Beach at the Lighthouse in India
In the Indian city of Kovalam, famous for its resorts and Ayurvedic clinics In the state of Kerala, there is a beach with an unusual name: «Mayak» (Lighthouse). It is a cosy and well-equipped recreation area where you can bask on the hot sand and splash about in the sea. Those who seek new experiences can climb up to the observation deck of the nearby lighthouse. Gourmands will enjoy dishes prepared from freshly caught seafood.
A lighthouse, famous the world over
Kovalam Lighthouse is ranked among the top ten most famous lighthouses in the world. You don't need to undertake a long journey through dangerous places to see the tower proudly towering over the shore. This is one of the most easily accessible lighthouses from a tourist perspective. Moreover, you can not only admire it from afar, but also climb to the observation deck. Every day, the tower doors open to travellers for two hours. And this pleasure costs just 10 Indian rupees.
A guiding sign for sailors has stood in this spot for hundreds of years. Every evening it escorts fishermen out to their dangerous catches, and in the morning, before sunrise, it shows them the way home. The tower that stood here for many years fell into disrepair and was demolished. The modern structure has graced the shore relatively recently, since 1972.
Photograph of the beach at the lighthouse in Kerala
Safe and interesting holiday
Mayak Beach is the southernmost of three beaches on this stretch of coastline. During the day, the top of the lighthouse offers a beautiful view of the ocean, beaches and the tropical greenery of coconut groves. However, many people visit in the evening or stay overnight in one of the nearby hotels to admire the bright light, which shines like a star over the sea.
The ocean here is quite shallow, but one must not forget that it is still the ocean and not a quiet pond. Long ocean waves are dangerous even for excellent swimmers. Sometimes the surf completely conceals the narrow strip of sand. The rocky cliffs framing the beach act as breakwaters and somewhat tame the fury of the elements. The authorities monitor safety for visitors. Lifeguards are always on duty in the tourist zone, and police patrols are regularly seen.
At the end of the day, stalls line the beach where fish is cooked right before the customer's eyes. You can buy fresh catches directly from the boats from fishermen. Locals often come here specifically for seafood.
Tourist information
In the coastal restaurants, you can find both Indian national cuisine dishes and menus geared towards Europeans. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent on the beach, and regular customers can receive a discount on these services. The usual charge is approximately 300 rupees per day, with a discounted option of 100 rupees (prices are subject to change). Nearby, there is a car rental station, a petrol station, and parking.
Nearby are a mosque and a temple. The cultural programme will be provided by the art gallery, St. Mary's Church, palaces, parks and other attractions in Trivandrum, which are a few minutes away by bus or car. There are souvenir shops, Ayurvedic clinics and small massage parlours. There are many street vendors and touts.
Local people observe tourists with interest and may comment on their clothing or behaviour, but they are never aggressive. They enjoy having their photograph taken with visitors. Do not be surprised if an unknown Indian approaches you and asks for a photo together.
Only guests of first-line hotels may come to the beach directly in swimsuits. For all others, more modest clothing is recommended. Visiting the lighthouse and walks through coconut groves are also best done in modest outfits that cover the legs.
Ковалам удобно выбрать базой для поездки — тур на аюрведу в Индию объединяет пляжи и оздоровление.
