Welcome to the Kappad beach - the place where Vasco da Gama created history by sailing in and landing on the 27th of May, 1498. Kappad, or Kappakadavu as it is locally called, is the gateway to the Malabar coast. Vasco da Gama discovered the path to India from Europe, thereby opening a new page in the history of India. His discovery led to the begining of trade between India and Europe. The Arabs, and then others, were first attracted to the Malabar coast by its Spices and Richness.

Yet the only thing which reminds you of this great historic moment is an inscription in a small stone monument, which decrees - "Vasco da Gama landed here, Kappakadavu, in the year 1498" and Kappad, called Kappakadavu by the local people, is untouched by any commercialization.

Another interesting feature of this Kappad beach is a magnificient rock sprawling into the Sea with an 800yr old temple set on the top, like a crown on a Queen's head.

Time seems to stand still, as the beach remains an esquisite jewel of the world.