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No trip to the South is complete, without visiting Kanyakumari, just Kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram. You can go there by train or by road, in about three hours.
There is a saying that the sun sets only to rise again. This is beautifully showcased in tip of the Indian peninsula or Kanyakumari. The Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal meet here. Kanyakumari is also known as Alexandria of the East. Places of interest in and around Kanyakumari are given below:
Kumari Amman Temple
This temple overlooking the seashore is dedicated to the Virgin Goddess, Devi Kanyakumari. One can even see the footprints of the Devi Kanyakumari on a rock called the Sree Paadha Paarai in the Vivekananda Rock Memorial complex.
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Swami
Vivekananda Rock Memorial
This memorial is built on one of the twin rocks, jutting out from the sea. It is dedicated to the great Indian spiritual leader and philosopher.
Thiruvalluvar Statue
Built on the lines of the Statue of Liberty, this 133 foot statue commemorates the 133 chapters of the Thirukkural, written by the Tamil saint poet, Thiruvalluvar.
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Gandhi Memorial
This memorial for the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, has been built on the spot where the urn containing his ashes was kept for the public to pay their last respects, before immersing at the confluence of the three seas. The sun's rays fall on memorial through a narrow orifice exactly on the spot where the ashes were kept, only once a year on October2nd (Mahatma's Birthday). Truly a testimony to modern architecture.
Guganathaswamy Temple
This 1000 year old temple is said to have been built by Raja Raja Chola. The architectural style is reminiscent of the Chola period.
Government Museum
The Government Museum, situated on the Beach Road offers a good collection of sculptured artifacts and crafts of South Indian Temples and is one of the "mustsee" places in
Kanniyakumari.
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Kamaraj Memorial
Regarded as the "King Maker of India", Kamaraj influenced many a political event in the country. From a humble background he rose to become the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu through sheer hard work and political acumen. As a tribute to the freedom fighter and "Perunthalaivar" (meaning great leader), this "Mani Mandapam" is situated near Gandhi Memorial. Opens at 7 a.m to 7 p.m.
Shopping
Kanniyakumari is famous for artifacts in palm leaf and shell
Suchindram
Sucheendram is 13 kilometers away from Kanyakumari, and the Sthanumalayan temple is dedicated to Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The musical pillars and the 18 feet high statue of Hanuman are proof of the artistic skills of the 9th century A.D. It also has a unique bas relief of carving of Vainayaki ( female
Vinayaka).
Nagarcoil (19 Km)
A religious and Cultural Mosaic. The Nagaraja temple is unique for the images of the Jain Theerthankaras, namely Mahavira and Parsvanathar, inscribed on its pillars. The entrance to this temple is reminiscent of Chinese architecture, of a Buddhist Vihara.
The presiding deity, Nagaraja (Serpent God) is installed on the ground where it was originally found and the soil is scooped out and given as "prasadam" to the Devotees.
Udayagiri Fort (34 Kms)
Built during the regime of King Marthanda Varma (1729-1758 A.D) this fort had a foundry for casting guns. The Dutchman, De Lennoy's tomb inside this fort, carries an interesting legend.
In 1741, King Marthanda Varma defeated the Dutch at Colachel. De Lemony was taken as one of the 24 European prisoners but soon became a trusted General of the King. Later trained the King's soldiers in the European method of warfare. Tourists can visit this Fort during daytime.
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Padmanabhapuram (37 Kms)
An ancient Capital of Travancore rulers until 1798 A.D. There is a palace inside the fort spread over 6 acres, known for it antiques, including the armory of the royal family. The Ramaswamy temple adjoining the palace, where scenes from the Ramayana have been carved in 45 panels, provides a visual extravaganza to the visitors. The wood work in this palace is intricate.
Thiruchendur (91 Kms)
A divine abode close to nature. One of the 6 abodes of Lord Subramanya, this beautiful temple is situated overlooking the sea. The beautiful "Shunmugha Vilasam (vel)" in front of the temple is an inspiring sight.
Legend says that Lord Subramaniya after his victory over the demom Soorapadhaman came here and worshipped his father Lord Siva. The victory is celebrated every year in the Tamil month "Aipasi" (October- November) as "Soorasamharam"
Muttam
Another fine beach located about 40 Kms from Kanniyakumari. The picturesque setting here with the lighthouse, is a perfect spot for relaxation.
Chitaral(Thiruchanranthumalai)
Located about 57 Kms from Kanniyakumari, ornamented with marvelous Jain sculptures, this picnic spot guarantees a "unique experience". It's different.
Thirparappu Water falls (70 Kms)
Thirparappu means " a pavilion of beauty and sacredness". The panoramic view of the shrine with green hills and the Perennial river kodayur, running in front of the shrine, is really fascinating and attractive. The sparkling waterfall is a rich feast for the eyes. A bath is most refreshing.
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Kalakkadu
Kalakkadu Wild life Sanctuary is situated in an area of 223 Sq.km. in Tirunelveli District, including the foot hills of western Ghats and the adjoining area. The flora ranges from forests of tropical wet evergreen to tropical dry deciduous and thorn forest at the lower reaches.
Lion tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Bonnet Macaque and Common Langur, Nilgiri Tahr, Sambar, Sloth Bear, Gaur, Elephant, Tiger, Flying Squirrel, Panther, Wild dog, Pangoline are some of the wild life seen in the sanctuary. Besides, a wide range of birds and reptiles can be seen. Trekking can be done with prior permission from the Forest (Wildlife) Department.
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Vattakottai ( Circular fort)
This 18th century fort was built by the Dutch. Overlooking the sea, it is a fine picnic spot. The sea is generally calm here and is suitable for bathing.
Pechippaarai and Perunchani Dams (70Kms):
These dam sites are very good picnic spots. Boating facility is available here.
Thengapattinam
Enjoy the backwaters of Thengapattinam just 51 Kms away from Kanniyakumari. The sunny beach invites everyone for a stroll.
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