Kovalam

An idyllic village along the coastlines of the Arabian Sea, Kovalam is most famous for its three pristine beaches with shallow waters and low tidal waves where one can go surfing, wooden and motorboat riding.The beach town of Kovalam has […]

An idyllic village along the coastlines of the Arabian Sea, Kovalam is most famous for its three pristine beaches with shallow waters and low tidal waves where one can go surfing, wooden and motorboat riding.The beach town of Kovalam has three famous beaches – Lighthouse beach, Samudra beach and Hawah beach, which together form its majestic rocky crescent. Kovalam essentially means a ‘grove of coconut trees’ and the little town is filled with these palms.

Kovalam shot to fame with its hippie epoch in the early seventies and still sees the influx of tourists from Israel and Europe. The Samudra Beach, Kovalam Beach, Hawa Beach and the Light house beach are the places from where Kovalam derives its beauty and attraction. Ayurvedic treatments are one of its most popular indulgences along with yoga, meditation as well as other cultural activities. Kovalam perhaps comes full circle as it is also a shopping destination given the rich spices, wooden statues and handicrafts that can make popular takeaways.

Beaches of Kovalam

The Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach/Eve’s Beach and Samudra Beach are located close to each other and these beaches are the highlight of this destination. The Lighthouse beach is the largest beach of them all, named after the 30-m high lighthouse located on the beach. The Lighthouse houses an observatory which can be accessed through a lift or by climbing a flight of stairs consisting of 142 steps. The observatory provides a beautiful panoramic view of the beach and you can also see the Poovar and the famous Beemapalli mosque from there.

Facilities for various water sports are available at this beach at a price starting from INR 800. Other than the water sports like Hawa Beach stands out with it palm groves that line the shore. It’s also a good place to try out the local cuisine in the small restaurants that you find near the beach. This beach provides the best view for sunset and also has an experience in store for you in the mornings when the fishermen set out into the sea chanting and singing the folk songs. Samudra Beach is located in the northern part of Kovalam. It’s the least crowded of them all and is ideal for those who are looking for some tranquillity and peace. This coastline is also preferred by the fishermen for fishing.

Ayurvedic Massages in Kovalam

Kovalam is known for its therapeutic ayurvedic treatments and massages. Some popular massage centres include Ayur Kerala Ayurvedic Centre, Lakshmi House Ayurveda and Spa and the Chakra Ayurvedic Resort. They offer many options for treatments like rejuvenation therapy, body purification therapy, anti-stress treatment and rheumatic therapy, among others. Some places like the Chakra Ayurvedic Resort offer special packages during the monsoon season, which is considered to be the best season for treatment. The Leela Beach Resort Kovalam is also a good choice, which is India’s only cliff top beach resort.

Nightlife in Kovalam

The mellow night-life of Kovalam can be enjoyed at one of the few bars of the town. Enjoy a relaxed evening with good food, drinks and a fantastic view at The Sky Bar in Leela Kempinski. Other good options include the Neera Bar at the Taj and The Bar. Kovalam’s nightlife is generally a low-key affair, intended to be a soothing mix of great music, peppered with drinks and food.