Introduction

The southernmost tip of the Indian mainland, Kanyakumari is truly unique destination. Sprawled out on the shore of this great ‘Triveni sangam’, the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, Kanyakumari is known for its beautiful temples, chief among them is the Kumari Amman temple, a colorful beach bazaar and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial standing sentinel over the sea. Just as famous is the Padmanabhapuram Palace, an 16th century monument made entirely of wood. Less than 100 kilometers Trivandrum, Kanyakumari is just a few hours drive away, through smooth metalled roads that offer gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside.

Just off the Nagerkoil-Kanyakumari highway lies this architectural treasure made entirely of wood, the Padmanabhapuram Palace. Built in the 16th century this historical structure has been the hub of the Travancore rulers. Iravi Varma Kulasekhara Perumal was the architect of the palace; he ruled Travancore from 1592 to 1609. It continued to be the stronghold of the Travancore royals till the late 18th century. The abode derives its name from the mythological lore of Padmanabha meaning the lotus that originated from the navel of the Lord. The complex is spread out over seven acres comprising individual structures connected by a maze of corridors, verandahs and sprawling courtyards. About 63 kilometers from the state capital, the Palace is a good first stop for your day excursion.

As your reach the town of Kanyakumari, your first port of call should be the Kumari Amman temple. The bustling beach town is named after this temple dedicated to Kumari Amman or Kanyakumari. Sprawled regally on the coast overlooking the sea is the 3000-year-old abode of Devi Kanyakumari, the virgin goddess, who according to legend guards the shore.

In the inner sanctum is the idol of Goddess Kumari Amman carved of blue stone and placed on a pedestal. The deity is beautifully adorned with gold jewelry, holding a rosary in her right hand and touching a garland with the left. Her crown is embedded with precious gems and diamonds. But it is her twinkling diamond nose-ring that leaves you enamored. The glistening quality of the diamond is such that in the days of yore ships drifted off course mistaking the light reflected from the nose-ring as that from a lighthouse. To bring an end to these mishaps the sea facing gate – eastern gate – of the temple was shut for good. The only exception is the five days in the year when the goddess is taken out for ceremonial bath.

The temple opens very early in the morning and is shut from noon till a little after five in the evening. Plan your visit such that you don’t have to wait around too long.

Your next stop should be Kanyakumari Beach. Life in Kanyakumari revolves around this beach. It would be apt to say that Kanyakumari beach connotes the very essence of India’s southernmost city. From the beach, take a ferry out to the Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial, about 500 meters off the mainland. 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!

Besides these three main attractions, you should choose to spend some time at the beach and exploring the adjacent bazaars. Or, just explore the town, visiting its many temples and museums, before heading back to Trivandrum.

Special Attributes

The southernmost tip of India’s mainland, Kanyakumari is wonderful amalgamation of mythology, tradition, culture, and religion.

Nuisance

Touts

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable. Avoid wearing too short or revealing clothes. However, at the Kumari Amman men need to wear dhoti (loin cloth) and go shirtless inside the shrine. Dhotis can be borrowed from the temple entrance. Women are required to wear fully covered clothes and take a head scarf.

Connectivity

Private taxi, Bus, Autos. You will have to take the ferry for Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Enjoyed by

Families, History buffs, Religious Folk

Exposure

You will partly be indoors and partly under the sun. At noon, the sun beats down so you are advised to carry your sunshades, sunscreen lotion and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

June, July, August, September, October

Facilities

Plenty of souvenir shops are nearby, as is the local market. The Padmanabhapuram Palace also has official guides to assist you.

Things Not Allowed

Camera and photography is not allowed at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Kumari Amman. Also, at the Padmanabhapuram Palace, you will have to remove your footwear.

Tip

Start early from Trivandrum, as the drive to Kanyakumari takes you through a very scenic route. Keep time in hand in case you want to halt and admire the gorgeous scenery. Another thing to keep in mind is that the Kumari Amman does not allow entry to non-Hindus, so plan your trip accordingly.

Type of site

Day Excursion, Memorial site, Hindu Temple, Palace, Historical Monument