Coastal Plains and Eastern Coastal Plains.

Restaurants and Local Food in Kanyakumari

In Kanyakumari, much of what is prepared is done so with a generous use of spices and an essential garnish of coconut. Hence, one can sense these two flavours distinctly in almost all the food here. Other than these, do enjoy delicacies of freshly caught fishes, as well as typical South-Indian platters in one of their most authentic and lip-smacking forms. Typical South-Indian delicacies that one must try include Idli, Dosa, Chutney, Vada, Sambhar, Rasam, Upma, Sweet Pongal, Payassam, Kesari and more. One also finds North-Indian, Gujarati, Chinese, Rajasthani cuisines here.

Please note: Even though it is a famous tourist spot, one cannot find many restaurants that serve western cuisines.
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Suggested Itinerary for Kanyakumari

Day 1: Reach Kanyakumari by evening, check-in at the hotel and relax.
Day 2:Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Vattakottai fort, an 18-century marvel which offers the scenery of sea on one side and the Western Ghats on the other. Visit Triveni Sangam: The southern most tip of India, which offers the beautiful confluence of three seas- Arabian sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. You can also visit the View Tower to enjoy the panoramic view of this site. Later, take a ferry to Thiruvalluvar statue, which is located on a small island 400 m away from the shore. Later, visit Vivekananda Memorial in the evening to enjoy the marvellous landscape of sun setting in the sea. Back to hotel. Dinner and rest at the hotel.
Day 3: Breakfast at the hotel. Leave the hotel for the local sightseeing around the city. Visit St. Xavier's church. Visit Thanumalyan temple in Suchindram, where trinity is worshipped. Visit Our lady of Ransom Church, one of the famous church in Kanyakumari. Spend the evening at the beaches of Kanyakumari. Back to hotel. Dinner at the hotel.
Day 4: Check-out from the hotel. You can also visit the famous waterfalls that are located on the outskirts of Kanyakumari- Thiruparrapu falls, Olakavuri waterfalls, Mankayam waterfalls, Pazhaya waterfalls, are some of the famous waterfalls around Kanyakumari.

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Kanyakumari Photos

Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
Padmanabhapuram Palace
Vivekananda Rock Memorial
Kumari Amman Temple

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FAQs on Kanyakumari

What is the best way to reach Kanyakumari?

Thiruvananthapuram is the nearest international airport, with direct flights from the Middle East, Singapore, Maldives and Sri Lanka. From there it takes about three hours by train or bus or taxi to reach Kanyakumari. Kanyakumari also houses one of the end points of the largest train route in India, Kanyakumari to Jammu.Buses are frequently available from Thiruvananthapuram,the closest major transport hub. Long distance buses are available from Chennai (Madras), Coimbatore, Madurai, Bangalore etc.
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What are the places near Kanyakumari?

The top places near to Kanyakumari are Kovalam which is 70 km from Kanyakumari, Poovar which is located 57 km from Kanyakumari, Trivandrum which is located 64 km from Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli which is located 73 km from Kanyakumari, Munnar which is located 228 km from Kanyakumari

What are the things to do in Kanyakumari?

The top things to do in Kanyakumari are Thirparappu Falls, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thanumalayan Temple - Sthanumalayan Kovil, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kumari Amman Temple, Padmanabhapuram Palace. You can see all the places to visit in Kanyakumari here

How much does a package cost for Kanyakumari?

The packages for Kanyakumari start at INR 6768 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

What is the local food in Kanyakumari?

In Kanyakumari, much of what is prepared is done so with a generous use of spices and an essential garnish of coconut. Hence, one can sense these two flavours distinctly in almost all the food here. Other than these, do enjoy delicacies of freshly caught fishes, as well as typical South-Indian platters in one of their most authentic and lip-smacking forms. Typical South-Indian delicacies that one must try include Idli, Dosa, Chutney, Vada, Sambhar, Rasam, Upma, Sweet Pongal, Payassam, Kesari and more. One also finds North-Indian, Gujarati, Chinese, Rajasthani cuisines here.

Please note: Even though it is a famous tourist spot, one cannot find many restaurants that serve western cuisines.
Read More

What is the best time to visit Kanyakumari?

The months from October until February are considered the best time to visit Kanyakumari, as the weather remains calm and pleasant. Although this coastal region is a bit humid, this is the best time to try out some adventurous water sports, going on sightseeing and outings, undertaking beach activities and savouring the spectacular sunset views. With the beginning of winters in November, Kanyakumari also hosts many festivals during this month, for instance the Cape Festival.
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Who should visit Kanyakumari?

Kanyakumari is considered an ideal destination to spend your vacations with your family. It is also a great pilgrimage spot owing to a number of temples and ashrams located in the city. Apart from this, Kanyakumari is also a delight for nature and beach lovers as the sunset and sunrise offer one of the best landscapes of nature.

What is not so good about Kanyakumari?

Crowded and dirty in peak seasons. Can be quite hot and humid during summers.

What is famous about Kanyakumari?

Kanyakumari is famous for its sunsets and sunrise. Being the Southern most tip of India, it is filled with a number of beaches. An important pilgrimage spot for both Christians and Hindus.

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Popular Questions And Answers on Kanyakumari

Q. Can you suggest any budget hotel or home stay near city centre? Thank you

Holidify

5 years ago
According to our curated list of Hotels, Stella Maris & VLS Holiday Home are a couple of Hotels near the Centre of Kanyakumari. You can choose from a long list of options through the following Link - (Read More) https://www.holidify.com/places/kanyakumari/hotels-where-to-stay.html
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Q. How many days are sufficient to visit Kanyakumari? I intend to visit during the winters and walk around the town as much as I can.

Kaveesh Nair

5 years ago
A trip covering the important places of Kanyakumari shouldn't take more than 2 days, considering you're planning to cover most of it by foot.
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Kanyakumari Reviews

Your rating

cva THALA VERIYAN

4 years ago
Great place to visit in tamilnadu.....also one of the safest place for women and girls..u can enjoy great climate in summer here...welcome to kanyakumari ...try to visit one of busiest city Nagercoil (Read More) which is the capital of kanyakumari

FENIX INTERNATIONAL GROUP KERALA

on Chitharal Jain Monuments 5 years ago
Beautiful place that I have seen... Many many historical monuments that we can see there

Rohit Shroff

5 years ago
- Carry camera, torch, light and fully covered clothes, proper footwears, munchies, beverages and water along
- Since the early 1970s, tourism has been an industry in the town. Because of this, it (Read More) is one of the few small towns in South India where one can hear many different street Indian languages. Lately, the promotion of tourism has increased, with increasing emphasis on attractions outside the town, such as the surrounding landscapes, as well as the historical and religious sites found around the district. Ultimately a total of 1.9 million tourists visited Kanyakumari in 2007. Kanyakumari is notable for pilgrimage and tourism. The place takes its name from the goddess Devi Kanya Kumari, considered to be a sister of Krishna. Women pray to her for marriage. The goddess is believed to be the one who removes the rigidity of one's mind. The temple here is a Shakti Peetha, one of the holiest shrines of the Mother goddess.
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