City of Kovalam

Kovalam is Kerala's best-known beach resort, a crescent of golden coves on the Arabian Sea just south of the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram. Discovered by travellers in search of sun and serenity, it has grown into a relaxed seaside destination that still keeps its fishing-village soul. With easy access from the nearby airport, it makes an effortless place to begin or end a tour with a few days by the sea.

The town is defined by its three connected beaches, with the southern Lighthouse Beach the liveliest and most picturesque. A working red-and-white lighthouse crowns the headland and rewards the climb with sweeping coastal views. Hawah Beach and Samudra Beach offer quieter sands, while local fishermen still haul their catch ashore in long wooden boats each morning, a timeless sight against the surf.

Kovalam is a fine place to experience Kerala's renowned wellness traditions. Ayurvedic centres offer authentic massages and rejuvenation therapies, and the relaxed coastal setting suits a slower, restorative pace. The seafood is superb, with the day's catch grilled to order at beachfront cafes, and a short trip inland reaches the temples and palaces of the capital, including the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

A visit revolves around gentle pleasures: swimming in the warm sea, lazing under coconut palms, browsing handicraft stalls and watching the sun sink into the Arabian Sea each evening. The atmosphere is friendly and unhurried, with everything from simple guesthouses to clifftop resorts.

Kovalam earns its place on a Kerala tour as the state's classic seaside escape. After the hills and backwaters, its warm waters, golden sands and Ayurvedic calm provide the perfect place to unwind, making a fitting and restful close to a southern journey.