Kanyakumari

Previously known as Cape Cormorin, Kanyakumari is situated in Tamilnadu State. Located at the southern tip of the Indian peninsula, it is surrounded by three oceans; Bay of Bengal in the east, Arabian Sea in the west and the Indian Ocean in the south. 83km south of Thirunelveli, Kanyakumari is also the district headquarters of the district of the same name. The place is popular among the tourists for its spectacular sunrise and sunsets, Gandhi Mandapam, Vivekananda Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari temple etc. 

The place takes its name from Kanya Kumari (Virgin goddess), who is believed to be the incarnation of Godesses Parvati, meditated for a long time to convince Lord Shiva for marriage. There is a Kumari Amman temple dedicated to Godess.

Tourist attractions in Kanyakumari

Kumari Amman or Kanyakumari Temple
The temple and the adjoining ghat overlooks the shoreline. The deity, Devi Kanyakumari (incarnation of Godesses Parvati) is the protector of India's shores has an exceptionally brilliant diamond on her nose ring which is said to be visible even from the sea. The temple opens from 0430 to 1130 and from 1730 to 2030. Pilgrims come to bathe in a rocky ocean pool near this temple. Non-Hindus are not allowed.

Vivekananda Memorial 
It is about 500 meters away from mainland. This memorial stands on one of two rocks separated by about 70 meters. Built in 1970, this memorial is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, the greatest social reformer. Swamy Vivekananda was supposed to have meditated on the rock where the memorial stands today. A meditation hall is also attached with the memorial. The design of the mandapa incorporates different styles of temple architecture from all over India. It houses a statue of Vivekananda. The divine foot print 'Pada Parai' of Devi is also seen here. It is accessible by regular ferry services. It opens from Wednesday to Monday. Tuesday is holiday. Read More

It opens from 0700 to 1100 and from 1400 to 1700. 
Tip: Wear thick socks as one have to take off shoes before entering.

Thiruvalluvar Statue
Here out in the sea, about 400m from the shore, on the minor rock adjoining the Vivekananda rock memorial lies a gigantic 40 m high statue of Saint Thiruvalluvar, the author who gave us quintessential words of wisdom through his philosophical work 'Thirukkural', a treatise in Tamil on the Indian way of life. The statue, standing amid the dancing blue waves, creates a lasting impression as it rises high over the rock.  Read More

Guganathaswamy Temple
Situated near the railway station, it is a 1000 year old temple, built by Raja Raja Chola. 

Our lady of Ransom Church
Built in Gothic style of architecture, it is more than 100 year old building dedicated to Mother Mary. It has three massive towering spires and stained glass windowpanes contributing to the overall grandeur. Another attraction of the Church is it's Central Tower. It is 153-foot-high (46 meters) and is crowned with a Cross of pure gold.

Kanykumari Beach
Kanniyakumari beach is famous for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets, especially Chitra Pournami (full moon day in April) when the sun and moon are face to face at the same horizon. The beach itself is a beautiful sight with multi-coloured sand. Though it is a beautiful beach, but not safe for swimming. as the seashore is rocky and dangerous. The beach is not safe for swming There is a lighthouse from where one can get a panoramic view.

Vattakottai Fort
Situated just 8 kms from Kanyakumari is Vattakottai Fort. It is an 18th-century fort overlooking the sea gives an enchanting view of the sea around and the hills on the other side. The sea here is calm and suitable for bathing. 

'Baywatch' (a water amusement-park), and Wax museum 
These two attractions are located within 2 km from Kanyakumari. This is the only park in Asia to house a Wax museum. In Baywatch, Timings is : 9.30 to 6.30 pm. Fees : Adult -Rs.220/-, Children - Rs.190/-. , Rates are inclusive of all rides and wax museum. In Wax museum, Timings is 6.30 to 7 pm. Fees : Adult -Rs.50/-, Children - Rs.40/-.

For more details contact
Baywatch
TC 40/2278,Jagathy Jn.,
Thiruvananthapuram 695014,
Kerala,India.
Ph: +91 471 399836,3201537,3998222
Email: info@baywatch.co.in

Thiruparrapu Falls
Situated near Thiruparrapu, it is popular among the locals. 

Suchindram
Situated 13 kms from Kanyakumari, the temple was founded during the Pandiyan period. It is one of the few temples in the country where the Trinities (Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma) are worshipped. The temple is famous for its ninth-century inscriptions, a beautiful gopuram, musical columns, and a huge 18 foot high Hanuman Statue.