Things to Do in Kanyakumari

Thirparappu Falls, an artificial waterfall, is one of the best places to visit in Kanyakumari. Descending from a height of almost 50 feet, the spectacular falls mystifies the environment with its gushing waters. It is essentially a mix of multiple streams of water flowing from the top to form a majestic water pool at the bottom. A small temple of Lord Shiva marks the entrance towards the Falls.

The lush greenery and exotic fauna encompassing the Falls is a favourite place for photographers. You can capture stunning views of the snowy white falls showering down from the heights. It is a perfect spot to spend a weekend or enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

There are paddle boats available on rent for boating in the vicinity of the Falls. You can also dip into a swimming pool near the falls and refresh yourselves. Last but not least it is also one of the perfect places to visit in Kanyakumari at night. There are pubs and clubs nearby for spending an evening full of fun and entertainment.

Location: The waterfalls are located in the district of Kanyakumari, about 55 km drive from the main city center.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial was built as a mark of respect to the legendary Swami Vivekananda in 1970. It is one of the major places to visit in Kanyakumari. Swamiji attained enlightenment at this place while sitting on a rock and meditating. The Memorial is a major tourist destination with its majestic statue of Swami Vivekananda at the backdrop of the mighty Indian Ocean.

The Memorial is present on “Shripada Mandapam” and “Vivekananda Mandapam”, two adjacent rocks protruding out of the Lakshadweep Sea. Tourists avail a ferry ride from the coast towards the islands to witness the exotic views and spend a serene and tranquil time at the Memorial.

There is a museum and study hall at Shripada Mandapam where you can learn about Vivekananda’s life and works. A meditation hall called “Dhyana Mandapam” is located beside the Memorial for the visitors to meditate and seek peace and purity.

Location: The Memorial is situated at Vavathurai, a small island located on the ocean waters a few distances away from the coast.

Entry Fee: The entry fee of the Memorial is INR 10 per person. There are extra charges required for cameras, still ones being INR 10 and video at INR 50.

Timings: The Memorial is open every day starting from 7:00 AM till 5:00 PM.

Thanumalayan or Sthanumalayan is a Hindu temple dedicated to the three Gods Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. The temple is one of the prominent religious places to see in Kanyakumari. The inscriptions on the walls and pillars of the temple date belong to those of the 9th century. 

The Thiruvalluvar Statue stands at the southern tip of India. It is a tribute to the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar and his works. This impressive structure towers 133 feet high and is a sight to behold in Kanyakumari. The Statue was designed by Dr. V. Ganapati Sthapati and completed in 1999. It was unveiled to the public on the first day of the year 2000.

Bhagavathy Amman Temple is a 3000 years old temple dedicated to the Goddess Kanyakumari Amman. The temple is significant in hosting the ancient scriptures of the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata and the religious Vedas. It is considered as one of the auspicious places to visit in Kanyakumari.

The idol of the Goddess inside the temple is remarkable. She holds a rosary in her hand and wears gold jewellery in her nostrils which radiates at the spark of light. As per Hindu mythology, Lord Parasuraman is believed to have blessed the temple as sacred or holy.

Swami Vivekananda had specially visited the temple to seek the blessings of the Goddess as instructed by his guru the legendary Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa. The temple is also believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peetham where the parts of the Goddess Sati fell while her corpse was being carried by a grieving Lord Shiva. Inside the temple, there is a hall called Navarathri Mandapam where devotees engage in musical performances dedicated to the Goddess.

Location: The temple is located on the seashores of Kanyakumari known as Cape Kanyakumari.

Timings: The temple is open for devotees every day of the week in the morning from 6:00 AM till 11:00 AM and in the evening from 4:00 PM till 8:00 PM.

Built of wood in the 16th century, Padmanabhapuram Palace is an architectural masterpiece. The palace was constructed by Ravipillai Perumal of the Travancore dynasty and served as the official seat of the Travancore Kings. The name of the palace is derived from the lotus “Padma” which emerged out of Lord Vishnu’s navel.

The palace is considered as one of the best historical places to see in Kanyakumari. The palace has many intricate carvings of wood from teak and rosewood. Earthen lamps and urns, ancient murals, intricate sculptures on the walls, ornate Belgian mirrors, musical bows, and unique painted ceilings enhance the historical significance and marvel of the palace.

The Durbar Hall is one of the key attractions inside the palace with its black shining floor and artistic carvings on the walls. The other places of interest inside the palace are the open air shower rooms, exotic paintings of Lord Krishna, brass lanterns and a temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswati.

Location: The palace is situated at Thuckalay, near Kanyakumari.

Entry Fee: The entry fee is INR 10 for adults and INR 2 for children. There are separate charges for a still camera which is INR 25 and a video camera is INR 1200.

Timings: The palace is open on all days except Monday, the timings being 9:00 AM till 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM till 4:30 PM.

Kanyakumari Beach or Cape Comorin Beach is one of the mesmerizing places to visit in Kanyakumari. Situated at the southernmost part of the Indian peninsula at the confluence of the three major water bodies, the pristine beach is a traveler's paradise. The golden sand beach at the banks of the glittering sea waters allures tourists from all across the world.

You will be amazed to watch the three distinct colours of the waters from the Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea intermingling with each other. It is also one of the exciting places to visit in Kanyakumari at night. The excitement is attributed to the spectacular sunset that can be witnessed at the backdrop of the majestic sea waters.

The reflection of the sun rays shimmering on the crystal waters is a treat to the eyes. The sunrise is equally fabulous to watch as the sun rays cast a magical spell around. For a much better view, you can climb atop the lighthouse present at the beach.

Location: The beach is located at Kanyakumari.

Timings: The beach is open for visitors every day of the week from 9:00 AM till 6:00 PM.

The wax museum at Kanyakumari is one of the best historical places to visit in Kanyakumari. It is considered as the first wax historical center in India. The museum was opened to the public in December 2005. Wax figures of many imminent national and international personalities resembling the history and culture of India and the world are present at the museum.

The prominent figures which you can observe in the museum are our Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa, famous Bollywood personality Amitabh Bachchan, Indira Gandhi, the power man Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jackie Chan and many more. The wax statues are made following the ideologies of London’s famous Madame Tussauds Wax Museum.

Location: The museum is located at Main Road near the Kanyakumari railway station.

Entry Fee: The entry fees are INR 50 for adults and INR 40 for children.

Timings: The wax museum is open every day of the week from 8:00 AM till 6:30 PM.

Sanguthurai Beach is one of the calmest and cleanest places to see in Kanyakumari. The gorgeous beach with its white sand shorelines and the sparkling sea waters is breathtaking and fascinating. The cool breeze of the huge coconut trees lined up at the beach shores, soothes the human mind and soul.

The incredible views of the sunset at the beach have made it one of the best places to visit in Kanyakumari at night. The dazzling effect of the sun rays creates a charismatic golden effect on the sea waters, a treat to the eyes. While strolling around the beach, you will notice a white conch shaped structure.

It is believed that the structure was built during the reins of the ancient Chola dynasty. The beach is unexplored and isolated, one of the offbeat tourist destinations in Kerala. If you want to spend a quiet day with your family and friends away from the busy city life, the beach is the ideal place for you.

Location: The beach is located about 8 km away from Nagercoil in Kanyakumari.

Timings: The beach is open for visitors every day of the week from 7:00 AM till 6:00 PM.

The Olakaruvi Falls or Olakaruvi Falls is one of the fascinating places to see in Kanyakumari. Descending from the Western Ghats mountain ranges, the gushing sounds of the waters create a soothing sensational effect for the eyes and the ears. Among the many exotic waterfalls in Kerala, Olakaruvi is considered one of the best.

For adventure enthusiasts and trekkers, the place is ideal for an exciting walk amid the pristine beauty of the Falls. The trek is for a duration of 1 hour starting from the foothills of the Falls with a climb up to the top of the waterfall. You need to climb an elevation of 660 feet uphill if you want to reach the highest point of the falls.

Else you can spend a relaxing time at the lower region of the Falls, either for a picnic or a cool refreshing dip into the water pool. You can rejuvenate yourself at the lush greenery adjoining the falls.

Location: The Falls is situated about 35 km away from the Kanyakumari city center. It is also easily accessible from the town of Nagercoil, situated 17 km away from the Falls.

Gandhi Mandapam is one of the most respected places to visit in Kanyakumari. It is at this place the ashes of our Father of Nation Gandhi's ashes were kept before immersing into the sea. The mandapam is a memorial constructed in 1956 in the remembrance of the Great Leader of our country.

The unique feature of the memorial is the 79 feet high central spire which symbolizes the age of Mahatma when he was assassinated. Another remarkable feature of the Mandapam is its ceiling. It has been designed and created in such a way that on 2nd October, the birth date of Gandhiji, sun rays reflect on the place where his ashes were kept

A library is present inside the memorial showcasing the works of literature, magazines, and books for the times when India was under British rule. It also contains photographs of Gandhiji and other Indian leaders who fought for India’s independence.

Location: The Mandapam is situated at NH44 in Kanyakumari.

Timings: The Mandapam is open for all days of the week from 7:00 AM till 7:00 PM.

Mathur Aqueduct or the Mathur Hanging Bridge is one of the fascinating places to see in Kanyakumari. Situated at a height of 115 feet and covering a length of about 1 km, the bridge is the longest and highest hanging bridge in Asia. It was constructed in 1966 under the instructions of the Late Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Mr. Thiru. K. Kamaraj.

The main purpose of constructing the bridge is to pass irrigation water through a channel on the bridge from the Pattanamkal Canal to the Kalkulam and Vilavancode Taluks. Built across the River Pahrali, the aqueduct is famous for its scenic views encompassing it.

Due to the immense popularity of the aqueduct, a children's park and platforms for bathing and swimming have been constructed for the entertainment of the locals and the tourists. The architectural marvel is one of the best places to visit in Kanyakumari at night. You can observe the scintillating views of the sunset spreading its aura on the hamlets present near the bridge.

Location: The bridge is located at Aruvikkarai in Tamil Nadu.

Price: The entry fee to the aqueduct is INR 2 per person. There are separate charges for the camera, the still ones being INR 5 and video is INR 25.

Timings: Mathura Aqueduct is open to the public every day of the week from 7:00 AM till 7:00 PM.

Our Lady of Ransom Church is one of the best architectural places to see in Kanyakumari. Built during the 15th century with the Gothic style of architecture, it is dedicated to Mother Mary. The walls and the ceilings contain the exquisite carvings of the 12 disciples of Christ, angels playing musical instruments and wooden carvings depicting the coronation of Mother Mary.

It is believed that to represent the seven holy fruits, the church was designed to have seven doors. The main attraction of the church is the golden cross, present at the Central tower. It adds to the grandeur and charm of the remarkable structure. The church contains bells which had been imported from Italy in the late 19th century.

You can also observe huge statues of St. Francis Xavier and St. Thomas inside the church. Near the entrance, there is a statue of Mother Mary, also imported from Italy. It is amazing to watch the beautiful historical monument at the backdrop of the majestic ocean.

Location: The church is located at Church Road in Kanyakumari.

Timing: The church is open all days of the week from 5:00 AM till 6:30 PM

Sothavilai Beach is one of the most famous and longest beaches in Tamil Nadu. Spread across a distance of about 4 km, the beach is a perfect place for relaxation amid the serenity and freshness of Mother Nature. The beach suffered several damages due to the Tsunami in 2004, but it was restored and continues to serve as the major tourist destinations in the state.

Also known as Chothavilai, the crystal clear shallow waters at the beach is a perfect place for swimming. You can also jog or walk along with the white sandy layers of the beach. It is ideal for a weekend getaway with your near and dear ones to spend hours refreshing amid the pristine views of the landscape.

The spectacular sunset at the horizon has enhanced the popularity among the tourists as one of the best places to visit in Kanyakumari at night.

Location: The beach is situated at a distance of 10 km away from the Kanyakumari city center.

Timing: The beach is open every day of the week from 12:00 AM till 11:59 PM.

If you wish to enjoy a lifetime experience of the magnificent sunset at the backdrop of the mighty ocean waters then you must mandatorily visit the Sunset Point at Kanyakumari. The charismatic beauty of the sun rays gleaming across the waters is an incredible experience. The golden hue spreads across the sky, creating a magical spell throughout the environment.

If you are interested in photography then you must climb atop the lighthouse at Kanyakumari beach to click some amazing photos of the sunset. As the sun disappears across the horizon it's brilliant light transforms the entire place into a dreamland.

The greatest attraction of the Sunset point is the intermingling of the rays of the setting sun and the rising moonlight, especially during full moons. Shades of red, white and blue exchange vows with each other as the sun, moon, and oceans embrace in glory.

Location: The Sunset View Point is located at the Hidden Twin Beach in Kanyakumari.

Timing: The viewpoint is open every day of the week from 12:00 AM till 11:59 PM.

The day of 26th December 2004 was one of the sorrowful days in India when almost 2.8 lakh lives were lost by a dreadful earthquake that devastated our country and our adjoining neighbouring nations as well. As a mark of respect to their departed soul, the Tsunami Monument was constructed.

B. Kanagaraj Cangan was the designer and architect of the 16 feet high monument. The structure is symbolic in representing one hand as to prevent the disaster caused by the towering ocean waves and the other hand carries the lamp of hope. It is significant in delivering the value and importance of human life.

You can feel an absolute calmness and purity as you stroll around the monument. It is a remembrance of how precious our lives are and the strength we need to tackle any kind of natural calamities.

Location: The monument is located near the south shore in Kanyakumari beach.

Timing: It is open all days of the week from 6:00 AM till 7:00 PM

The view tower offers an amazing experience of the sunrise and the sunset coupled with the scenic beauty of the ocean. Telescopes present at the tower bring you closer to the vicinity of the panoramic landscape. You can watch the majestic statues of Swami Vivekananda and Thiruvalluvar hailing high above the mighty sea waters.

Twining stairs lead you to the top of the view tower where you can enjoy the enthralling beauty of the ocean waves splashing at the shorelines. Tourists wait during dawn and dusk to mesmerize themselves with the splendid beauty of the reflecting sun rays on the ocean waters.

The gentle and soothing breeze uplifts the captivating beauty of the place. It is an ideal place for photographers for capturing some incredible views of nature.

Location: The view tower is located at Kovalam Beach Road in Kanyakumari.

Entry Fee: The entry fee is INR 3 for adults and INR 2 for children.

Timing: It is open every day of the week from 5:00 AM till 7:00 PM.

St Xavier Church is a famous historical building in the state of Tamil Nadu. Built in the late 15th century by St. Francis Xavier, the church is dedicated to Mother Mary. Every year in December thousands of devotees from India, Malacca and Sri Lanka visit the church to offer their prayers to the mighty Lord and seek blessings.

During this time the church observes its annual celebrations for 10 days consisting of prayers and masses.The church contains a tower built in remembrance of St. Francis Xavier, a chapel for Mother Mary and a shrine dedicated to St. Ignatius.

Locals believe that if you worship with dedication then the supreme power will bless you with happiness and prosperity. This strong faith welcomes people of different religions and caste, who arrive at the church to offer their prayers.

Location: The church is situated at Kottar in Kanyakumari.

Timing: It is open every day of the week from 8:00 AM till 6:00 PM.

Constructed in the 18th century during the rule of the Travancore dynasty, Vattakottai Fort is a monument with significant historical value. The Fort is currently protected and preserved by the Archaeological Department of India. Located amid the sea shores at one side and the astonishing views of the Western Ghats on the other side, the Fort is a must visit for tourists vacationing in Tamil Nadu.

It was built under the guidance of Captain Eustachius De Lannoy, a confidante of King Marthanda Varma of Travancore. The main objective of building the fort was to create a defense fortification mechanism against enemies. It spreads across an area of 3.5 acres of land along the Bay of Bengal sea coast. The fort is encircled by walls about 25 feet in height with the front walls being 29 feet thick and the sidewalls 18 feet thick.

Granite stones had been used to construct the massive structure. The fort consists of watch towers, army shacks and other facilities for the armies and protection against any attacks. It also has a secret tunnel that connects the fort to the Padmanabhapuram Palace.

Location: The fort is located at Vattakottai in Tamil Nadu.

Timing: The fort is open every day of the week from 8:00 AM till 5:00 PM.