Discover the best things to do in Kovalam

Thoughtfully designed day-by-day plans to experience the soul of Kovalam at your own pace.

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About Kovalam, India

Serenity on the Kerala Coast

Kovalam was once a sleepy fishing village, its tranquil shores a favourite haunt of the ancient Travancore royal family. In the 1960s, it began to transform into a beach destination, attracting hippies and travellers seeking sun, sand, and surf. Today, Kovalam's 45 km of coastline offers an irresistible blend of relaxation and adventure. You can try your hand at water sports, indulge in Ayurvedic massages, or simply soak up the sun on the pristine beaches. As the sun dips into the ocean, Kovalam's beachside eateries come alive with the scent of fresh seafood and the sound of laughter, creating an infectious sense of joy that's hard to shake.

Best for

couples

solo

families

photographers

backpackers

luxury travellers

spiritual seekers

Quick Facts

Best Time to Visit

October to February, for pleasant 20-25C temperatures

Duration

3 to 5 days

Languages

Malayalam

English

Tamil

Famous For
Lighthouse BeachShangumugham BeachWater SportsAyurvedic ResortsSunset Views

Things to do in Kovalam

Mosque

Mosque

MOSQUE

Rock-Cut Temple

Rock-Cut Temple

HISTORICAL SITE

Must do things in Kovalam

1

Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach is a stretch of palm-fringed coastline with powdery white sand and calm waters. Be prepared for crowds and aggressive vendors during peak season.

Best For

Beach Lovers
Families
Couples
2

Kovalam Village

Kovalam Village offers a glimpse into traditional Kerala life with its quaint homes and paddy fields. Some roads can be narrow and unpaved.

Best For

Culture Enthusiasts
Foodies
3

Vizhinjam

Vizhinjam is a fishing harbor and ancient trade center with a rich history. Parking can be challenging near the harbor.

Best For

History Buffs
Foodies
4

Thiruvananthapuram City

Thiruvananthapuram City is the capital of Kerala with its rich cultural heritage and historic landmarks. Traffic can be heavy during rush hour.

Best For

Culture Vultures
History Enthusiasts

Practical Information

By Air

Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), Indigo, Air India, SpiceJet, 16 km, 30 minutes to Kovalam

WiFi

Most hotels and cafes have wifi, some areas near beaches have poor coverage

SIMMobile Data

Jio, Airtel, Vodafone work well, some dead zones near beaches

By Train

Trivandrum Central Railway Station, trains from Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, 2-3 hours to Kovalam

By Road

NH 66, 16 km from Trivandrum, KSRTC buses ₹200-500, private buses ₹300-600

Getting around

Tuk-tuks
Auto-rickshaws
Bicycles
Walking
Car rentals

Hire a bike for ₹300-500 per day to explore Kovalam and nearby areas

Use card for big purchases and cash for small expenses and local markets

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Frequently asked questions