Colachel Beach — Attraction in Tamil Nadu

Colachel is an ancient port town, that Vasco da Gama called ‘Colachi’. Before the State re-organization in 1956, it was part of the Travancore State. After the defeat of the Dutch by King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma in 1741, a victory pillar had been erected near the beach in commemoration of the victory. The town is bounded on the south by Arabian Sea. It has Pampoori Vaikal in its Western side. Nagercoil the headquarters of Kanyakumari District is 20 km away from this town in the North East Direction.Colachel was the location of the battle between the Travancore (Anglicised form of Thiruvithaamkoor) King Marthanda Varma (1729–1758) forces led by the thiruvithaamkoor nair patalam(body guards of the king) and Anantha Padmanaban Nadar and the Dutch East India Company forces led by Admiral Eustachius De Lannoy on 10 August 1741. It was the first time in Indian history that an Asian country defeated a European naval force The Dutch marines landed in Colachel with artillery and captured the land up to Padmanabhapuram, then the capital of Travancore. The arrival of Marthanda Varma from the north forced the Dutch to take up defensive positions in Colachel, where they were attacked and defeated by the Travancore forces. Twenty-eight high level Dutch officers, including Admiral D'lennoy, were captured. The defeat of the Dutch in Colachael was the turning point of the Travancore-Dutch War. D'lennoy went on to serve the Travancore kingdom for the next two decades and was promoted to the post of the Valiya kappithan (Senior Admiral) of the Travancore forces. He modernised the Travancore army, and built the Nedumkottai, a line of fortifications in the north of the kingdom, which held up the army of Tipu Sultan in 1791, during his ill-fated invasion of Travancore. D'lennoy is buried in the Udayagiri Fort, also known as Dillanai kottai (D'lennoy's fort) which is located 7 kilometres north of Padmanabhapuram (about 14 kilometres from Nagercoil).The December 2004 tsunami of the Indian Ocean caused huge devastation and damages. In Colachel, it caused the death of around 500 people. As the land near the coastline is flat and at sea level with no seawall (anti sea erosion), water travelled inland carving out new streams and estuaries. The waves were reported to be around 5m high and a run up height of 2.6m. Maximum number of casualties happened near the A.V.M. Canal as well as around the open trenches being used by the local coconut fibre industry.[2] Colachel is said[by whom?] to be the last place (southwards) which is affected severely by tsunami.

The government and several non-governmental agencies have been providing relief works for those affected by...

Colachel Beach is located at Colachel Town in Kanyakumari District of Tamilnadu. It is tucked away in a breathtaking natural setting of plunging ravines of red soil and lush green scrubs. A lone lighthouse stands sentinel over the bay, adding to its scenic beauty. Colachel beach opens stunning views of a tumultuous grey sea stretching into distance, thick palm groves fringing the beach and a misty blue sky. Such is the quietude of the beach that you will find it difficult to believe that only a few years back in 2004 the Tsunami caused a huge damage to life and property.Colachel was once witness to the historical Battle of Colachel. This battle was fought on 10 August 1741 between Travancore Maharaja Marthanda Varma’s army and the European forces of Dutch East India Company under Flemish Captain De Lennoy. The Dutch forces were annihilated by the Indian troupes, following which they retreated to Indonesia. Interestingly, after their capture the captain was pardoned by the king and was made in-charge to train his forces in artillery and musketry.Colachel Beach is located at about 1.5 Kms from Colachel Bus Stand. Colachel is located at about 4 Kms from Mandaikadu, 8 Kms from Eraniel, 19 Kms from Nagercoil, 40 Kms from Kanyakumari, 12 Kms from Muttom, 13 Kms from Thuckalay, 17 Kms from Marthandam, 21 Kms from Thiruvattaru, 27 Kms from Vilavancode, 28 Kms from Kollamkode, 29 Kms from Suchindrum and 63 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Nearest Railway Station is located at Eraniel and Nearest Airport is located at...

Colachel Beach: A Hidden Gem in Kanyakumari 🏖️🌅

Tucked away from the usual tourist routes, Colachel Beach emerges as a true hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This tranquil oasis provides an ideal setting for cherished moments with loved ones, particularly during the magical evening hours. Whether you're with family or friends, the beach offers a serene backdrop for quality time.

However, before you embark on your visit, it's important to note that the beach lacks proper entrance facilities, which might present a minor inconvenience. While the beauty of the surroundings compensates for this shortcoming, it's a factor to consider.

Regrettably, the beach's hidden charm comes with a downside. The lack of proper maintenance is evident, and the beach area is marred by pollution caused by plastic waste and debris. It's a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility we hold to protect our natural treasures. As visitors, it's crucial that we play our part in preserving the pristine beauty of such places.

In conclusion, Colachel Beach is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. While it may have its share of challenges, the unspoiled beauty and serene ambiance make it a destination worth discovering. As we enjoy its hidden charm, let's remember to be stewards of the environment and take steps towards keeping our beaches clean, ensuring that their magic remains intact for generations...