Place to visit in Azhimala Shiva Temple

KERALA

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Religious

Azhimala Shiva Temple

0 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Azhimala Shiva Temple in Kovalam, Kerala, is a stunning cliffside temple famous for its massive 58-ft Shiva statue—depicted in a majestic “Gangadhareshwara” form—and its breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, making it one of the most scenic spiritual spots in South India. Known for its peaceful ambience, sea-facing steps, and dramatic waves hitting the rocks below, the temple attracts devotees, photographers, and tourists alike. The temple is usually open from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with no entry fee, though offerings and pooja charges may vary. Located about 8 km from Kovalam, Azhimala Shiva Temple is especially popular during Mondays and festival days, offering a perfect blend of spirituality, art, and unforgettable coastal beauty.

Beach

Chowara Beach

0.19 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Chowara Beach in Kovalam, Kerala, is a serene and less-crowded coastal spot known for its clean sands, calm atmosphere, and stunning cliff-top views, making it perfect for peaceful morning walks, family outings, and sunset watching. The beach is open 24 hours with no entry fee, and visitors often enjoy the charming mix of local fishing village life and natural beauty surrounding the shoreline. Located about 8–10 km from Kovalam, Chowara Beach also features the famous Chowara Ayyappa Temple on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a quiet and scenic escape away from the busy tourist beaches.

Beach

Kovalam Beach

4.54 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Kovalam Beach, located along the Arabian Sea in Kerala, India, is one of the most popular beach destinations in South India. Famous for its crescent-shaped coastline, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters, Kovalam attracts both domestic and international tourists year-round. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying Ayurvedic massage therapies, making it a perfect getaway for relaxation and rejuvenation. Lighthouse Beach, the most prominent section, offers stunning views and a vibrant local culture. With its palm-fringed shores, beachfront resorts, and water sports activities, Kovalam Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a tranquil yet lively seaside escape in Kerala.

Beach

Hawa Beach

5.05 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Hawa Beach (Eve’s Beach) in Kovalam, Kerala, is a scenic and peaceful shoreline known for its golden sands, gentle waves, and relaxed atmosphere, making it one of the best spots in Kovalam for morning walks, sunset views, and photography. The beach is open 24 hours, and there is no entry fee, so visitors can enjoy the location anytime, though the ideal time to visit is early morning or evening for cooler weather and beautiful views. Located right next to Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach also offers local shacks, viewpoints, and occasional water activities, making it a popular hangout for couples, families, and solo travelers looking for a quieter alternative to the busier beaches of Kovalam.

Palace

Halcyon Castle

5.89 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Halcyon Castle, also known as Kovalam Palace, is a historic seaside landmark in Kovalam, Kerala, built in 1932 by the Travancore royal family and admired today for its beautiful colonial-style architecture, lush gardens, and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Once a royal summer retreat, the palace now forms part of a luxury heritage hotel, allowing visitors to admire its exterior charm and royal ambience even if the interiors are not always open for public tours. The general visiting hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though access may vary depending on hotel operations, and there is no fixed entry fee unless specific guided tours are arranged. Located close to Kovalam's famous beaches, Halcyon Castle is a must-visit for travelers interested in heritage, architecture, and peaceful coastal views.

Beach

Samudra Beach

6.51 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Samudra Beach in Kovalam, Kerala, is a peaceful and less-crowded shoreline known for its natural rocky formations, clean sands, and serene ambience, making it perfect for travelers seeking a quiet escape away from the busier Lighthouse and Hawa beaches. Popular for long evening walks, photography, and relaxation, Samudra Beach offers a stunning view of waves crashing against the rocks and is a favorite spot for honeymooners and families who prefer privacy. The beach is open 24 hours with no entry fee, and the best time to visit is early morning or sunset for cool weather and beautiful lighting. Located at the northern end of Kovalam, Samudra Beach is also close to luxury resorts, making it an ideal spot for calm, scenic, and crowd-free coastal experiences.

tourist attractions

Kovalam Art Gallery

7.12 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Kerala Arts & Crafts Village in Kovalam is a vibrant cultural hub that showcases traditional Kerala handicrafts, handloom work, wood carvings, pottery, metal crafts, and live artisan workshops, making it a must-visit spot for travelers who want to experience authentic local art and take home unique handcrafted souvenirs. Spread across a beautifully designed campus surrounded by greenery, the village offers craft demonstrations, shopping outlets, photo spots, and even small cafes, creating a relaxed and enriching experience for families, couples, and culture lovers. The village is usually open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM with a small entry fee, and visitors can spend 1–2 hours exploring the artisan studios and galleries. Located just a few minutes from Kovalam’s main beaches, the Kerala Arts & Crafts Village is perfect for anyone wanting a meaningful blend of culture, creativity, and Kerala’s artistic heritage.

Lake

Vellayani Lake

8.91 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Vellayani Lake in Kovalam, Kerala, is the region’s largest freshwater lake, famous for its serene landscapes, lotus-filled waters, and peaceful rural surroundings, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a quiet escape from the coastal crowds. The lake is open 24 hours and has no entry fee, though the best time to visit is early morning or evening when the light is soft and the ambience is calm. Located about 7–8 km from Kovalam Beach, Vellayani Lake is especially popular during the Onam season when traditional boat races are held, and visitors can enjoy the scenic walkway, local farms, and picturesque views that make this freshwater gem a must-visit attraction near Kovalam.

Religious

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

15.88 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Nestled in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the most revered temples in India and a must-visit destination for both spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this ancient temple is known for its grandeur, intricate architecture, and rich history. With its divine presence and captivating aura, the temple stands as a symbol of Kerala’s religious heritage and cultural significance.

waterfalls

Thirparappu Waterfalls

27.59 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Thirparappu Waterfalls, located in Kanyakumari district, is a stunning man-made cascade on the Kodayar River, famous for its 50 ft-high gushing white stream, scenic surroundings, and family-friendly bathing area that attracts tourists year-round. Surrounded by lush greenery, a children’s park, and the nearby ancient Mahadevar Temple, the falls offer a perfect mix of nature, relaxation, and light adventure. The waterfall is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with a modest entry fee of around ₹10 for adults and additional charges for parking. The best time to visit is between October and March when the flow is strong and the weather is pleasant. Just 55 km from Kanyakumari, Thirparappu Waterfalls is a must-visit spot for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a refreshing day trip amidst serene greenery.

Religious

Bhagavathy Amman Temple

31.29 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Bhagavathy Amman Temple in Kanyakumari, dedicated to Goddess Kanyakumari (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati), is a 3,000-year-old sacred temple known for its powerful spiritual aura, ancient Dravidian architecture, and ocean-facing location where devotees come to seek blessings for prosperity, marriage, and protection. One of the 108 Shakti Peethas, the temple features the unique deity of the virgin goddess adorned with a diamond nose ring that is said to shine brightly over the sea. The temple is generally open from 4:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with no entry fee, though special darshan and pooja charges vary. Situated close to Kanyakumari Beach and major attractions, Bhagavathy Amman Temple is a must-visit for pilgrims and travelers seeking a blend of devotion, history, and stunning coastal surroundings.

tourist attractions

Mathur Aqueduct

31.29 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Mathur Aqueduct, also known as Mathoor Hanging Bridge, is a spectacular 1 km-long elevated water channel in Kanyakumari district, famous for being one of the longest and highest aqueducts in Asia and offering breathtaking panoramic views of lush coconut groves, green hills, and scenic countryside. Built in 1966 across the Pahrali River, this engineering marvel doubles as a popular tourist walkway where visitors can enjoy a thrilling yet beautiful stroll along the narrow passageway at 115 ft height. The aqueduct is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM with a small entry fee of a few rupees, making it an affordable and memorable experience for families, couples, and nature lovers. Located around 45 km from Kanyakumari, Mathur Aqueduct is a must-visit for anyone seeking stunning views, unique architecture, and a refreshing escape into the greenery.

tourist attractions

Padmanabhapuram Palace

36.66 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Padmanabhapuram Palace, located near Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, is a magnificent 16th-century wooden palace built by the Travancore kings and celebrated for its exquisite Kerala-style architecture, intricate rosewood carvings, mural paintings, and beautifully preserved royal interiors like the Thai Kottaram, king’s chamber, council hall, and 300-year-old clock tower. Surrounded by lush hills and maintained by the Kerala government, the palace offers a unique journey into South India’s royal heritage and traditional craftsmanship. The palace is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and remains closed on Mondays, with an entry fee of around ₹35 for adults, ₹10 for children, and additional charges for camera use. Just 30 km from Kanyakumari, Padmanabhapuram Palace is a must-visit for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience.

fort

Anjuthengu Fort

43.53 From Azhimala Shiva Temple

Anjuthengu Fort, also known as Anchuthengu Fort, is a historic fort built by the British East India Company in 1695, located about 36 km from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Surrounded by coconut groves and backwaters, the fort once served as the first British settlement in Kerala and played a key role in trade and military activities during the colonial period. Tourists visiting Anjuthengu Fort can explore its ancient walls, bastions, and scenic views of the Arabian Sea. The nearby Anjengo Lighthouse and tranquil beaches make it a perfect destination for history lovers and nature enthusiasts. With its rich heritage and serene coastal setting, Anjuthengu Fort is one of the must-visit historical attractions near Varkala and Thiruvananthapuram.