Welcome to Kanyakumari!
Kanyakumari is a small coastal town in Tamil Nadu state. It’s actually the southernmost point of India where the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal meet! This is also a pilgrim centre as of the Kanya Kumari, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati (the wife of the Lord Shiva). And this is surprisingly attractive town where to spend the weekend. Check out our Top 3 Must – See Places in Kanyakumari!
1. Arulmigu Bhagavathy Amman Temple and other religious buildings
Arulmigu Bhagavathy Amman Temple is more than 3 thousand years old, located by the coast. It is dedicated to Goddess Kanya Kumari, available also for foreigners. The temple has specific working hours, it’s open from 4.30 AM to 12.30 PM, and from 4 PM to 8 PM. The entrance fee is only 20 INR for everyone. The interesting part is when entering the temple every male has to remove the shirt. The q`s in the temple are quite long, but it is worth waiting. Inside the temple you will see a special room with a black stone idol of the goddess, the fire is lit before her and sweaty temple workers are taking care of everything in the hot room. Devotees come to worship the statue by kneeling, praying and donating. Red powder will be put in your palms as for blessing. Remember that photography is prohibited and it is just respectful if you are keeping to it.
Another religious buildings worth visiting are Bharat Mata Temple, Mahavirswami Jain Temple Dadawadi, Sri Adhi Sankarar Temple, Devi Mutharamman Temple, also cathedrals like Our Lady of Ransom Shrine and St. Roch`s Church.
2. The islands
From the coast of Kanyakumari town you will see two islands, on each of which the huge monuments are built. Islands are easily reachable by ferry that costs 50 INR both ways. The life west will be provided for the ride along with Indian group in a big ferry. During the season ferries go quite often, sometimes there are some queues. On the biggest island you will be able to find two temples. The main one is dedicated to the Indian philosopher and reformer Swami Vivekananda. The other temple is dedicated to Goddess Kanya Kumari that is said to have carried out part of her penance by standing on one foot. And in the temple there is a rock with the Goddess foot print. On this island you will also find a meditation hall and book stalls with books of Swami Vivekananda teachings.
On the other island the statue of the great Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar is located. It’s possible to go inside the base of the statue or climb up to enjoy the views.
3. Sunrise and sunset by the bright markets
There are special spots to watch sunrise or sunset by the Kanyakumari coast. It is said that huge energies are spreading at those moments. On full moon nights it is even possible to see the moon rising from the sea opposite the setting sun at about the same time. If you wish to gain even brighter experience, dip in the water – it is believed that this way you will wash away all sins and provide the soul`s liberation from the cycle of rebirth. And do not forget the rich markets along the shore!
Seashells, handicrafts and different religious attributes will remind you of this special place!
Enjoy Kanyakumari! This is a wonderful place to be in touch with the nature, to try to feel energies that are so strong in India, and take a breath from the buzzing cities!