Kovalam

Approximately 15 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram is the astounding expanse of beach, called Kovalam. Kovalam is preferably suited for swimming, catamaran cruising and sun bathing. It comprises of three semi-circulars -shaped, sandy palm-fringed inlets separated by rocky cliffs. To experience a hale and hearty holiday each year from November to February, tourists from every corner of India and the globe flock into Kovalam. Kovalam is undoubtedly considered as one of the best beach resorts in the world. The sea water also makes it an ideal health resort for its special and unique curative quality.

The southern extension of Kovalam is called the Lighthouse Beach, for its 35 metre high light house which towers over it atop Kurumkal hillock. This is the point where most tourists prefer to pass their quality time. Several temporary eateries and huts turn up during the peak vacation periods. The central beach, also known as India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) is secured and sparkling; it also treasures its own cottages.

The second largest one is Hawah Beach. The northern part of the beach is known as Samudra Beach in tourism terminology. A large headland separates this part from the southern side. The local fishermen ply their trade on this part. The tranquil Arabian Sea stretches a long way and the tourists can laze around in the cool breeze pervading the place. This open beach is an ideal spot for swimming and bathing. The state’s large sediments of the thorium-bearing mineral monazite, obtained in the sandy beaches of Quilon district, are proved to be very advantageous in our national atomic research and energy programmes.

The amalgamation of refined herbal cures, basking in the sun while holidaying in the beaches and colourful cultural fiestas- has led to Kerala to stand amongst the ten best Paradise Found destinations.

Cuisines:
Kovalam is famous for its special varieties of fish.

Buy:
Primarily a wide range of shops are found selling good quality souvenirs.

How to go:
One can hire a taxi from Trivandrum to get into Kovallam which would take approximately 20 to 30 minutes to reach either Lighthouse Beach or Hawa Beach.

Hotels
There are several resorts/hotels to stay in Kovalam. With an effort to cater to the requirements of different categories of tourists, the hotels are pocket friendly, ranging from luxury to budget hotels. All the popular hotels found here tender great amenities. The room facilities, dining facilities, recreational facilities and other facilities coupled with hospitality are worth experiencing. They have also bars and their kitchens serve national and international cuisines.

Leela Kovalam Beach Resort
The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach, Kerala is a fleeting drive from Trivandrum. It houses 182 rooms and suites. The resort is considered to be Kerala’s largest beachside resort embraced between two sweeping beaches. The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach, Kerala also has Diyya, an authentic Ayurveda Wellness Spa. One can also opt to relax in the marvelous pools that merge into the westerly horizon.

Le Meridien Kovalam Beach Resort
Le Meridien Kovalam is the first and the largest 5 star beach resort of Kerala. It is sited at the most famous beach Kovalam. It comprises a inestimable locale of 65 acres of picturesque beauty of 5000 swaying palms and shores of the Arabian Sea, Le Meridien Kovalam has a 2.5 km long beachfront. It offers 106 rooms with a variety of accommodation. The guests will take pleasure in merrymaking in an elite beach of the resort.

Taj Green Cove Resort
The Taj Green Cove Resort is situated 12 km from Trivandrum airport and 14 km from the station. It is found in Kovalam, a tourist- affable beach enclave on the southern coast of India. The ten-acre property mixes manmade and natural wonders. Sculptures and fountains are surrounded by lush green meadows, and distant views of Balinese-style gardens are accessible from the resort's thatched-roof hillside cottages. Visitors also have the option to stay in signature floating cottages. The 2,000-square-foot (186 square meters) Taj Spa offers vibes and models that are inspired by Kerala architecture.