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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