Attractions

Kovalam

This internationally renowned beach is located at a distance of 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram. This seaside destination comprises three adjacent crescent shaped beaches of which the southernmost known as Lighthouse Beach is the most popular. Shallow waters stretching for hundreds of metres are ideal for swimming, sea bathing and sunbathing. Herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruising are some of the other attractions on this beach.

Papanasham

A dip in the sea at Papanasham, meaning redemption from sins, is believed to be holy. Varkala is situated 45 km from Thiruvananthapuram and is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea. Varkala is also famous for the 2,000 year old Janardhana Swami Temple which is an important Vaishnavaite shrine in India and is often referred to as "Dakshin Kashi" (Benaras of the South) Another major landmark in Varkala is the Sivagiri Mutt, established by the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. The hill-top mausoleum of Sree Narayana Guru is one of the most famous monuments in Kerala.

Alappuzha

It is situated at 3.1 km from the city. A 137-year-old pier which extends into the sea and an old lighthouse add to the attractions of the beach.

Fort Kochi

This Beach also known as Kochi beach, is located at about 20 km from Ernakulam. It is one of the finest beaches of Kerala. The main attraction of Fort Kochi beach is the historic fort that is the best example of Indo-European architecture. It is an obscure fishing village that became the first European township in India. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, with its legendary Chinese fishing nets dotting the foreground, Fort Kochi Beach offers a view of spectacular sunsets. Another highlight here are the waterfront stalls serving fresh catch prepared according to taste.

Cherai

This beach is situated at a distance of 23 km from Ernakulam. The 15 km of long golden beach is clean and shallow which makes it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It is one of the few places where one can experience the lagoon and ocean separated only by a few hundred meters. Dolphins are occasionally spotted here. One of the main events in Cherai Beach is the tourism fest during December. A typical Kerala village nearby, with paddy fields and coconut groves is an added attraction.

Nattika

Situated at about 24 km from Thrissur, Nattika is a wide and virgin beach blessed with an endless stretch of golden sand and graciously swaying palm trees. Fringed by palm trees, this picturesque beach is a hot spot for picnickers.

Kozhikode

This beach is a favourite haunt of sunset viewers. Adding to its natural beauty is the old-world charm retained by the ancient lighthouse and the two crumbling piers, each more than a hundred years old, that run into the sea. Its natural beauty and old world charm makes it a dreamy place to visit. Children can be entertained at the Lions Park and the Marine Water Aquarium.

Muzhappilangad

This beach, located at 15 km from Kannur, is a swimmer's paradise. This is Kerala's only drive-in beach. Adventure sports like paragliding, parasailing, micro-lite flights and a variety of watersport options are possible here.

Bekal Fort

This fort placed at 16 km south of Kasaragod is a 17th century structure and is one of the largest and best preserved forts in Kerala. This imposing circular structure of laterite rises 130 ft above sea level and stands on a 35 acre headland that runs into Arabian Sea. This scenic seaside offers a spectacular view of the historic fort and has ample facilities for recreation and relaxation.