Kovalam: India's Coastal Paradise

• Helloनमस्कार
  [Namaskar]
• Goodbyeअलविदा
  [Alvida]
• Yesहाँ
  [Haan]
• Noनहीं
  [Nahi]
• Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [Kripaya]
• Thank youधन्यवाद
  [Dhanyavad]
• Excuse me/Sorryक्षमा कीजिए
  [Kshama kijiye]
• How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [Aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। और आप?
  [Theek hoon. Aur aap?]
• Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोलते हैं?
  [Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
• I don't understandमुझे समझ में नहीं आया
  [Mujhe samajh mein nahi aaya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनू दिखाना
  [Kripaya menu dikhana]
• I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता
  [Main maans nahi khaata]
• Cheers!चियर्स!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मैं भुगतान करना चाहूँ
  [Kripaya main bhugtan karna chaahoon]

• Help!बचाओ!
  [Bachao!]
• Go away!चले जाओ!
  [Chale jao!]
• Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [Police ko bulaao!]
• Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [Doctor ko bulaao!]
• I'm lostमैं खो गया हूँ
  [Main kho gaya hoon]
• I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [Mujhe bimari hai]

• I'd like to buy...मैं खरीदना चाहूँगा...
  [Main khareedna chaahunga...]
• I'm just lookingमैं सिर्फ देख रहा हूँ
  [Main sirf dekh raha hoon]
• How much is it?यह कितने का है?
  [Yeh kitne ka hai?]
• That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [Yeh bahut mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [Kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?अब कितने बजे हैं?
  [Ab kitne baje hain?]
• It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [Ek baje hain]
• Half past (10)दस बजे तक
  [Das baje tak]
• Morningसुबह
  [Subah]
• Afternoonदोपहर
  [Dopahar]
• Eveningशाम
  [Sham]
• Yesterdayकल
  [Kal]
• Todayआज
  [Aaj]
• Tomorrowकल
  [Kal]
• 1एक
  [Ek]
• 2दो
  [Do]
• 3तीन
  [Teen]
• 4चार
  [Char]
• 5पाँच
  [Paanch]
• 6छे
  [Che]
• 7सात
  [Saath]
• 8आठ
  [Aath]
• 9नौ
  [Nau]
• 10दस
  [Das]

• Where's a/the...?...कहाँ है?
  [...Kahaan hai?]
• What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [Pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं?
  [Kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain?]
• When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [Agli (bus) kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (के लिए ....)
  [Ek ticket (ke liye ....)]

Kovalam, a small coastal town in Kerala, India, has a history that dates back to ancient times. It was an important trading hub for spices, sandalwood, and ivory, attracting merchants from as far as Europe, the Middle East, and China. Archaeological evidence suggests that Kovalam was a vibrant part of the ancient trade network, contributing significantly to the region’s prosperity.

In the 18th century, Kovalam became part of the Travancore Kingdom under the rule of Maharaja Marthanda Varma. The Maharaja fortified the region, developed its infrastructure, and promoted trade and commerce. Kovalam’s strategic coastal location made it an essential point of defense and trade for the kingdom.

During the colonial era, Kovalam saw an influx of European influence, particularly from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The Europeans were drawn to Kovalam’s strategic location and natural beauty. They established trade relations and built small settlements, leaving a lasting impact on the region's architecture and culture.

Kovalam gained international fame in the 1960s and 1970s when it was discovered by the hippie movement. The pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere attracted travelers from around the world, transforming Kovalam into a popular destination for backpackers and bohemian travelers. This period marked the beginning of Kovalam’s transformation into a global tourist hotspot.

In the late 20th century, Kovalam evolved into a well-developed tourist destination with luxury resorts, Ayurvedic spas, and international cuisine. The local government invested in infrastructure and promoted Kovalam as a premier beach destination. Today, Kovalam attracts tourists from all over the world, drawn by its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant local culture.

Kovalam is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, with a rich tapestry of festivals celebrated throughout the year. The annual Kovalam Literary Festival and the Kovalam Surf Festival are major attractions. Traditional Kerala festivals like Onam and Vishu are celebrated with much fervor, showcasing the region’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Kovalam is located in the southern part of the Indian state of Kerala. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), approximately 15 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked car to reach Kovalam. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes. If you are traveling by train, the nearest railway station is Trivandrum Central, which is well-connected to major cities across India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kovalam.

Kovalam is a small beach town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. For local transportation, auto-rickshaws are readily available and a convenient option for short trips. Taxis can be hired for longer distances or for day trips. Public buses operated by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) connect Kovalam to Trivandrum and other nearby areas. For a more personalized experience, renting a scooter or a bicycle can be a fun way to explore the town.

The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Kovalam, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Trivandrum before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Kovalam is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Kovalam does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, so be cautious with your valuables.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Kovalam has a local police station and medical facilities available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Kovalam where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The nearest major hospital is in Trivandrum, approximately 15 kilometers away.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' (hands pressed together in a prayer-like gesture). A handshake is also acceptable among men. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kovalam like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Kerala goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss a visit to the Lighthouse Beach, which offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. For a unique experience, attend a traditional Kathakali performance or an Ayurvedic massage session. Early morning strolls along the beach provide a serene experience and a chance to watch local fishermen at work.