Kanyakumari Trip

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A Day of Discovery

On the crisp morning of March 22, 2024, the student teachers of GCTE, Thycaud set off on an eagerly awaited one-day excursion. The clock had barely struck 6:30 am when our adventure began, with the promise of scenic landscapes and cherished memories ahead. As the bus rolled out of the college gates, laughter and camaraderie filled the air, weaving a tapestry of anticipation for the day to come.

Chitharal: Echoes of Ancient Wisdom

Our first stop was the mystical Jain temple in Chitharal, also known as Chitharal Malai Kovil or Bhagwati Temple. Nestled in the state of Tamil Nadu, this temple stood as a silent sentinel of history, with its rock-cut architecture and intricate Jain sculptures dating back to the 9th century. The temple walls whispered stories of devotion through inscriptions and carvings of various Jain deities, inviting both pilgrims and wanderers to bask in its spiritual aura.


 Thiruparappu: Nature’s Symphony

From the ancient echoes of Chitharal, we journeyed to Thiruparappu, a village renowned for its breathtaking waterfall. The Thiruparappu Waterfalls, where the Kodayar River cascades down rocky terrain, presented a spectacle of nature’s splendor. Amidst the lush greenery, the roaring waters created a symphony that resonated with our souls. Nearby, the Thiruparappu Dam stood as a testament to human ingenuity, nurturing the land with its life-giving waters.

 Padmanabhapuram Palace: A Twist in the Tale

Our adventure then led us to the historic Padmanabhapuram Palace, only to be greeted by the irony of a closed gate during lunchtime. Though we missed exploring its regal halls, the spirit of the day remained unbroken. Sometimes, the journey itself holds the magic, and this unexpected turn only added to our collective story.

 Kanyakumari: Where the Land Meets the Sea

As the sun journeyed westward, we arrived at the enchanting coastal town of Kanyakumari around 3:30 pm. Our hearts raced with excitement as we approached the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a sanctuary of serenity accessible by a gentle boat ride. Though the majestic Thiruvalluvar Statue was hidden behind scaffolding for maintenance, our spirits soared as we took in the panoramic beauty around us.

 Vivekananda Rock Memorial: A Beacon of Enlightenment

The Vivekananda Rock Memorial stood proud in the Laccadive Sea, a testament to Swami Vivekananda’s enlightenment. Legend whispered that it was on this very rock that Goddess Kumari performed her austerities. The memorial, with its fusion of architectural styles and meditative Dhyana Mandapam, offered a space for reflection and reverence.

As the day neared its end, nature bestowed upon us a gift beyond compare. The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in a breathtaking palette of orange and pink. The beauty of the sunset at Kanyakumari could not be captured as such owing to the cloudy sky.

Evening Delight: Markets and Memories

The vibrant markets of Kanyakumari beckoned us next, their stalls brimming with colorful textiles, intricately carved wooden artifacts, and local handicrafts. We wandered through the bustling streets, each purchase a token of our journey, each item a story waiting to be told.
A Feast to End the Day

With hearts and bags full, we made our way back to the college, stopping at the cozy Gowri Sankaram hotel in Nagercoil for a sumptuous dinner. The flavors of the meal danced on our taste buds, a perfect end to a day of discovery and delight.

 Reflections

Our trip to Chitharal, Thiruparappu, and Kanyakumari was a symphony of experiences—nature, history, and culture harmonizing to create an unforgettable melody. It was a day where the past and present intertwined, where every moment was a brushstroke on the canvas of our memories. As we returned to our college, we carried with us the essence of a journey well-lived and the promise of many more adventures to come.

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