Kovalam is best known for its beaches, lighthouse, and busy cafés. I had planned to see all of that, but after some time near the crowded coast, I wanted a slower and more local experience. So, I stepped away from the usual tourist spots and explored the quieter side of Kovalam.
I started my day at Vellayani Lake in Kovalam
Vellayani Lake was my first peaceful destination and was located close to Kovalam, which was just a short drive away. The water was calm, and the area was packed with greenery and silence, giving it a fresh look.
I walked alongside the road observing the locals starting their day, some going to work while others sipping tea at small eateries. The place is not crowded and is away from tourists.
Vellayani Lake, famous for its boat race that takes place during the Onam period, is a great place to visit even at other times owing to its peace and serenity. Staying in one of the well-located hotels in Kovalam helped me reach the lake early and come back before the day got hot.
The Vizhinjam rock-cut cave surprised me
I had not expected to find an old rock-cut cave so close to Kovalam. The Vizhinjam cave is small, but it has an interesting history. It contains old stone carvings linked to Shiva and Parvati.
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As the site is not very large, I could look around without rushing. The quiet environment made it easy to notice the details in the stone. It also reminded me that Kovalam has a history beyond its beaches.
I enjoyed the Kerala Arts and Crafts Village in Kovalam
The Vellar Kerala Arts and Crafts Village was one of the nicest places I visited. It is a calm cultural area where tourists can explore more about Kerala’s traditional arts and crafts.
There were some exhibitions on pottery, weaving, and other local arts. What I liked most about the place was that it didn’t seem like a busy shopping district. I had enough time to learn about the way of making items and the craft’s complexity.
The open plan, along with the surrounding green space, made the visit pleasant. Also, if you choose a suitable hotel in Kovalam, your visit will be well planned.
I walked through the local streets of Vizhinjam
One part of the more tranquil Kovalam experience was strolling through the old streets of Vizhinjam, which felt authentic and lived-in. There were small retailers, locals’ residences, places of worship, and people living their usual lives.
While having a cup of tea, I enjoyed watching the surrounding neighbourhood. This was not a tourist spot at all, and I loved it. It gave me an authentic glimpse of local life.
I also made sure to respect the locals and did not take pictures of people nearby. I was aware that they lived there, and I was merely a visitor.
Thiruvallam gave me a calm ending
Before leaving Kovalam, I visited Thiruvallam, a peaceful area known for its backwaters, river views, and the old Sree Parasurama Temple. After several busy days, it felt like the perfect place to slow down. I spent some time near the water, watching small boats move past, and coconut trees lined the riverbanks.
The area had a quiet, local feel that I really enjoyed. There was no need to rush or follow a long plan. I simply sat by the water, took in the view and enjoyed the peaceful surroundings. Thiruvallam gave my trip a calm and memorable ending.
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I found the side of Kovalam I wanted
The quieter side of Kovalam was not one single place. I found it at Vellayani Lake, inside the Vizhinjam cave, at the crafts village, in local streets and beside the backwaters of Thiruvallam.
These places made my trip more interesting and personal. I still saw the famous coast, but the quieter places gave me the memories I valued most.
