Kanyakumari - Visit to Kanyakumari

 

Kanyakumari is India's southernmost point and the confluence of three oceans: The Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean. It is well-known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views over the oceans, in addition to its significance as a Hindu pilgrimage site. The beach's multicoloured sand is a standout element.

History:

Kanyakumari was once known as the "Athens of the East." For years, this location has served as a great centre for art, music, civilization, and pilgrimage. It was also a well-known trade and commerce hub. Islam arrived in the southern part of India via the sea route in the early eighth century AD, accompanied by traders and missionaries.

 

Christianity appeared in this area in AD 52 by St. Thomas, one of Christ's twelve Apostles. Islam, Christianity, and Jainism have all made significant contributions to this city's architectural and literary heritage. Kanyakumari was also ruled by the Cholas, Cheras, Pandyas, and Nayaks, who were powerful rulers in southern India.

 

Kanyakumari was given the dry title of Cape Comorin during the British Raj, possibly due to the Englishmen's inability to pronounce local names.

 

Kanya Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, was supposed to marry Lord Shiva, the Hindu trinity's destroyer, according to legend. However, he failed to show up at the appointed time, and the wedding was cancelled. The rice and cereals that were supposed to be served at the wedding were left uncooked.

 

Even today, stones that resemble rice and cereals can be purchased there. Locals claim they are the remains of a legendary wedding that could not be consummated. Princess Kanya Devi, on the other hand, became a virgin goddess who blessed pilgrims and visitors alike.

 

Below is a quick glimpse of Kanyakumari:


Places to See in Kanyakumari 

Vivekananda Rock Memorial – The Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a well-known monument that is made up of two key structures. The tourists are transported to the small rock island with a thrilling ferry ride.

Thiruvalluvar Statue – This lovely statue honours Thiruvalluvar, a prolific poet and philosopher. The statue, which stands on a 38-foot pedestal, is a significant landmark in the coastal region.

Gandhi Mandapam -Gandhi Mandapam is a temple dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi Mandapam was built to honour Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Country, and is where his ashes were held before being submerged in the water. It's worth noting that the monument is meticulously built so that the sun rays fall exactly on the same spot where the ashes were held every 2nd October.

Kanyakumari Temple -Kanyakumari Temple, also known as the Bhagvaty Amman Temple, is one of the Hindu Goddess's 108 Shakti Peeths.

Kanyakumari Beach – Perfect for spending quality time with family and friends, Kanyakumari Beach provides breathtaking views of the sunrise, sunset, Vivekananda Memorial, the lighthouse, and the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea.

Thirparappu Falls – This man-made waterfall cascades down from a height of 50 feet and is a sight to behold. It's a fantastic spot for swimming and boating.

Suchindrum -Suchindrum is a town with a plethora of temples, many of which feature distinctive Dravidian architecture and huge gopurams.

Kumari Amman Temple – This temple is a must-see for those interested in learning about Indian culture.

Padmanabhapuram Palace – The old granite fortress was built in 1601 AD and served as the Travancore Rulers' residence.

Wax Museum – Have your picture taken with your favourite actors and notable figures at the Wax Museum.

Thanumalayan Temple – This holy shrine is the only place in the world where the three main Hindu gods, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva, are worshipped as one deity.

Courtallam Falls – A set of small waterfalls that combine to create a massive cascade.

Vattakottai Fort - The fort is carved out of granite and stone and is in a beautiful location.

Lord Subramanya Temple – The temple has an endless number of towers and pillars.

 

Best Time To Visit Kanyakumari

 

Kanyakumari has a nice climate and can be visited all year due to its proximity to the sea. The best time to visit this place, however, is between October and March. Summers can see temperatures as high as 34.8°C, while winters can see temperatures as low as 20.4°C.

 

Fairs & Festivals

The Chaitra Purnima Festival (the full moon day in April, celebrated in the first week of May), Navratri (the last week of October), and the Holy Annual Festival of the Roman Catholic Church (the fourth week of December) are all important festivals in Kanyakumari.

 

 

Places near Kanyakumari

Vattakottai (literally, circular fort) is a fort built in the eighteenth century that overlooks the sea and is located six kilometres from Kanyakumari.

A foundry for casting guns is located at the Udayagiri Fort (34 km), which was founded by King Marthanda Varma (AD 1729-1758). De Lennoy, the king's trusted European general, is buried inside this fort.

 

Getting There

 

By Air

Trivandrum International Airport is the closest airport (80 km). Daily flights link it directly to Bangalore, Mumbai, Cochin, Delhi, Goa, and Chennai.

 

By Train

The broad-gauge railway network links Kanyakumari to Thiruvananthapuram, Delhi, and Mumbai. The other nearest railway junction is Tirunelvelli (80 km), which can be reached by road via Nagarkoil (19 km).

 

By Road

Kanyakumari is accessible by road from Trivandrum (86 kilometres), Nagarkoil (19 kilometres), Tirunelvelli (91 kilometres), Tiruchendur (89 kilometres), Tuticorin (129 kilometres), Rameshwaram (300 kilometres), Courtallam (130 kilometres), Madurai (242 kilometres), Thekkady (358 kilometres), Kodaikanal (362 kilometres), Palani (370 kilometres), Ootacamund (576 kilometres), Cochin (309 kilometres (478 km).

 

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