Places to visit in Kanyakumari for a serene retreat!

The 'Silence period' ahead of the election results has made the Prime Minister of the country plan for a quaint retreat after the three-month-long campaigning in India for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. But do you know the place he has chosen for that? Kanyakumari! Located in the coastal state of Tamil Nadu, Kanyakumari offers multiple picturesque sights and serene locations to sit back, relax and enjoy the "me-time". For PM Modi, it is the Vivekananda Rock Memorial where he is going to meditate. While this memorial will be closed to tourists, there are many other places you can visit and come back fresh to restart your life!

1. Kanyakumari Beach

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One of the popular places, Kanyakumari Beach is, hands down, a beauty to be admired while being here! The beach boasts the merger of three water bodies, the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea. But do you know the unique part? Well, the water with different hues here don't mix and one can differentiate between turquoise blue, deep blue, and sea green waters of the three seas! Isn't it unique and worth watching?

Where: Vavaturai Beach Road

2. Thiruvalluvar Statue

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Paying tribute to the well-accomplished poet Thiruvalluvar, this statue stands on a beautiful, small island near Kanyakumari. In the world of literature, Tirukkural, the classic Tamil text has received great recognition and Thiruvalluvar was the author of this remarkable work. The work over the statue had started in 1990 but continued till 1999 making it a popular destination among locals and tourists alike!

Where: Near Vivekanand Rock Memorial.

3. Padmanabhapuram Palace

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If you find peace while exploring the history and the heritage places, make sure you visit Padmanabhapuram Palace. The palace, which was the capital of the erstwhile Travancore Empire still highlights the rich and diverse culture that our country has had for centuries! The palace was constructed in 1601 CE by Iravi Varma Kulasekhara and used to be the administrative headquarters. So, check out the building that still stands the time!

Where: Padmanabhapuram, Thucalay.

4. Thanumalayan Temple - Sthanumalayan Kovil

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Kanyakumari is popular for its shrines and temples, and the Thanumalay Temple is one of them. It is a sacred shrine dedicated to the Trimurtis (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva). It was renovated in the 17th century, maintaining inscriptions that date back to the 9th century, around the time of its origin. One of the prominent highlights of the temple is the four musical pillars carved out of a single stone, which are placed in the Alankara Mandapam area.

Where: Mada Theru, Suchindram.

5. Courtallam Falls

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When in Kanyakumari, you must not forget to take a tour of Tirunelveli and visit the Courtallam Falls. It is one of the most attractions for people and the site is always filled with tourists. The falls cascade at an elevation of 160 meters (520 feet) and are surrounded by greenery and views of hills making it even more beautiful!

Where: Courtallam Falls, Tirunelveli

6. Vattakotai Fort

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Translating into 'Circular Fort', Vattakottai Fort is a seaside fort that not only looks peaceful but is filled with stories, quietness, and beauty! The fort is made of granite block and a part of it even goes to the sea! It was built in the 18th century by Punachal/Elakkara Valiyaveetil Marthandan Chempakaraman Pillai for the kings of Travancore and would work as a coastal defense fortification for the empire. So, how about walking around amidst stories and giving your mind some relaxation?

Where: Vattakotai Fort Road.

7. Sunset Point

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Going to such a beautiful place like Kanyakumari definitely requires you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the sunsets! Hence, visit the Sunset Point of Kanyakumari and from here you can witness the grandeur of the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal, and the Arabian Sea. But do you know what's even more special about this hidden treasure? Amidst the greenery and peace, you can enjoy both sunrise and sunset from the same place!

Where: The Hidden Twin Beach, Kanyakumari.

8. Chitharal Jain Monuments

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This Jain monument is said to have been built in the 9th Century AD. Also known as 'Thirucharanathupalli', it is a rock-cut sculpture that is situated in the caves in the hills. These sculptures are of Tirthankaras and attendant deities. You must know that the hill was once a pilgrim center for Jains. So, if you want to check out the old-forgotten history of Kanyakumari and the cultural influence of the place, you must not forget to visit here!

Where: Vellamcode, Kanyakumari