- Best time
- Oct–Mar
- How long
- 2–3 days
- Stay a night
- ₹1,000–10,000
- Food a day
- ₹400–1,800
- Nearest railhead
- 15 km away
- Nearest airport
- 15 km away
Plan Kovalam in a minute. Day-by-day plan, stays, budget and trains — free on JrnyLoop.
Plan this tripAbout Kovalam
Crescent beaches below a striped lighthouse, Ayurvedic resorts, and Thiruvananthapuram’s Padmanabhaswamy temple nearby.
Things to do in Kovalam
Lighthouse Beach
Lighthouse Beach is the main beach and promenade located in Kovalam. It is a vibrant stretch where visitors can enjoy the lively coastal atmosphere by the Arabian Sea.
Tip: Wear comfortable footwear for walking along the promenade.
Vizhinjam Lighthouse
Vizhinjam Lighthouse is situated near Kovalam beach in Kerala and started functioning in 1972. The area was a busy seaport in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries before falling into a neglected state. Today, visitors can climb the tower for coast views.
Hawa Beach
Hawa Beach is a quieter northern cove located in Kovalam, Kerala. It is a scenic coastal spot ideal for peaceful seaside strolls and enjoying the gentle Arabian Sea waves.
Tip: Wear footwear that is easy to remove if you plan to walk on the wet sand
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
A prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu located near Kovalam. The principal deity is Anantha Padmanabhaswamy, depicted in yogic sleep on the serpent Shesha. It is one of the sacred sites of the Sri Vaishnava tradition and has deep ties to the Travancore royal family.
Tip: Follow the strict dress code before entering
Napier Museum
Napier Museum is an art and natural history museum located in Thiruvananthapuram, India. Housed in a striking building, it showcases rich Kerala art. The scenic grounds also feature the historic Thiruvananthapuram Zoo and the Sree Chitra Art Gallery.
Tip: Keep in mind that the museum remains closed on Mondays
Poovar Backwaters
Poovar Backwaters is a scenic tourist town located in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful boat ride to the estuary and explore the beautiful golden sands.
Ayurvedic Massage
Experience traditional wellness treatments at certified Ayurveda centres in Kovalam, Kerala. Enjoy relaxing therapeutic massages that use natural herbal oils to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Tip: Choose only government-certified centers for authentic care
Where to stay in Kovalam
Lighthouse Beach
Hotels and cafes on the promenade.
Hawa Beach
Cheaper guesthouses.
Cliff resorts
Ayurveda resorts with sea views.
What to eat
Catch of the day
Pick fish at the beach shacks to grill.
Appam & stew
Kerala breakfast.
Good to know
- Padmanabhaswamy dress code: mundu for men, saree or long skirt for women — rentals at the gate.
- The June–September monsoon is for Ayurveda, not swimming.
Going to Kovalam? Build the plan, split costs with your group and keep tickets in one place.
Plan this trip