The Hindu : Tamil Nadu News : Where everything mesmerises visitors

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Monday, Jan 14, 2008
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Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

Where everything mesmerises visitors

— Photo: A. Shaikmohideen

Standing tall: The Thiruvalluvar statue at Kanyakumari.

Surrounded by majestic hills, bordered by colourful seashores on three sides and vast tracks of coconut trees and paddy fields Kanyakumari district is the abode of temples, churches and mosques. The southern most tip of India presents a unique blend of architecture, culture and customs of Kerala with the rich deep traditions of Tamil Nadu.

The district administration decided to take up tourism promotion initiatives in a major way. Attempts has been made to put up basic amenities at the virgin beautiful spots so as to facilitate the inflow of the both domestic and foreign tourists.

Some of the places of interests are, the Gandhi Memorial situated near the confluence of the seas. It was here that Gandhiji’s ashes were kept for public to pay homage before immersion. One cannot miss the looming presence of the 133 feet Poet Thiruvalluvar’s statue a little off in the sea. The pedestal of the statue is 38 feet in height to denote the 38 chapters he dedicated for ‘Aram’ (right conduct) in his magnum opus Thirukkural. The statue is 95 feet high representing the remaining 95 chapters of the total 133.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial is another place in Kanyakumari, which attracts a large number of tourists. The rock called Sri Pada parai has a deep impression similar to a human feet, little brownish in colour. It is believed that Goddess Kanyakumari did penance on this rock.

Similarly the Government museum, situated on the Beach Road offers a good collection of sculptured artefacts and crafts.

The eternal attraction and divine spectacle is the sunrise and sunset at Kanyakumari.

Guganathaswamy temple is a 1000 year old temple and is said to have been built by the King Raja Raja Chola. It is located near the railway station.

The Kumari Hall of History is located on the south side of Kanyakumari Railway Station exhibits the pictures of historical wonders and also comprised rare photographs of Kamarajar, Gandhiji and other freedom fighters.

Suchindrum is a small village about 12 km. from Kanyakumari and about seven kilometres from Nagercoil. This holy place is located on the bank of the River Pazhayar, adjoining fertile fields and coconut groves and the temple is dedicated to Sri Sthanumalayan. The word denotes Siva, Vishnu and Brahmma. i.e. Siva, Vishnu and Brhamma in ‘One Form’.

Last but not the least, the most prominent temple of Kumari Amman who lends her name to the district is situated at the edge of the ocean. Dedicated to Goddess Parvathi in the form of a virgin it is full of interesting legends. Replete with religion, history, eye-catching architectures and of all mesmerising natural beauty Kanyakumari is a ‘must see’ for all tourist both foreign and domestic.

P.S. Suresh Kumar

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