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Kanyakumari!

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Population

25,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

1-2 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Tamil Nadu map South India πŸ–οΈ Beaches πŸ•‰οΈ Spiritual Beaches Religious Sites Kanyakumari Tamil Nadu South India Beaches Vivekananda Rock Sunrise Sunset Temples

Kanyakumari, located at the southernmost tip of India in Tamil Nadu, is where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean converge. This unique confluence makes it a significant pilgrimage site and a popular tourist destination. Known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views, especially on full moon days, Kanyakumari offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Kanyakumari is worth visiting for its geographical uniqueness and spiritual significance. The sunrise and sunset views are breathtaking, and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial is a must-see. However, the town can get very crowded, especially during peak season, and the commercialization around the main attractions can be overwhelming. Expect persistent vendors and a lot of tourist traffic.

Reaching Kanyakumari is easiest via Trivandrum Airport (TRV), about 90km away. Allow at least one full day to explore the main attractions. Consider staying overnight to witness both the sunrise and sunset. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for local transport.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

22-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather. Clear skies provide excellent visibility for sunrise and sunset views.

Why Visit:

The weather is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The humidity is lower, making it more comfortable to explore the attractions. This period avoids the monsoon rains and extreme heat.

Tip: This is peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Shoulder Season

July to September

25-32 degrees C

Monsoon season with occasional heavy rainfall. The sea can be rough, affecting ferry services to Vivekananda Rock Memorial.

Why Visit:

The landscape is lush and green due to the rains. Fewer tourists mean lower prices and a more peaceful experience, if you don't mind the rain.

Tip: Some attractions may have limited access due to the weather. Check ferry schedules before planning a visit to Vivekananda Rock Memorial.

Avoid

April to June

30-35 degrees C

Hot and humid weather. The heat can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities.

Why Avoid:

The heat can be oppressive, making it less enjoyable to explore the area. The humidity adds to the discomfort, and the sea can be quite rough.

Note: If you must visit during this time, stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during the hottest part of the day.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Vivekananda Rock Memorial

⏱ 2-3 hours β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή300 (foreigners)

A monument built on a rock island dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, who meditated here in 1892. It consists of the Vivekananda Mandapam and the Shripada...

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Thiruvalluvar Statue

⏱ 1 hour β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή300 (foreigners)

A 133-foot stone statue of the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar, author of the Thirukkural. The statue symbolizes wealth, pleasure, and fame....

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Gandhi Mandapam

⏱ 1 hour Free

A memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. His ashes were kept here before being immersed in the sea. The architecture is designed so that on Gandhi's bi...

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Kanyakumari Beach

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

The beach where the three seas meet. It's known for its colorful sands and the beautiful sunrise and sunset views....

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Our Lady of Ransom Church

⏱ 1 hour Free

A beautiful Catholic church with a stunning white facade. It's dedicated to Our Lady of Ransom, the patron saint of Kanyakumari....

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Kanyakumari Amman Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

A temple dedicated to the goddess Kanyakumari, an incarnation of Parvati. It's one of the 108 Shakti Peethas....

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Things To Do

attractions

Sunrise Viewing

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° Free

Witness the spectacular sunrise over the confluence of the three seas. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant color...

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attractions

Sunset Viewing

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° Free

Experience the breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea. The sky is painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple....

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attractions

Ferry Ride to Vivekananda Rock Memorial

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή150 per person

Take a ferry to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue. Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and the c...

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attractions

Shopping for Souvenirs

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-1000 per person

Browse the local shops for handicrafts, seashells, and other souvenirs. Bargain for the best prices....

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Cultural Experiences

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Attend a Temple Festival

Varies | Free

Experience the vibrant culture of Tamil Nadu by attending a local temple festival. These festivals o...

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Visit a Local Market

1-2 hours | Free

Explore the bustling Kanyakumari Market and witness the daily life of the local people. Find fresh p...

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Watch a Kathakali Performance

2-3 hours | β‚Ή500-800

Experience the traditional dance-drama of Kerala, Kathakali. This art form combines elaborate costum...

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celebration

Learn about Swami Vivekananda

Varies | Free

Discover the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. Explore the e...

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celebration

Participate in a Cooking Class

3-4 hours | β‚Ή1000-1500

Learn to prepare traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine in a hands-on cooking class. Discover the flavors an...

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celebration

Visit the Government Museum

1-2 hours | β‚Ή10 (Indians), β‚Ή100 (foreigners)

Explore the history and art of the region at the Government Museum. Exhibits include sculptures, arc...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Seafood
Seafood

Freshly caught fish, prawns, and crabs (try at restaurants near the beach)

Kothu Parotta
Kothu Parotta

Shredded parotta mixed with vegetables and spices

Idiyappam
Idiyappam

String hoppers served with coconut milk and vegetable stew

Filter Coffee
Filter Coffee

Strong South Indian coffee (available at most restaurants and cafes)

Where to Eat

The Ocean Restaurant

The Ocean Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Seafood, Indian

πŸ“ Near Kanyakumari Beach

Offers a wide range of seafood dishes with a view of the ocean. The atmosphere is relaxed and the food is delicious.

Fish FryPrawn Masala

β‚Ή800-1200 for two

Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Hotel Saravana Bhavan

β‚Ή

South Indian, Vegetarian

πŸ“ Main Road

Popular vegetarian restaurant chain known for its quality and taste. A reliable choice for South Indian cuisine.

DosaIdliVada

β‚Ή400-600 for two

Street Food Spots

Kanyakumari Beach Area

Kanyakumari Beach Area

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Check for hygiene and freshness. Bargain for the best prices.

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Foodie Finder: Kanyakumari

More restaurants & dishes from Kanyakumari

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Near Kanyakumari Beach

Ideal for those who want to be close to the main attractions and sunrise/sunset views. Expect crowds and higher prices.

Best For: First-time visitors

Outskirts of Kanyakumari

Quieter and more peaceful, but requires transportation to reach the main attractions. Good for relaxing and escaping the crowds.

Best For: Travelers seeking tranquility

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Sea Face

πŸ“ Near Kanyakumari Beach

Basic but clean rooms with sea views. A good budget option.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Tamil Nadu

πŸ“ Close to the bus stand

Government-run hotel offering decent value. Functional and well-located.

β‚Ή900-1300/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Hotel Comorin

πŸ“ Main Road

Comfortable rooms and a restaurant on site. Convenient location.

β‚Ή2000-3000/night

Sparsa Resorts Kanyakumari

πŸ“ Near the beach

Well-maintained resort with good amenities. Offers a relaxing stay.

β‚Ή2500-3500/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή4000+/night

The Gopinivas Grand

πŸ“ Seafront

Modern hotel with excellent sea views and a rooftop restaurant. Offers a luxurious experience.

β‚Ή4000+/night

Annai Resorts & Spa

πŸ“ On the outskirts of Kanyakumari

Upscale resort with a spa and multiple dining options. A tranquil retreat.

β‚Ή5000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), 90km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Kanyakumari Railway Station (CAPE)

Connects to major cities in India. Located in the heart of the town.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 40 hours (β‚Ή800-3000)
  • From Mumbai: 30 hours (β‚Ή700-2500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Kanyakumari Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Chennai: 12 hours (β‚Ή800-1500)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-200 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances within the town

Bargain for the price before starting the journey. Confirm the fare beforehand.

local_taxi

Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή300-800 for local trips

Best for: Longer distances and day trips

Book a taxi through a reliable source. Negotiate the fare in advance.

directions_bus

Bus

πŸ’° β‚Ή10-30 per trip

Best for: Budget travelers

Buses can be crowded. Check the routes and timings in advance.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Light cotton clothing is recommended due to the warm and humid climate. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1000, Mid: β‚Ή2500, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Kanyakumari town.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions, while cards are accepted at larger establishments.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.

Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, and stomach infections. Carry sunscreen, ORS, and necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. Cost: β‚Ή300-500 with data.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and some cafes.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English proficiency is limited. Learning a few basic Tamil phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή20-50

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