Shanghumugham Beach: Where the Sea Meets Art and Tradition

High tide warning at the beach

Just about eight kilometres from the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, and right beside the airport, lies Shanghumugham Beach—a place where the sea, art, history, and everyday life come together beautifully.

As I arrive, the first thing I notice is the wide stretch of beach and the calming sound of the Arabian Sea. It feels like an easy escape from the bustle of the city. Families gather for picnics, visitors stroll along the shore, and people simply sit back and watch the evening unfold.

But Shanghumugham is more than just a beach.

As I walk around, I come across a striking sculpture lying on the ground, its arms raised towards the head and one leg bent over the other. The artwork catches my attention and makes me pause. There is something intriguing about encountering art in such an open, public setting, where anyone can stop, look, and interpret it in their own way.

Relaxation :A sculpture by Kanayi Kunhiraman at the beach

Then I gaze at Sagarakanyaka, the famous mermaid sculpture. Stretching about 35 metres along the beach, the enormous figure with her flowing curly hair and bare breasts is an unforgettable sight. The sculpture celebrates the human form without attempting to hide or disguise it. Standing before it, I find myself thinking about the freedom of seeing the human body as an expression of art and nature.

Sagarakanyaka (The Mermaid) by Kanayi Kunhiraman

A short distance away is another important landmark, the Aarattu Mandapam. This historic structure has a special connection with the festivals of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. During the traditional Arattu ceremony, the deity is brought here for the ritual bath. The presence of this sacred tradition gives the beach a deeper cultural significance beyond its role as a leisure destination.

Aaratu Mandapam, the ancient and historical stone structure at Shankumugham Beach

The old Indian Coffee House building near Shanghumugham is another familiar landmark. Its presence adds a nostalgic touch to the surroundings, reminding visitors of the city's older rhythms and its enduring connection with this part of the coastline.

As the day begins to fade, Shanghumugham takes on a particularly peaceful atmosphere. The changing colours of the sky blend with the sea, while the breeze carries away the heat and noise of the day.

It is an ideal city beach where visitors can relax and enjoy the evening.