Nestled along the scenic coastline of Tamil Nadu, Muttom Beach is one of the most serene and picturesque beaches in the region. Located just 30 km from Kanyakumari and 15 km from Nagercoil, this tranquil coastal retreat is quickly gaining popularity among travelers seeking peace, natural beauty, and a refreshing break from city life. As one of the lesser-known beaches in Kanyakumari, Muttom Beach offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, historical significance, and local culture.
Why Visit Muttom Beach?
Muttom Beach is a unique coastal destination that charms visitors with its rocky shores, golden sands, and dramatic cliffs. Unlike the more crowded beaches in other parts of Tamil Nadu, this beach remains relatively unexplored, offering a peaceful and relaxing environment. The beach is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, making it one of the best tourist places in Kanyakumari for nature lovers and photographers.
Surrounded by fishing villages, Muttom Beach also offers an authentic glimpse into coastal Tamil Nadu life. Visitors can watch fishermen at work, explore the nearby lighthouse, and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the Arabian Sea.
Muttom red soil, also known as “Sivantha man” (red land or red sand) in Tamil, is a unique feature of the Muttom area near Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. It is characterized by its dark red color and the presence of iron-bearing minerals like hematite and ilmenite. This red soil is also found in other parts of Tamil Nadu, including the coastal plains. Several Tamil and Malayalam movies where filmed from Muttom.
Kadalora Kavithaigal a famous tamil film with stars Sathyaraj and Rekha filmed in Muttom, which is a mass hit in 1986. The music was composed by Mastro Ilaiyaraaja
Scenic Beauty and Rock Formations
One of the most captivating features of Muttom Beach is its stunning rock formations. These natural sculptures, shaped by the sea over centuries, give the beach a unique character. The crashing waves against the rugged rocks provide a dramatic backdrop that enhances the coastal charm.
The beach is not suitable for swimming due to its rocky terrain and strong undercurrents, but it offers plenty of opportunities for beach walks, photography, and relaxation. The rocks and cliffs are especially striking during golden hour, making this spot ideal for sunset views.
Light House at Muttom
Muttom has a lighthouse, constructed by the British in colonial times. As recorded in international shipping charts, the lighthouse is situated 110 ft ( 34 m) above sea level. The Skelton was built when India was part of the British Empire until 1947. The British Government started lighthouse construction in 1857 and completed the work in 1882. The Lighthouse is now open for visitors, with 4-5000 visitors each year. A nominal entry fee of Rs.10 is charged for Adults and Rs.3 for students under age 12. Entry is free for School students in uniform.
Historical Significance
While Muttom Beach is renowned for its scenic beauty, it also holds historical significance. The Muttom Lighthouse, built in 1882, is one of the key attractions near the beach. Standing tall on a rocky hill, the lighthouse has guided countless ships and boats navigating the Arabian Sea. It’s one of the oldest lighthouses in Tamil Nadu and continues to be a symbol of maritime heritage in the region.
Tourists can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding villages. The structure is maintained by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships and remains open to visitors during certain hours.
How to Reach Muttom Beach
- From Nagercoil: Muttom is approximately 32 km from Nagercoil. You can reach the beach via NH 66 and Muttom Road by taxi, private car, or bus.
- From Kanyakumari Town: The beach is about 40 km from Kanyakumari. It’s an easy drive via NH 66 and takes around an hour.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Eraniel Railway Station 10km, which is well connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (approximately 75 km away). From there, you can hire a cab to reach Muttom Beach.
Best Time to Visit Muttom Beach
The best time to visit Muttom Beach is between October and March. During these months, the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the sea breeze is refreshing. This period is ideal for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying peaceful sunsets. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) as the waves can be rough, and accessibility may be limited.
Things to Do at Muttom Beach
- Sunset Viewing: Witnessing the sunset at Muttom Beach is a soul-stirring experience. The changing hues of the sky over the Arabian Sea are a visual treat.
- Photography: With its rocky shoreline, lighthouse, and dramatic cliffs, Muttom Beach is a paradise for photographers.
- Explore the Lighthouse: Visit the historic Muttom Lighthouse to learn about the maritime history and enjoy panoramic views.
- Local Culture: Interact with the local fishing community to gain insights into their lifestyle, traditions, and seafood cuisine.
- Picnic Spot: The beach is a great location for family picnics, thanks to its quiet and clean surroundings.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to Muttom Beach, visitors can explore several other Kanyakumari tourist places nearby:
- Padmanabhapuram Palace: A historical wooden palace showcasing Kerala architecture, located near Thuckalay.
- Udayagiri Fort: Most important military barracks of the rulers, when Padmanabhapuram was their capital.
- Eraniel Palace: Eraniel town was a seasonal capital of the Venad kingdom until the seventeenth century
Beaches in Kanyakumari
Kanyakumari is known for its beautiful coastline, and Muttom Beach stands out as one of the most tranquil beaches in Kanyakumari. Others include:
- Kanyakumari Beach: Famous for the sunrise and sunset views at the confluence of three seas.
- Sothavilai Beach: A long stretch of white sand and clear waters ideal for relaxing.
- Chothavilai Beach: A less crowded beach known for its calm ambiance.
Among all these, Muttom Beach retains its charm as a peaceful retreat, far from the hustle of popular tourist spots.
Tips for Visiting Muttom Beach
- Safety First: Swimming is not advised due to rocky terrain and strong currents.
- Carry Essentials: Bring water, sunscreen, hats, and snacks.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk on the rocky surfaces.
- Local Cuisine: Try fresh seafood from nearby eateries.
- Respect Nature: Keep the beach clean and avoid littering.
