Formerly known as Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram is gateway to one of the most beautiful states in India- Kerala. Trivandrum opens the gates to a world of beaches, mountains, backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries and islands. Trivandrum is mostly serving as a gateway to Kovalam -- Kovalam is just 16 kms away from Trivandrum. The Kovalam beach has for long been known as the "Paradise of the South". "Kovalam" means a grove of coconut trees and true to its name the village offers an endless sight of coconut trees. The crescent-shaped beach has three parts. The southern most beach, and the most popular, is light house beach. It offers an amazing sight of Vizhinjam mosque. The northern, Samudra, is a laidback one and time seems stands still here. The middle, hawah, in the early day, is a beehive of activities with fishermen setting out for sea. With a high rock promontory and a calm bay of blue waters, this beach paradise creates a unique aquarelle on moonlit nights.
Its scenic beauty and serenity is supplemented by the availability of excellent accommodation . There are a lot of restaurants which provide western as well as Indian style food .. The grilled seafood items such as lobster, king prawns and kalamari are got fresh from the sea at Kovalam. Ayurvedic massage parlours, yoga centers and water sport facilities, makes Kovalam a popular haven for tourists from all over the globe.