ABOUT

Kanyakumari located at the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula is also known as Cape Comorin and it lies at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, the Indian ocean and the Arabian Sea. This picturesque seaside town is famous for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Kanyakumari derives its name from the Goddess Kumari Amman who has a temple dedicated to her on the seashore. According to Hindu legend, Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati, was to marry Lord Shiva, but as he failed to show up on his wedding day, the rice and other grain meant for the wedding feast remained uncooked. As the legend goes, the uncooked grain turned into stones as time went by. It is believed that the small stones on the seashore today, are indeed grains of the wedding that was never solemnized. Referred to as the Alexandria of the East, Kanyakumari was an important centre for art, culture, civilization and pilgrimage. Trade and commerce is also believed to have flourished right from its early days. The Cholas, Cheras, Pandyas and Nayaks ruled over Kanyakumari at various points of time. The architectural beauty of the temples in the area is credited to these rulers.