To quench your thirst for being a traveler, sighting all the possible destinations within a few km is possible when you are in Trivandrum. Located in the state of Kerala, Trivandrum is one of the destinations which you must undoubtedly think of visiting. Right from the wildlife sanctuaries to the top-class museums and forts, Trivandrum is the place one must have on their minds while planning for a trip. While there’s so much to explore and experience int he city, there are various places near Trivandrum that should definitely be a part of your itinerary.
Top 20 Places Near Trivandrum
There are a lot of places near Trivandrum where you can visit for an entire weekend. Some of them are spread across Kerala while some others are located in the neighboring Tamil Nadu. So, we get to you a list of the top tourist places near Trivandrum below:
- Madurai – A Spectacular Temple City
- Munnar – The Finest Of The Finest
- Kovalam – The Ideal Beach Vacation
- Kumarakom – Couple-Friendly Place
- Kollam – Beaches In Abundance
- Kumily – An Offbeat Town
- Palakkad – The Finest Destination
- Kodaikanal – The Queen Of Hills
- Varkala – The Natural Cliffs
- Vagamon – The Vibrant Hill Station
- Kallar – For Picnics And Some Adventure
- Kanyakumari – Spot Sunrise And Sunsets
- Suchindram – A Pilgrim Center
- Tiruchendur – Attracts Pilgrims From All Over
- Coimbatore – A Humble Abode Of Peace
- Dhanushkodi – The Washed Away Place
- Alleppey – The Lap Of Natural Wings
- Pathanamthitta – A Gorgeous Place In Kerala
- Sabarimala – A Renowned Pilgrim Center
- Thekkady – Visit For An Adventure Trip
1. Madurai – A Spectacular Temple City
The spectacular temple city Madurai is located at a distance of 310 km, and this is one of the destinations that one can plan to visit from Trivandrum. The Meenakshi Amman temple is a sprawling beauty and attracts a lot of devotees during the Navratri festival.
The temple premises also have a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Sundareswarar. People from every nook and corner of the country come here to seek blessings from the Lord. Apart from these, there are also a lot of other places that one can explore in this quaint city.
Ideal for: Pilgrims, Architecture lovers, art enthusiasts
Places to visit:
- Meenakshi Amman temple
- Thirumalai Nayak Mahal
- Vaigai Dam
- Alagar Koil
- Meenakshi Amman Temple Museum
Things to do:
- Jil Jil Jigar Thanda, one of the yummiest desserts available in Madurai has to be tried from the local stores
- Go in a cycle rickshaw around the vintage city exploring it the local way
- Visit the Thirumalai Nayak Mahal during the evenings to know the history of Madurai
Best time to travel: October to January
Nearest airport: Madurai Airport
Nearest railway station: Madurai Junction
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2. Munnar – The Finest Of The Finest
Munnar needs no introduction. This is simply one of the best hill stations in India and one of the finest places near Trivandrum. The vast majority of green hills, tea and coffee plantations and the quaint atmosphere makes Munnar the greatest place to visit. The lush valleys, lakes and natural abodes are never ending and it does not matter if you visit Munnar in summer, winter or monsoon, you always satisfy your wanderlust.
Ideal for: Couples, nature lovers, photographers, friends, families
Places to visit:
- Eravikulam National Park
- Mattupetty Dam
- Anamudi Hills
- Chokramudi Peak
- The Blossom International Park
Things to do:
- Go through the vast tea museums and coffee plantations
- Visit the waterfalls and take a fresh bath in whichever you wish
- Capture exceptional photographs from viewpoints like Pothamedu View Point and Lockhart Gap View
Best time to travel: Throughout the year
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest railway station: Ernakulam Junction
Suggested Read: Ooty Vs Munnar: Which One Will Be Your Next Vacay Spot?
3. Kovalam – The Ideal Beach Vacation
Kovalam is one of the most ideal tourist places near Trivandrum if you are looking for a beach holiday. With plenty of beaches around and three adjacent crescent beaches, Kovalam has been a tourist favorite for almost 100 years. Find a whole area full of budget stays like cottages, homestays and massage centers. Kovalam is the perfect place for a leisure holiday.
Ideal for: Beach lovers, leisure vacation,, family, friends
Places to visit:
- Samudra Beach
- Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium
- Vellayani Lake
- Kovalam Beach
- Vizhinjam Cave Temple
Things to do:
- Get involved in beach activities likes sunbathing and swimming
- Do not miss the herbal body massages for ultimate relaxation
- Go for catamaran cruising, one of the fewest spots to provide this sport
Best time to travel: September to March
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central
Suggested Read: 21 Captivating Places To Visit In Kovalam To Explore the Southern Heaven
4. Kumarakom – Couple-Friendly Place
Kumarakom is one of the best places near Trivandrum for couples. There are plenty of reasons. The place is serene with a cluster of multiple islands on the Vembanad Lake. It is one of the finest backwater destinations and a houseboat might be the perfect place to spend your time during Kumarakom honeymoon. The backwater resorts give panoramic views of the coconut trees and backwaters.
Ideal for: Couples, nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts
Places to visit:
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Pathiramanal Island
- Bay Island Driftwood Museum
- Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park
- Mozart Art Gallery
Things to do:
- Go on a houseboat ride at the Vembanad lake backwaters
- Get the village life experience
- Going for lakeside strolls are a must-do activity in Kumarakom
Best time to travel: November to February, June to September
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest railway station: Kottayam Railway Station
Suggested Read: 19 Serene Places To Visit In Kumarakom That Will Make Your Vacation More Happening
5. Kollam – Beaches In Abundance
Kollam has an abundance of beaches with a long coastline and the prominence for tourism is immense. Visit the backwaters, museums, eco-tourism centers and enjoy one of the simplest vacations of life. The backwaters offer picturesque routes and beautiful landscape that make sure you have one of the most beautiful vacation memories.
Ideal for: Nature lovers, leisure vacation, families, couples, photographers
Places to visit:
- Kollam Beach
- Thirumullavaram Beach
- Tangasseri Lighthouse
- Paravur Lake
- Thrikkadavoor Sree Mahadevar Temple
Things to do:
- Take glorious tours of the Kakkathuruthu and Munroe Island
- Ride the supreme houseboats at Ashtamudi Lake
- Go for beach hopping and enjoy multiple beach sports
Best time to travel: October to February
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport
Nearest railway station: Kollam Junction
Suggested Read: 40 Interesting Places To Visit In Kollam On Your Trip To South India!
6. Kumily – An Offbeat Town
Kumily is a small town and an offbeat attraction around 200 km from Trivandrum. The sleepy town is laced with plantations – acres of them and separates the Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The reason for Kumily being such a prominent plantation town is due to the impact the Britishers have left over the place. Today, Kumily has one of the finest plantations of cardamom, pepper, coffee, and cinnamon. It this does not make it one of the finest tourist places near Trivandrum, then the natural abundance in the form of wildlife sanctuaries must do the trick.
Ideal for: Nature lovers, wildlife destination lovers, families, couples, photographers
Places to visit:
- Elephant Junction Thekkady
- Abraham’s Spice Garden
- Periyar Tiger Reserve
- Thekkady Rose Park
- Our Lady of Lourde’s Roman Catholic Latin
Things to do:
- Ride with the elephants at several elephant camps
- Picnic at the Kumily Rose Park and Thekkady Park
- Catch a glorious view from the astounding viewpoints
Best time to travel: October to February
Nearest airport: Madurai International Airport
Nearest railway station: Theni Railway Station
Suggested Read: 13 Treehouses In South India That’ll Bond You With Nature’s Mystique
7. Palakkad – The Finest Destination
The city of Palakkad stands as one of the finest places to visit near Trivandrum due to its variety of attractions. You will basically find a conjunction of lakes, forts, historical museums, rivers and temples. Just name it and it’s there. The Ratholsavam chariot festival also has its origins in Palakkad and so a visit here during the winters is just going to be worthy of your trip.
Ideal for: Temple lovers, history lovers, families
Places to visit:
- Palakkad Fort
- Malampuzha Dam
- Fantasy Park
- Yakshi Statue
- Rock Garden
Things to do:
- Visit the historical places like Palakkad Kotta Maithanam and Malampuzha Yakshi
- Take a tour of the religious places including temples and churches
- Boat near the Kava View Point and capture breathtaking shots
Best time to travel: October to February
Nearest airport: Coimbatore Airport
Nearest railway station: Palakkad Junction
Suggested Read: 5 Gorgeous Waterfalls In Palakkad That Will Make You High On Beauty
8. Kodaikanal – The Queen Of Hills
Kodaikanal is a hill town in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu full of cliffs, forests, valleys, waterfalls, grassy hills and lakes. The scenic beauty of Kodaikanal never fails to amaze the people traveling to this wondrous hill station. Often referred to as the ‘Princess of Hills’, Kodaikanal is one of the most popular hill stations in South India. The valleys of Parappar and Gundar provide an amazing opportunity to trek while the attractions in the town are plenty for a 2 day vacation.
Ideal for: Nature lovers, weekenders, photographers, trekkers, hikers
Places to visit:
- Kodaikanal Lake
- Coaker’s Walk
- Silver Cascade Falls
- Bryant Park
- Bear Shola Falls
Things to do:
- Visit the several temples in the hill station
- Hike through the vast expanse of forests and hills
- Run your camera through heavenly places like Green Valley View Point, Pillar Rocks Viewpoint and Upper Lake View
Best time to travel: All year round
Nearest airport: Madurai Airport
Nearest railway station: Madurai Junction
Suggested Read: 34 Places To Visit In Kodaikanal That’ll Make You Fall For The Western Ghats
9. Varkala – The Natural Cliffs
Varkala is set in a natural setting of hills and beaches with the beach cliff road being one of the most popular attractions. Why else it gets added to the list of top places to visit near Trivandrum is due to the variety of attractions it presents itself with. Find temples, islands, forts and so many other sources of tourism. Stay at the beautiful beach resorts to get a clear view of the ocean while breathing in the fresh air. Do not miss the Varkala Formations i.e. the cliffs off the ocean.
Ideal for: Nature lovers, families, friends
Places to visit:
- Varkala Cliffs
- Anchuthengu Fort
- Anjengo Lighthouse
- Edava Nadayara Kayal
- Kappil Pozhi
Things to do:
- Go for beach hopping between Varkala, Kappil and Odayam beach
- Tour the several temples and offer your prayers to the lord
- Taste the local cuisine by staying at some beach resorts and eating from the many beach restaurants
Best time to travel: October to March
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest railway station: Trivandrum Central
Suggested Read: 15 Things To Do In Varkala That’ll Make Every Moment Of Your Trip Worth Cherishing
10. Vagamon – The Vibrant Hill Station
Vagamon is a hill station located in the Idukki district and presents itself as one of the best places to visit near Trivandrum for a variety of reasons. Vagamon is completely covered with green hills, breathtaking ravines and meandering rivulets that form the backbone of tourist attractions. Welcome the meadows, tea plantations, waterfalls, pine forests and the fresh breath of air. As compared to other hill stations in Kerala, Vagamon is a vibrant place – one where you can spend a lifetime without a worry.
Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, trekkers, campers, couples, adventure seekers
Places to visit:
- Vagamon Kurishumala Church
- Vellaramchitta
- Echo Point
- Pine Valley
- Uluppuni Top Station
Things to do:
- Hike through the many hills like the Murugan Hill, Vagamon Pine Forest and Thangalpara
- Go for adventure sports like Paragliding
- Take a fresh bath or camp near the waterfalls – Madammakulam, Aruvickachal or Vellappara
Best time to travel: March to May
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest railway station: Kottayam Railway Station
Suggested Read: 14 Scenic Places To Visit In Vagamon
11. Kallar – For Picnics And Some Adventure
Kallar is one of the finest yet offbeat places to visit in Kerala with a river of the same name flowing through the town. The nature of landscape and surroundings of Kallar attracts a lot of picnickers from Thrivandrum. The region also attracts all the adventure seekers and people looking to fish and boat in the river.
Ideal for: Picnickers, trekkers, hikers, nature lovers
Places to visit:
- Peppara Dam
- Agastya Mala
- Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Neyyar Dam
- Sivagiri Mutt
Things to do:
- Take a splashing bath and boat at the beautiful river
- Trek through the mountains and camp around nature
- Picnic at several valley spots and forest area
Best time to travel: All year round
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central
Suggested Read: 18 Hill Stations Near Kochi For An Escape To Nature’s Lap
12. Kanyakumari – Spot Sunrise And Sunsets
Have you ever wondered how does it look like to gaze at the sky and the ocean merging? Known as one of the best destinations to spot sunrise and sunsets in India, Kanyakumari is yet another place that one must certainly plan to visit when they are in Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum. Located at a distance of 90 km from Trivandrum, Kanyakumari would top the list of every traveler’s bucket list for sure.
Ideal for: Photographers, nature lovers, pilgrims, children, and spiritual travelers
Places to visit:
- The Kanyakumari Amman temple
- The Vivekananda Rock memorial
- Thiruvalluvar Statue
- Kanyakumari beach
- Thirparappu Falls
Things to do:
- Enjoy making a time-lapse video of the sunrise at the beach
- Try blowing conches from the temple stores and splurge in shopping for some fantastic street-shopping
- Take a ferry ride and enjoy the sight of the endless ocean and meditate at the Vivekananda rock memorial
Best time to travel: October to March
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest railway station: Trivandrum Central
Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels In Trivandrum For A Serene & Peaceful Getaway
13. Suchindram – A Pilgrim Center
Suchindram is yet another small town located in Kanyakumari, which is at a distance of 77 km from Trivandrum. Suchindram is again another famous pilgrim Center. The city houses one of the famous temples in South-India, the Thanumalayan Temple. Looking at the gigantic temple tower would spin your heads, and this is one of the most beautiful temples to visit for sure.
Ideal for: Pilgrims, photography enthusiasts, history lovers
Places to visit:
- Nataraja temple
- Muttaramman temple
- Arasadi Vinayagar temple
- Marunthuvazh Malai
- Suchindram Theroor Bird Sanctuary
Things to do:
- Go bird-watching at the Suchindram Theroor Bird Sanctuary
- Take a walk in the temple town and binge on some hot potato Bhajiya and piping hot coffee
- Photography around the temple premises is a must when you are here
Best time to travel: October to March
Nearest airport: Trivandrum international airport.
Nearest railway station: Suchindram Railway station
Suggested Read: 10 Luxury Resorts In Trivandrum That Beautifully Bring Out The Nature Of Kerala
14. Tiruchendur – Attracts Pilgrims From All Over
Known for its great Murugan temple, Tiruchendur is one of the loveliest places in Tuticorin that calls for a visit from Trivandrum. Though not a popular tourist place, Tiruchendur attracts a lot of people due to the presence of the Tiruchendur Murugan temple, which is one of the most sought after destinations. A lot of people flock into this temple during Dushera celebrations. Tiruchendur is located at a distance of 172 km away from Trivandrum.
Ideal for: Photographers, Pilgrims, and beach lovers
Places to visit:
- Muttaramman temple
- The Valli Cave temple
- Tiruchendur beach
- Thundi Vinayagar Temple
- Tiruchendur Murugan temple Beach
Things to do:
- Participate in the grand affair of Dushera of Kulasekarapattinam during Navaratri for different and vivid Dushera experience
- Take a walk on the beach and watch the lovely skyline of the quaint Tiruchendur city
- Go around the place on a cultural tour and enjoy the view of heaps of salt
Best time to travel: October to March
Nearest airport: Madurai Airport
Nearest railway station: Tiruchendur railway station
Suggested Read: 12 Homestays In Trivandrum To Experience The True Traditions Of Kerala!
Planning your holiday in Kerala but confused about what to do? These Kerala travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
15. Coimbatore – A Humble Abode Of Peace
The peaceful and quiet city of Coimbatore, located at a distance of 384 km, can also be one of the destinations on the list to be visited when you are roaming around Trivandrum. Known for its calm and pleasant weather, this is yet another place that has been attracting a lot of visitors with its mesmerizing Dravidian style architectural marvels. Coimbatore can be considered as one of the best destinations to visit with your families.
Ideal for: Spiritual Travelers and nature-lovers
Places to visit:
- Isha Foundation
- Vydehi Falls
- Kovai Kondattam
- The Marudhamalai hill temple
- Kovai Kutralam falls
Things to do:
- Book a stay and spend some time unwinding completely at the Isha Foundation
- Take a hike to the Kovai Kutralam falls and soak in the serenity of nature
- Temple-hopping also has a scope in Coimbatore
Best time to travel: July and October to March
Nearest airport: Coimbatore International Airport
Nearest railway station: Coimbatore Junction
Suggested Read: 8 Parks In Trivandrum That Are A Must Visit On Your Next Vacay!
16. Dhanushkodi – The Washed Away Place
Popularly known as the ‘Ghost Town of India,’ Dhanushkodi is a fantastic place that attracts a lot of tourists and travelers who are curious. Dhanushkodi was one of the towns that got washed away thoroughly. The ruins of the church and the lovely roads are something that attracts a lot of people. Dhanushkodi also has an association with the epic Ramayana, and it is at a distance of 395 km away from Trivandrum.
Ideal for: Bikers, Nature-lovers, haunted place explorers, pilgrims
Places to visit:
- The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
- Dhanushkodi beach
- Adam’s Bridge
- Pamban Bridge
- Ramar Patham Temple
Things to do:
- Spend time knowing the history behind the ruins of the beautiful town then, now a haunted place
- Explore the deserted white sand beach enjoying the serene ambiance.
- Explore the islands of the Gulf of Mannar and spot some rarest of aquatic creatures
Best time to travel: October to February
Nearest airport: Madurai Airport
Nearest railway station: Old Dhanushkodi Railway Station
Suggested Read: 15 Amazing Things To Do In Trivandrum For A Thrilling Vacation
17. Alleppey – The Lap Of Natural Wings
Known for its brilliant culture, food, and boathouses, Alleppey is one of the places that you must plan to visit from Trivandrum. Alleppey is one of the most frequented destinations by a lot of travelers and tourists because of the exotic landscapes and abundant nature. Alappuzha is at a distance of 154 km away from Trivandrum.
Ideal for: Couples, Pilgrims, nature-lovers, beach-lovers and photography enthusiasts
Places to visit:
- Alleppey Beach
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Vembanad Lake
- Krishnapuram palace
- Bay Island Driftwood Museum
Things to do:
- Enjoy your stay at the houseboats cruising in the backwater
- Witness the famous Nehru Trophy Boat race
- Visit some of the best temples to experience the vibrant culture of Kerala
Best time to travel: October to February
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest railway station: Alappuzha Railway Station
Suggested Read: 20 Places To Visit In Kerala In December
18. Pathanamthitta – A Gorgeous Place In Kerala
Known as the cleanest districts in the state of Kerala, Pathanamthitta is a gorgeous place to visit. The swaying coconut trees and the cool breeze from the land are pretty inviting and can leave you in a state of trance. Though not mostly visited by a lot of people, this is still one of the places to be visited from Trivandrum. Pathanamthitta is at a distance of 102km away from Trivandrum.
Ideal for: Couples, Pilgrims, nature-lovers, beach-lovers and photography enthusiasts
Places to visit:
- Kaviyoor Rock Temple
- Manjinikkara Church
- Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple
- Muloor Smarakam
- Perunthenaruvi Waterfall
Things to do:
- Bask in the glory of the land of culture as you roam around some of the best temples
- Enjoy spending time at the waterfalls soaking your feet and taking a dip in one of the naturally formed waterfalls
- Binge on fish delicacies from some of the local shacks
Best time to travel: November to March
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport
Nearest railway station: Vayanasala Junction
Suggested Read: 37 Amazing Things To Do In Kerala For An Incredible Holiday
19. Sabarimala – A Renowned Pilgrim Center
If you are in India and if you haven’t heard of Sabarimala then, you are seriously missing something. Located at a distance of 102km from Trivandrum, this place is known for its most famous temple, the Ayyappan temple. One of the most renowned pilgrim centers for Hindus, Sabarimala, is also pretty close to Trivandrum. Situated in one of the most scenic locations, surrounded by lush green hills and peaks, planning a pilgrim trip to this place can be pretty worthwhile.
Ideal for: Pilgrims, Trekking enthusiasts, and wildlife destination lovers
Places to visit:
- Sabarimala Ayyappan Swamy Temple
- Thekkady
- Basmakulam Pond
- Vavar Shrine
- Malikappurathamma temple
Things to do:
- Take part in the grand celebrations of Makara Sankranti where lakhs of devotees from across the country flock to spot the sacred Jyoti
- Spend some time in the divine ambiance of the Ayyappan Swamy temple
- Makaravilakku festival would be splendid during January
Best time to travel: November to February and April to September
Nearest airport: Sabarigiri Airport
Nearest railway station: NA
Suggested Read: Our 5 Days In Kerala Were Spent Exploring the Beautiful Place And Falling In Love With It
20. Thekkady – Visit For An Adventure Trip
For all those people looking for some adventurous trip from Trivandrum, Thekkady is one of the places you must undoubtedly think of visiting. Nestled in the laps of abundant greenery, Thekkady can offer some of the most stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Visited mainly by couples, Thekkady has a lot of adventurous things to do as well. Thekkady is 250 km from Trivandrum.
Ideal for: Couples, Adventure seekers, Monsoon Photography enthusiasts
Places to visit:
- Anakkara Hills
- Periyar Tiger Trail
- Thekkady Lake
- Anakkara
- Mudra Cultural Centre
Things to do:
- Explore natural beauty at Periyar National Park
- Border hiking is one of the activities that interest all trekking enthusiasts
- Bamboo rafting is a must for all water-lovers, and this can be a lovely experience
Best time to travel: October to February and June to September
Nearest airport: Madurai airport
Nearest railway station: NA
Further Read: 57 Best Places To Visit In Kerala For A Vacation To Remember!
These are some of the places near Trivandrum worth packing your bags for. Visiting these places over a long weekend can be refreshing. So, get ready and just zoom towards these exotic destinations and make the most of your Kerala vacation. Visit God’s Own Country and share with us your experience in heaven.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places Near Trivandrum
Are all these one-day picnic spots?
No, you at least need a day or two to spend some time because all these places have a lot of attractions to be covered.
Are there entry charges at any of these places?
Of course, most of the places would have entry charges, and they are nominal
Would these places be crowded during December and January?
Yes, since it is a holiday season, most of the people would be traveling to these places.
How are the accommodation facilities at these places?
Since these are tourist places, there is no shortage of accommodation
Are there high-class and luxury resorts available at all these places?
Yes, most of these places have luxury resort facilities
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