1. Thiruvalluvar Statue
Thiruvalluvar Statue was built between 1990 and 1999 to honour the famous Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. He is known in the literary world for his outstanding contributions to Tirukkural, a Tamil literary masterwork. It is one of Kanyakumari’s most popular tourist attractions. The 133-foot-tall and 7000-ton massive monument sit atop a 38-foot three-tiered pedestal. The 38 virtues of Thiruvalluvar’s preachings are portrayed on the pedestal.
The Alankara Mandapam surrounds it, which is further encircled by ten elephant statues. Thiruvalluvar’s three fingers point to the sky, as you can see if you look closely at the statue. The gesture is significant because it shows Aram, Porul, and Inbam, the three stanzas of Thirukkural, his literary creation. The Statue of Swami Vivekananda is located near the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and is accessible by ferry from the coast.
Timing: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Address: Near Vivekananda Puram, Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, 629702
Nearby Attraction: Kumari Amman Temple, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Lord Subramaniya Temple
2. Vivekananda Rock Memorial
One of the major attractions to see in Kanyakumari is the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. Swamiji got enlightenment here while meditating and sitting on a rock. With its majestic statue of Swami Vivekananda set against the background of the great Indian Ocean.
It is placed on one of the two adjacent rocks projecting out of the Lakshadweep Sea and comprises the ‘Shripada Mandapam’ and the ‘Vivekananda Mandapam’. Tourists enjoy a ferry trip from the coast to the islands to see the exotic views and spend time at the Memorial, which is calm and peaceful. Shripada Mandapam has a museum and a study hall where you can learn about Swami Vivekananda’s life and work. Visitors can meditate and seek peace and purity in a meditation hall called “Dhyana Mandapam,” which is located next to the Memorial.
Timing: 8 AM to 4 PM on all days
Address: Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
Nearby Attraction: Thiruvalluvar Statue, Gandhi Mandapam, Kanyakumari Beach
3. Gandhi Mandapam
Gandhi Mandapam is one of Kanyakumari’s most popular tourist attractions. The ashes of our Father of the Nation Gandhi were preserved here before being submerged in the sea. The mandapam is a memorial tribute to our country’s Great Leader, which was built in 1956.
The memorial’s central spire, which stands 79 feet tall and represents Mahatma Gandhi’s age when he was assassinated, is its most unique thing. The Mandapam’s ceiling is another noteworthy feature. It was designed and built in such a way that on Gandhi’s birthday, October 2nd, solar rays reflect on the location where his ashes are kept. Inside the memorial, there is a library with works of literature, magazines, and books from the time when India was ruled by the British. Photographs of Gandhiji and other Indian leaders who struggled for India’s independence are also included.
Timing: 7 AM to 7 PM on all days
Address: NH 44, Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu 629702
Nearby Attraction: Vivekananda Rock Memorial, vattakottai Fort, Sunset Point
4. Mathur Aqueduct
The Mathur Aqueduct, also known as the Mathur Hanging Trough, is located in Vilavancode Taluk, Kanyakumari District. This one-kilometer-long trough is one of the continent’s longest and tallest trough bridges. The name of this trough bridge comes from Mathur, a small town near the aqueduct. The mighty structure, which transports water for irrigation from the Pattanamkal Canal from one side of the hill to the other, is supported by 28 colossal pillars. The Mathur Aqueduct was built in such a way that it is separated into two sections, one of which is a trough canal and the other a road. The trough is 7.5 feet wide and 7 feet high, with concrete slabs partially covering its top.
As the aqueduct grew in popularity and more people began to visit it, a flight of stairs was built here to allow travelers to quickly reach the bridge. A children’s park and various bathing platforms have also been built in the region, allowing people of all ages to enjoy themselves at the Mathur Aqueduct.
Timing: 7 AM to 7 PM on all days
Address: Mathur Hanging Trough, Aruvikkarai, Tamil Nadu 629164
Nearby Attraction: Adikesava Perumal Temple, Chitharal Jain Monuments, Thirparappu Falls
5. Lord Subramaniya Temple
Aruppai Veedu, popularly known as Lord Subramanya Temple, is a popular tourist destination for both devotees and tourists. The magnificent structure with its multiple towers and pillars is the first thing that catches the eye. A 9-story gopuram adds to the temple’s beauty and makes it a must-see sight. The shrine was established in honour of Lord Subramanya or Murugan after he conquered the devil Surapadma, according to locals. This temple is the right place to go if you’re looking for peace and spirituality.
This Lord Subramanya Temple is one of several destinations in India where you can get a taste of the amazing things that await you. At Lord Subramanya Temple, several festivities are held, particularly around religious holidays.
Timing: 9 am – 6 pm
Address: Eathamozhi Puthalam Road, Tamil Nadu 629602
Nearby Attraction: Gandhi Mandapam, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Our Lady of Ransom Shrine
6. Vattakottai Fort
Vattakottai Fort, built by the Travancore Kings in the 18th century, is a notable historical attraction in Kanyakumari. This majestic fort, which stretches for 3.5 acres along the Bay of Bengal shore, is made of granite blocks. The fort has also been extended into the water on one side. Which includes army shacks, watchtowers, and other defense facilities, which were built to protect the kingdom from attackers.
Due to its scenic location and peaceful surroundings, Vattakottai Fort has become a popular tourist destination. The site provides panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal and the magnificent Western Ghats, as well as clear skies and dazzling black sand beaches.
Timing: 8 AM to 5 PM, on all days
Address: Vattakkottai, Tamil Nadu 629401
Nearby Attraction: Vivekananda rock memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari beach
7. Thirparappu falls
Thirparappu waterfall, which falls from a height of 50 feet, is one of Kanyakumari’s most beautiful attractions. This man-made waterfall is made up of several streams that flow into a pool below. You can take a refreshing bath in the pool, have a picnic in the natural environment, have a boat trip in the region, and capture wonderful photos in addition to getting in the majesty of the falls. At the entrance to the falls, devotees can seek blessings at the small Shiva Temple. It’s also one of the best places to visit at night. There are pubs and clubs around where you may have a great and entertaining evening.
Timing: 7.00am to 6.00pm
Address: Thirparappu, Tamil Nadu 629161
Nearby Attraction: Mathur Aqueduct, Thirparappu dam, Chitharal Rock Jain Temple