Traveling to Kanyakumari? Head over to these places
One of the most stunning places in India, Kanyakumari is a coastal town in Tamil Nadu that is home to the virgin Goddess Kanya Kumari. Located at the confluence of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean, this destination is a delight for art lovers. If you are planning a trip to Kanyakumari, visit these five places.
Kanyakumari Temple
One of the most beautiful temples here, the Kanyakumari or Bhagvaty Ammam Temple is well-known for its mystical aura and rich history. Shaped by the Pandayas and renovated by the Nayaks, the temple is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas in the country. The sacred temple opens from 4:30 am to 12:00 noon and 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm.
Padmanabhapuram Palace
Known as Asia's largest wooden palace, Padmanabhapuram Palace is an old granite fortress that served as the residence of the Travancore Rulers in ancient times. The palace was constructed in the 16th century by Iravi Varma Kulasekhara Perumal of the Travancore dynasty. The fort complex has different sections like Thai Kottaram, Mantrasala, Thekeekottaram, King's Council Chamber, and the Nataksala along with a small museum.
Vivekananda Rock Memorial
One of the top tourist spots in Kanyakumari, the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial is located on a small rock island. You can reach the island by ferry. Swami Vivekananda attained enlightenment here in 1892 after three days of meditation. According to tales, Devi Kanya Kumari practiced severe austerities on this rock. The memorial's primary attractions include Vivekananda Mandapam and Shripada Mandapam.
Thiruvalluvar Statue
Located adjacent to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, the Thiruvalluvar Statue is a massive 133 feet tall structure of the Saint poet Thiruvalluvar who was considered one of India's greatest poets and philosophers. Unveiled on January 1, 2000, the statue is one of the biggest in Asia. The statue's 38-foot-tall pedestal has an artistic design with a decoration of 10 elephants signifying different directions.
Our Lady of Ransom Church
Dedicated to Mother Mary, Our Lady of Ransom Church is located near Kanyakumari Beach. The church features Gothic architecture with beautiful and intricate carvings on the ceilings and walls. The most unusual part of the church is that it houses a saree-clad idol of Mother Mary. Visit this church in the evening when it is beautifully lit up.
