
Quick Overview
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Weather: Warm days, cooler evenings in winter
- Budget: ₹1,500–₹5,000/day
Plan Your Trip
Getting There
Nearest Major Railway Station: Trivandrum Central (15 km away)
By Flight: Trivandrum International Airport (approx. 12 mins away)
By Road: Well-connected by buses, taxis, and private cars from Trivandrum and other cities
Where to Stay?
From beachfront homestays to luxury Ayurvedic resorts, Kovalam has stay options for every kind of traveler. For uninterrupted sea views, choose a stay near Lighthouse Beach. Wellness seekers can opt for retreats offering authentic Ayurvedic therapies.
Packing List
- Light, breathable clothes
- Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
- Flip-flops
- Swimwear and towels
- Refillable water bottle
Top Places to Visit & Things to Do
Lighthouse Beach
Kovalam’s crown jewel—perfect for sunbathing, photography, and watching the waves roll in beside the iconic red-and-white lighthouse.
Hawah Beach
Quieter and more laid-back, this beach is ideal for relaxing with a book or catching a serene sunrise.
Samudra Beach
Loved by locals, Samudra offers solitude, scenic views, and glimpses of fishermen at work.
Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium
A compact but fascinating stop—see coral, rare fish, and even small sharks.
Vellayani Lake
A tranquil freshwater lake, great for an evening stroll or a peaceful boat ride.
Kovalam Art Gallery
Browse works that celebrate Kerala’s artistic traditions and coastal stories.
Karamana River
Enjoy kayaking or take a riverside walk amidst coconut groves.
Valiyathura Pier
Capture dramatic sea views and sunsets—perfect for evening photos.
Neyyar Dam
A scenic spot with a crocodile farm, lion safari, and relaxed boat rides.
Vizhinjam Cave Temple
A hidden gem featuring ancient carvings dating back to the 8th century.
Must-Try Experiences
Ayurveda & Wellness
Detox your mind and body with herbal treatments and rejuvenating massages.
Beach Adventures
Try surfing, parasailing, or simply splash in the warm Arabian Sea.
Cultural Nights
Witness live Kathakali shows—vivid expressions, elaborate costumes, and rhythmic storytelling.
Village Life
Visit nearby fishing villages for an authentic taste of local life and seafood traditions.
Yoga on the Beach
Sunrise yoga sessions with the ocean breeze—it’s as soothing as it sounds.
Local Cuisine
- Breakfast Picks: Appam with stew, puttu with kadala curry, or crisp dosa
- Main Course: Kerala thali with sambar, avial, and red rice
- Seafood: Grilled fish, spicy prawn curry, crab roast, Karimeen pollichathu
- Snacks: Banana fritters, jackfruit chips, and hot vadas
- Drinks: Fresh coconut water, spicy buttermilk, filter coffee
Culture & Local Life
Kovalam was once a quiet fishing hamlet before it blossomed into a global beach destination in the 1970s. Its charm lies in the fusion of tradition and modernity—ancient temples beside boutique resorts, fishermen casting nets at dawn while yogis stretch on the shore.
Artisans craft coir mats, wooden toys, and paintings, often sold in beachside stalls. Visit a local workshop to learn the stories behind these handmade treasures.
Local Insights
- Malayalam is the local language, but English is widely spoken
- Great souvenirs include Ayurvedic oils, handmade soaps, spices, and coconut-based crafts
- Getting around is easy—auto-rickshaws, scooter rentals
Enjoy Your Yatra!
Leave a comment