Halcyon Castle, also known as Kovalam Palace, is a historic building located in the famous beach town of Kovalam in Kerala, India. Built-in 1932 by M.R. Sri Rama Varma Valiya Koil Thampuran, the consort of Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, as a summer retreat for their family, it is a blend of traditional Kerala and colonial architectural styles.
Halcyon Castle is a private property and has been converted into a luxury hotel. Access to the castle for tourists may be limited to the hotel guests or may involve entrance fees if opened to the general public for sightseeing. It is advisable to check with the hotel management or local tourist authorities for the current visitor policies.
The castle's architecture and the history associated with it are major attractions, as it stands as an example of regal opulence. Additionally, it is situated close to the scenic beaches of Kovalam, making it a desirable location for tourists to experience both historical and natural beauty in one place.
Availability of guided tours would depend on the current operations of the property. If the castle is operating as a hotel, they may offer their guests guided tours of the property. Visitors should inquire with the hotel or local tour operators for the latest information on guided tours.
Kovalam generally experiences a tropical climate, and the best time to visit is from September to March when the weather is relatively cooler and more comfortable for exploring the outdoors and the beaches near Halcyon Castle.
Tourists can reach Kovalam by flying into the Trivandrum International Airport, which is about 15 kilometers away from Kovalam. From the airport, they can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kovalam. Once in Kovalam, local transportation such as taxis, autorickshaws, or even walking can be used to reach Halcyon Castle.
Besides the luxury hotel within Halcyon Castle, Kovalam offers a wide range of accommodation options including other luxury resorts, mid-range hotels, and budget stays. Many of these are located along the beachfront, providing easy access to the beaches and local attractions.
As Halcyon Castle is a private property turned into a hotel, any entry fees would be determined by the hotel management. Visitors should contact the hotel directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding entry fees.
Near Halcyon Castle, tourists can visit the famous Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach. Additionally, there are other attractions such as the Vellayani Lake, the Halcyon Castle Museum, and various Ayurvedic centers offering traditional Kerala treatments.
Photography policies inside Halcyon Castle may depend on the hotel's current rules and regulations. Usually, if the castle operates as a hotel, photography may be restricted to certain areas to ensure the privacy of the guests. It is best to inquire with the hotel management about their photography policy before planning a visit.
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