Kovalam Beach, a beloved tourist hotspot in Kerala, has fallen victim to neglect, despite being recognized as the 10th most sought-after travel destination for 2025 by Skyscanner. Visitors to Kovalam are greeted by a disheartening sight: crumbling walkways, dysfunctional streetlights, and inadequate restroom facilities. These issues have cast a shadow over the beach’s charm, leaving this once-renowned coastal destination struggling to retain its appeal.
The state government’s ambitious masterplan to revitalize Kovalam has been stuck in limbo, causing frustration for local businesses. This ambitious project, designed to elevate Kovalam into a premier global tourist destination, has encountered numerous obstacles. Initially, WAPCOS Ltd, the special purpose vehicle (SPV) leading the project, launched the first tender on December 14 last year. However, disputes among bidders, particularly over the 15-year maintenance requirement, resulted in significant delays.
Despite these setbacks, the state government has emphasized that it will not wait for the masterplan’s completion to address the urgent repairs. Tourism Secretary K Biju confirmed that funds have been allocated for immediate improvements at Kovalam Beach, including fixing the walkways, streetlights, and toilets. A senior tourism official also stressed the importance of collaboration with local businesses to ensure the work’s efficiency.
With the tender for the masterplan set to open on October 24, there’s a glimmer of hope for the beach’s much-needed transformation. The work is expected to begin by the end of November after the agreement is signed. Urgent renovations will commence soon, and some toilet upgrades have already been completed.
The broader masterplan for Kovalam envisions extensive upgrades, encompassing beach restoration, new cloakrooms and toilets, and the construction of diaphragm walls to safeguard the enhanced walkways and facilities. Future phases aim to introduce adventure water sports, expand parking areas, and construct a glass bridge connecting the lighthouse to the Inspection Bungalow at Vizhinjam, further boosting the area’s appeal.
The state government has also sought financial backing from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) for the project’s comprehensive development. Last year, the state cabinet approved a Rs 93 crore investment to revitalize Kovalam and its neighboring beaches.
This investment signifies the state government’s commitment to restoring Kovalam’s glory. While the delays have been frustrating for all involved, the recent actions and upcoming tender promise a brighter future for this cherished tourist destination. The revitalization project is expected to create a positive ripple effect, not only for the tourism industry but also for the local economy, restoring Kovalam to its former glory and ensuring its place as a top travel destination for years to come.