Kovalam beach: Top 5 Places in Covelong
Kovalam Beach, situated in Chennai, is a picturesque coastal destination renowned for its sandy shores and tranquil waters. Located approximately 40 kilometers south of Chennai along the East Coast Road leading to Mahabalipuram, Kovalam offers visitors a serene escape from the bustling city life. This pristine beach is steeped in history, once serving as a bustling port town developed in the 1720s by the Ostend Company. Today, Kovalam Beach is a popular spot for surfing, with a surf school and resort offering lessons and accommodations for enthusiasts. Visitors can also explore the historic remnants of the Belgian fort, now transformed into the luxurious Taj Fisherman’s Cove resort. Whether enjoying water sports, soaking up the sun, or simply strolling along the shoreline, Kovalam Beach provides a delightful retreat for locals and tourists alike.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Former Name | Covelong beach |
| Distance from Chennai | Approximately 36 km |
| Certification | Blue Flag certification |
| Criteria Met | 33 criteria including water quality, safety, environmental education, and management |
| Facilities | Safe bathing areas, lifeguard towers, first aid, CCTV coverage, facilities for differently-abled |
| Beach Management Committee | Constituted to monitor and supervise the BEAMS program at Kovalam beach |
| Monitoring | Periodical monitoring of bathing water quality testing conducted by NCSCM, MoEF&CC, GoI |
| Activities | Surfing, Covelong Point Festival, exploring old church ruins, coastal charm, visiting Dutch Fort |
| Tips Before Visiting | Check for closures during extreme weather, carry enough cash, use waterproof camera for photography |
Water Activities at Covelong Beach
- Surfing: Covelong Beach offers gentle and calm waves, perfect for surfing. Learn to surf at the First Surfing School of India established here and explore the Bay of Bengal as you ride the waves.
- Para-Sailing: Experience the thrill of sailing over the beautiful beach and create adventurous memories by trying para-sailing during your visit to Covelong Beach.
- Boating: Rent a motorboat and enjoy the sensation of cruising over the waters of the Bay of Bengal. Ensure safety and control while boating to have a memorable experience.
- Fishing: Engage in the popular activity of fishing at Covelong Beach. Learn fishing techniques from the locals of Covelong village and enjoy the satisfaction of catching your own fish, which you can later enjoy as a delicious meal.
Top five places to visit in Covelong
- Taj Fisherman’s Cove: Formerly a Belgian fort, now transformed into a luxurious beach resort, offering a blend of history and modern amenities.
- Ancient Catholic Church: Built in the 1770s, this historic church stands as a testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage and architectural legacy.
- Surf School and Resort: Covelong Beach is renowned for surfing, with a dedicated surf school and resort offering lessons and accommodations for enthusiasts. Samudra Community Yoga School: Located near the beachfront, this yoga school provides a serene environment for practitioners to connect with their inner selves and rejuvenate.
- River Mouth Opening: Explore the natural beauty of Kovalam with a visit to the river mouth opening, which remains active throughout the year, adding to the scenic charm of the area.
These top five places in Covelong offer a perfect blend of history, culture, adventure, and relaxation for visitors to enjoy during their stay at Kovalam Beach.
Attraction
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Taj Fisherman’s Cove | Former Belgian fort transformed into a luxurious beach resort, offering modern amenities. |
| Ancient Catholic Church | Historic church built in the 1770s, showcasing the area’s rich cultural heritage. |
| Surf School and Resort | Renowned destination for surfing enthusiasts, providing lessons and accommodations. |
| Samudra Community Yoga School | Serene yoga school near the beachfront, offering classes in a tranquil environment. |
| River Mouth Opening | Natural feature adding to the scenic beauty of Kovalam, providing opportunities for exploration. |
Point of Interest
| Point of Interest | Description |
|---|---|
| The Lighthouse | The Vizhinjam Lighthouse near Kovalam Beach offers panoramic views from its summit, accessible by a spiral staircase. |
| Karamana Stream and Boating | Enjoy water sports like kayaking and boating on the scenic Karamana River, surrounded by lush greenery. |
| Vellayani Lake | Explore the largest freshwater lake in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district, known for its annual boating races during the Onam festival. |
| Valiyathura Pier | Relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and water at Valiyathura Beach, featuring the well-known Valiyathura Pier amidst a picturesque setting. |
| Edakallu | Visit the popular Sunset Point at Edakallu in Kovalam, offering panoramic views of the horizon where the sky meets the water. |
| Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple | Discover one of South India’s oldest temples devoted to the martial sage Parasurama, located on the banks of the Karamana River. |
| Kovalam Art Gallery | Explore exquisite paintings and antiquities at the Kovalam Art Gallery, showcasing the work of artists from around the world. |
FAQ
What is the Taj Fisherman’s Cove?
The Taj Fisherman’s Cove is a luxurious beach resort that was formerly a Belgian fort. It offers modern amenities and a blend of history and luxury for visitors.
Can visitors explore any historic sites in Covelong?
Yes, visitors can explore the ancient Catholic Church, built in the 1770s, which stands as a testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage and architectural legacy.
Is surfing popular in Covelong?
Absolutely! Covelong Beach is renowned for surfing, and there is a dedicated surf school and resort offering lessons and accommodations for enthusiasts.
Where can one practice yoga in Covelong?
The Samudra Community Yoga School, located near the beachfront, provides a serene environment for yoga practitioners to connect with their inner selves and rejuvenate.
Are there any natural attractions to explore in Covelong?
Yes, visitors can explore the river mouth opening, which remains active throughout the year, adding to the scenic charm of the area and providing opportunities for exploration.
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