Introduction

Begin with a boat cruise to the rock, about 500 meters off the mainland, on which is built the legendary memorial. While sitting in the steamer one wonders how Swami Vivekananda could swim this distance in a greatly tumultuous sea. Disembark on the rock and take the canopied flight of stairs to the huge windy terrace, in the middle of which stands the stone memorial hall. The views from here are fabulous – you can see the Kanyakumari town spread out on the banks and the colorful fishing boats moored in one part. The sea around has an overpowering presence, its roar blurs every other sound in the backdrop. So much so you will find it difficult to even hear your travel partner. It offers great scope for photography – only if you can get your focus right amid the fierce wind!

The structure was built in 1970 by the Vivekananda Rock Memorial Committee in honor of the great spiritual leader Swami Vivekananda who swam to the rock in the winter month of December in 1892, and meditated here to attain enlightenment. Like other places in Kanyakumari, this one too is attested with a legend, according to which Devi Kumari stood on one leg in penance on this rock to get a beautiful husband like Lord Shiva. That explains why the site was originally known as ‘Sripada Parai’ meaning the rock that has been blessed by the touch of the ‘scared foot’ (of the Goddess). Visitors queue up – silently – around the mandapam to get a glimpse of the foot impression on the rock, now protected by a glass enclosure.

The main mandapam is the Vivekananda hall that stands atop a steep staircase. Once you step inside the roar of the wind suddenly drops, and you are surrounded by a quietness so compelling. To Swamiji’s disciples and those touched by his sermons, the quietness of this hall is enlightening. You will see many of them meditating in front of the colossal statue of Vivekananda. Through the many windows, the sea looks turquoise stretching into distance. The tall staircase outside is a great vantage point to take in sweeping views of the entire structure, the sea around it and far away on the banks the town.

Further on, continue to the underground Dhyana Mandapam (meaning meditation room). It’s a dark little room which abruptly cuts off the roar of the sea and the wind. Inside a carpet is laid out on which people sit and meditate in front of a faint ‘Om’ symbol in green fluorescent light – the only thing you can behold. There is a moving quality about this symbol, it looms in front of you and makes you concentrate. And your eyes automatically close in response to the pressing calm. Reckon there is no exaggeration in what our grandparents say about the experience here. One does feel a complete disconnect - though momentarily - from the outside world, from everything material.

Take another walk around the terrace, soak up the views and pick up some souvenirs from the memorial shop before proceeding to the boat departure area.

Special Attributes

Excellent views and a a sense of calm indescribable in words.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable. Avoid wearing too short or revealing clothes.

Connectivity

There is a ferry service to and from the rock memorial from the main Kanyakumari beach.

Enjoyed by

Those who seek peace and great views

Exposure

The terrace is extremely windy and you will have to cross it to get into the various mandapams.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

There is an in-site souvenir shop with a great array of books on spirituality and posters among other things.

Things Not Allowed

Photography is not allowed inside the mandapams. You need to take off your shoes outside the halls.

Tip

Maintain absolute silence inside the mandapams. Please do not litter anywhere. Wear your sunshades, a lot of sunscreen lotion, and carry a bottle of drinking water.

Type of site

Memorial site/Statue