Kanyakumari is a place where the land meets with the sea, and it can create magic in its own way. This bright and lively conurbation forms a close meeting of three oceans at the southernmost tip of India. The vast panorama of nature is revealed in the stretch of soft, golden sands in the high sky-blushing hues at dawn and dusk, along with other eternal moments of the illusion of being still. It is not only the mesmerising landscapes that let one lose themselves in Kanyakumari; it is something so spiritual lying with it that it combines ancient mythology with everlasting faith. The immortal statue of Thiruvalluvar, from the two shores of Kanyakumari Temple to every other part of this coastal treasure, breathes into culture and faith without expecting any boundaries in its soul. 

10 Best Places to Visit in Kanyakumari: Adventure and Leisure

These are the 10 beautiful and scenic places in Kanyakumari that offer a strong sense of spirituality, history, and nature. Kanyakumari is all about charm, from the Vivekananda Rock Memorial to the beautiful sunrise and sunset views at the tip of southern India. Whether it's calming temples or soothing beaches, or just relaxing at the only point where three seas meet, remember these places, which will surely give you something beautiful to remember about this haven by the sea.

  1. Padmanabhapuram Palace
  2. Chitharal Jain Rock Cut Temple
  3. Mathoor Hanging Bridge
  4. Thiruparappu Water Falls
  5. Kamarajar ManiMandapam at Kanniyakumari
  6. Mahatma Gandhi Mandap at Kanniyakumari
  7. Vivekananda Mandapam and Thiruvalluvar Statue at Kanniyakumari
  8. Lord Subramanya Temple
  9. Courtallam Falls
  10. Mathur Aqueduct

1. Padmanabhapuram Palace

Padmanabhapuram, once the original capital of the Travancore kingdom, is historically steeped in tradition and has rich cultural legacies. The Padmanabhapuram palace, built in the sixteenth century, is a beautiful example of traditional Kerala architecture, with complete woodwork, mesmerising carvings, and pearlwork. The palace has large wooden beams with sharply crafted rooms, and this palace is one of the most maintained wooden structures in India. The town's name, "Padmanabapuram," comes from the Almighty Vishnu, popularly called "Padmanabha,".The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the temple of Lord Vishnu, is also nearby; its serene ambience, historical royalty, and timeless architecture make Padmanabhapuram a picturesque destination.

Location: Chakala, Thuckalay, Tamil Nadu

Things to do:

  • Explore Padmanabhapuram Palace.
  • Admire woodwork and carvings.
  • Visit Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple.
  • Stroll through palace gardens.
  • Discover the Royal Museum.
  • Observe Mother of Pearl inlays.
  • Visit Kali Vilasam Palace.
  • Enjoy the scenic views.
  • Take a boat ride on Vallabhvadi Lake.
  • Learn about Travancore's history

Nearby Hotels:

  • Sree Sankara Hotel
  • Padmanabhapuram Heritage
  • Hotel Jalakanyaka 
  • Azhakodi Residency
  • Vijay Park Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Sree Ananda Bhavan
  • Kochi Diner 
  • Hotel Jalakanyaka Restaurant
  • Vijay Park Hotel Restaurant
  • Mannady Hotel
  • Spice Village Restaurant 
  • Arya Nivas 

Nearby Attractions:

  • Vallabhvadi Lake
  • Thanumalayan Temple
  • Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple
  • Anchuthengu Fort
  • Kovalam Beach

2. Chitharal Jain Rock Cut Temple

The Chitharal Jain Rock Cut Temple is among those places that deserve a visit to Kanyakumari as it nestles in its silent hills, a treasure of ancient architecture and spirituality. Jain monks built this rock-cut temple during the Chera dynasty. It has some beautiful statues, carvings, and inscriptions on stones telling the story of the life of Lord Mahavira (24th Tirthankara). One of the typical features of the temple is that it possesses the idol of Mahavira, which is carved in rock and looks into a beautiful terrain. It is said to be a very ancient Jain Center that later drifted away from Jainism to remain unnoticed while others thrived in prosperity. The Chitharal Jain Rock Cut The temple is still a tranquil place today, admired for the art and spirituality of times long past.

Location: Velamcode, Tamil Nadu

Things to do:

  • Explore rock-cut carvings and inscriptions
  • Admire the Lord Mahavira sculpture
  • Hike up the hill for scenic views
  • Visit the Jain cave complex
  • Take photographs of the architecture
  • Reflect on the peaceful surroundings
  • Learn about Jain history through local guides
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the landscape
  • Visit nearby Jain monuments
  • Meditate in the tranquil setting

Nearby Hotels:

  • Turtle on the Beach
  • The Leela Kovalam 
  • Muthu's Hotel 
  • Aaryan's Hotel
  • The Raviz Kovalam

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Sree Anantha Bhavan 
  • Kovalam Beach Restaurant 
  • Aaryan’s Hotel Restaurant 
  • Spice Village Restaurant 
  • Hotel Muthu’s Restaurant 

Nearby Attractions:

  • Kanyakumari 
  • Vivekananda Rock Memorial 
  • Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple
  • Varkala Beach 
  • Neyyar Dam 
  • Kovalam Beach 
  • Thirparappu Waterfalls 
  • Padmanabhapuram Palace
  • Poovar Island 

3. Mathoor Hanging Bridge

Suspension bridge Mathoor is an attractive suspension bridge found at Mathoor town in Tamil Nadu. This construction started in 1966, primarily to organise the area's natural forces and future views." The longest and tallest are in Tamil Nadu Pachaiyar River. This bridge is believed to have linked distant village straits into the wild, opening up trade and communication that before it could hardly have journeyed into the vast regions. It always sways beneath the feet of the guests entering, which serves as an exhilarating thrill. One of the finest tourist places, the Mathoor Hanging Bridge is not only historically significant but also attracts people with its very lush green mild nature and view of the river below. Symbolises wonder.

Location: Mathoor, Tamil Nadu

Things to do:

  • Walk across the Mathoor Hanging Bridge.
  • Enjoy scenic views of the Pachaiyar River.
  • Take photographs of the bridge.
  • Explore the nearby villages.
  • Visit local markets for unique handicrafts.
  • Enjoy a picnic by the riverbank.
  • Experience the bridge’s sway for an adventurous thrill.
  • Take a boat ride on the river.

Nearby Hotels:

  • Sterling Kodai Lake 
  • The Tamara Kodai 
  • Kodai Resort Hotel 
  • Villa Retreat 
  • Rani Resort 

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Kurinji Restaurant 
  • Shri Annapoorna 
  • Tandoor Restaurant 
  • The Chef's Kitchen 
  • Cafe Cariappa

Nearby Attractions:

  • Kodaikanal Lake
  • Bryant Park 
  • Coaker's Walk 
  • Pillar Rocks 
  • Dolphin’s Nose

4. Thiruparappu Water Falls

Thiruparappu Waterfalls - Is it a destination for worshippers or for nature lovers? It is a natural, enjoyable visit, just under 50 feet tall and adjacent to the Thiruparappu Shiva Temple. Traditionally, these falls were glorious to the culture, and the water was considered to possess some sacred quality. In other words, years ago, the waterfall tourist became a beautiful scenery amidst cool, green serenity. Near the base of the falls, there is a natural swimming pool where people dip in fresh water. Thiruparappu Waterfalls has scenic beauty and an assiduous blend of divinity and serenity, magnetising people from all walks of life.

Location: Tiruparapu, Tamil Nadu

Things to do: 

  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the waterfalls.
  • Take a dip in the natural pool.
  • Visit the Thiruparappu Shiva Temple.
  • Take photographs of the falls and surroundings.
  • Go for a nature walk in the area.
  • Have a picnic near the waterfall.
  • Explore the lush greenery around the falls.
  • Experience the cool mist from the falls.

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Ganga 
  • Seaview Resort 
  • Hotel Kanyakumari 
  • Hotel Jai Bhavani
  • The Leela Kovalam

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Hotel Ganga Restaurant 
  • Sree Anantha Bhavan 
  • Kovai Restaurant 
  • Saravana Bhavan 
  • Tandoor Restaurant 

Nearby Attractions:

  • Kanyakumari 
  • Suchindram Temple
  • Varkala Beach 
  • Neyyar Dam
  • Kovalam Beach

5. Kamarajar Mani Mandapam at Kanyakumari

Kamarajar Mani Mandapam commemorates K. Kamaraj, who was once the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. An epithet for its simplicity and an indelible mark on education, this memorial sits close to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. It displays a statue of Kamaraj with adjacent gardens and a view overlooking where the Bay of Bengal meets the Arabian Sea and finally stretches into the well-known Indian Ocean. He supported Lal Bahadur Shastri as Prime Minister, as shown by the diversity of murals and artefacts: his life was rich in political touch. The memorial specifically honours Kamaraj for educational reform to gain openness in student life and intended to talk at a reflective level, an intellectual place in itself.                                                                                                                                                      

Location: Kanyakumari

Things to do:

  • Pay tribute to Kamaraj's bust.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Kanyakumari.
  • Learn about Kamaraj's life and contributions.
  • Take photographs of the memorial and surroundings.
  • Relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the site.
  • Explore the nearby coastline.

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Kanyakumari 
  • The Seashore Hotel
  • Hotel Ocean Heritage
  • Treebo Trip Sunsplash 
  • Anantya Resorts

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Hotel Saravana 
  • Annapoorna Hotel 
  • Sree Anantha Bhavan 
  • Tandoor Restaurant
  • Sea View Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

  • Vivekananda Rock Memorial
  • Thiruvalluvar Statue
  • Kanyakumari Beach
  • Suchindram Temple 
  • Padmanabhapuram Palace 
  • Kanyakumari Temple 
  • Sunset Viewpoint 
  • Gandhi Memorial
  • Nagercoil 
  • Varkala Beach

6. Mahatma Gandhi Mandap at Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam is a holy place built in memory of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. This is a quiet yet lovely place beside the sea where his ashes were kept and then scattered in the waters. The Mandapam, built in 1956, conveys the life, part of which is that of India in the struggle for freedom. The most interesting thing about this memorial is that on the 2nd of October, Gandhiji's birthday, the sun's rays fall directly on the spot where the ashes were kept, creating a peaceful, special moment. The Mandapam is simple but powerful, a high structure that stands for his humble life. The memorial is embellished with footage, pictures, and messages highlighting important moments from Gandhi's life that enable visitors to remember his teachings of truth, nonviolence, and love. In this beautiful place, he was memorialised and inspires everyone visiting to follow his ideals.

Location:

Things to do:

  • Pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
  • Witness the sun’s rays shining on Gandhi’s memorial on 2nd October.
  • Explore the artefacts and photographs of Gandhi’s life.
  • Take photographs of the memorial and its surroundings.
  • Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Kanyakumari 
  • Sparsa Resort Kanyakumari 
  • Hotel Ocean Heritage 
  • The Seashore Hotel 
  • Treebo Trip Sunsplash

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Hotel Saravana 
  • Sree Anantha Bhavan 
  • Annapoorna Hotel 
  • Tandoor Restaurant 
  • Sea View Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

  • Vivekananda Rock Memorial
  • Kanyakumari Beach
  • Thiruvalluvar Statue
  • Kanyakumari Temple
  • Sunset Viewpoint
  • Gandhi Mandapam

7. Vivekananda Mandapam and Thiruvalluvar Statue at Kanyakumari

Well known as the location of the junction of three seas, the Vivekananda Mandapam and Thiruvalluvar Statue are the most prominent of this region's icons, located at Kanyakumari, the southern tip of the Indian peninsula. The Vivekananda Mandapam is a temple dedicated to the memory of Swami Vivekananda, in which he meditated in 1892. He came out of this place to spread his great knowledge and philosophy to the world. Travelling by ferry to the monument provides an amazing view of the ocean and its surroundings. Nearing the shore but not too much from offshore lies the 133-foot statue of Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar protruding part of the waters as a tribute to his eternal work: the Thirukkural. This statue, designed and finally inaugurated in 2000, symbolically understands and acknowledges his treatises on ethics, politics and love. The best places across this country make up the great culture with a feel of its own for the people. Besides this incredible experience, it is quiet for millions across the globe.

Location: Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu

Things to do:

  • Visit the Vivekananda Mandapam
  • Take a ferry ride to the Mandapam
  • Admire the Thiruvalluvar Statue
  • Enjoy the sunset at Kanyakumari Beach
  • Explore the Gandhi Memorial
  • Visit the Kanyakumari Temple
  • Walk along the coastal pathways
  • Take a boat ride around the statue
  • Visit the Vattakottai Fort
  • Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs

Nearby Hotels:

  • The Sun Hotel
  • Hotel Sea View
  • Sparsa Resort
  • The Ocean Resort
  • Hotel Sangam

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Seaview Restaurant
  • The Ocean Restaurant
  • Hotel Saravana
  • Cafe Cariappa
  • Kanyakumari Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

  • Kanyakumari Beach
  • Kanyakumari Temple
  • Gandhi Memorial
  • Padmanabhapuram Palace
  • Suchindram Temple
  • Vivekananda Rock Memorial
  • Thirparappu Waterfall
  • Kamarajar Manimandapam
  • Nagercoil
  • Shree Santhana Krishnan Temple

8. Lord Subramanya Temple

It is believed that the Lord Subramanya Temple at Kanyakumari was constructed by the sage Agastya, who worshipped Lord Murugan at that site: healing and the prayer house. People who are physically suffering come here because it is believed that Lord Murugan's grace and relief would cure them from hurdles in their lives. One interesting feature of the temple, which makes it unique among most of the Shanmukha temples, is the rarely found shrine of the six-faced God, Lord Murugan (Shanmukha). Its position at the confluence of three seas- the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean- makes the site mystical, as it is held that the water here possesses unique significance and curative properties. It is common to feel energetic and peaceful visibly while indulging in the nature, history, and spirituality, the ideal combo.

Location: Suchindram, Kanyakumari

Things to do: 

  • Visit the temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya.
  • Explore the temple’s architectural beauty.
  • Participate in the rituals and offerings.
  • Visit the nearby Nagara Raja Temple.
  • Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and surroundings.

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Suchindram
  • Hotel Saravana
  • Sparsa Resort
  • Hotel Sangam
  • The Ocean Resort

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Hotel Saravana
  • Ruchi Restaurant
  • Seaview Restaurant
  • Kanyakumari Restaurant
  • Cafe Cariappa

Nearby Attractions:

  • Suchindram Temple
  • Vivekananda Rock Memorial
  • Kanyakumari Beach
  • Gandhi Memorial
  • Thiruvalluvar Statue

9. Courtallam Falls

Courtallam Falls: These mesmerising waterfalls, just like any other lovely waterfall in the southern parts, are as good as the "Spa of South India". It is located in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, famed for its picturesque beauty and therapeutic features. These falls are medicinal; the water from these falls is believed to cure skin diseases. The cascading slopes are a tourist destination and attract people to view the action of nature, its cool misty air, and earn a splash in the natural pools. Courtallam is as old as the region itself, dating back to ancient Tamil texts. The myths state that their origin is through the sage Agastya, who meditated here; thus, these falls were named. It is a paradise for nature-loving people and those looking to relax and rejuvenate away from their busy and noisy lives in the cities, surrounded by beautiful hills and greenery.

Location: Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the falls
  • Take a dip in the natural pools
  • Trek around the falls area
  • Visit the nearby Shenthuruni Waterfall
  • Explore the surrounding lush greenery

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Courtallam
  • Tamarind Courtallam
  • The Falls Resort
  • Shenbaga Paradise
  • Hotel Tamilnadu Courtallam

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Shenbagam Restaurant
  • Courtallam Tamil Nadu Hotel
  • Hotel Prakash
  • The Falls Restaurant
  • Sree Sabari Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

  • Main Falls
  • Five Falls
  • Tsunami Memorial
  • Shenthuruni Waterfall
  • Chitharal Jain Monuments

10. Mathur Aqueduct

The Mathur Aqueduct is arguably the most remarkable civil engineering marvel of a structure and one of the tallest aqueducts in India. Constructed in 1960, this desirable aqueduct descends 115 feet and was mainly made to get water from Pechiparai Dam to the adjoining farms for irrigation. This aqueduct truly fascinates because of the specific design that the engineers have used: It crosses lush green land and opens up an endless fantastic view of hills and forests surrounding the aqueduct. This engineering feat was a brilliant example of people smart enough to realise how necessary a water conservator was to farming. Walking along the aqueduct is quite an amazing sight, and many appreciate the view staring into the valley. However, this is a lovely place for history, people and all those attracted by architecture with the purity of nature.

Location: Mathur, Tirunelveli

Things to do:

  • Visit the aqueduct
  • Enjoy the panoramic view 
  • Take a walk along the aqueduct.
  • Capture photographs 
  • Explore nearby temples

Nearby Hotels:

  • Hotel Tamil Nadu
  • Sathya Park Inn
  • The Grand Gardenia
  • Hotel Aryaas
  • Tamarind Courtallam

Nearby Restaurants:

  • Hotel Aryaas
  • Sree Sabari Restaurant
  • Hotel Tamil Nadu Courtallam
  • Shenbagam Restaurant
  • Sri Ganesh Restaurant

Nearby Attractions:

  • Courtallam Falls
  • Tirunelveli Nellaiappar Temple
  • Five Falls
  • Shenthuruni Waterfall
  • Tsunami Memorial

Places to Visit in Kanyakumari- FAQs

1. What is the famous place in Kanyakumari?

The famous places in Kanyakumari are the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue.

2. What is Kanyakumari famous for?

Kanyakumari is famous for its beautiful beaches, sunrise and sunset views, and the confluence of three seas Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean.

3. How can I spend time in Kanyakumari?

You can visit the local attractions, explore the Kanyakumari Temple, relax at the beach, and enjoy the sunset.

4. What is famous in Kanyakumari to buy?

Kanyakumari is famous for shell crafts, handicrafts, sarees, and seashell artefacts.

5. Which food is famous in Kanyakumari?

Kanyakumari is famous for its seafood, especially fish curry and Chettinad cuisine.

6. Which is the best month to visit Kanyakumari?

The best months to visit Kanyakumari are October to March.

7. Which sweet is famous in Kanyakumari?

Halwa and payasam are popular sweets in Kanyakumari.

8. Which language is spoken in Kanyakumari?

The primary language spoken in Kanyakumari is Tamil.

9. How many tourist places are there in Kanyakumari?

Kanyakumari has several tourist attractions, including 10 to 15 leading attractions, such as the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Temple, Gandhi Memorial, Suchindram Temple, and Courtallam Falls.

10. What is special in Kanyakumari?

Kanyakumari is special for its unique location at the tip of India, where three seas meet, and its stunning sunrise and sunset views.

11. What to wear in Kanyakumari?

It is best to wear light cotton clothes, especially in summer, and carry a hat or cap for sun protection.

12. What is Kanyakumari's old name?

Kanyakumari's old name was "Cape Comorin" during the British colonial period.

13. Is Kanyakumari a city or town?

Kanyakumari is a town in Tamil Nadu.

14. What are some of the best tourist places in Kanyakumari?

Some of the best tourist places in Kanyakumari are the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Temple, Gandhi Memorial, Kanyakumari Beach, Suchindram Temple, and Padmanabhapuram Palace.

15. What is Kanyakumari famous for shopping?

Kanyakumari is famous for shell crafts, handicrafts, sarees, and brass items for shopping.