Beaches & Coastal Wonders
Kovalam Beach
This iconic trio of crescent-shaped bays, including Lighthouse and Hawa beaches, makes Kovalam a premier sun-and-sea destination. Visitors enjoy surf lessons, sunset strolls, and vibrant beachfront cafes—best visited between November and February to avoid monsoon spills. Located about 12 km from Trivandrum International Airport and 15 km from the central railway station.
Shanghumukham Beach
Just west of the airport (~4 km) and central station (~3 km), Shanghumukham captures dramatic sunsets by its massive mermaid sculpture and windblown sands. It's a peaceful coastal escape only 16 km from Kovalam.
Poovar Island & Beach
Where lake, river, mangrove, and sea merge, Poovar is a romantic, offbeat escape. It’s famous for estuary cruises, floating cottages, and Ayurvedic spa resorts. Around 30 km from the airport, ~27 km from the station.
Varkala Beach & Cliff
Perched ~50 km from principal transport hubs, Varkala blends dramatic cliffs, sacred temples, and surf-friendly waters. The cliffside cafes and Janardana Swamy Temple make it spiritually vibrant.
Vellayani Lake
Located 12 km from Kovalam, Vellayani Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Trivandrum. Ideal for picnics, boat rides, and Onam boat races. Distance from airport: 15 km. From central station: 13 km.
Akkulam Lake and Adventure Park
Located 18 km from Kovalam, Akkulam Lake is a tranquil spot with pedal boating, adventure park, and family picnic areas. Close to airport (7 km) and railway station (9 km).
Museums & Heritage Sites
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
A marvel of Dravidian-Kerala architecture near Trivandrum center (~4 km from airport), this Vishnu shrine is steeped in mystery. Dress code enforced; best visited early mornings.
Kuthiramalika Palace Museum
Next to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, this wooden marvel exhibits horse carvings and royal Travancore artifacts. About 12 km from Kovalam.
Napier Museum & Art Gallery
A blend of Indo-Saracenic architecture and history exhibits. Located 5 km from airport and 15 km from Kovalam. Features zoo, gardens, and palace views.
Padmanabhapuram Palace
A 17th-century masterpiece in Tamil Nadu (~65 km from Trivandrum), renowned for woodwork, murals, and intricate interiors. A full-day excursion.
Veli Tourist Village
This lake-meets-sea retreat features boating, floating bridges, and sculpture parks. 16 km from Kovalam, 5 km from the airport.
Trivandrum Zoo & Natural History Museum
India’s oldest zoo (14 km from Kovalam) with lush landscapes, adjoining museum, and heritage art exhibits.
Hill Stations & Natural Retreats
Ponmudi Hill Station
Known as the 'Golden Peak,' Ponmudi (~69 km from Kovalam) offers tea gardens, forest trails, and cool weather. Best between Nov–March.
Agasthyarkoodam Peak
A sacred, high-altitude trek (~70 km away) through the Western Ghats, offering rare flora and spiritual adventure (permit required).
Meenmutty & Kombaikani Waterfalls
Dense forest treks and cascading waterfalls 45–55 km from Kovalam. Ideal for adventurers and nature lovers.
Religious & Cultural Highlights
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple
Famous for the Pongala women’s festival, this temple (~13 km from Kovalam) is a cultural landmark of devotion and strength.
Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple
One of India’s oldest temples, peacefully perched beside a river, just 6 km from Kovalam. Quiet and spiritual.
Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Cave Temple
Ancient rock-carved temple (~7 km from Kovalam), with fascinating history. Great for archaeology buffs.
Kanakakunnu Palace
A venue for art, music, and culture, with open lawns and palace architecture. Only ~5 km from airport.
Jatayu Earth Centre
Home to the world’s largest bird sculpture, with ropeways, trails, and panoramic views. Located ~68 km from Kovalam.
Backwaters & Wildlife Sanctuaries
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Dam
This forested escape 35 km from Kovalam includes crocodile rehab, elephant camps, boating and scenic reservoir views.
Poovar Backwater Cruise
The tranquil mangroves and golden estuaries of Poovar are perfect for guided boat cruises and sunset photography.
Vizhinjam Lighthouse & Aquarium
Standing just 6 km from Kovalam, this lighthouse built in 1972 offers panoramic sea views, while the adjacent aquarium displays coastal fish species in a compact, informative setting. Finishing at