Amidst the holiday cheer and festive spirit, Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India, is witnessing an unprecedented surge in tourist footfall. The holiday season, commencing with the extended weekend leading up to Christmas and continuing through the New Year, has seen an overwhelming influx of visitors to this picturesque coastal town.
According to officials from the Tourism Department of Tamilnadu, all hotel and resort accommodations have been fully booked, drawing in crowds from various parts of Tamil Nadu and neighboring Kerala. The remarkable turnaround follows an earlier setback caused by heavy downpours in mid-December, which initially dampened the hopes for tourist arrivals. However, swift restoration efforts and a renewed confidence in the area’s appeal led to a flurry of cancellations being revoked, paving the way for a bustling tourism scene.
The iconic boat rides to Vivekananda Rock have witnessed a substantial surge, with approximately 27,000 visitors in the past three days alone. Additionally, popular attractions such as Mukkadal Sangamam, Sri Bhagavathi Amman Temple, and the scenic beaches along the Land’s End have also seen a considerable influx of tourists.
Notably, one standout feature of this holiday season has been the unprecedented number of approximately 2,000 individuals embarking on the hour-long sea voyage to Vattakottai. Plans are underway to extend this maritime journey by an additional 30 minutes, promising an enhanced experience for visitors.
The surge in pilgrims due to the ongoing Sabarimala season has led to a heavy rush of Ayyappa devotees at the revered Bhagavathi Amman Temple. This influx is anticipated to continue for another fortnight, culminating in the ‘Makara Jyoti’ event at Sabarimala.
While the bustling tourism scene has resulted in full occupancy of accommodations, visitors continue to flock to Kanyakumari, eager to immerse themselves in its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking vistas.
For tourists planning to visit Kanyakumari during this vibrant season, it is advisable to explore alternative accommodations in nearby areas or to make advanced bookings for future visits, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this enchanting coastal town.