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Kanyakumari, once referred to as the "ALEXANDRIA OF THE EAST", has been a great centre for art, culture, civilization and pilgrimage for years. This is the only place in India where one can enjoy the unique experience of watching the sunset and moonrise simultaneously on a full moon evening….
Kanyakumari was also under the control of the Cholas the Cheras, the Pandyas and the Nayaks who were the great rulers of South India. The architectural beauty of the temples are the beautiful work of these rulers. By its very location, Kanyakumari occupies a unique place among the tourist centres of India. A fine beach landscape with sands of different colours is another interesting aspect of Kanyakumari.
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Things not to be missed:
GANDHI MEMORIAL
This striking memorial has been built on the spot where the urn containing Mahatma's ashes was kept for public viewing before immersion. It was designed so that on Gandhiji's birthday (2nd October), the suns rays fall on the place where his ashes were kept. The beautiful Gandhi Memorial completed in 1956, is situated as a memorial to the Father of the Nation.
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SWAMI VIVEKANANDA ROCK MEMORIAL
This grand memorial to the great Indian Philosopher Swami Vivekananda is on one of the twin rocks jutting out from the sea about 200 metres offshore about 500 meters away from mainland. There is a Dhyana Mandapam where one can sit in a serene atmosphere and meditate. Ferry services are available to reach the memorial. The design of the mandapa incorporates different styles of temple architecture from all over India. It houses a statue of Vivekananda. |
KUMARI AMMAN TEMPLE
Picturesquely situated overlooking the shore, this temple and the nearby Ghat attract tourist from all over the world. The deity, Devi Kanyakumari is' the protector of India's shores' has an exceptionally brilliant diamond on her nose ring, which is supposed to shine out to sea. According to a legend, Devi did penance here to secure Lord Siva's hand in marriage. When she was unsuccessful, she vowed to remain a virgin. The Diamond nose-ring of this deity is famous for its sparkling splendour, which is supposed to be visible even from the sea.
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THIRUVALLUVAR STATUE
Thiruvalluvar is the immortal poet of Tamil Nadu. The pedestal of the statue is of 38 feet height and the statue over it is 95 feet tall with a grand total of 133 feet for the entire sculpture. The 3-tier pedestal known as Atharapeedam is surrounded by an artistic Mandapa known as Alankara Mandapam with 38 feet height. Surrounding the Alankara Mandapa stand 10 elephant statues signifying 8 directions with earth and space down. To help the tourists to worship the holy feet of Thiruvalluvar 140 steps are constructed inside the Mandapa. |
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Around Kanyakumari
Sucheendram Temple
Just 13 Kms. from Kanyakumari, Sucheendram has a temple dedicated to a deity who is the representation of the combined forces of Siva, Vishnu and Brahma. It is one of the few temples in the country where the Trinities are worshipped. The temple has a beautiful gopuram, musical pillars and an excellent statue of the Hanuman, apart from a valuable collection of art from different periods.
Padmanabhapuram Palace - 60 Km
The Padmanabhapuram Palace, a magnificent wooden palace of the 16th century, is situated at Thuckalay, Kanyakumari District is 60 km from Thiruvananthapuram. This old palace of the Rajas of the erstwhile Travancore (1550 to 1750 AD) is a fine specimen of Kerala's indigenous style of architecture. The antique interiors are replete with intricate rosewood carvings and sculptured decor. The palace also contains 17th and 18th century murals. The Palace will be closed on Mondays. |
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