Thiruvananthapuram - Beaches and Backwaters
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Located at the south western tip of India, Thiruvananthapuram the capital city
of Kerala, is bordered by the Arabian sea on the west. The district has a long
shore line, with secluded, internationally renowned beaches. Enchanting picnic
spots on the wooded highlands on its eastern and north eastern boundaries,
historic monuments, backwater stretches and a rich cultural heritage make this
land a much sought after tourist destination.


Shanghumukham
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Just 8 km from the city, this is a favourite haunt of sunset watchers. The
beach is adjacent to the Thiruvananthapuram Airport and Veli Tourist Village.
An indoor recreation club, the matsya kanyaka (a gigantic, 35 m long sculpture
of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are some of the
attractions here.


Kovalam
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This internationally renowned beach resort has been a favourite haunt of
tourists since the 1930s. Kovalam consists of three adjacent crescent beaches.
The southern most, known as the Lighthouse Beach, is the most popular. Kovalam
offers accommodation options to suit all budgets (6 km - 1/2 hour)


Varkala
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A quiet, secluded stretch of sand, the Papanasam beach in Varkala is known for
its mineral springs and rocky cliffs. The 2000 year old Sree Janardhana Swamy
Temple and the Nature Care Centre are the two main attractions here (40 km -1
1/2 hours)


Veli Tourist Village
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Located 8 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, the Veli Tourist Village is bordered
by the Veli lagoon and the Arabian sea. The lagoon here is separated from the
sea by a narrow sand bar. Facilities at the village include watersports in the
lagoon and an 18 acre waterfront park with a floating bridge that connects the
village to the beach. Ph: 500785 (Open 10:00 am to 5:00 pm)

Boat rentals: * Safari boat: Rs. 10/- per head * Speed boat: Rs. 120/- per
person * Pedal boat: 4 seater - Rs. 50/- for half an hour; 2 seater - Rs. 40/-
for half an hour.


Akkulam Boat Club
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A very popular picnic spot with boating facilities on the lake and a children's
park with a swimming pool. Ph: 443043, (Open 10:00 am to 5:00 pm)

Boat rentals: * Safari boat: Rs.15 per head * Speed boat: Rs.150 for four
persons Entrance: * Children's park: Adults: Rs. 2; Children: Re. 1 * Swimming
pool: Adults: Rs.15; Children: Rs.10


Thiruvallam
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This serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe
rides. For details contact: Tour India, Thiruvananthapuram Ph: 331507 Karuvayal
Tours Ph: 460974 Soma Houseboats Ph: 481600 (www.somatheeram.com)


