Iconic monuments around town

Kanniyakumari district’s rich history is evident in its architectural monuments. The 16th-century teakwood Padmanabhapuram Palace, a fine example of Taccusastra (the ancient science of carpentry), is proof of the architectural brilliance of the erstwhile kingdom of Travancore. This and the Vattakottai Fort, the last of the coastal forts of Travancore Kingdom, is maintained by Kerala, though they are located in Tamil Nadu and form part of its intangible heritage.  One of the city's most iconic attractions is the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a majestic structure perched atop a rocky island in the midst of the sea. Accessible by ferry, the memorial commemorates the visit of Swami Vivekananda to this sacred spot and offers panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. Another highlight is the Thiruvalluvar Statue, a towering monument dedicated to the renowned Tamil poet and philosopher, Thiruvalluvar. Standing at over 130 feet tall, the statue is a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment, commanding awe and admiration from visitors.

Of azure waters, golden sands and rugged cliffs

Kanniyakumari's coastal landscape is a sight to behold, with its azure waters, golden sands, and rugged cliffs creating a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable experiences. The nearby Kanniyakumari Beach, with its tranquil shores and swaying palms, provides the perfect setting for leisurely walks and serene moments of contemplation. Kannyakumari is the only spot in India from where you can watch the spectacle of the sunset and the moonrise happening simultaneously on Full Moon days. It’s even grander during the day of ‘Chithra Pournami’ when the Sun and the Moon will appear facing each other in the same horizon. 

Celebrate the rich culture

Kanniyakumari is steeped in history and culture, with a rich tapestry of traditions and customs that have thrived for centuries. The city's vibrant cultural scene comes to life during festivals such as the Cape Festival, which celebrates the unique heritage of the region with music, dance, and traditional performances. The Bhagavathy Amman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kanniyakumari, is a revered pilgrimage site that attracts devotees from far and wide. Its intricate architecture and sacred atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

In the embrace of the divine

Kanniyakumari holds profound spiritual significance for Hindus, who believe that a dip in the waters at the confluence of the seas, cleanses one's sins and bestows blessings. The Kumari Amman Temple, located on the shore, is dedicated to the goddess Kanniyakumari and is believed to be one of the Shakti Peethas or sacred abodes of the goddess. At dawn, visitors can witness the mesmerising spectacle of the sunrise over the horizon, casting a golden glow over the waters and illuminating the landscape in a breath-taking display of colours. Similarly, the sunset at Kanniyakumari is a sight to behold, as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vivid hues of orange and pink, creating a magical ambience that lingers long after the day has ended.

Delicacies you can't miss

The tourists literally go berserk on the local delicacies in the hundreds of small and big food centres and restaurants. Apart from the staples dosas and vadas, the kottu (minced fried paratha), appam, paazha sharbat (an unusual mixed fruit juice), sweet avial, paazha bhaaji (ripe banana fritters) and many more local specialties tickle the taste buds. For non-vegetarians, regional delicacies like tapioca with fish and other seafood dishes delight the senses. 

Reaching there

One can reach Kanniyakumari by air, the nearest airport being Thiruvananthapuram of the neighbouring state Kerala. From there it takes about three hours by train or bus or taxi. By train, too, the city is very well connected to all major cities in India. Long-distance buses for reaching this city are available from Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai and Bengaluru (erstwhile Bangalore).