kerala tourism thiruvananthapuram

Places to Visit in Trivandrum | Thiruvananthapuram Tourism

Thiruvananthapuram, the charming capital city of God’s Own Country is the best place to start Kerala tour. It is a must visit place in Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram is the centre of political activities of the state. Thiruvananthapuram is also called as the ‘Abode of Lord Anantha’.

Thiruvananthapuram also called as Trivandrum is flanked by the Arabian Sea in the West and Tamil Nadu in the East. Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala is the best place to start the visit.

Trivandrum is the perfect gateway to backwaters and beaches. Start your journey from a place where all the attractions are there and they are not far apart. You will be amused by the wonderful beaches and the serene backwaters of Trivandrum.

Trivandrum, most important historical city is a feast for the eyes. There are so many museums and palaces in Trivandrum. Trivandrum offers everything for everyone. You can't resist the charm of this wonderful city.

There is a collection of museums in Thiruvananthapuram. These museums are in a park in the North of the city. The entry charge to this museums is very less but its very entertaining and informative.

This temple city has so many magnificent sights to offer. The most defining feature of the city is the Padmanabhaswamy temple of Lord Vishnu. The panoramic view of stunning landscapes, sun kissed beaches, serene backwaters, architectural beauty of old temples and royal palaces will definitely be a wonderful experience for you all.

Places to Visit in Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)

1. kovalam beach.

Kovalam, an internationally renowned beach is situated just 16 km away from Thiruvananthapuram. This lovely beach is one of the most popular hangouts in the country. Kovalam is a shallow beach with three adjacent beaches.

Unlike other beaches Kovalam is unique with so many specialities. This stunning beach is surrounded by tall coconut trees. Kovalam offers you so many leisure activities. You can involve in beach sport activities like swimming or can sit back and relax the laid back attitude of this beach. Take a walk through the pillow soft sand and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the stunning sunset.

Apart from these there are so many entertainment options in Kovalam. Along the shore there are many shops and food joints. You can buy some of the beautiful handicrafts or enjoy the local delicacies in here. Kovalam has so many resorts, spas and Ayurvedic centres . Visiting Kovalam will be a pleasant experience for you.

2. Padmanabhaswamy Temple

You must have heard about this temple. This beautiful temple has created a buzz in the country with its million worth treasure. Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple situated at the heart of the city is one of the most popular attractions in Thiruvananthapuram. Constructed in Dravidian style this temple worth a visit. The temple has a seven story carved gopuram which is reflected in the sacred tank.

3. Palace Museum

Palace Museum or Puthe Maliga Palace Museum situated adjacent to the temple opened recently. This palace museum housed several wings of Travancore Maharajas palace. Thiruvananthapuram is a place famous for palace and museums.

From ancient times Thiruvananthapuram is the centre of rulers. This rulers of Travancore have made so many wonderful palaces. These palaces have an attractive collection of art and paintings.

4. Padmanabhapuram Palace

This palace has a glorious past. This palace was once the seat of Travancore rulers. This architectural beauty is 65 km away from Thiruvananthapuram. This palace complex situated inside the old granite fortress around four kilometers long have several attractive structures like Manthrasala, Thai Kottaram, Natakasala and Four storied central building etc.

The 300 year old clock in the clock tower, room filled with Chinese jars and gifts from Chinese merchants, weapons, swords, daggers, a painting gallery, brass lamps, woods, stone sculptures and many more interesting things in the palace will definitely be a different experience for all.

5. Napier Museum

Napier Museum a typical Kerala style architectural beauty has a precious collection of things. The museum houses an electric assortment of Bronzes, historical and contemporary ornaments, temple carts, Ivory carvings and figures of Kathakali dancers. This life size figures of Kathakali dancers are amazing with full costume.

6. Natural History Museum

Natural History Museum with ethnographic collection and a wooden house built in Kerala style is another wonderful museum in Thiruvananthapuram.

7. Sri Chitra Art Gallery

For those who are interested in Art and Paintings Sri Chitra Art Gallery is the perfect spot. This Art Gallery hold works of many great painters from different places.

They include paintings of Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools along with works from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali. There are many interesting modern Indian paintings. Works of Ravi Varma, Svetoslav and Nicholas Roerich made this gallery popular.

8. The Science & Technology Museum and Planetarium

The Science & Technology Museum and Planetarium is specially for school children. Children can learn about all the science inventions by an interesting method. Visiting this museum will be an informative and fun filled experience.

9. Zoological Gardens

The Zoological Gardens set among woodland, lakes, and lawns is a stunning place which worth a visit. This is one of the best designed and well maintained Zoological Park in Asia.

10. Shankumugham Beach

Shankumugham Beach beach situated along Western side of Thiruvananthapuram city is a popular city beach near. It is near to Thiruvananthapuram airport . This beach is a refreshing destination for city people. Beach offers plenty of recreation facilities.

This is a favorite spot for sunset watchers.This beach provides excellent view of Sunset. ShShankumugham Beachanmugham beach is well known for the large sculpture of ‘Nymph’ or Jalakanyaka.

Apart from this Nymph there is other attractions too. Indoor recreation club, and a star fish shaped restaurant are favorite hang outs here. With white sandy beaches and the serene ambiance this beach is a perfect place to relax.

11. Veli Tourist Village

This beautiful tourist destination is close to Thiruvananthapuram Airport. Veli tourist village separates Veli Lagoons from Arabian Sea. There is a beautiful waterfront park in this village with floating bridge. You can enjoy various water sports in this village.

The main attraction that draws tourists to this village is the lake separated from the ocean by narrow sandbar. During Sunset you can see the mesmerising colour change of water from bluish green to orange.

Take a cruise to Veli during Sunset and enjoy this amazing sight. This will be an unforgettable experience for you. This beautiful place is famous for boating also. With stunning beauty and charm Veli tourist village stands amidst the Arabian Sea like a jewel.

12. Ponmudi

If you want to relax in a cool and calm place Ponmudi is there for you with all its beauty and charm. Ponmudi, the beautiful hill station situated at a distance of 61 km from Thiruvananthapuram is a wonderful hill station with wooded paths.

Ponmudi is at an altitude of about 1000m from the sea level. The golden valleys, tea estates, and cottages in these serene hill station will be an unforgettable experience.

Ponmudi is a perfect place for for trekking and long walks. The golden valleys in here are covered with the orchids. There is a deer park in Ponmudi.

13. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Peppara wildlife sanctuary in Thiruvananthapuram is a popular attraction among wildlife enthusiasts. This sanctuary situated at a distance of 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram spreads in an area of 53 square kilometer on Western Ghats.

The journey to this sanctuary is wonderful with the sight of hills and dense green forests. The mesmerising journey through this forests and eucalyptus plantations will be an amazing experience for all.

There is a large variety of fauna in here. This is a paradise for bird watchers with colourful attractive birds. This sanctuary offers you the sight of animals like Elephants, Sambar, Leopard and Lion tailed Macaque.

14. Thiruvananthapuram Observatory

The observatory in Thiruvananthapuram is one of the interesting thing about this city. This observatory situated on a hill near the Museum is one of the oldest of this kind in the country. The garden in front of the hill is an amazing sight with beautiful roses. Don’t miss this wonderful spot in Thiruvananthapuram.

15. Akkulam Boat Club

Akkulam boat club situated close to the city is a popular hangout among the city people. This boat club is situated just 9 km away from the city. This is a perfect place for recreation. You can enjoy boating or just laze around the natural beauty of the place. The largest children’s park in kerala is situated in here. Visiting this place will be a wonderful experience.

16. Neyyar Dam

Neyyar Dam situated just 29 km away from Trivandrum is one of the popular spot in the capital city. The natural beauty of the dam and surroundings attracts so many tourists to this place. The greenery of forests, coconut trees and the cool climate in here made this a perfect place to relax.

Neyyar Dam is a famous picnic spot and dam site. The reservoir offers you boating facilities. Enjoy boating in the serene ambiance of this dam. There is more exciting options like lion safari park and crocodile farm. Experience the beauty and closeness of nature in Neyyar Dam and make your journey a memorable experience.

Popular Places Around Thiruvananthapuram

There are so many attractive places scattered around Thiruvananthapuram. Some of the places which worth a visit are Neyyattinkara with the famous Sree Krishna Temple, Aruvikkara Vaishnav Devi Temple, Kanyakumari etc.

Shopping in Trivandrum

Shopping in Thiruvananthapuram is an unavoidable indulgence. There are so many places for shopping. The main shopping centre is the Connemara market which is famous for local spices and clothes in a cheaper rate.

For variety of pooja items, books, conches, brass lamps, rosewood and handicrafts made of sandalwood shop outside the east gate of the temple.

For handicrafts you can also shop in Soorya Kiran Handicrafts, Chandra Handicrafts, Kairali Handicrafts and Karalkada. For coffee and fragrant tea leaves and varieties of nuts, Sankers Coffee and Tea on MG Road is the perfect place.

Where To Stay in Thiruvananthapuram

The capital has many options ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the best staying options in Thiruvananthapuram are The South Park, The Muthoot Plaza, Hotel Residency Tower, Hotel Saj Lucia Continental, Hotel Mascot, Comfort Inn Grand, Hotel Pankaj and Hotel Highland Park.

Also check Hotel Blue Nest, Arya Nivas, Oasis Hotel, YWCA International Guesthouse, Jas Hotel, Hotel Regency, Hotel Chaithram, Hotel Thamburu International, Graceful Homestay, Ambadi Guest House, Gouri Home Stay etc.

Places to Eat in Thiruvananthapuram

The capital has a wide range of vegetarian and multi cuisine hotels. Some of the best restaurants to dine in Thiruvananthapuram are Indian Coffee House, Hotel Aryas, Mamma Mia, Sree Padmanabha Hotel, Bhadra Hotel and Hotel Annapoorna.

Others best hotels include Arya Nivas, Swagath Vegetarian Restaurant, Buddha’s Delight, Dragon Court in Jas Hotel with both Veg and Non veg Chinese food, The Regency, Amritha Hotel, etc.

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Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala's capital – still usually referred to by its colonial-era name, Trivandrum – is a relatively compact but energetic city spread across low-lying hills and is an easygoing introduction to urban life down south. Most travelers merely springboard from here to the nearby beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, but Trivandrum (once capital of the princely state of Travancore) has enough good food and intriguing sights – including a zoo, a Travancore palace and a cluster of Victorian museums in glorious neo-Keralan buildings – to justify a stay.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museum of History & Heritage

Occupying a handsome 120-year-old heritage building within the Kerala Tourism complex, this intelligently presented museum traces Kerala's history and…

Napier Museum

Housed in an 1880 wooden building designed by Robert Chisholm (a British architect whose Fair Isle–style version of the Keralite vernacular shows his…

Puthe Maliga Palace Museum

Overlooking the Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple tank, the opulent 18th-century palace of the Travancore maharajas is a classically Keralan world of…

Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Trivandrum’s spiritual heart is this 18th-century temple (closed to non-Hindus) in the Fort area, which fuses Keralan and Dravidian architecture and whose…

Shri Chitra Art Gallery

Within the grounds of Trivandrum's zoo, this gallery displays paintings by the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools, and portraits by renowned Keralite…

Zoological Gardens

Yann Martel famously based the animals in his novel Life of Pi on those he observed in Trivandrum’s Zoological Gardens. Shaded paths meander through…

Natural History Museum

In Trivandrum's Zoological Gardens complex (but not inside the zoo itself), the Natural History Museum contains hundreds of stuffed animals and birds and…

St Joseph's Cathedral

One of Trivandrum's major churches, the Roman Catholic St Joseph's is a whitewashed neo-Gothic creation from 1873, topped by a soaring bell tower added in…

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Thiruvananthapuram

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Climate
• 1.3 When to go
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By train
• 4.2 By auto-rickshaw
• 4.3 By taxi
• 4.5 By two-wheelers
• 4.6 By bicycle
• 4.7 On foot
• 5.1 Monuments and museums
• 5.2 Government buildings
• 5.3 Places of worship
• 5.4 Beaches and nature
• 5.5 Other attractions
• 5.6 Itinerary
• 6.1 Stadiums
• 9.1 Shopping plazas
• 9.2 Department stores
• 9.3 Books and music
• 9.4 Handicrafts
• 9.5 Textiles
• 9.6 Jewellery
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 11.2 Take home
• 12.1 Budget
• 12.2 Mid-range
• 12.3 Splurge
• 13 Stay safe
• 14.1 Telephone and mobile
• 14.2 Internet
• 15.1 Tourist information
• 15.2.1 State-run
• 15.2.2 Private
• 15.3 Dental clinics
• 15.5 Money exchange
• 15.7 Opticians
• 15.8 Libraries and cultural centres

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Thiruvananthapuram\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Located near the southern tip of mainland India, Thiruvananthapuram ( Malayalam : തിരുവനന്തപുരം Tiruvanantapuraṁ ), formerly and often still known as Trivandrum , is the capital city of Kerala in Southern India . It is the headquarters of the district with the same name, which is one of the 14 districts of Kerala. Referred to by Mahatma Gandhi as the "Evergreen City of India", the city is characterised by its undulating terrain of low coastal hills and busy commercial alleys.

Thiruvananthapuram is built on hills by the seashore and sandwiched between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Thiruvananthapuram is ranked first in the number of foreign tourists visiting Kerala and is a fascinating destination for holidaymakers.

Thiruvananthapuram ( thih-roo-vuh-nuhn-thuh-poo-ruhm ), with a tradition dating back to 1000 BC, lies on a small strip of land covered with coconut and palm trees. Thiruvananthapuram means "City of Lord Ananta" (the serpent on which Lord Padmanabha/Vishnu reclines) in Sanskrit and Malayalam . Historically, it was a trading post for spices, sandalwood and ivory. Thiruvananthapuram is the largest city in Kerala. The city is the state capital and houses many central and state government offices, organisations and companies. Besides being the political nerve centre of Kerala, it is also a major academic hub and home to several educational institutions, including the University of Kerala, and many science and technology institutions. Some prominent institutions being the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Centre for Development Studies (CDS), Technopark, the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) and the Indian Institute of Science, Education and Research (IISER).

Thiruvananthapuram is one of the oldest cities in India, with periodic references in many Greek and Roman literatures. This city came to the forefront when the Venad Dynasty rose to power in the southern regions, after the Great Partition of the Kerala Empire of Cheras in the 14th century. Though Venad rulers had their capital at Kollam (70   km north of Thiruvananthapuram), Thiruvananthapuram was considered the major trading centre. The formation of Travancore Kingdom in late 17th century proved a turning point for the city. In this time, the Raja dedicated the entire kingdom to Lord Padmanabha, the presiding deity of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, meaning that the royal family was ruling in the name of the lord. The capital was moved to Thiruvananthapuram, and the city expanded around the temple. In the 19th century, the entire administration was brought to Thiruvananthapuram city from the royal headquarters of Sree Padmanabhapuram Fort (50   km from Thiruvananthapuram), which marked completion of first phase of the city.

Travancore was one of the most powerful Indian princely states during the British Raj, with the kingdom becoming the 3rd-richest state among native states. Thiruvananthapuram city, under the royal patronage, grew into a major academic and cultural hub of India with many firsts to its credit. As the power and wealth of the Travancore Kingdom reached its peak during early 20th century, Thiruvananthapuram became a prosperous city. When India attained independence, the Travancore chose to accede to the India Union. After formation of Kerala state in 1957, Trivandrum was retained as the capital city.

Being a capital and administrative city, it remains the hottest political centres in Kerala. A third phase of development came in early 1990s, when the Kerala Government established Technopark, a large information-technology park. The success of Technopark as the largest IT park in South Asia has been a major impetus for growth in city. Today the city is focused on maintaining its status as a major IT/Bio-Technology hub.

The city has a tropical climate with little temperature difference between seasons. The mean maximum temperature is 34°C and the mean minimum temperature is 21°C. Humidity is high, and rises to about 90% during the monsoon season.

Thiruvananthapuram is the first city along the path of the south-west monsoon and gets its first showers in early June. However, pre-monsoon showers are common in April and May, accounting for about 350   mm (14   in) on average. The second rainy season, the north-east monsoon, is equally strong and occurs during the months of October and November. Annual rainfall is not high compared to other districts of Kerala, but it is still a substantial 1,800   mm (71   in) . The rainiest months are May, June, July, August, and October, but there are frequent showers in other months too between April and November.

February to May is summer, which is very hot and humid, while June to September is the monsoon season.

The winter temperature comes down to about 18°C at some places at high altitudes and summer temperatures can sometimes go as high as 35°C.

• For travellers who wish to avoid the rain, the best period to visit is from December to March.
• The best time to visit Trivandrum is between October and February, the perfect time for beach vacations.
• The festival of Onam which occurs towards the end of August or early September is a good time to soak up the carnival atmosphere. There are usually many cultural programs during the official Onam celebrations lasting 10 days.
• The Monsoon season starts from June every year and is a time of heavy rains in the area. The Monsoon has become an attraction for tourists seeking to experience it.

Like the rest of Kerala, the native language is Malayalam , which is a Dravidian language like Tamil and Kannada . Most educated locals are also able to communicate in Hindi and English. The people are generally very helpful and friendly. Tamil is generally understood, though people may not be too fluent in the language.

A long-distance bus station is located diagonally opposite the railway station. Buses ply to all major towns and villages in the state in addition to big cities like Kochi , Bangalore , Kozhikode , Coimbatore , Tirunelveli and Chennai . Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates 6 class of services, connecting to southern Tamil-Nadu cities, town and all manner of country side in Kerala. KSRTC operates premium luxury Garuda services to Bangalore and Coimbatore. Karnataka STC also operates two class of premium services; Rajahamsa (non A/C Executive class) and Airavat (A/C Sleeper Class) from Bangalore and Mysore. Likewise, Tamil Nadu SETC also operates 3 classes of services from numerous Tamil Nadu cities, particularly to the southern side. In addition, private national corporations like Sharma, Kallada, GTC, Raj National Express also operate premium services to other South Indian cities and Mumbai.

If you are having trouble obtaining a bus ticket in Thiruvananthapuram to a destination in Tamil Nadu, it may be worthwhile travelling to Nagercoil and then taking a bus to your destination from there.

Thiruvananthapuram is well connected to other cities like Kochi (230   km), Kozhikode (420   km), Chennai (780   km), Bangalore (791   km) and Coimbatore (400   km) by road. Traffic congestion can be horrific during certain times as you get closer to the city. It is advised to either be or hire a driver who is comfortable navigating Indian traffic.

Local bus services are the cheapest way to get around Thiruvananthapuram. There are city buses run by government (KSRTC) and private companies. Most of these are very crowded during peak hours. Route descriptions on the buses are mainly in Malayalam . Route numbers are displayed. Pick pocketing is not very common. The government city buses are painted red with a yellow patch, and the private city buses are blue. Fast passenger buses run by KSRTC are also painted blue and are named Ananthapuri Fast . The city services of KSRTC operate from six depots, namely the City depot, Vikas Bhavan, Peroorkada, Pappanamcode, Kaniyapuram and Vellanad. The central city bus terminal is located at East Fort (Kizhakkekotta), near Padmanabha Swamy temple. The Central and Inter State bus station is located 1   km away at Thampanoor . KSRTC operates AC Volvo services connecting various important places. If you have a little time to spend you can try the new mode of transportaion. KSRTC operates AC buses also for local transportation. You can take these buses for a city tour in AC comfort at about ₹40. minimum fare is ₹10. These buses are orange.

By auto-rickshaw

Auto-rickshaws, or simply "autos", are a cheap way of travelling between attractions. It is always possible to hire an auto from a bus stand, railway station, or special auto stand. All the legal, licensed autos should possess fare meters, and the fare is calculated by the taximeter. Ensure the driver turns the meter on before the start of the journey. Most auto drivers tend to charge more for foreigners; this is illegal. The driver may quote a price first, but simply insist that he use the meter. The minimum charge for the autorickshaw is ₹25 and the running charge per km is ₹12 (as of Dec 2021). This rate is likely to be revised soon due to increase in fuel prices.

The charge for waiting for over 10   min is ₹5 for every 15   min, subject to a maximum of ₹200 per day. There are pre-paid autorickshaw counters available near the airport and the railway station. Complaints related to auto-rickshaws in Thiruvananthapuram can be made to RTO Trivandrum, ☏ +91 471 2469223 . Online complaints are also accepted in the traffic police website .

Taxis are convenient and cheap, especially if you are travelling in a group. Taxis can be hired for short distances and also for a few days at a stretch. Unlike other metropolitan cities, Thiruvanathapuram has all types of cars as taxi cabs, to be found in taxi stands. If you wish for a luxurious car, you can normally hire one from your hotel by request.

When you hire the taxi with a driver over a few days, a minimum charge is usually paid that covers the hiring charge for the car, the driver's fees, and a certain distance. If the car covers more than that distance, additional charges are levied according to the extra distance covered as per kilometre. Most of the drivers expect to be paid for their meals during the day. If staying overnight, this will include the hotel charges as well.

The present taxi charges in the city are as follows   : minimum charge – ₹65; running charge per km – ₹7.50; and charge for waiting – ₹25 per hour, subject to a maximum of ₹300 per day.

The arterial road of Thiruvananthapuram is the ' MG Road' or the Mahatma Gandhi Road , which lies in the north-south direction and connects almost all important attractions in the city. Thiruvananthapuram, being the state capital, has very good roads compared to other parts of Kerala, especially Kochi . Many roads in Thiruvananthapuram are 4- or 6-laned.

Thiruvananthapuram has many car rental companies that offer cars with drivers. There are very few places that sell "self drive" vehicles and these are difficult to find. Those you may find are often unreasonably expensive by local standards. Ask someone with local know-how before you rent a car.

By two-wheelers

Motorcycles and scooters (light motorcycles) are the favoured means of personal transport on the roads. Renting or buying a motorcycle is not for the faint hearted. Traffic in and around the city is a mix of fast and slow, necessitating constant attentiveness to remain safe. Road sense and traffic discipline has improved drastically with a strong administration from the Traffic police department, and helmets and seatbelts are becoming a norm. Lane rules are followed better than in other Indian cities, however you need to be more than just careful if you choose to drive a vehicle. Traffic congestion presents another danger and inconvenience; adjust your expected arrival times depending on traffic.

There are companies arranging tours on Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycles out of Thiruvananthapuram.

Bicycles used to be a major mode of transport for residents. However, their usage has declined over time. Thiruvananthapuram is a hilly city. If you plan on bicycle being your main mode of transport, ensure you are fit and well hydrated. There is an absence of cycling lanes and hot weather often makes the day exhausting.

Cycles are available on rent with some companies.

Many places of attractions within the city are near each other, so it is possible to walk between them. Crossing roads often involves wading across heavy traffic during peak hours. The zebra lanes are used by the locals for road crossing only in major junctions. Other than the major junctions, do not expect vehicles to stop for you in the zebra lines. Try your best to move in a predictable straight line, so vehicles can weave around you. (Better yet, latch onto a group of locals and cross in their shadow.) The recommended walk areas in the city are as follows:

• Walk from the overbridge towards East Fort. Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple premises. End up your walk in the Gandhi Park in East Fort.
• Walk from Secratariate towards Palayam. Walk and see the Connemera market and do window shopping.
• Walk from Museum Junction towards Vellayambalam. Alternatively, you can also walk inside the Museum compounds.
• Walk from Vellayambalam Junction up to Kowdiar palace. This road is called the Royal Road, as it leads to the palace. There are good coffee shops and snack bars in this area.

Thiruvananthapuram is a historical city, dotted with many historical structures, parks, museums, tourist centers and palaces. Its also famous for its distinctive greenery, present all over, a rare site in any bustling Indian city. Most ticketed museums are closed on Mondays, so do check online/by phone before visiting. Visit the official website of Kerala Tourism [ dead link ] for more details.

Monuments and museums

• Chacha Nehru Children's Museum . A good children's museum with a large collection of dolls, masks, and paintings. A mini aquarium and water play area is set here. Located in Thycuad, in the heart of city, it is a good evening spot for families.  
• 8.48119 76.945829 2 HH Uthradam Thirunal Marthanda Varma Chithralayam ( Royal art gallery ) ( same entrance as Kuthiramalika and one ticket counter for both (but separate tickets) ). 9:00-12:30 and 14:00-16:45 . Has an exhibition of portrais and pictures of memorable scenes from the life of the last Maharaja of Travancore. Adults ₹30, foreigners ₹75 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• Kerala Science and Technology Museum ( near Priyadarshini Planetarium ). This large science museum features a timeline of various technologies. On display are galleries on Electrical Engineering, Biomedical, and Mechanical Engineering. It has a collection of electronic equipments and a 3D theatre with regular shows.  
• 8.5081 76.95378 4 Keralan Museum ( Opposite of Napier Museum's garden-complex, south of Museum Rd ). Housed in a beautiful colonial building, this newly developed museum (circa 2008 vintage) presents a periodised history of Kerala. It's the first 'interactive' museum in the country, featuring touchscreen terminals. Like so many museums and historical texts in India, there are no maps inside to provide visual aid to the topics. Regardless, the museum is very pleasant, clean, modern and well presented when compared to others. Displays begin in the stone age and advance through rock art and stone tools to pottery, bronze sculptures, folk art and architecture, with a few latter-day items to boot. A small canteen behind the museum for staff of the adjacent tourist department offers good value fish or vegetable curry. Entry is ₹200 for foreigners, extra for a camera .  
• 8.507242 76.946724 7 Legislature Museum ( Adjacent to Legislature ). This museum depicts the history of South Asian Legislature assemblies. The building was once the headquarters of Travancore Royal Nair Brigade (Travancore Army). Today its galleries can give a detailed look into history of South Asian legislature activities and process.  
• 8.508924 76.955163 8 Napier Museum ( Art Gallery ). Tu Th-Su 10AM-5PM, W noon-5PM . Named after former Madras governor, Lord Napier (Francis Napier, 10th Lord Napier and 1st Baron Ettrick), this museum is a beautiful building in the museum (read: park) compound. This masterpiece was designed by Madras Government architect Robert Chisholm in Indo-Saracenic style. The museum displays rare archaeological and historical artifacts including bronze idols, ceramics, an impressive carved wooden cart, Buddhist statues from various parts of the country and neighbouring places, ivory carvings, chests, Balinese shadow puppets, various old coins, Hindu puja items, and more. Quite a few objects are foreign, and of those quite a few are Chinese. Unfortunately most are lacking labels, have labels only in Malayalam, or are very vague. Look up at the impressive roof when you enter! No photography is allowed. There is no sign saying "Napier Museum", just "Art Gallery" and it's the big building in the park to the north of Museum Road. ₹5 for tickets .  
• 8.50972 76.94648 9 Priyadarshini Space Planetarium . One of the largest planetaria in India and rated as one of the best horizontal planetaria of the world. It has a collection of astronomical science objects from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Two major shows regarding various secrets of universe are done daily. It has a good Sky Theatre, a large conference hall and is the location of regular space-related programs.  

Government buildings

Places of worship

• St Anne's Church , Pettah . This is the first Christian church of Trivandrum set up in 1796 during the reign of King Rama Varma, commonly called "Dharma Raja". It was built on the orders of the King for the benefit of Thachil Matthoo Tharakan, one of his ministers, who was also the first ever native Christian to be appointed as a minister in a Princely State in India. The old church was renovated several times. It is on the road leading to the airport. ( updated Feb 2019 )

Beaches and nature

• 8.50802 76.88865 16 Veli Tourist Village ( Veli Lake and Tourist Village ). A lake blending into the beach, almost as if it were teasing the sea. This area features boating, horse riding on the beach, a floating bridge, a shallow pond where you can feed the fish, and beautifully maintained gardens. It's an excellent destination if you are interested in water adventure sports.  

Other attractions

• Attingal Palace . The headquarters of Travancore Queens who ruled the small province of Attingal. The large palace also houses one of the royal family temples. Much of the palace is off-limits to public, however its durbar hall and public areas are open to the public.  
• Kerala Art College . Affiliated with Kerala University and easy to find, it is directly opposite the unmissable Chandrasekharan Nair (Football) Stadium. It is housed in an old colonial building with sprawling grounds behind. There are occasional art shows (e.g. after graduation, circa early June) held upstairs, and the downstairs offers a large library with world art books. The grounds have many impressive sculptures from students who are friendly and may be keen to show you around the workshops.  
• 8.75994 77.11688 19 Ponmudi . A hill station nestled within a tropical forest. It offers hiking and trekking opportunities.  
• See Thiruvananthapuram on foot. Take public transport to Kanaka Kunnu Palace . Visit this public building that adorns the on top of a hill. It is often used for cultural programs which might be a nice addition to your visit. Check local listings to see what is offered and when. Once finished, walk down to the Napier Museum and Zoo . Walk around the park, admire the architecture, and visit the zoo. Also of interest in this area are the Sree Chitra Art Gallery , Natural History museum and the Reptile House . Then walk towards Palayam along the MG road absorbing the roadside buzz of activities and shopping at the roadside shops.

Usually there are cultural programs at VJT Hall which may be open to the public. Continue along MG road towards the Secretariat . The area around the secretariat is known locally as Statue , due to a few neglected statues of important figures. There are sometimes political protests or demonstrations along this place. You should sample the food from the local restaurants here. SMS Institute on a side road, near the Secretariat, sells authentic Kerala handicrafts and gifts. Prices start from ₹25 to a few thousands. Continue along the MG road and you will find many local book shops including Modern Book House and Prabhat book store. The Ayurveda college , which teaches traditional ayurvedic medicine, will be on the right side of the street. Opposite this, there is another handicraft store. Walk along the MG road and you will reach the junction with traffic signals known as the Over bridge locally. There are a few movie theatres nearby.

The railway station and bus station are towards the left, about half a mile. If you continue straight, you will eventually reach Pazhavangadi . You will see the remains of a fort (well hidden) on the right side (known as Kottakakam / East fort ). The famous Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple is nearby, complete with a temple lake ( Padmatheertham ). The architecture of the temple is more in line with Tamil temples as compared to other Kerala temples. On the left is Chaalai Bazaar . This is a busy congested road teeming with all kinds of shops.

• Stroll around the town during the dusk time when the city comes to life. It is advised not to venture out alone late into the night
• Find local bargains and shop for souvenirs.
• Watch the sunset from the Shankumukham or Veli beach
• Get pampered with a traditional Ayurvedic massage
• Watch traditional performers perform a Kathakali dance.
• Watch a temple procession at the end of a local festival when the deity is taken out on the top of an elephant.
• Watch a Malayalam or Bollywood (Hindi) movie without subtitles in a local cinema.
• Check the newspapers for daily events, especially theatre/film/dance performances. Try to find out if anything is on at the Tagore theatre when you're there, especially during the film festivals which screen art house classics from around the world.
• Take a rain walk - if you're there during the monsoons, buy an umbrella and walk from place to place in the magical monsoon.
• If you're there during the Onam season, be sure to pass by the secretariat building and the kanakakunnu palace for the brilliant illuminations. If it's Christmastime, walk down a little further to the L.M.S compound to see the awesome collection of Christmas stars.
• A long breezy stroll on Veli beach with its kilometres of the orange beach is precious. Take note, as you move past the 'Tourist Village' zone you'll come into areas where the locals live by the beach, they may question you. They're trying to be friendly to the 'new face', so feel free to chat up or move on giving them a friendly wave! Here you can witness the fishermen sail back in the evening and mend their nets. Perhaps join the local kids in a game of beach ball or cricket. There is a strip on the left of the boating club where you can find sea eagles circling in the air, it is a majestic sight to see them swoop in for their prey, and then devour it mid-flight.
• Yoga classes
• Kathakali dance and associated arts including the percussion instruments and make-up
• Kalaripayattu
• Malayalam and its rich literature
• Cheap advanced computing and software training!

Opportunities for foreigners to work in Kerala were, at one time, very limited. The dramatic advances in the information technology sector have changed this to some extent. Most companies still prefer to use the locally available and more economically viable manpower.

To work in India, you need employment visa. The prospective employer needs to send a letter providing information about your qualification to the home ministry in India.

Haggling is quite acceptable and very much needed if you buy anything from the vendors.

Shopping plazas

• Anna's Arcade . Spencer Junction  
• Arcade Shopping Complex . Killipalam  
• Attukal Shopping Complex . East Fort  
• De Options . Nanthencode  
• Karimpanal Arcade . East Fort  
• Kedaram Shopping Complex . Kesavadasapuram  
• Pothys , Ayurveda College, MG Road .  
• Saphalyam Shopping Complex . Palayam  
• SARWAA Your Lifestyle Store , SRL A 47,Sankar Road,Sasthamangalam .  
• Spencer's . Palayam, Pattom & Vellayambalam.  
• Lulu Mall , Akkulam . 9 am–11 pm . LuLu Mall Thiruvananthapuram is a division of the much-famed LuLu Group, headquartered in Abu Dhabi UAE.With a built-up space of 185800 sq. m., the mall is spread across ground plus two storeys. The mall has over 300 national and international brands and 12 Anchor Stores including the LuLu Hypermarket spread across 18500 sq. m. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Department stores

Books and music.

• Modern Book Centre , ☏ +91 471 2478826 . Gandhari Amman Kovil Road, near: M.G Road, Trivandrum. There is a wide selection of books on religion and spirituality, a small stock of imports (novels, histories, etc.), a linguistics section, and a 'Kerala Corner' with books all about local history and culture. The store is overall very well organized. It is not huge, but definitely big enough to find something you'll like.  
• Music world . Overbridge, near SMV school  
• Paico . Statue  
• Prabhat Book House . Statue  
• Prabhus Books , ☏ +91 471 2479586 . Vanchiyoor, Trivandrum 2-min walk from Over Bridge, west of M.G Road.  
• Second hand books . On the streets between Kerala Art College and Napier Museum. It features a wide range of pre-owned books.  

Handicrafts

• Handicrafts, trendy and traditional, can be bought from SARWAA, Sanker Road, Sasthamangalam. Among the collection of handcrafted gifts you can find stationaries, paper crafts, home décor, jewelry and cotton hand-block printed, vegetable-dyed clothing.
• Handicrafts and gift items can be purchased from the “SMSM Institute” near secretariat in the heart of Trivandrum city or other genuine craft shops (Natesan's, opposite the Ayurvedic college). These are often very expensive, sometimes to the point of questioning whether they exist solely to empty traveler's wallets.

Do not buy handicrafts from roadside shops at tourist places, like Kovalam, as you will be ripped off.

When you come to cities like Thiruvananthapuram, do not pack too many clothes. You can buy them cheap at the local shops. There are many shops around the east fort and over-bridge areas.

• JayaLakshmi . Pothys , etc. This is a leading garment chain in south India and they have also opened their outlets on MG Road, Trivandrum.  
• Kalyan Silks . Near East Fort  
• Karalkada . This is a good place to shop for traditional clothes in the Fort area.  
• Parthas . On Powerhouse road is the collection of Indian traditional wear for women is excellent here. The western style collection leaves much to be desired. It has all that you might need in Men’s wear  

For western clothes:

• Aiyappas .  
• Last Option .  

For branded clothes, try the showrooms:

• Adidas . Nanthankode  
• Benetton .  
• Levi Strauss Signature .  
• Pepe Jeans .  
• Reebok . Plamoodu  
• Alappat Fashion Jewellery , ☏ +91 471 2478716 . Attukal Shopping Complex, East Fort,  
• Alukkas Jewellery , ☏ +91 471 2570481 . East Fort  
• Bhima Jewellery , ☏ +91 471 2461631 . Elankath Complex  
• Chemmannur Jewellers , ☏ +91 471 2463128 . East Fort  
• Josco Jewellers . East Fort & Pattom  
• Lekshmi jewellery , ☏ +91 471 2470609 . East fort  
• Prince Jewellers , ☏ +91 471 2470667 . East Fort  
• Saravana Jewellers , ☏ +91 471 2470667 . East Fort  

There are plenty of restaurants in Thiruvananthapuram serving South Indian food. There are also quite a few eating places serving other cuisines, such as North Indian, Chinese and American food. Please note that the word 'hotel' is used for restaurants.

Non vegetarian Kerala cuisine is served in -

• Azad Restaurant/Hotel . Which has branches in a few places in Thiruvananthapuram including Statue Junction, Near overbridge and Vazhuthacaud.  
• Balan's Tattukada . Kaithamukku  
• Buhari Hotel . Atakulangara, Near East Fort. Try the puttu and mutton curry. Not for the faint hearted as the food is spicy.  
• Cafe Coffee Day . By the main road at Kowdiar is a branch of the popular national chain and ideal for a cappuccino or sandwich.  
• Dakhni Deg . Serves Hydrabad delicacies including Dum biryani, Tandoori stuff and great desserts. It has three branches in the city. Technopark and Kuravakonam. A must try.  
• Indian Coffee House . The distinctive curved red building near the bus station and main train station is cool to walk inside of on its own. Very popular and open when many other restaurants are closed. They do Indian food, but their specialties include western dishes like 'Bombay Toast' (French Toast) @ ₹30-60. In spite of being very photogenic, this building is very uncomfortable for aged customers as there is no lift.  
• Kaithal Restaurant . Chalai. Try the pepper chicken.  
• Marry Brown Restaurant , ☏ +91 471-4061010 . A Malaysia based fast food chain serving fried chicken, burgers, seafood, finger foods, desserts and beverages. It's at Panavila Jn near the fly-over.  
• Maveli Cafe . A branch of Indian Coffee House near the KSRTC bus stand in a unique spiral tower. There are other branches of Indian Coffee House in the city which also serve cheap traditional food.  
• Mubarak restaurant . Ruby nagar, Chalai  
• Open House . Ayurveda College jn  
• Varnam Seafood Family Restaurant . Nandavanam Road, Near RBI.  
• Zam Zam . Near the MLA hostel, famous for Arabian dishes. Order Shawarma (shredded chicken), Shawaiya (Chicken roast), Al Faham (Chicken Roast) and Kubuz (special Arabian roti). This is a must-visit for chicken-lovers.  

Vegetarian options include:

• Anand Bhavan . (Statue Junction)  
• Arul Jyothi , ☏ +91 471 2470240 . M.G. Road, serves delicious South Indian vegetarian food.  
• Ariya Bhavan . Opp: Bus Stand, Thampanoor  
• Arulakam . Palayam junction & Bakery junction  
• Arya Nivas . Very popular with good food and quality service.  
• Green sign restaurant . It's about 50 m up from the bus station on the same side. Good cheap food, and very clean!  
• Hotel Venkateshwara . Airport road, Fort. A small hotel which offers food favoured by Tamil Brahmins & famous for its kara vadai  

Most of the budget restaurants tend to be crowded and noisy as the aim is a rapid turnover and not relaxed dining. It might be better to use the take away facilities and eat at a local park.

• Hotel Sea Rock , Kovalam . Famous for their grilled sea food. ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Rahmaniyya Hotel , Chala ( Kethal ). Famous for their tender chicken & chappathi. ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Dhanya Restaurant , Kaitha Mukku . For tapioca, Choora fish, Appam, Puttu, chicken, beef and egg biriyani, available after 12:30PM. Rice porridge is available after 5:30PM for ₹40. ( updated Oct 2016 )
• Ambrosia . A bakery with an eating outlet. Serves burgers, hotdogs and pizzas. Bakery junction and near Medical College.  
• Cafe Mojo , Kuravankonam . A good place to dine. Continental & Thai dishes available. Good option for dining out once in a while. Mid range .  
• Casa Bianca . A pizzeria and restaurant at Vazhuthacaud owned and run by a lovely expatriate. Serves great, fresh tasting pastas, pizzas and all things Italian in a casual intimate setting. Definitely worth the trip from Kovalam if you're missing a good quality thin crust pizza.  
• Indraprastha . Near bakery junction.  
• Kalavara . At Kowdiar, behind the Trivandrum Tennis Club.  
• KTDC floating restaurant . At Veli. Amazing scenery across the lake.  
• Maurya rajadhani . Statue road. ₹150-200 for buffet lunch  
• Park Field .  
• Pizza Corner . At the Spencer junction.  
• Ruby Arena .  
• The South Gate , SS Kovil Rd, Thampanoor ( near Housing Board Junction ), ☏ +91 8344254378 , [email protected] .  
• Sindhoor . Near the Cotton Hill Girls High School, Vazhuthacaud. Serves Chinese and Indian cuisine. The interior is designed to mimic a cave and results in a dark environment. Not very cosy or stylish. Tasty food, and good value for money.  
• Swagat , Panjapura Lane, University of Kerala Senate House Campus, Palayam , ☏ +91 94956 66482 . At Statue, good Vegetarian food. Very good lunch thalis for ₹60. Serves Sadhya (traditional Kerala food on Sundays).  
• Take Home . A popular roadside take-away joint in Kowdiar.  
• Leela Kempinski . Resort Kovalam.  
• Mascot Restaurant , Post Master General junction , ☏ +91-94000 08561 . Breakfast: ₹500, lunch: ₹650 ( updated Jun 2015 )
• South Park . MG Road  
• Taj Residency . Vazhuthacaud  
• Villa Maya . Airport Road, Enjakkal  
• Vivanta by Taj . Kovalam (formerly Taj Green Cove)  

Traditional drinks include Karikku (tender coconut water) and Sambharam (buttermilk with salt, ginger and green chilly). Karikku can be bought mostly from the streetside vendors while Sambharam can be bought from the ubiquitous Milma outlets. The Bakery Junction area has several fresh juice vendors, serving inspired mocktails like Sharjah and Tsunami . "Sharjah" is very popular and available in various juice shops all over trivandrum.

• Hotel-attached restaurant/bar on a street running north, slightly east of the train station
• Rooftop restaurant/bar on the western side of MG Rd, above Club Purple , slightly north of the intersection with the road running west from the station. This place is a fire trap, the little lift cannot empty the place at speed...

Take home Alcoholic drinks are more difficult to obtain. Government run beverages corporation shops are there as the one near overbridge. A Pub is there near overbridge junction opposite to SMV school. Hotels/restaurants with "bar attached" signs sell alcoholic beverages. Public consumption of these drinks including beer is not socially accepted. The local "toddy shops" and "arrack shops" sell strong local spirit.

Unless you are in Thiruvananthapuram on a business trip, it may be better to base yourself in Kovalam and go to the city as a day trip. The accommodation in Kovalam tends to be more expensive, but many of the budget options can be found off Tivandrum-Bakery-Palayam Rd, near the station.

• Arya Nivas , Aristo Junction, Thampanoor , ☏ +91 471 2330423 . ₹900 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Jas Hotel . Thycaud  
• Hotel b-six , kazhakootam & white dammer, papanamcode.
• Hotel Highland . A good but old hotel with reasonably clean rooms and very basic decor. Up to 4 bedded rooms are available and the parking space is also good. They can take bookings even on phone without any payments.  
• Hotel Highland Park . A sister hotel of Hotel Highland across the street. It is a newer hotel and the rooms are also good. Price is a little more than that of Hotel Highland. You can easily get disoriented in the zigzagging corridor which would lead to the room from the lift. Has an attached restaurant, 'City Green' - A/C Multi Cuisine Veg Restaurant. The food and ambiance is good.  
• Hotel Navaratna . YMCA Road  
• Hotel Regency . A 1-star hotel close to the railway station and the bus stand. The hotel has good aircon restaurant and rooftop restaurant which is open only in the evenings. In that same area - Manjalikulam Road - are plenty of other hotels offering similar standards.  
• Hotel Sukhvas . Near Rly Station in Manjalikulam Road  
• Lal tourist home , Thanpanoor ( Go up Tivandrum-Bakery-Palayam Rd, take your first right, and it's 50m down on the left ), ☏ +91 471 2328477 , [email protected] . Check-in: 24 hours , check-out: Stay is per 24   hours . Big rooms, also basic but clean. ₹400 for a double .  
• Paradise Inn ( Opposite Best Western Classic Avenue ). Spotlessly clean rooms with well plumbed attached bathrooms for this budget. A/C often full but a little more. Quiet. Best value of three hotels I tried. No mosquitoes. A good bet. 336 inc tax for single with fan .  
• Prathiba Heritage ( Dharmalayam Rd. near MG Road ), ☏ +91 471 2336442 . Basic but clean. ₹660 for a 3-bed fan room .  
• Priya Tourist Home , Thampanoor , ☏ +91 471 2323663 . ₹300 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Railway Retirement Room ( inside the railway station ). ₹200 . ( updated May 2015 )
• Silver Lands , Near Overbridge . with restaurant. ₹600 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• NOT EXISTING LISTING IMAGE Rams Guest House , R Burma Road Kumarapuram Medical college P O Thiruvananthapuram ( From Airport and Railway station or Bus station by Uber Ola or Autorikshaw ), ☏ +91 9422300047 , [email protected] . Check-in: 11AM , check-out: noon . This guest house is basically converted from a residential building to the standard of guest house. 6 Double occupancy full furnished rooms are available for guests. 4 rooms are placed at the ground Floor and 2 spacious rooms with common hall at the first floor. All rooms are bath attached.Basic amenities like A/c, solar water heater,24 hr TV channels and intercom connected to the reception are available. 24 Hr reception and payments are accepted by Cash or major credit cards. Price may vary depending on season. US$14 . ( updated Feb 2018 )
• Safe Dormitory , KSRTC Building, Thampanoor , ☏ +91 8075746853 . ₹ 250 . ( updated Jun 2022 )
• Best Western Classic Avenue , T.C 25/1744 (1), Manjalikulam Road, Thampanoor, Trivandrum ( Near the station ), ☏ +91 471 233555 . Clean linen! Hot showers! Bath! Private rooftop pool! Breakfast buffet! (Seems to be cheaper if booked through online, ₹2800 for single.)  
• Fortune Hotel The South Park ( Fortune Hotel, Trivandrum ), MG Rd , ☏ +91 471 2333333 . Awarded the best four-star deluxe hotel in Kerala by the State Government. 8 km away from the airport and 3 km from the railway station and the city bus station.  
• Hotel Chaitram , ☏ +91 471 2330977 , fax : +91 471 2331446 , [email protected] . Owned by KTDC and is very close to the railway station and bus stand. Claims 2-star deluxe facilities. AC rooms start at ₹2000 + tax. Non-AC rooms are not available.  
• Hotel Horizon . A 3-star hotel on Aristo road with a roof top restaurant.  
• Hostel Lailja . Pappanamcode, near Regional Research Laboratory(CSIR)  
• Hotel Pankaj . A 3-star hotel in Statue, near the secretariat.  
• Hotel Saj Lucia . In East Fort near Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple.  
• Hotel Venus International . On the Ayyappan Kovil Road (near BTC Tower). Fairly good. A single AC room costs around ₹1300 + taxes. AC rooms only.  
• Paradise Gardens Beach Resort & Ayurveda Centre . Karikatikuzhi Beach - a beautiful beach. South of Kovalam.  
• The Residency Tower . A 4-star hotel near the south gate of the secretariat.  
• Ruby Arena Hotel . 3-star business hotel. Hotel Ruby Arena has ample parking facility and provides luxurious accommodation. Elegantly appointed rooms provide a relaxing atmosphere and are set up to international standards.  
• Second Home . If you plan to stay at Trivandrum for a considerably longer time, this would be your best option as it is very homely and cost effective at the same time.  
• Serviced Apartment (My Travel Home) . For short and long duration stay at Trivandrum at a fully furnished serviced apartment accommodation. Ideal for a group or individuals. Cost effective than a similar air-con hotel room at the same time. Very good for a temporary stay or even for a month.  
• Abad Harmonia , Adimalathura Beach ( Address is in Thiruvananthapuram, but actually located at Chowara, 6-km south of Vizhinjam ), ☏ +91 484 4144000 , [email protected] . Ayurveda and health resort with tastefully designed cottages and rooms which exudes warmth of its own. ( updated May 2015 )
• 8.5093 76.9499 1 Mascot Hotel , Post Master General junction ( government property ). Very spacious garden and lawn. ₹2,000 .  
• South Park . A 4-star hotel on the MG road, near the secretariat, 3   km from the railway station.  
• Vivanta by Taj - Trivandrum . A 5-star hotel in the heart of the Trivandrum city.  

Female tourists should be wary of hooligans, especially in New Year parties.

Only eat hot food and drink only boiled or good bottled water. Take water purification tablets with you. Water from corporation supplied lines are generally safe, but to be on the safer side go for purified forms.

If you are visiting during the summers (April–May) temperatures might be higher and you might want to take some preparations against it. Evenings are best time to stroll. City sleeps early so you can roam about until maximum 10PM inside the city (really the limit). Most shops close by that time. If you are staying somewhere outside the centre transport options get harder to find and more expensive later at night.

If you need injections or blood tests, try to provide your own needle, bringing a few with your first aid kit. Private hospitals generally provide good service.

Telephone and mobile

The dialling code for Thiruvananthapuram is 471. When calling from overseas, dial +91 471 XXXX XXX. If you have a non-working phone number with only 6 digits try to add a "2" in front of it .

If you don't have an Indian phone number then get a pre-paid calling card if you planning on using your phone frequently. By government regulation you need a photocopy of your passport (visa and the main photo ID-page) and a color photo to be able to buy a pre-paid card. Pre-paid cards are sold in most shops that sell mobile telephones.

'Telephone booths' or public telephones are widely available usually painted with the letters PCO (Public Call office, local calls), STD (Subscriber Trunk Dialling) and ISD (International Subscriber Dialling). All booths have electronic metering and you pay what's displayed on the meter.

There are many internet cafes around Thiruvananthapuram. They offer cheap, tolerably fast internet access to the public.

Tourist information

There is a tourist information booth open on Thiruvananthapuram station. Helping with train times and local attractions mainly, the guy who works there is usually happy to answer anything else. It is a booth on the platform near the middle and the entrance closest to the booking office. It's marked with a green sign, but easily missed.

Thiruvananthapuram has world class medical facilities with very competitive rates. This attracts "health tourists" from other states and even other countries. If you are in need of medical care, try to go to one of the reputed hospitals listed below.

• General hospital general hospital junction, Vanchiyoor
• Medical College Hospital , Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram
• Regional Cancer Centre , Medical College Campus, Medical College , ☏ +91 471 2442541 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Sree Avittam Thirunal Hospital , Medical College , ☏ +91 471 2444270 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute of Medical Science and Technology , Medical College , ☏ +91 471 2443152 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Women and Children Hospital , Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram
• District Model Hospital, Peroorkada
• Ananthapuri Hospitals and Research Institute , Chacka NH bypass, near International Airport , ☏ +91 471 2579900 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Arumana Hospital , Airport Road, West Fort . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Chaithanya Eye Hospital and Research Center , Kesavadasapuram , ☏ +91 471 2447183 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Cosmopolitan Hospital , Murinjapalam, Pattom , ☏ +91 471 2448182 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• [hhtp://www.divyaprabha.in Divya Prabha Eye Hospital ] , Kumarapuram , ☏ +91 471 2442050 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Kerala Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) , Kumarapuram Poonthi Road, Anamukham, Anayara , ☏ +91 471 2447575 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Matha Ayurveda Eye Hospital , Kudappanakunnu , ☏ +91 471 2731352 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• P R S Hospital , Killippalam , ☏ +91 471 2344443 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• SP Fort hospital , near fort high school, Fort . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Sree Uthradam Thirunal Hospital , Pattom , ☏ +91 471 2446220 . ( updated Mar 2020 )

Dental clinics

• Kailas Dental Clinic , Near Medical College Men's Hostel , ☏ +91 471 2553801 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Dr.Jacob's Omega Dental Clinic , Centre for Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry ( Near QRS, Main Road, Plamood, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram ), ☏ +91 94 4736 6770 , +91 98 4605 3333 , +91 471 2726252 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Dr.Jacob's Omega International Dental Clinic , Centre for Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, Suseela Gardens, Beach Road, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram , ☏ +91 94 473 66770 , +91 98 4605 3333 . ( updated Mar 2020 )

ATMs are widely available in Thiruvananthapuram, mainly along with branches of banks. A number of them are present along the MG road.

Money exchange

• Air Travel Enterprises Ltd , Palayam , ☏ +91 471 2327212 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• T. T. Travels Ltd , Vellayambalam , ☏ +91 471 2332127 , +91 471 2333208 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Thomas Cook , Ground Floor,Soundarya Building, M.G. Road , ☏ +91 471 338140 , +91 471 338141 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Thiruvananthapuram International Airport , ☏ +91 471 2502470 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• U.A.E. Exchange Centre , Pattom & Vazhuthacadu Branches . ( updated Mar 2020 )

Most of the major banks in India have a branch in Thiruvananthapuram and most of these are around the MG road.

Sunshades and prescription glasses in stylish frames are much cheaper in India than in the western world.

• Eye Designs , 9-10, Kedaram Shopping Complex, Kesavadasapuram , ☏ +91 471 2440985 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Lens & Frames , Ambujavilasam Road, Pulimood , ☏ +91 471 2471354 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Rose opticals pulimoodu junction
• Solar Opticals , Statue Convent Lane, General Hospital Junction , ☏ +91 471 2477596 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Vision House Murinja Palam Junction, Pattom

Libraries and cultural centres

• Alliance Francaise , "Sudharshana", Forest Office Lane, Vazhuthacaud , ☏ +91 471 2320666 , +91 471 5578808 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Eloor Lending Library , ABN Home, I Floor, Vellayambalam Jawahar Lane, Sasthamangalam P.O. , ☏ +91 471 2318235 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Goethe-Zentrum , "Casa Julia", University-Kunnukuzhy Road, Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram , ☏ +91 471 3013018 , +91 471 3013019 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• Russian Cultural Centre , Gorky Bhavanam, Vanross Junction, Palayam , ☏ +91 471 2338399 . ( updated Mar 2020 )
• State Central Library widely known as "Public Library". At Palayam. Has books in English, Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil and Sanskrit. Housed in an attractive Victorian Style building.
• University Library , Palayam.
• Braemore Estate , Trekkers' paradise 50 km away from Thiruvananthapuram.
• Kanyakumari - 87   km away in Tamil Nadu state. Visit early evening to see the glorious sunsets where the 3 seas meet; the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean,
• Kochi - a metropolitan city in Kerala and a major tourist attraction. 5   hours away by train, or 6 by bus.
• Kovalam - famous for its beaches, among the finest in India. 17   km from the city.
• Ponmudi - A pleasant hill resort 61   km away from city, elevation 912m above sea level.
• Swamithoppe - The religious headquarters of Ayyavazhi and the most important pilgrim center of Ayyavazhis.
• Thiruvananthapuram (district) has many more attractions which are a day trip away.
• Varkala - a pilgrimage centre for the devotees of Janardhana Swamy and Sree Narayana Guru. 51   km away from Thiruvananthapuram city.
• Colombo - daily flights, 45 minutes away
• Maldives - multiple flights a day, 1 hour

Other places in Tamil Nadu state like Kutralam or Courtallam for its Water Falls, Madurai , Palani and Thanjavur

If booking train tickets out from Thiruvananthapuram, the reservation office is upstairs in the main railway station, and follows an odd ticketing system. Tickets are available from a small machine with a red button just near the first counter on your right after you walk in. Although it is usually covered by people. There is unfortunately no tourist window at this station, however tourist class can always still be booked!

There is another train reservation counter in the ground floor of the big LIC (Life Insurance Corporation) building at Pattom. Crowds are thinner here.

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TRIVANDRUM (THIRUVANANTHAPURAM) TOURISM | PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO TRIVANDRUM

• Trivandrum Overview
• Top 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum
• 4 Best Trivandrum Tour Packages
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• Best Time to Visit Trivandrum

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About Trivandrum

Country: india | state: kerala, #9 of 24 places to visit in kerala | #94 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 1-2 days, base station: trivandrum, nearest city to trivandrum: trivandrum, best time to visit trivandrum: october to march, peak season: august to september & december to january, trivandrum weather: maximum: 34°c minimum: 21°c.

At a distance of 85 km from Kanyakumari, 204 km from Kochi, 266 km from Madurai, 385 km from Coimbatore, 400 km from Trichy, 770 km from Chennai, 622 km from Mangalore, and 746 km from Bangalore, Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is the capital of the state of Kerala and the headquarters of Thiruvananthapuram district. It is one of the must-include places in Kerala tour packages . Situated between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Thiruvananthapuram means the City of Lord Anantha in Sanskrit and Malayalam. The name derives from the deity of Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, one of the must-visit places as part of Trivandrum tour packages . Trivandrum is located on the west coast of India near the extreme south of the mainland. The city once formed a part of the kingdom of Travancore, which had its capital at Padmanabhapuram. Even now most of the buildings in the city possess the royal heritage of the Travancore Kings. As per historical records, Trivandrum was a famous port city during 1050 BC and it maintained trade relations with the Middle East and Mediterranean countries. Trivandrum is famous for its enchanting tourist spots including internationally renowned beaches like Kovalam , historic monuments with Gothic architecture, lakes/backwaters, unexplored mountain ranges, etc. Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple , Napier Museum, Kanakakkunnu Palace, Science and Technology Museum, Kowdiar Palace, St. Joseph's Cathedral, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, Happyland Amusement Park, etc. are some of the prominent places to visit in Trivandrum . Trivandrum is a popular medical tourism destination and receives chartered flights for medical tourism, as there are more than a hundred recognized Ayurveda centers in and around the city. Medical tourism is further promoted by modern medical hospitals in the City. Recuperation facilities are available at five-star beach resorts and hill stations nearby. It is also considered one of the cleanest cities in India. The major festivals in the city are Onam, Attukal Pongal & Aaraat of Padmanabha Swami Temple. Attukal Pongal is a 10-day annual festival which, is held at the Attukal Temple in Thiruvananthapuram every year. Trivandrum is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. Trivandrum has great connectivity from major cities in India and countries like Dubai, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the USA & Europe. There are direct trains from Trivandrum Central to all the major cities in Kerala like Chennai, Mangalore, New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Madurai, etc. Trivandrum is well connected by bus from Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pondicherry, Kochi, Mangalore and Mumbai. The city has two major bus stations. Long-distance buses operate from the Central Bus Station at Thampanoor, Short distance buses operate from the City Bus Station. The best time to visit Trivandrum is from November-March while the peak season is August to September & January to March. It usually takes two full days to explore the important places in Trivandrum.

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Nearest Airport: Trivandrum - Trivandrum International Airport (6 Kms)

Direct flights to trivandrum, nearest train station: trivandrum central railway station (0 kms) trivandram pettah (3 kms), direct trains to trivandrum, nearest bus station: trivandrum central bus station (0 kms), direct buses to trivandrum, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to trivandrum, top 10 places to visit in trivandrum, anantha padmanabha temple.

#1 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of about 2 km from Trivandrum Central Railway Station, Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the Fort Area of Trivandrum city. It is one of the richest temples in India , and among the must-visit places as part of Trivandrum tour . Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the 108 Divyadesams of Lord Vishnu and among the most sacred places of pilgrimage in Kerala . Although the origin of this temple remains a mystery, devotees believe it to have existed since the first day of the Kali Yuga, which was 5000 years ago. The Padmanabhaswamy temple also has a mention in the Bhagwad Gita. The scripture states that Balarama, the older brother of Lord Krishna frequented the temple, bathed in the Padmatheertham, and also made several offerings to the deity here. Padmanabha Kshetram .....

Palace Museum / Kuthira Malika

#2 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of about 2 kms from Trivandrum Central Railway Station, The Palace Museum is located in the Kuthira Malika Palace built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma, the King of Travancore. It is located in the Fort Area near Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple. It is a rare specimen of workmanship in the traditional Travancore style of architecture. The Museum displays paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family. The name Kuthira Malika means 'Palace of Horses' and is derived from the frieze of 122 wooden horses on the exterior walls. The Palace was constructed with teak, rosewood, granite and marble. The palace includes two thrones - one is made entirely from elephant tusks and the other from Bohemian crystal. Timings: 8.30 AM to 12.30 PM & 3:30 PM to 5.30 PM. Closed on Mondays.

Napier Museum / Govt. Art Museum

#3 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of about 3.5 km from Trivandrum Central Railway Station, the Napier Museum is an art and natural history museum situated in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Also known as Government Art Museum, it is one of the popular museums in Kerala, and among the most prominent places of sightseeing in Trivandrum . The museum was first established in 1855 but demolished in 1874 to lay the foundation for a new building, during the reign of Ayilyam Thirunal. The construction was completed in 1880 and was named after Lord Napier, the Governor of Madras from 1866-1872. Designed by Robert Chisholm, the consulting Architect of the Madras Government, the architectural style of the museum is a mix of Indian, Chinese, Kerala, and Mughal Schools of architecture. Renowned for its fine collection of exhibits, the Napier Museum serves as a prime attraction of the city that one must visit during Trivandrum trip . It .....

#4 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of 13 km from Trivandrum, 67 km from Nagarcoil, 78 km from Kollam, 83 km from Kanyakumari, 159 km from Alleppey, and 212 km from Kochi, Kovalam is a coastal town on the shores of the Arabian Sea in Kerala. It is also one of the most famous places to visit as part of Kerala tour packages . Often called the 'Paradise of the South', Kovalam is one of the wonderful Kerala beach destinations . Kovalam means 'A grove of coconut trees and the whole area beyond the shores around Kovalam is filled with the endless sight of coconut trees offering magnificent views while approaching the beach. Kovalam gained importance when Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bai, the Queen of Travancore, built a palace, the Halcyon Castle on the top of a rock near the beach in the 1930s. Thereafter the place was brought to the public eye by her nephew the Maharaja of Travancore. After Independence, Kovalam was relatively ..... Distance (From Trivandrum Central Railway Station): 13 Kms Trip Duration (From Trivandrum Central Railway Station - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Attukal Bhagavathi Temple

#5 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of 3.5 Kms from Trivandrum Central Railway Station, Attukal Bhagavathi Temple is one of the famous temples in Kerala and famously known as the Sabarimal of Women. This temple got its place in Guinness Book of World Records as 'the largest gathering of women in the world'. About 1.5 million women gather at this temple to celebrate the famous Pongala festival. Dedicated to Goddess Devi (another form of Goddess Parvathi), this temple is located in the heart of Trivandrum city. Pilgrims visiting Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple consider their visit is incomplete without offering prayers at this temple. Attukal Pongala is the main festival celebrated at this temple on Karthika day of Kumbham month (Feb/March). During this festival, millions of women gather around this temple and prepare Pongala (rice cooked with jaggery, ghee, coconut as well as other ingredients) to offer to the goddess to seek her best blessings. Timings: 4:30 AM to 12:30 PM & 5 PM to 8:30 PM

Shanghumugham Beach

#6 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of about 10 km from Trivandrum Central Railway Station, Shanghumugham Beach is a famous beach situated in Trivandrum. It is one of the famous beaches in Kerala , and among the top Trivandrum attractions . Shanghumukham Beach is known for its pristine waters and soulful sunsets. It runs next to the Trivandrum airport and a must-visit for those seeking tranquility during Trivandrum tour . The huge sculpture of a Nymph (Jalakanyaka) made by the famous sculptor Sri Kanai Kunjuraman and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are added attractions here. Shanghumugham Beach is considered the 'Arattukadavu' of Sri Ananthapadmanabhan, the presiding deity of the city. On the Arattu day at Thiruvananthapuram, images of Lord Padmanabhaswamy, Lord Narasimha, and Lord Krishna are taken in procession to .....

Poovar, Near Kovalam

#9 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of 18 km from Kovalam and 27 km from Trivandrum, Poovar is a small coastal town at the southern tip of Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala. Encompassed by a beautiful beach on one side and the backwaters on the other, it is one of the major Kovalam places to visit . Situated close to the Neyyar River estuary, Poovar is one among the natural wonders where the Lake, River, Sea, and Beach meet the land. Poovar is a lovely island with long stretches of glowing sand, serene surroundings, and a refreshing gentle breeze. Poovar has been a trading center and port in ancient times where timber, sandalwood, ivory, and spices were traded. According to legends the port Ophir where King Solomon's trading ships landed is said to be Poovar. Another legend describes this as the place where Maharaja Marthanda Varma was given protection from his enemies by the powerful merchant, Moosa Marikkar. Poovar is ..... Distance (From Trivandrum): 27 Kms Trip Duration (From Trivandrum - Including Travel): 2-3 Hours .....

Zoological Gardens

#7 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of about 4 km from Trivandrum Central Railway Station, the Zoological Gardens is a well-maintained zoo park situated in the complex of Napier Museum in Trivandrum. Also known as Trivandrum Zoo, it is one of the popular zoo parks in Kerala, and among the must visit places as part of Trivandrum sightseeing packages . Established in 1859 by the Maharaja of Travancore, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is one of the oldest Zoological Parks in India. Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma (1816-1846), the ruler of Travancore was the visionary behind the establishment of the Thiruvananthapuram Museum and Zoo. He had a broad variety of animals, including elephants in his horse breeding center. It was however left to his brother Uthram Thirunal Marthanda Varma and the then British Resident General Cullen which resulted in the establishment of Napier Museum and Zoo in Thiruvananthapuram. The zoo was originally built with the typical iron-barred .....

Neyyar Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary

#8 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of about 29 Kms from Trivandrum Central Railway Station, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 128 sq. kms at the foot of Western Ghats. The Neyyar Dam built over Neyyar River is located within the Wildlife Sanctuary. The Sanctuary is the home of unique species of flora and fauna. From wild boars and elephants to the vast range of medicinal herbs, Neyyar is truly a nature lover's paradise. The crocodile farm, the lion safari park and the deer park are some of the main attraction of the Neyyar Sanctuary. Boating facility is available in the reservoir of the Neyyar Dam. The best time visit Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary is October to March.

Kowdiar Palace

#10 of 35 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

At a distance of about 6 kms from Trivandrum Central Railway Station, Kowdiar Palace was built in 1914 by Maharajah Moolam Thirunal. It is the official residence of the present Maharajah of Travancore, Moolam Thirunal and the Travancore Royal family. The architectural work of the Kowdiar Palace is famous. Public are not permitted to enter the palace, but can view this grand old building from the gate.

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1. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

6 km from city center 1 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled on the southern side of the Western Ghats, just 32 km from the main city. The sanctuary was established in 1958 and covers an area of 128 sq km. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a riveting destination near Thiruvananthapuram that offers a lion safari and houses a rehabilitation center for elephants, a crocodile farm, & a wide range of wildlife species, including deers & leopards.

2. Padmanabhaswamy Temple

19 km from city center 2 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

One of the 108 Divya Desams, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. Embellished in gold-plated covering, the temple is opened only to Hindu followers. Dedicated to Lord Padmanabha; one of the avatars of Lord Vishnu, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the principal centres of Vaishnava worship in the dharma of Vaishnavism.

3. Poovar Island

21 km from city center 3 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Poovar is a small rustic town situated 27 kms from Thiruvananthapuram with unspoilt, unexplored golden sand beaches and beautiful backwaters of Kerala. Also known as a fishing village, the tranquil Poovar island lies between the Arabian Sea and the Neyyar River. Hiring a boat, (especially during the sunset)that will take you through the mangrove forest of backwaters is a must-do activity. The boat ride costs around INR 3000- INR 4000.

4. Agasthyakoodam

20 km from city center 4 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Perched at an altitude of 1,868 meters within the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Agastya Mala Peak is also called Agastyarkoodam. The peak features a life sized statue of Lord Agastya - a Hindu Sage. Trekking is the best way to scale the heights, and the end result is absolutely exhilarating.

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Wonderful kerala group tour package, classic kerala tour for 5 nights & 6 days, best of kerala in 10 days : family tour package, kerala tour packages 7 days - family trip, holy kerala budget package, 5. trivandrum zoo.

18 km from city center 5 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Trivandrum's Zoological Park, also known as the Trivandrum Zoo, stands as one of the oldest and most well-maintained zoos in India, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's diverse wildlife. Spread over vast acres of lush greenery, the zoo houses a wide array of indigenous and exotic species, including lions, tigers, elephants, and reptiles.

6. Kanakakunnu Palace

18 km from city center 6 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Kanakakunnu Palace, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Trivandrum, Kerala, stands as a majestic testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and architectural grandeur. Constructed during the reign of the Travancore King, Sree Moolam Thirunal, this historic palace showcases a unique blend of traditional Kerala and colonial architectural styles.

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7. Napier Museum

18 km from city center 7 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Situated in the vibrant city of Thiruvananthapuram, the Napier Museum stands as a testament to art, culture, and natural history. Established in 1880 under the patronage of Francis Napier, the 10th Lord Napier, the museum is renowned for its Indo-Saracenic architecture, influenced by Indian, Chinese, Kerala, and Mughal styles.

8. Observatory

18 km from city center 8 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Situated on a hill at an elevation of about 60 metres above sea level (the highest point in the city), this astronomical observatory offers exquisite views of the surroundings and the city as a whole. Beautiful roses can be found in the garden in front. It was built in 1837 and is part of the Department of Physics, University of Kerala today.

9. Happyland Water Theme Park

27 km from city center 9 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Situated amidst the scenic beauty of Vembayam, just a few kilometers from the capital city, Happyland Water Theme Park sprawls over a vast area on a picturesque hillside, blending architectural charm with natural splendor. As an NRI project, Happy Land adds a new dimension to the tourist map of Trivandrum, offering an array of amusement options, including exclusive rides like Mini “Kuttalam” and Uphill Drive.

10. Chalai Bazaar

18 km from city center 10 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Chalai Bazaar is a typical old Indian market spread on a small stretch of 2 km connecting Killippalam and East Fort. It is famous for its collections of fruits and vegetables to gold and silver jewellery, electronics, furniture, paint and, hardware etc. Stretching along Chalai Road, this historic market has been a hub of trade and commerce for centuries, attracting locals and tourists alike with its myriad offerings.

11. Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple

24 km from city center 11 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Adding to the historical significance and cultural diversity of the little yet vibrant city of Karikkakom is the Karikkakom Sree Chamundi Devi Temple which is over 600 years old. This ancient temple is set in dense green environs with the tall lush palms enveloping it from all sides. The Karikkakom Devi Temple is a Hindu temple that enshrines Goddess Chamundi.

12. Sri Chitra Art Gallery

18 km from city center 12 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery stands as a beacon of art and culture, showcasing a rich tapestry of artistic heritage from Kerala and beyond. Established in 1935, this esteemed gallery is a testament to the region's vibrant artistic legacy, housing an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that span various periods and styles.

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13. Magic Planet

28 km from city center 13 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Renowned as the first magic park in the entire world, the Magic Planet is an absolute treat for the inquisitive child in us all. This mystical theme park aims at changing the perspective with which we look at magic- instead of looking at it as a mystery, the Magic Planet encourages us to put on our science glasses and look at the beautiful art of magic as a segment of pragmatic math and awe-inspiring science.

14. Priyadarshini Planetarium

19 km from city center 14 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Regarded as one of the best planetariums in the whole of South India, the Priyadarshini Planetarium should definitely top your list of places to visit in Trivandrum. This planetarium is India's first titled domed planetarium and has been doing an impeccable job at not only educating the people in the diverse subject of astronomy but also keeping them acquainted with the latest evolutions in the field.

15. CSI Christ Church

18 km from city center 15 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Having added to the historical and architectural glory of Trivandrum for more than 19 decades, the CSI Christ Church is a beautiful gothic church that adorns the vibrant town of Palayam. If you are a history buff or a lover of architecture, this church should top your list of attractions to visit in Trivandrum.

16. Kuthiramalika Palace

19 km from city center 16 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Built in the 1840s by the great Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, the Kuthira Malika Palace stands as an iconic monument that gives you a curious insight into the glorious history of Kerala. 'Kuthira Malika' literally translates to ‘Mansion of horses’, and it has been named so because of the 122 horses that adorn the many pillars that support the southern roof of this majestic structure.

17. Aazhimala Siva Temple

19 km from city center 17 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Aazhimala Siva Temple in Kazhivoor has been attracting a throng of ardent Shiva devotees as well as fascinated tourists for decades now. The Temple, as the name suggests, is devoted to the great Lord Shiva. Since Tuesday is considered to be an auspicious day by Shiva's devotees, every Tuesday, hoards of the Lord's disciples come to seek his blessings at this temple.

18. Attukal Temple

18 km from city center 18 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Trivandrum is one of the most talked about temples of not just the south, but the entire country. Among the many reasons for its popularity, probably the most eye-catching one is that it received a Guinness World Book record when over 37 lakh women offered pongala at this temple at once, making it the destination of the largest gathering of women for a religious activity!

21 km from city center 19 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Kallar is ideally, a scenic location of small, gorgeous and less polluted hamlets situated on the way from Ponmudi hill station to Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. In an offbeat track of 15 km away from Ponmudi, Kallar provides a perfect weekend getaway in the laps of nature.

20. Sunil's Wax Museum

20 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Located near the South Street of Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Trivandrum, Sunil’s Wax Museum is the very first wax museum of Kerala. Boating of 31 magnificent life- like statues of celebrities and famous personalities, the variety of models range from freedom fighters to soldiers, leaders, sportsmen, politicians, film stars and great kings.

21. Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple

19 km from city center 21 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Being one of the most popular Ganesh temples of the south, the Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple holds a special place in the hearts of the locals and the ardent devotees of Lord Ganesh. The devotees who visit this temple are overcome with the tranquil calm and relentless peace of the magically pious atmosphere.

22. Shanghumugham Beach

23 km from city center 22 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Shanghumugham Beach, or Shankumugham Beach is situated at a distance of 8 kms from Trivandrum and is one of the most popular beaches in the city. The beach also houses the giant 35 m long sculpture of a mermaid known as matsya kanyaka which is also the prime attraction at the beach.

23. Puthenthope Beach

32 km from city center 23 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Puthenthope Beach is situated in Puthenthope, 15 kms away from Trivandrum. Graciously fringed with palm trees, the beach is popular for mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views. But it is comparatively less crowded than the other beaches of the city and is synonymous with peace and tranquility.

24. Akkulam Lake

24 km from city center 24 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Akkulam Lake is situated in the Trivandrum of Kerala and is an extension of the Veli Lake. It merges with the sea in the end and makes for a popular picnic spot for the city folks.

25. Vellayani Lake, Trivandrum

15 km from city center 25 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Also known as Vellayani Kayal, Vellayani Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, situated in the Trivandrum city. The water from the lake is mostly used for irrigation and drinking purposes and for harvesting lotus flowers.

26. Veli Beach

26 km from city center 26 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Veli Beach is situated just 10 kms from the city centre of Trivandrum and is one of the most maintained and touristy beaches of the city. The beach has a vast garden which has beautiful begetation, a play area for kids and various attractions.

27. Mall of Travancore

21 km from city center 27 out of 27 Places To Visit in Trivandrum

Situated in Chackai, Eanchakkal in Trivandrum, Mall of Travancore is the first and the oldest mall in the city. It is also the first green mall mall of the country and boasts of three floors covering over 300 retail stores and outlets.

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15 Amazing Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)

Posted on November 16, 2020 by Admin - Updated May 29, 2024

Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum is the capital of Kerala. It presents the perfect blend of rich heritage and colonial legacy. No wonder, there is no dearth of best places to visit in Trivandrum . Bordering the Arabian Sea, Trivandrum boasts about towering temples, incredible museums, long sandy coastlines, and elegant palaces.

This city has retained its old-world charm and architectural marvels can be found all over the city. There are a plethora of amazing places to visit in Thiruvananthapuram, which are worth a visit and will leave you spellbound.

Have a look at the most visited places in Trivandrum that can make your Kerala tour memorable.

Located 13 km from Trivandrum, Kovalam is an idyllic coastal town. It is renowned for its 17 km long coastline and three adjacent crescent-shaped beaches – Lighthouse, Hawah, and Samudra.

Kovalam boasts about Ayurveda resorts, luxury hotels, and rich cultural heritage, which makes it among the best places to visit in Thiruvananthapuram . This bustling beach destination is blessed with breathtaking beauty, sandy beaches, and serene backwaters.

It is a perfect place to channelize your inner adrenaline junkie and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Attractions

Therapeutic and wellness Ayurveda including wellness therapies.

When to Visit in Kovalam

September to March

[See our tastefully crafted Kovalam Tour Packages here]

2. Meenmutty and Kombaikani Fall

Meenmutty Falls is located near the Neyyar reservoir 45 km from Trivandrum. They are situated inside the dense forest and are accessible on foot. Kombaikuni Falls is 2 km from Meenmutty Falls.

These are among the most thrilling waterfalls and nestled in the lap of dense jungle. The fantastic view of 1000 feet gushing cascades and a picture-perfect backdrop offers a stunning contrast for photography.

The trek runs parallel to the glistening river and offers a beautiful view of thick vegetation, making it the most visited tourist attraction in Trivandrum . From the top of the waterfall, the breathtaking view of the Banasura Sagar dam can be witnessed.

When to Visit

9:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Suggested Read: Short Escape to Wayanad

3. Napier Museum

Situated in the heart of Trivandrum, Napier Museum is the perfect place to get a glimpse of the rich cultural history of Kerala. It was built in the 19 th -Century and houses historical artifacts including ancient ornaments, bronze sculptures, ivory carvings, and paintings.

This museum is an architectural marvel and a perfect blend of Indo-Saracenic style. The museum complex houses two buildings including Great Napier Museum and Natural History Museum.

Japanese show-play leather, which is used to depict the epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana.

• Best Time to Visit

10:00 AM to 04:45 PM (Closed on Mondays and Wednesday forenoons)

4. Varkala Beach

Located on the north end border of Trivandrum district, Varkala Beach is also known as Papanasam Beach as it is believed that taking bath here washes away all the sins. This beach boasts about vibrant environs and a beautiful stretch of sand.

Famous for Ayurvedic resorts, spa, and mineral springs, Varkala Beach is one of the best beaches in Kerala . The beach also offers adventure activities like surfing, snorkeling, and parasailing. Also indulge in meditation and yoga while vacationing in Varkala.

The water of the beach is recognized for its healing properties.

October to February

Ponmudi is an idyllic town in Trivandrum and nestled in the lap of the Western Ghats. The slopes of this hill town are blanketed in mist and the trails are the visual treat. Enveloped with lush green hills, tea plantations, and gushing waterfalls, Ponmudi is popular among adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.

A perfect blend of wilderness and laid back environment, Golden Valley is a popular honeymoon destination in Ponmudi ,

Paragliding, trekking, mountain climbing, and rafting are popular adventure activities.

November to March  

Suggested Read: Ponmudi Hill Station

6. Poovar Island

Beautifully tucked between the stunning River Neyyar and the Arabian Sea and located about 35 km south of the main town of Trivandrum. Poovar Island is an epitome of beauty and rare natural wonder too, as one can find a perfect combination of river, lake, sea, and beaches at the same site. It is the island where the emerald backwater of Kerala joins the beaches. The golden sand, soothing breeze, and waving coconut palms, and more appeal and make it amazing to unwind.

The floating restaurants on the way are an excellent pit stop for the ones who go for a day excursion cursing in these backwaters in Poovar.

When to Visit Poovar

October – February

7. Shangumugham Beach

Merely 10 kilometers away from the city, Shanghumugham beach is one of the attractive tourist destinations to visit in Trivandrum. Give a visual treat to your eyes with the beautiful sunset views from the beach. The crowd, especially during the weekend, make this place more dynamic. Enjoy recreational activities beach volleyball, swimming, and elephant ride or simply relax and stroll along the shoreline.

Attractions:

One can find a huge statue of a mermaid, Matsya Kanyaka in a reclining posture, which is one of the centers of attraction in Trivandrum. Also, do not forget to relish delicious cuisines at the starfish-shaped restaurant.

When to Visit Shangumugham Beach

8. neyyar dam & wildlife sanctuary.

Located about 32 km away from Trivandrum, Neyyar Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its lion safari park, rich biodiversity, and beautiful scenery. The sanctuary is a rehabilitation center for elephants and has a crocodile farm. It boasts several species of wild animals such as lion, tigers, elephants, lion-tailed macaques, leopards, sambar deers, and Nilgiri tahrs.

Apart from that, rare varieties of medicinal herb, lush plantations, and green meadows can be seen here. The sanctuary is also a paradise for adventure enthusiasts as it has many natural trekking trails. Neyyar Dam and Lake located close to the sanctuary offers a great site for boating and bird watching.

Do not forget to visit the watchtower located in the sanctuary to get a stunning picturesque view of the region and spot animals from above.

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Daily except for Monday)

9. Peppara Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary

It is one of the best places to visit in Trivandrum especially for wildlife enthusiasts. Located about 35 km away from the city, Peppara Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary is an abode of several wild animals and rare species of birds. One can find various species of animals including leopard, tiger, sloth bear, elephant, deer, bonnet macaque, Nilgiri langur, and Nilgiri tahr, etc.

This epitome of beauty is surrounded by misty mountains. Many wildlife lovers and ornithologists visit this place to observe the wildlife closely. Peppara dam near the sanctuary is one of the major sources of water supply to the city.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary offers one of the best trekking for adventure enthusiasts. Vazhvanthol falls is one of the major attractions in the region and trek to this waterfall is an amazing experience.

10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

10. Kowdiar Palace

This 20th-century architectural marvel is the official residence of the existing Maharajah of Travancore. Located about 4 km away from the city of Trivandrum, it is one of the best places to visit in Kerala. The palace was built by Maharaja Moolam Thirunal, which depicts a magnificent blend of Travancore style of architecture and design. The palace is surrounded by lush greenery and has more than 150 rooms.

The Kowdiar Palace itself is a huge attraction. However, you can visit nearby attractions such as Napier Museum, Akkulam Tourist Village, and Sreevaraham Temple Pond

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

11. Veli Tourist Village

Located at the confluence of Veli Lake and Arabian Sea, the Veli Tourist Village is a lovely picnic spot. It is a magical tryst with nature that attracts nature lovers and fun seekers alike. Sculptures here are an added delight on which kids even climb while picnicking. It also has a park, especially for kids. Delight in the char of a garden on the banks of Veli Lagoon. Veli beach is another attraction here. A long walkway connecting Aakulam Lake can also be enjoyed here.

Veli Tourist Village

Floating bridge, floating restaurant, boat rides, rock climbing and other adventure activities

8.00 AM and 6.30 PM every day

12. Attukal Temple

Dedicated to goddess Bhadrakali – one of the forms of goddess Mahakali, this temple is among the most sought after places. Its mystical architectural design and serenity beckon devotees from far and wide. No wonder, it is one of the best tourist places in Trivandrum.

It is celebrated for holding multiple Guinness World Records as well as welcoming maximum devotees for festivals. Refresh yourself with a cup of coffee and snacks at the famous Indian Coffee House near the temple.

Pongal is celebrated with great zeal in the temple compound.

5:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM

13. Aruvikkara Dam

Standing on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram, Aruvikkara Dam makes a good choice for a weekend getaway. Indulge in the calmness and scenic charm all around as Karamana River sends you an invite to spend some time amidst the pristine beauty of nature. Attractions around the dam add to the reasons why it is considered one of the famous places to visit in Trivandrum.

Durga Temple and pristine picnic spots are good choices for some leisurely moments with your loved ones.

10:00 AM to 06:00 PM

14. Agasthyakoodam

Agasthyakoodam is among the highest peaks of Kerala, which is named after the Saint Agasthya. The peak is home to rare medicinal herbs along with other flora and fauna. The area is known to have more than 2000 species of orchids, lichens, ferns, and mosses. You can watch it from a site close to Neyyar Dam and Bonacaud. You need to obtain a forest pass from the wildlife office in Thiruvananthapuram.

Attractions in Agasthyakoodam

Birdwatching, trekking, and a temple dedicated to Saint Agastya

When to Visit Agasthyakoodam

7:00 AM to 5:00 PM

15. Vizhinjam

‘ Vizhinjam ‘ is a natural port and among the busiest fishing harbors located close to international shipping routes in Thiruvananthapuram. A demonstration plant stands here that converts energy from sea waves to electricity.  Several colorful fishing boats are seen tucked on the harbor. On the shore, you can witness the fishing life of the locals. Among several significant historical facts associated with it, it is noteworthy that the place was a battle ground from 850 AD to 1400 AD.

Attractions in Vizhinjam

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave (18th-century cave temple), Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium

When to Visit in Vizhinjam

9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

[ Must Read: Hotels in Thiruvananthapuram ]

So, which of these places are you heading to next? The capital city of Kerala treats you well with its attractions that cater to the interest of every tourist. These attractions cater to every type of tourists, be it history buffs, nature lovers, beach bums, adventurers, religious, and wildlife enthusiasts. Plan your trip today and explore the vacation delight at these places. Where will you visit first of all these tourist attractions in Thiruvananthapuram ? 

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The Royal Saga

This city blends the classic regal charm of the past with breathtaking natural attractions..

Welcome to Thiruvananthapuram

Trivandrum boasts iconic heritage constructions, scintillating destinations, and bustling urban spaces. It is home to world-renowned pilgrim centers Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple and Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. With numerous landmarks, beaches, backwaters, and hill stations, Trivandrum is a destination one cannot say no to.

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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM DISTRICT

Tourism has contributed heavily to the economy of Thiruvananthapuram. The entire tourism package such as hill stations, back waters, beaches, lagoons, and wildlife sanctuaries are present in the district.Foreign tourists flock to Thiruvananthapuram, a major destination for chartered flights to India for medical tourism, as there are more than fifty recognized Ayurveda centers in and around the city. This is primarily due to Ayurveda’s immense popularity in the West. Medical tourism is further promoted by world-class modern medicine hospitals in the city. Recuperation facilities are available at five-star beach resorts and hill stations nearby. World-famous Kovalam beach is in this district.

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Famous Places to Visit in Trivandrum

Kuthiramalika (puthenmalika) palace museum.

Beside the rich collection that it displays, this museum is an exemplary example of traditional Travancore-style architecture.  Intricate wood carvings and distinctive patterns constitute a masterpiece of its kinds. Overhanging attics, pillar-lined courtyards and sloping roofs contribute to the exclusive look of the museum.

Visitors can expect a display of a collection, including Belgian mirrors, paintings, Kathakali mannequins, exquisite traditional furniture. The two royal thrones; one manufactured of Bohemian crystals, embossed with an emblem of ‘Conch’ on the backrest and the other made of ivory are the prime attractions of the museum. Marble-made idols and sculptures, musical instruments and the alcove used by Swami Thirunal have also been kept in the showcase. An illusion portrait by veteran painter Sveroslav Roerich is another attractive feature here.

Kuthiramalika, which is often called as Puthenmalika Palace Museum remains open for visitors from 8.30 AM to 1.00 PM and 3.00 PM to 5.30 PM. Monday is the day that it seeks rests from all week-long visits. The best time of the year to visit Kuthiramalika is January. Commemorating the famous Swathi Thirunal, a lively music festival is conducted each year between 6 and 12 January.

Padmanabhapuram Palace

Rejoicing in all its glory, the Padmanabhapuram Palace is located 64 km from Thiruvananthapuram in Thuckalay. This 16th century palace quenches the thirst of art lovers. This fascinating structure has a special air about it. The rosewood carved ceilings and a fine collection of paintings makes it one of the best specimens of Kerala.

Serenaded with fine décor, this palace displays coloured mica windows, antique furniture and Chinese carvings. Ceilings are carved with 90 different floral designs and the Durbar Hall has a glossy floor. Pictures of Lord Krishna, brass lanterns, mural paintings and a four poster medicinal bed add grace to the King’s bedroom. Details like the earthen urns, swimming bath, dance hall, fish carvings on ceilings, Belgian mirrors, 17th and 18th century frescoes and Saraswati Temple sum up to a pleasant structure.

The palace remains open each day from9.00 AM to 5.00 PM. It is to be noted that visits on Mondays are not allowed.

Napier Museum

Named after Lord Napier, this art and history museum was established in 1855. An exemplary example of gothic architecture-style, Napier Museum boasts greatly of its natural air conditioning system. It houses an exceptional collection of ornaments, bronze idols, chariots, and ivory carvings. The museum offers insight into the rich and glorious culture and history of Kerala.

The great contribution made by Rajput, Mughal, and Tanjore schools of art along with the skillful work by several Chinese, Japanese, and Tibetan artists can be found in here. The Japanese leather figures depicting the epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana catch the eyes of tourists.

Napier Museum is certainly one of the most visited tourist places in Trivandrum. Situated in the Museum compound, the ground floor of this place houses India’s oldest zoological garden. Another important feature is Sree Chithra Art Gallery, established by Maharaja Chithira Thirunalin in 1935. The gallery contains epic works from much famed Raja Ravi Varma and Nicholas Roerich.

Best of Kerala

The Kanakakunnu Palace

Neighbor to the famous Napier Museum stands Kanakannu Palace, an embodiment of excellent craftsmanship and architecture. This palace is the proud possession of the state of Kerala. Built by Sree Moolan Thirunal for holding royal ceremonies and banquets retains its image as a place of entertainment for the royal family. At present too, the palace plays host to many cultural programs. It has been named as the heritage monument by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).

Swathi Thirunal, who was a popular ruler of his time, constructed tennis courts in the premises of the palace. Enormous and exquisite crystal chandeliers and antique furniture are the most attractive features here. The beautiful structure is a living testimony of the lifestyle of royals in Kerala. The picturesque backdrop of small yet lush hills and verdant meadows make it one of the most visited tourist places in Trivandrum.

Kanakakunnu Palace is the cultural hub of the city. The palace complex now owns two auditoriums, where a large number of cultural events take place. If you plan a visit, make sure you catch up the All India Dance Festival, popularly known as Nishgandhi festival hosted annually here.

Priyadarshini Space Planetarium

Ranked among the most versatile planetariums in India, the Priyadarshini Space Planetarium was opened to public in 1994. It is fitted with advance equipment that allows the projection of all the constituents of universe. This planetarium imparts valuable knowledge about earth and the enormous universe that we all are part of. Simulating the star-studded night sky on any earth location is its most attractive feature.

The museum is situated in the campus of Kerala State Science and Technology Museum. Blessed with a unique blend of architecture, it is oriented horizontally which has a dome-type ceiling used as a screen for the images of celestial bodies. Astronomical phenomena are projected with the help of ocular device. There is a sky theatre, where several planetarium shows are conducted.

One of the major shows held here is ‘The Man and the Universe’, displaying evolving stages of astronomy, constitution of planets and finally the origin of Universe. There are also other shows that display birth and life of a star, including some special events for groups at 10.30 AM, 12.00 PM, 3.00 PM and 5.00 PM.

Vizhinjam RockCut Cave

Situated 17km away from the city, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple is one of the most visited tourist places in Trivandrum. This 8th century rock cut sculpture is single-celled and houses the deity of Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi.

Temples have been an important part of the Indian history, thus this particular temple is revered highly in South India. The outer wall of the shrine is replete with images of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. There is also an unfinished sculpture of Lord Shiva, in which he is shown dancing and holding a bow. The intricate carvings of the wall are worth appreciating.

Another significant temple in the proximity of Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple is the Bhagavathy Temple. This holy shrine dates back to 9th and 10th century AD.  A Marine Aquarium is also located nearby featuring rare marine ornamental fishes.

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Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

Vizhinjam Lighthouse

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Magic Planet

Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the famous places to visit. This holy shrine is one of the 108 abodes of Lord Vishnu. A large number of devotees throng the temple on multiple occasions.

The place of worship has lent its names to the capital city as ‘Thiru’ ‘Anantha’ ‘Puram’, which means Sacred Abode of Lord Anantha Padmanabha. Dravidian style of architecture is prominent in this holy structure.

The chief attraction is the deity of Padmanabhaswamy, enshrined in a reclining posture. However, the main deity remains that of Lord Vishnu and his heavenly consorts namely, Sridevi and Bhudevi. The sacred idol is covered with a special ayurveda mixture that helps in keeping the plaster intact and clean. Devotees donate a large sum of money and precious articles in this temple. The assets are believed to be value around 90,000 crores.  The invaluable donations are kept safe in 6 different cellars.

Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple

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Beaches to Visit in Trivandrum

Kovalam Beach

Epicentre of tourist flow, Kovalam Beach needs no introduction. This water delight seizes the top position in the list of tourist places in Trivandrum. Often crowded with both local and foreign tourists, it is located 13km away from the city.

Kovalam Beach is the treasure chest of multitude of adventure activities. Along with the sessions of para-sailing, diving and wind surfing, the beach also allows you to go on a leisure walk and offers a playful swimming time. Tourists have a choice to opt for lounge chairs to just sit and gaze at the most extraordinary sunrises and sunsets. The gleaming blue water and silver sands offers a quality time to enjoy nature at its best.

There are many beach resorts that offer customized services. From lip-smacking dishes to allocation of rooms, these retreats have impeccable services which one can easily avail. The well-trained staff offers comfortable and convenient environment. Assisting in planning a day on the beach, the stays take special care of the guests. It would be ideal to book in advance in order to avoid inconvenience.

Ayurvedic therapies are on the top rank when it comes to things to do in Trivandrum. Enjoy outstanding facilities such as Ayurvedic massages and therapies in God’s Own Country. Kovalam beach proves to be an ideal place to experience the benefits of age old Ayurveda.

Along with sightseeing and mouth-watering cuisines, enjoy a session of rejuvenating Ayurveda massage on the Kovalam Beach. The best time to visit here is during the month of September and March. However, visit in monsoon season allows the best experience of ayurvedic therapies and treatments.

Shanghumukham Beach

Shanghumukham Beach is an ideal place for those seeking peace and serenity. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, this place is known for breath-taking sunrises and sunsets; visit to this beach is one of the best things to do in Trivandrum The calm environs and exquisite shoreline here is undoubtedly commendable.

The beach is also considered as the ‘Arattukadavu’ (Seat) of Sri Ananthapadmanabhan. Shamghumukham is also a prime location for the Ganesha Visarjan, where millions of Hindu devotees throng during the Vinayaka Chaturthi.

The best time of the year to visit here is around the Arattu festival. The beach is swarmed with large processions, carrying the deities of Lord Padmanabhawamy, Lord Narasimha and Lord Krishna and led by the former Maharaja of Travancore. The Maharaja is escorted by members of the Royal family, temple authorities, armed guards, police, and officers. The ceremonial bath in this place marks the conclusion of the festival, after which the deities are taken back to their respective temples by the procession.

Preferred due to its isolated location and picturesque landscape, Shanghumukham is the pride of Trivandrum. The famous sculpture of a Mermaid (Jalkanyka) carved by Raja Ravi Varma is an added delight. The sculpture is more than 35m long and is an exemplary piece of art.

Visitors can expect comparatively quite evenings with impeccable sunsets. The breezy shorelines and excellent eating joints make this beach quite popular amongst the tourists. The Indian Coffee house, located across is the vantage point of witnessing beautiful sunset.

Best of Dandeli

Varkala Beach

This secluded beach is situated 54 kms north of Trivandrum. An exemplary escape from the bustling crowd of the city, Varkala is a paradise in its own right. The beach ensures a refreshing vacation with spectacular landscape, multiple international cuisines and mesmerising sunset view.

[Among many marvels we see in our lives, a beautiful sunrise or sunset is the most exotic, Spend a morning at Sunrise Valley]

Located at a distance of 54 km to the north of Thiruvananthapuram is the Varkala Beach, one of the most secluded beaches of Kerala. It is a perfect spot for anyone who likes to escape from the noise and tensions of daily life. With swinging palms above and soft sands beneath, the seashore ensures you to have a rejuvenating vacation. Close by, there is wealth of attractions that one can explore.

There also exists a spring, which is believed to have medicinal properties that can cure several health problems. The best time to visit here is between March and November, when the weather is quite pleasant.

Chowara Beach

Scenic places to visit in trivandrum, neyyar dam and wildlife sanctuary.

There are indeed number of things to do in Trivandrum, including paying a visit to picturesque Neyyar Dam and its neighbouring wildlife sanctuary. Built in 1958, the dam is an ideal family picnic spot which is set against the mesmerizing landscape. It is built where rivers like Neyyar, Kallar and Mullayar confluence. The area is famed for obtaining several medicinal herbs as well.

In the vicinity of this place, a wildlife sanctuary is well laid out. There are deer safari parks, crocodile and lion farms along with watchtower in the region. A guided trek, safari and elephant ride is a must here. Take out at least a day in order to get the best experience of the wild life sanctuary.

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Veli Tourist Village

The planned location of the Veli Tourist Village proves to be a successful picnic spot. It is situated 8 kms from the city, where Veli Lake and Arabian Sea confluences. The charming landscape allures one to explore this much sort after destination.

Another attraction of this hamlet is its floating bridge, which is built recently. The village also houses a floating restaurant that offers sumptuous array of food products which indeed delights the taste buds.

Boat rides, rock climbing and other adventure activities offered here makes this one of the most preferred tourist places in Trivandrum. In close proximity of Kovalam, the village remains open between 8.00 AM and 6.00 PM every day.

Poovar Island

A traveller’s paradise, Poovar Island nestles between the Arabian Sea, Kerala backwaters and the majestic Western Ghats. Palm-fringed beaches, golden sands and turquoise blue seawater awaits here. This place is Kerala’s most distinctive remote getaway and a perfect place to spend quality time with nature and loved ones.

Poovar Island is a resort that offers a large range of accommodation options. Out of its 78 rooms, 56 rooms can be used as triples. Many of its rooms have hammock in the terrace. You are spoilt for choices as the resort offers Land Cottages, Ayurveda Land Cottages, Superior Land Cottages and Premier Cottages. Deluxe Rooms, Floating Cottages and Ayurveda Floating Cottages flood you with exceptional choices of accommodation.

The retreat provides quality holiday experience in sublime natural surroundings. Enjoy a cruise along the shores dotted with palms and breezy backwaters. The island also offers Ayurvedic therapies and massages to its guests. Developed as a ‘science of life’, Ayurveda promises rejuvenation of mind and soul equally. Therefore, here, this therapeutic form has been given special attention. The  centre provides facilities that offer long-term Ayurveda benefits.

At this place packages are thoughtfully crafted and are designed to refresh, relax and rejuvenate. Health is treated as a priority, be it physical, mental or spiritual. The resort makes sure that the Ayurveda establishes energy equilibrium in the functions of the body and simultaneously urge alteration in lifestyle with the simple laws of natures’ rule.

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Agasthyakoodam

Trivandrum Top Attractions

The museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts, including royal thrones, exquisite paintings, sculptures, and musical instruments, reflecting the opulence and artistic heritage of the Travancore royalty. The structure itself features elaborate woodwork, gabled roofs, and spacious verandas, providing a glimpse into the architectural brilliance of the time.Kuthiramalika not only serves as a repository of Kerala's regal history but also hosts the annual Swathi Sangeethotsavam, a prestigious music festival celebrating the compositions of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal.

Escape to the idyllic charm of Veli Lake in Trivandrum, Kerala, India. Veli Lake is a tranquil freshwater lagoon that beautifully merges with the Arabian Sea, creating a mesmerizing confluence of waters. Experience the serenity as you embark on boating and pedal boating adventures, gliding through the calm lake, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic vistas.Veli Tourist Village, nestled on the shores of Veli Lake, offers a delightful blend of nature and recreational activities. With well-maintained gardens, children's play areas, and charming walking paths, the village provides a perfect spot for families and nature enthusiasts to relax and unwind.The scenic beauty and peaceful ambiance of Veli Lake make it a sought-after destination for those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation amidst Kerala's natural splendor. Whether you're looking for a leisurely boating experience, a peaceful retreat, or a picturesque spot to spend quality time with loved ones, Veli Lake promises a memorable and refreshing escape.

What attracts visitors to the Napier Museum is its collection of more than 500 exhibits and over 5,000 coins. These collections belong to different eras of Indian history and include rare objects as well. The museum was built in the late 19th century and is surrounded by several attractions. You can visit a zoo, aquarium, and attractions like KCS Paniker Gallery and Sree Chitra Enclave here. Some of the best collections of the Napier Museum are royal objects, Southeast Asian antiquities, and decorative antiques. Plan your visit and book tickets online so you don’t miss out on anything.

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Tourist Destination - Trivandrum

Thiruvananthapuram is a treasure trove of beaches, lakes, dams, forests, sanctuaries, cultural & scientific centers, historical places, picnic spots, and other attractions.

Padmanabhaswamy TempleMuseum

One of the country's important wildlife centers.Has varieties of wild animals, birds, reptiles. The vast expanse of the artificial lake is an added attraction. Tel:0471 2318294.

Sri Chithra Art Gallery

Contains famous paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, Roerich, and Svetlor besides paintings of Rajput, Mughal and Thanjavur style. Also has reputed paintings from China, Japan, Tibet, and Bali.Tel: 0471 2318294.

Observatory

Within the zoo, the compound is the small Art Museum which has a good collection of wood carvings metal sculptures, Kathakali figures, and ancient jewellery. There is also a wonderful collection of traditional Kerala lamps.

Planetarium

Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple

One of the oldest Vaishnava temples in the country.7- storeyed architectural structure, consisting of Adi Dravidian granite sculptures and murals.

Tourist Spots

Veli tourist village and Akkulam Boat club are popular tourist destinations. The former is 12 km away from the city and is the merging center of the backwater and the sea. The park and the floating bridge are attractions.Tel: 0471 2500785. The latter, situated 9 km from the city, amidst the vast expanse of the Akkulam backwaters, has very good boating facilities, children's park, musical fountain, etc.Tel: 0471 2443043.

Kovalam and Shankhumukham The former, an internationally favored tourist spot, 16 km away from the city, covers an expanse of 3 coasts. The silent waves and the lighthouse are specialties. Tel:0471 2480085. The latter, 8 km from the city, is near the airport and houses the indoor recreation club, children's traffic park, and the attractive star-shaped hotel. Tel:0471 2321132.

Hill Resort

Ponmudi, 61 km from the city and 915 m above sea level, is a trekker's haven with plenty of springs, waterfalls and rare flora. Also houses a deer park. Tel:0471 2890230.

Neyyar and Aruvikkara

Agasthyarkoodam

State's second tallest hill range and part of Sahyadri mountains, this place is 1890 m above sea level and is blessed with nature's prosperity, what with exotic varieties of medicinal herbs and rare species of birds. Ideal trekking spot, 61 km from the city.Entry by permission from Forest Dept only.Tel: 0471 2360762.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Vizhinjam Aquarium

Situated at a distance of 14 km from the city, this treasure trove of unique fishes and other exotic sea creatures is an ideal destination for research studies. Tel: 0471 2480224.

Padmanabhapuram Palace

This ancient palace was the center of the erstwhile Travancore Royal Family and is built according to typical Travancore type architecture, with murals and wood carvings. Situated near Thakkala on Kanyakumari route, 54 km away from the city, this place is geographically located in Tamil Nadu.

For more details, visit www.thiruvananthapuram.net

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Mysteries Of The Kerala Backwaters By Houseboat

Published: September 10, 2024

by Mickie Mcnamara

Have you ever wondered what makes the Kerala backwaters so special? Imagine gliding through serene waters on a traditional houseboat, surrounded by lush greenery and quaint villages. The Kerala backwaters offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. These interconnected canals, rivers, and lakes stretch over 900 kilometers, creating a tranquil escape from bustling city life. Houseboats, known locally as kettuvallams, provide a cozy, floating home where you can relax and enjoy the scenic views. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, the Kerala backwaters promise an unforgettable experience.

Mysteries of the Kerala Backwaters by Houseboat

Kerala, known as "God's Own Country," offers a unique experience through its serene backwaters. Cruising on a houseboat provides an intimate view of lush landscapes, vibrant villages, and tranquil waters. Here are some must-visit spots along the way.

Alleppey: The Venice of the East

Alleppey, or Alappuzha, serves as the starting point for many houseboat journeys. Known for its picturesque canals and lush greenery, this town offers a glimpse into the daily lives of locals.

• Alleppey Beach : A perfect spot to relax before or after your houseboat trip. The golden sands and gentle waves make it a favorite among visitors.
• Vembanad Lake : The largest lake in Kerala , offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a great place for bird-watching.
• Kuttanad : Known as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala," this region is famous for its paddy fields and unique farming methods.

Kumarakom: A Bird Watcher's Paradise

Kumarakom, located on the eastern shore of Vembanad Lake, is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The village's backwaters and bird sanctuary attract numerous species, making it a must-visit.

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary : Home to a variety of migratory birds, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers. Best visited during the early morning or late afternoon.
• Pathiramanal Island : A small, scenic island in Vembanad Lake, perfect for a quiet picnic and bird-watching.
• Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall : A beautiful waterfall located a short drive from Kumarakom. Ideal for a refreshing dip and some great photo opportunities.

Kottayam: The Land of Letters

Kottayam, known for its literacy and educational institutions, also offers a rich cultural experience. The town's backwaters and historical sites make it a fascinating stop.

• Thazhathangady Juma Masjid : One of the oldest mosques in India , known for its stunning wooden architecture.
• Poonjar Palace : A historic palace showcasing traditional Kerala architecture and artifacts.
• Vaikom Mahadeva Temple : An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

Kollam: The Gateway to the Backwaters

Kollam, also known as Quilon, is another important backwater destination. Its scenic beauty and historical significance make it a great addition to any houseboat journey.

• Ashtamudi Lake : The second-largest lake in Kerala, known for its unique ecosystem and houseboat cruises.
• Thangassery Lighthouse : Offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding area. Climb to the top for a breathtaking experience.
• Munroe Island : A cluster of eight islands, perfect for exploring by canoe or kayak. The island is known for its coir-making and fishing communities.

Thiruvananthapuram: The Capital City

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala's capital, offers a mix of modernity and tradition. While not a typical backwater destination, its proximity to the coast and cultural landmarks make it worth a visit.

• Kovalam Beach : Famous for its crescent-shaped coastline and lighthouse. A great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• Padmanabhaswamy Temple : An iconic temple known for its intricate architecture and rich history.
• Veli Tourist Village : A scenic spot where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea. Ideal for boating and picnics.

Embracing the Serenity of Kerala Backwaters

Kerala backwaters offer a unique blend of tranquility and adventure . Cruising through these serene waters on a houseboat provides an unforgettable experience. The lush green landscapes, traditional villages, and diverse wildlife create a picturesque setting. Houseboats equipped with modern amenities ensure comfort while you soak in the natural beauty.

Local cuisine served on board adds to the charm, letting you savor authentic flavors. The backwaters are not just about scenic beauty; they also offer a glimpse into the rich culture and history of Kerala. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting exploration , the Kerala backwaters have something for everyone.

Plan your trip, book a houseboat, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Kerala’s backwaters. It’s an experience that will leave you refreshed and inspired.

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Kerala to declare 25 spots as ‘Green Tourism Destinations’

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala is all set to declare 25 prominent tourist spots in the state as ‘Green Tourism Destinations’.

The initiative aims at transforming tourist centres into green destinations that promote sustainable waste management practices, hygiene, cleanliness and environmental conservation.

The project is part of ‘Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam’ the campaign that aims to make Kerala a garbage-free state by March 30, 2025.

The official declaration of the ‘Green Tourism Destinations’ will be made on October 2, along with the official launch of ‘Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam’ campaign.

Kite Beach Park in Kasaragod, Iritty Eco Park and Chal Beach in Kannur, Lokanarkavu temple in Kozhikode, Nilambur Teak Museum in Malappuram, Mangalam Dam Park and Kanjirapuzha dam in Palakkad, Peechi dam, Hill View Park and Malankara dam in Idukki, Konni Eco Tourism- Elephant Shelter in Pathanamthitta, Adichanalloor Chira Park and Meenmutti in Kollam, Alappuzha beach, Thenmala Eco Adventure Park, Ponmudi, Ponnumthuruthu and Sasthampara in Thiruvananthapuram are among the destinations selected to be declared as ‘Green Tourism Destinations’. 

‘Cleanliness among top priorities’

LSG Minister M B Rajesh told TNIE that keeping tourism destinations clean and attractive is one of the key priorities of the government and Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam also gives major focus on tourism centres.

“Maintaining good hygiene and cleanliness is a must for tourism industry to attract tourists. We have tied up with tourism and forest departments and launched efforts to introduce sustainable waste management practices. We aim to transform all major tourism destinations into ‘Green Tourism Destinations’ by March 2025,” he said.

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25 places in Kerala to become ‘Green Tourism Destinations’

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Created : Sep 9, 2024, 15:21 IST

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Kerala is set to designate 25 tourist spots as 'Green Tourism Destinations' under the 'Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam' campaign, aiming to make the state garbage-free by March 2025. The initiative focuses on sustainable waste manage … Read more

Kerala is set to designate 25 tourist spots as 'Green Tourism Destinations' under the 'Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam' campaign, aiming to make the state garbage-free by March 2025. The initiative focuses on sustainable waste management and conservation practices at popular sites to preserve their natural beauty. Read less

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Kerala is set to designate 25 tourist spots as 'Green Tourism Destinations' under the 'Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam' campaign, aiming to make the state garbage-free by March 2025. The initiative focus...

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Kochi Emerges as Kerala's Top Tourist Destination

Kochi has become the leading destination for both international and domestic tourists in Kerala. The Tourism Department's 2023 report revealed that Kochi was the most-visited location in the state, attracting 1,82,756 international tourists. It surpassed other popular spots like Kovalam, which drew 65,333 foreign visitors, and Thiruvananthapuram, which hosted 57,379 international tourists. Kochi also led in domestic tourism, with 30,96,875 Indian visitors in 2023. Thiruvananthapuram followed with 20,41,779 domestic tourists. Other key destinations included Guruvayur, Munnar and Kozhikode City. A notable shift in international tourism patterns was observed post-COVID-19, with the United States emerging as the top source of foreign tourists to Kerala. In 2022, 39,935 tourists arrived from the U.S., and this number more than doubled to 82,206 in 2023. The UK, traditionally the largest source of international tourists to Kerala, continued to be significant, with 79,894 visitors in 2023. Kochi's growing popularity is attributed to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant urban life and strategic location, serving as a gateway to other attractions in Kerala. The increase in American tourists highlights Kerala’s expanding reach in the global tourism market, reinforcing the state's importance in international tourism strategies. As Kerala recovers from the impact of the pandemic, the strong performance of its tourism sector in 2023 suggests a promising future, with Kochi at the forefront of this resurgence.

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