Kanyakumari, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean converge, offers a unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. With the recent inauguration of India’s first glass bridge, the town has become an even more compelling destination for travelers.
Recent Development: The Glass Bridge
In December 2024, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated a 77-meter-long, 10-meter-wide glass bridge connecting the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue. Constructed at a cost of ₹37 crore, this bowstring arch bridge provides tourists with a thrilling experience of walking above the sea, offering panoramic views of the monuments and the surrounding waters. Since its opening, over 6.3 lakh visitors have traversed the bridge, making it a major attraction in the region.
Day 1: Arrival and Iconic Sightseeing
- Arrival: Travel from Kochi to Kanyakumari by train (approximately 8–9 hours) or bus (around 10 hours).
- Check-in: Opt for budget accommodations like Hotel Seaview or mid-range options such as Sparsa Resort.
- Vivekananda Rock Memorial: Take a ferry to this historic site where Swami Vivekananda meditated.
- Thiruvalluvar Statue: Marvel at the 133-foot statue dedicated to the Tamil poet-saint.
- Sunset View Point: Experience a breathtaking sunset where the three seas meet.
Day 2: Glass Bridge and Cultural Exploration
- Glass Bridge: Walk across the newly inaugurated glass bridge, enjoying views of the sea and the monuments.
- Kanyakumari Temple: Visit this ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Kanyakumari.
- Gandhi Mandapam: Pay respects at the memorial where Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes were kept before immersion.
- Local Markets: Shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Sound and Light Show: Attend the evening show at the Thiruvalluvar Statue to learn about Tamil culture and history.
Day 3: Nature and Departure
- Sunrise at Kanyakumari: Wake up early to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the sea.
- Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple: Explore this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Vivekananda Rock Memorial Museum: Learn about the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda.
- Departure: Head back to Kochi by train or bus.
Accommodation Options
- Budget: Hotel Seaview, ₹1,000–₹1,500 per night.
- Mid-range: Sparsa Resort, ₹3,000–₹5,000 per night.
- Luxury: The Gopinivas Grand, ₹6,000–₹8,000 per night.
Local Cuisine
- Seafood: Try local dishes like fish curry and prawn masala at restaurants such as Sea View Restaurant.
- South Indian Delights: Enjoy dosas, idlis, and vadas at eateries like Saravana Bhavan.
- Sweets: Don’t miss out on traditional sweets like halwa and payasam.
Best Time to Visit
- Ideal Months: October to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing.
- Avoid: April to June, as temperatures can soar above 35°C.
Transportation
- From Kochi: Board a train or bus to Kanyakumari.
- Local Travel: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available for short distances.
- Ferries: Use ferries to reach the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Thiruvalluvar Statue.
Relevance of the Place
Kanyakumari holds significant cultural and spiritual importance. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, who meditated here in 1892. The Thiruvalluvar Statue honors the Tamil poet-saint Thiruvalluvar, known for his work Tirukkural. The newly inaugurated glass bridge enhances accessibility and offers a modern touch to this historic town. The glass bridge was inaugurated in December 2024 and has since become a major tourist attraction, with over 6.3 lakh visitors in the first three months .
