
Kanyakumari is the southernmost tip and a popular tourist and pilgrimage destination in India. Formerly known as Cape Comorin, Kanyakumari refers to Devi Kanya Kumari. It is the place where the three great seas converge—the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, and the Bay of Bengal. It is renowned for both its history and spiritual significance. Besides, it is famous for its mesmerizing Sunrise and Sunset. The view is even more breathtakingly beautiful during the full moon day, when people can witness the sun setting and the moon rising simultaneously over the ocean. Whether a geography buff or a spiritual seeker, Kanyakumari is a must-visit destination for all. If you are also planning to visit this revered pilgrimage destination, then our Kanyakumari travel guide will be a great help. Plan your trip considering the best time to visit and the top attractions to explore.
About Kanyakumari
Formerly known as Cape Comorin, Kanyakumari is a town in the Kanyakumari District of the Tamil Nadu State in India. It is the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent and also the southernmost city of mainland India. Hence, it is referred to as “The Land’s End”. This coastal town is famous for its serene beaches and revered temples. It is a notable pilgrimage site that most people cover during their South India tour. The city is only 90 km from Trivandrum and 20 km South of Nagercoil
Best Places to Visit in Kanyakumari
Kanyakumari is a treasure trove of cultural and historical landmarks that are worth visiting. We have compiled a list of the top places to visit that you must add to your Kanyakumari tour itinerary:
Vivekananda Rock Memorial
One of the most visited places and attractions in Kanyakumari is the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, which was built in the year 1970 in honour of Swami Vivekananda. He meditated at this place before his trip to Chicago in 1892. This memorial is situated on an island off the coast of Kanyakumari and is accessible through a ferry ride. This is a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance, offering a panoramic view of the ocean. Located on one of the two rocks off the mainland of Vavathurai, this stands as a symbol of Unity and Purity.
Bhagavathy Amman Temple
This is one of the oldest temples and the main attraction of Kanyakumari. This revered shrine is dedicated to Devi Kanyakumari, an incarnation of goddess Parvati. Devotees from all over India visit this sacred site to seek Devi’s blessings. It is also a beautiful sight for art lovers as the temple features intricate designs and art that depict the story of the goddess.
Kanyakumari Beach
Visiting Kanyakumari Beach is a whole unique experience. Unlike other beaches, this beach is famous for its rocky shorelines. You will witness multi-coloured sand and rocky shorelines. Also, it is famous for its breathtaking view of sunsets and sunrises. It is best for scenic views and a walk. Avoid swimming here. Just spend some time at Solace here, watching waves hitting the shorelines.
Triveni Sangam
Kanyakumari is the place where the three great seas meet. This is a significant geographical and spiritual point to witness in life. You will see the confluence of the three seas that are the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, and the Bay of Bengal. This place holds an immense spiritual value. Devotees from all around the world visit this place, believing it is a place for purification.
Sunset View Point
Kanyakumari is famous for its breathtaking view of sunsets and sunrises. Tourists, especially couples, on their Kanyakumari trip visit the Sunset Point to see the magical view of the sunset over the ocean. The swaying view of the ocean with sunset is like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This is located on the western end of the main beach.
Thirparappu Falls
For nature lovers, Thirparappu Falls is a must-visit. With lush green surroundings, this place offers a spectacular sight. It is a part of the Kodhaiyar River, located just 55 km from the city of Kanyakumari. Along with the beautiful sight of the gushing water, tourists enjoy boat riding here. A Shiva Temple is also located near Thirparappu Falls, which is a must-visit.
Best Time to Visit Kanyakumari
Choosing the best time to plan your Kanyakumari trip lets you make the most of your trip. You will enjoy sightseeing and can explore as more as possible. The best time to visit Kanyakumari is during the winter season from October to March. Since it is a coastal town, the temperature during the season remains moderate with 23-25°C. The mild and pleasant temperature makes sightseeing and outdoor activities easy for tourists. Also, this is the best season to experience the spectacular view of sunsets and sunrises. However, you see more crowds as it is the peak tourist season, and the accommodations may also cost more than the usual rates.
The summer season from April to June, on the other hand, is warm and humid. However, the cool sea breeze can still make it manageable for tourists to explore the place. This is the time when you will witness less crowd and significantly lower rates for accommodations.
Avoid visiting during the monsoon season from July to September due to heavy rainfall and a humid climate, which may disrupt your travel plan. But if you enjoy nature and rain, you can plan your trip during that time.
How to Reach
Kanyakumari is a popular tourist destination in India. Most tourists cover this revered pilgrimage site during their South India tour. Reaching here is very easy, as it is well-connected by road, railway, and air. However, knowing the best route and travel option to reach Kanyakumari will eventually make your trip easier and smoother. So, here are the different travel options to reach Kanyakumari.
By Air: The nearest airport to Kanyakumari is Thiruvananthapuram, which is 80 km away. Major airlines are operational here from major cities, like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai, and others. It is the most convenient and fastest way to reach Kanyakumari. Outside the airport, you get taxis and cabs to reach Kanyakumari, which takes approximately 1:30 -2 hours.
By Train: Kanyakumari has its own railway station, Kanyakumari Railway Station (CAPE), and is well-connected to major Indian cities by railway. Direct trains run daily or weekly from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Howrah, and Tirupati.
By Road: Kanyakumari is connected by roads to nearby cities, like Trivandrum (86 km), Nagarkoil (19 km), Tirunelveli (91 km), Poovar (66 km), and Kovalam (82 km). State-run and private buses are available from all these cities. You can also book a cab or travel in your personal car to reach Kanyakumari.