Shankhumugham Beach, is a popular coastal destination located in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the capital city of the Kerala. It is situated along the Arabian Sea and is known for its natural beauty and serene surroundings.
Shankhumugham beach is considered as the ‘Arattukadavu’ of Sri Ananthapadmanabhan – The presiding deity of the city. Thousands of Hindus perform ‘Bali Tharpanam’ during special occasion of karkkidavavu. Shankhumugham is the prime location for Ganesh Nimarjan at the time of Vinayaka Chathurthi.
The sculpture of Sagarakanyaka – Mermaid is an added attraction. The voluptious sunbathing Jalakanyaka (mermaid) at Shankumugham Beach in Thiruvananthapuram was created using concrete, and is about 26m (87’) long. It was created by award-winning sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman on the beach in a park with other large sculptures. It is world’s largest mermaid sculpture and is adjudged by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest merperson sculpture in the world.
Located next to the charming beach of Shankumugham, lies this major Hindu religious sight in the city. The feminine goddess also known as Durga is worshiped here. Being close to the beach, the fishermen community regularly visit this temple to pray for a good catch. Designed in the traditional Temple architectural style of Kerala, the temple is a marvelous sight to behold.
The military area of Southern Air Command of the Indian Air Force and part of the main airport are situated near Shankhumugham Beach.
Veli Tourist Village is near the beach. Boating facilities are offered at this picnic spot. Speed boats, restaurants and well-landscaped gardens are available.
There is also a “Star Fish Restaurant” with eating kiosks and open-air theatre with car parking facilities. Good food can be enjoyed at the Old Coffee House, just across the beach, which is also a vantage point for enjoying the sunset.
Shankhumugham Beach is a serene and scenic spot that attracts both tourists and locals looking for a peaceful retreat by the sea. It’s a great place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Kerala’s coastline.
