Thengapattinam Beach, Kanyakumari

Thengapattinam Beach is one of the more popular beaches of Kanyakumari. The shores of this beach are fringed by coconut groves. It is situated in Painkulam village of Vilavancode Taluk of Kanyakumari District, at a distance of about 35 km from Nagercoil, 12 kms from Kuzhithurai and 54 km from Kanyakumari.
A drive from Kanyakumari to Thengapattinam Beach amidst the green paddy fields and coconut trees enchants one and all. This region is famous not only for its exotic beaches but it is also popular as an important pilgrim center. As coconut (Coconut means Thengai in Tamil) trees are abundant in this place, the place might have derived this name.




Situated on the west coast, Thengapattinam Beach has some historical relevance too. During ancient times, the coast was an important place for trade with foreign countries. Cargo services were available especially between Thengapattinam and Arabia. Dried coconut, dry fish, coir and shark fin were the main products that were exported. The waters of the Thamiraparani River form an estuary in the sea here, adding to the scenic beauty of the place.
Activities
During the excursion from Kanyakumari to Thengapattinam Beach, you can take a break and visit different places of attractions in the region. Gandhi Mandapam, Amman Temple, Vattakottai and Nagaraja Temple at Nagercoil are among a few must visit destinations. Gandhi Mandapam is the place where a small portion of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes have been preserved. You can also visit the Nagaraja Temple at Nagercoil which is a shed and very simple to look at with mud walls, but has a lot of relevance as a pilgrim center. The king of serpents is presiding deity of this temple.







Once you are at the Thengapattinam Beach, you can take a catamaran or a boat ride in the waters of the estuary. This can be arranged through local fishermen. The shallow water of this beach is also ideal for swimming. There is a 1500 year old mosque in the vicinity of this beach, which is worth a visit. The beach with its white sand and calm waters is a perfect picnic spot with a backdrop of coconut trees that provides shade and comfort to visitors.









Thengapattinam Beach is 54 kms from Kanyakumari District of Tamilnadu State, India. This place is easily accessible by road. Buses travel from Thiruvananthapuram and Nagercoil to the beach frequently. Nagercoil is a small town close to the Thengapattinam beach. It had well connected to other places with regular bus services.