About Kanniyakumari
Kanniyakumari - Cape Comorin
Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of the Indian mainland, is not just a meeting point of three water bodies but also an amalgamation of different cultures, religions, and ideas developed over centuries. The allure of this charming town in Tamil Nadu attracts hordes of tourists all year round. Blessed with beautiful temples, historical monuments, and serene beaches, here’s a list of tourist places in Kanyakumari you must definitely visit!
Popular Places In Kanniyakumari
Check out the below list of the best tourist places in Kanyakumari. Add these to your itinerary as you plan your vacation to this stunning place. From religious places like temples and churches to beaches and falls, there is no dearth of places to visit in Kanyakumari.
VIVEKANANDA ROCK MEMORIAL
A Kanyakumari trip would be incomplete without a visit to these famous tourist places in Kanyakumari. As soon as you step off the ferry at this small island where India’s most loved saint, Swami Vivekananda, attained enlightenment in 1892, you can feel the spiritual vibes and serenity of the place. It is a blissful experience to simply sit and meditate in the quiet Dhyan Mandapam (meditation hall) or gaze at the meeting point of three mighty oceans with wonder. The sunset and sunrise views from the Vivekananda rock make it one of the best places to visit in Kanyakumari. Just 500 meters off the mainland, the place can be easily reached by a regular ferry service.
THIRUVALLUVAR STATUE
Thiruvalluvar Statue is the perfect place for you if you are an architecture enthusiast. Just adjacent to the Vivekananda rock memorial is the towering stone statue of the much-respected Tamil poet and philosopher, Thiruvalluvar. The 38-foot-high pedestal is symbolic of the 38 chapters of virtue in the literary masterpiece, the Tirukkural, while the 133-foot-high statue represents the 133 chapters in the book. This is a place of great cultural significance and one of the most popular Kanyakumari sightseeing places.
BHAGAVATHY AMMAN TEMPLE
Also known as the Devi Kanyakumari temple, this is one of the most sacred temples in Kanyakumari and the reason why the city gets this name. This temple is also one of the best places to visit in Kanyakumari. Being among the 108 shaktipeeths in India, it holds great religious significance and dates back to 3000 years. The impressive architecture and the magnificent idol of the Goddess Kanya Kumari with the diamond nose pin are the most remarkable features of this historic shrine.
GANDHI MANDAPAM
Gandhi Mandapam will let you explore history. This memorial is dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, whose sacred ashes were kept here before being immersed in sea water. Built in modern architectural style, the Mandapam borrows elements from the Orissa style of architecture. A unique feature of the memorial is that it has been built in such a way that on every October 2nd, the sun’s rays fall on the exact spot where the great man’s ashes were placed. Such a unique and wonderful tribute to the father of the nation must definitely be on your list of places to visit in Kanyakumari.
VATTAKOTTAI FORT
A 30-minute drive out of Kanyakumari, this old fort is located in a very scenic spot. The small fort can be covered by foot in half an hour, but the high-point is watching the surreal views from the fort ramparts – the soothing waters of the Bay of Bengal and the marvelous view of the windmill farm at a distance. Built out of stone and granite, the fort has great historical value as being part of the major defenses of the Travancore kingdom. The serene beach, wonderful breeze and peaceful environment make it the perfect place to spend a relaxed day.
SUNSET VIEW POINT
Sunset view points provide breathtaking and gorgeous views of the setting sun amidst the clear sky and crystal blue water underneath it. Being one of the must-visit places for every tourist, the sunset point is the junction of ocean bodies—the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea—which makes the view even more special. The place offers some amazing clicks, and the lighthouse, which can be viewed from here, further adds to the beauty.
RAMAYANA MANDHIR TEMPLE
The museum is huge and very well maintained by the authorities. The epic tale of the Ramayana is portrayed through a picture gallery in a detailed way.The museum has two floors, one with a full Ramayana and the Lanka khana, and another with Lav and kush. If you go through each photo, you do not need to read the Ramayana; the detailing is so good.It takes around 2 hours to complete the full tour. The ambience inside is very calm. The tranquility invokes the spiritual side in you. It's a must-see place on your visit to Kanyakumari.
SAIBABA TEMPLE
Listed among the top places to visit in Kanyakumari, this place is ideal for people looking for peace. It is located exactly opposite the Maruthuval Malai and has beautiful white architecture that appeals to the eyes. If you are a Sai Baba devotee, then you might not want to miss this place on your Kanyakumari tour.
SUCINMTHRAM THANUMALAYAN TEMPLE
Suchindram Temple, also known as Thanumalayan Temple, is located in the Suchindram district of Kanyakumari, at a distance of around 11 km from Kanyakumari. The massive idol of Lord Hanuman, at a height of 22 feet, is sure to allure every devotee here. The statue has been carved out of a single granite rock. This state of Lord Hanuman, which is one of the largest statues in India, was kept hidden in the temple as attacks from Tipu Sultan were feared. Later in the year 1930, it was found and subsequently restored to its previous glory. Another striking aspect is the carving of Vinayaki (female Vinayaka) in the temple. Majestic Image of Nandi, vehicle of Lord Shiva, is also captivating, with a height of 13 feet, a length of 21 feet and width of 10 feet.
PADMANABHAPURAM PALACE
This alluring 16th-century teakwood palace is among the top Kanyakumari sightseeing places and the finest example of Taccusastra (the ancient science of carpentry). A living proof of the architectural brilliance and rich heritage of the erstwhile kingdom of Travancore, the magnificent interiors of this palace will take your breath away. Right from the entrance, where an intricately carved jackfruit tree stands witness to its unparalleled beauty, to the stunning interiors adorned with elaborately carved columns, chairs with Chinese carvings, and Belgian mirrors, the palace leaves a lasting impression.
OUR LADY OF RANSOM CHURCH
A stunning white Gothic-style structure contrasted against the clear blue skies is a sight to behold. This peaceful church must be on your list of places to visit in Kanyakumari in one day. Located within walking distance of the beach, the beauty of this magnificent structure is heightened at night with the church lights turned on. So, if you are looking for churches in Kanyakumari, then you cannot miss out on Our Lady of Ransom Church.
THIRPARAPPU FALLS
Thirparappu Falls is a man-made waterfall that falls from a height of 50 feet. The gorgeous waters of the fall offer an enchanting sight that attracts crowds from far away. The falls are surrounded by a variety of fauna and greenery, making them a favorite spot for nature lovers. You can as well enjoy a boat ride in the waters of Thirparappu, as it is one of the coolest things to do in Kanyakumari. This destination is one of the best places to visit in Kanyakumari for a fun-filled day with family and children.
