Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent, is well known for its diverse culture and iconic temples. As much as the city has to offer, there is always a need for a perfect weekend getaway to the many places near Kanyakumari. Because of its perfect location and connectivity to both sides of the Indian coast, the city of Kanyakumari has some of the best weekend getaway options.
12 Best Places Near Kanyakumari
Here are some of the best places each with their unique story and a different sense of adventure. Have a look.
1. Thiruvananthapuram
The capital city of Kerala filled with beautiful colonial architecture; is a must-visit on a weekend retreat. The town is filled with art galleries and palaces that give you a unique cultural explosion. Places like the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple, the Napier Museum, Kurhira Malika are some of the greatest attractions. They have a vast collection of historically significant artifacts from the Travancore Royal family. Since it’s a major city, the availably of good food and clean accommodation is ample.
Ideal for: Families, History, Beach
Type: City/Coastal
Stay options: Uday Suites, Hilton Garden Inn
Best time to visit: October-February
Must Read: 10 Idyllic Waterfalls In Kanyakumari That Look Straight Out Of Paradise In 2022
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2. Kodaikanal
This city is one of the most cherished hill stations in south India. It’s one of the most popular weekend places near Kanyakumari. If you wish to escape the coastal humidity and spend some time in nature, then there is no better option than Kodaikanal. Talk a walk among the green meadows and sit by the silent lakes. All the viewpoints are flooded with typical shops that sell souvenirs and trinkets.
Ideal for: Families and friends, large groups
Type: Hill Station
Stay options: Mistycove, Kodai Home Stay, Sterling Kodai Lake Resort
Best time to visit: October-March
Suggested Read: Bike Trip from Kanyakumari To Kashmir: A Ride Of Glory
3. Madurai
Madurai is the temple town of south India and perfect for people of all age groups. The city has some of the most stunning temple architecture you will see in the country. The Madurai Meenakshi temple gets devotees from all over the country in search of spiritually. The temple designs are unique, which brings even architecture lovers to its doorstep. The Gandi Memorial Museum and the Thirumalai Nayaka Mahal are also some of the famous sights.
Ideal for: Families and friends. Spiritual Getaway, Pilgrimage
Type: Temple Town
Stay options: Avea B&B, The Madhurai Residency, Heritage Madhurai
Best time to visit: October-March
Suggested Read: Top 23 Tourist Places In Kanyakumari 2022: The Land Where The Oceans Meet
4. Munnar
The hill-town of the Western Ghats, the city of Munnar, is one of the celebrated getaways. As part of the Nilgiri hill range, the town is filled with lush greenery till the eye can see. The unique food and the large wildlife density uplifts your holiday spirit. The city has many tea plantations and waterfalls for an evening stroll. If you are a fan of trekking and hiking, there are many lesser-known trails to take an expedition on. Be it a family trip or an adventure getaway with a friend; there is something for everyone in Munnar.
Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts
Type: Hill Station
Stay options: Tea Country Munnar, Elysium Gardens Hill Resorts
Best time to visit: September-November and January-March
Suggested Read: 6 Surreal Beaches In Kanyakumari You Can’t Afford To Miss In 2022
5. Varkala
The city that once used to be a hub for pilgrims is now the backyard for backpackers. The hip-coastal-town of Varkala has seen a rapid transformation in tourism in the last decade. The clean beaches and the many beautiful shacks have made it a popular choice for the youth. One can take a walk to the Varkala Cliff and enjoy a unique coastal sunset. The many Hindu shrines like the Sivagiri and Janardhana Swamy temple are significant landmarks.
Ideal for: Solo Travelers, Pilgrims, Friends Groups
Type: Beach town
Stay options: Clafouti Beach Resort, Gateway Varkala, Cliff Stories
Best time to visit: October-March
Suggested Read: 50 Best Tourist Places In Tamil Nadu Ensuring The Most Awesome 2022 Vacay!
6. Rameshwaram
Another profound temple town of the south, Rameswaram, is located along the coast of Tamil Nadu on the Pamba Islands. The temples have elaborate designs and mesmerizing colors. The most prominent attraction is the Agni Theertham of the beach is considered to be a holy water body. Hindu pilgrims believe that a dip in this water will enrich the sole. The Arulmigu Temple, the floating stone of Hanuman, and Kothandaramaswamy Temple are some of the other memorable spots.
Ideal for: Families, Pilgrimage
Type: Temple Town
Stay options: Hyatt Place, Daiwik Hotels, Hotel Royal Residency
Best time to visit: October-April
Suggested Read: Mahabalipuram In Tamil Nadu: Explore The Unique Culture Of Southern India In 2022
7. Pondicherry
Officially called ‘Puducherry,’ this city used to be a French Colony until 1954. The exceptional French architecture is still evident in the main parts of the town. The city is a perfect balance of modern lifestyle with a hint of local flavors. The seaside promenade is the highlight of the coastal city. The Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry has also made its mark as a spiritual retreat for travelers around the world. The ashram has an enchanting unparalleled community living.
Ideal for: Friends and family vacation
Type: Beach town
Stay options: Accord Puducherry, The Promenade, Hotel Annamalai International
Best time to visit: October-March
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8. Colombo
If you have an economical international holiday on your mind and cannot decide what places near Kanyakumari fit the bill, this is the one for you. Colombo is the capital city of Srilanka and the most preferred pocket-friendly destination from South India. The town has a Tamil culture that is so very indigenous and different from that of Indians. Experience a flip on all the south Indian food with a Lankan touch. The city has some temple architectural wonders that you can spend hours exploring.
Ideal for: Friends and family vacation
Type: City
Stay options: Groove House, Marino Beach Colombo, Mandarina
Best time to visit: January-March
Suggested Read: 12 Honeymoon Places In Tamil Nadu For A Romantic Getaway In 2022!
9. Andaman Islands
The Indian archipelago, Andaman Island, is the go-to destination for those looking for an adrenaline rush. Famous for its white-sand beaches the Andaman islands are sure to get your blood pumping. Many travelers start their deep-sea diving and snorkeling journey from this very place. The coral reef is home to unique marine flora and fauna. The clean waters and secluded islands are the epitome of a beach holiday.
Ideal for: Adventure seekers, diving
Type: Islands
Stay options: Havelock Island Beach Resort, Taj Exotica Resort, Coral Reef Resort
Best time to visit: November-May
Suggested Read: 9 Best Hotels In Tirupati For A Tranquil Retreat In The Heart Of Tamil Nadu!
10. Alappuzha
Locally called Alleppey, it is the backwater capital of the country. The houseboat culture of this town is what puts it on the map. A family trip or a romantic holiday with your partner, the houseboats provide an unmatched holiday experience. The cities of Kerala are well known for their warm hospitality and lip-smacking food. You can spend your days on the silent backwaters or explore the city. Alappuzha Beach, Punnamada Lake, and the lighthouse are some of its highlights. This has to be one of the top places near Kanyakumari.
Ideal for: Families, Couples
Type: Backwaters
Stay options: House Boats.
Best time to visit: November-February
Suggested Read: 15 Kodaikanal Hotels To Pick From For Your Next Trip To Tamil Nadu
11. Kollam
A family-friendly beach city along the Malabar Coast of India. Famous for its trade culture, and clean, well-kept beaches. The many beach resorts in the city have given it the tourism influx like no-other. Ashtamudi Lake is a popular spot for houseboat living. The Kollam beach and Tangasseri Lighthouse also add to the offering of Kollam. The recently inaugurated Jatayu statue has also drawn the attention of many travelers around the country.
Ideal for: Families and Friends
Type: City
Stay options: Hotel Sea Pearl, Nani Hotels and Resorts, The Quilon Beach Hotel
Best time to visit: November-February
Suggested Read: Bookmark These 8 Romantic Things To Do In Kodaikanal For A Blissful Trip In Tamil Nadu!
12. Periyar National Park
Also called Periyar Tiger Reserve, the national park is a hotspot for wildlife and a retreat away from the city life. Locked at the hills of the Western Ghats, it provides a relaxed and calm atmosphere to soothe the mind and body. Animals like the Sambar Deer, Indian Bison, macaques can be spotted here. The park also has one of the highest numbers of elephants.
Ideal for: Nature Enthusiast
Type: Forest
Stay options: Jungle Resort Periyar.
Best time to visit: November-February
Further Read: 14 Exciting Things To Do In Mahabalipuram On Your Next Vacay In Tamil Nadu In 2022!
These were some of the beautiful places near Kanyakumari that one can plan a weekend getaway or short trip to. Book your holiday with TravelTriangle and have an amazing time exploring these lovely destinations.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places Near Kanyakumari
What is famous in Kanyakumari?
Kanyakumari is famous because it is the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent. The white sand beaches and the many Hindu shrines make it a popular destination for all kinds of travelers.
How can I go from Kanyakumari to Rameshwaram?
Rameshwaram from Kanyakumari is at a distance of 308 kilometers by road. One can take a taxi or a bus from the local bus station. There are both general and AC buses between the two towns. There are also many trains. The Rameswaram SF express and Madurai Rameswaram passenger are some of the commonly used trains.
How far is Madurai from Kanyakumari?
Madurai and Kanyakumari are at a distance of 244 kilometers by road. The journey can be quickly made by bus as there is a regular government bus service between the two cities and takes around four hours.
Does Kanyakumari have an airport?
No, the city of Kanyakumari does not have an airport. The nearest airport is in the town of Thiruvananthapuram. The airport is at a distance of 85 kilometers.
Which temple is famous in Kanyakumari?
The Kanyakumari temple is one of the most significant attractions in the city. The temple lies deep into the waters and gives a stunning view and surreal spiritual experience.
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