The best things to do in Kovalam

Crescent beaches, historic art galleries, dreamy countryside homestays and an extravagant lighthouse - Kovalam boasts of some unexpectedly beautiful southwestern hidden gems. Here’s a roundup of the best things to do, the best places to eat, and the new spots you can’t miss in 2021, including the Light House Road, Samudra Beach Park, Vellayani Lake, and the popular Rock Cut Cave Temple. Whether you are in town for the palm-lined beaches or a road trip through the Malabar Coast, here’s what you absolutely must do. Sneha Chakraborty writes.

Where to eat - and drink - in Kovalam

Kovalam's revival has been happening long before images of the destination received millions of shares on social media, and that is partly due to the slew of restaurants that introduced new flavors in the once tired food scene. The best place to observe this and begin your culinary journey is on Kovalam Beach Road, home to Raviz Kovalam's award-winning dining experience at The Tide. The flagship restaurant that also boasts a luxurious sky bar, pool-side dinner spaces, and intimate gazebos, offers an alfresco menu is known for the Nadan Kozhi Curry, a take on chicken cooked in coconut milk and southern spices, plus sides, like the famed watermelon Pol sambol. Right next door is the Curry Leaf, where golden hours of the day are perfect for indulging in some king-prawn molee, and white snapper steamed in banana leaves. Down the road is Bait, an upscale hotel's establishment that single-handedly put Kovalam on the seafood map. If you prefer your seafood marinated in Indo-Chinese dressings, head to Kingfisher restaurant for fish noodles, a traditional twist on Asian fare.

Once you have had your fill downtown, head outside the metropolis towards the Kovalam Light House entrance gate. Beatles Cafe & Grill House's famous chocolate pancakes, like the banana porridge, are favorites for starting your day, while Anithas Bistro & Cafe's Super Bowl, with flavors like homemade mango and mint chutney, draws crowds regardless of the time (or season). One of Kovalam's first and most scenic businesses is also one of the most preferred among travellers - the Terrace Restaurant, which is home to rare infusions of International, Indian, and South Indian flavors like the Malabar prawn-curry or chilli-infused pasta. Still, no day in Kovalam is complete without one (or a few!) of the spiced cocktails on their menu.

What to do in Kovalam and around

The lighthouse beach that proudly plays host to the red-white tower structure of Vizhinjam has been a favourite for travellers and photographers since it opened in 1972, and anyone would be remiss not to visit this Instagram-trending destination which is perfect for postcard memories. Also, the surrounding region is a miniature replica of a European coastline that is dotted by local shops that provide cultural colour to the scene. For lovers of religious landmarks, the notable (and free to visit) Rock Cut Cave temple houses a historic reflection of Vinadhara Dakshinamurti, depicted as unfinished reliefs of Shiva. The starker, more elaborate religious structure is the Aazhimala Siva Temple with its vibrant art-deco and modern murals feature a religious attraction that is a must-visit. A work of art, the Vellar Tourist Village, also a hot pocket attraction for international and local travellers, an 8.5 acres complex that houses an amphitheatre, museums, curios, art festivals, and more. Nearby Handloom village is home to some of the traditional weaving styles popular in the state.

No place in Kovalam demonstrates the natural appeal of the town more than Vellayani Lake. Once home to the Southern indigenous population, the water body is also currently the largest freshwater lake in the Trivandrum district. Napier Museum, another significant art and natural history establishment for cultural enthusiasts, just became a hotspot for those who want to understand the true rooting of this place. Be prepared - the surrounding flora and fauna has become every adventure traveler's paradise, swarmed with hikers, campers, and polaroid cameras. Drifting away from the coastal edge into the city, and often overlooked is a bustling center dominated by unique local businesses and markets that are perfect for souvenir hunting. Not far from the Kovalam Mall, which pretty much marks the town square is the Elephant Yoga Center, a masterclass program that provides an unwinding escape during your travels. Don’t forget to explore the Ayurvedic wellness experiences this place offers, a signature practice in the region that holds deep cultural influence.

Where to stay in Kovalam

The one thing that Kovalam was still developing was a holiday home that pops on the map, and the Taj Green Cove Resort and Spa has aided the shortage of luxury stays in the area. Even better (and more apt for a budget stay without compromising on the amenities?) Enjoy a stay with Gokulam Grand Turtle on the Beach where they promise more than just rooms: You will find a stunning 5-star beachside resort, giving patrons an on-site Ayurvedic spa and four restaurants serving multicultural cuisines.

In the Airbnb territory, the Pebble Coast Beach Resort has been a popular choice among travellers. The place is far from conventional, though: guests receive upscale and home-styled amenities, like lounge chairs and renovated bedrooms and proximity to popular attractions. Plus, the neighborhood can't be beat, with walking access to the beach. Nestled right next to the town's famous Light House Beach is one of the most elegant and exclusive hotels, Rockholm. This distinguished seaside property has 23 suites and guest rooms with sustainable values at its core. But the convincing part is this: opening the curtains to your room will offer an uninterrupted and unceasing view of the red-white landmark lighthouse on the Kurumkal hill.

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