Highlights

About Trivandrum

A heavenly city, situated in the lap of nature and water bodies whose beauty cannot be compared, Trivandrum is visited by tourists all round the year. From the green seaside location that this city offers to the the backwaters which might make your heart skip a beat, one will never want to leave from here. Pilgrims come here to witness the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, which is also known as the richest temple in the world. For a satiating experience, the history buffs must not miss out the East Fort. For the sight of the most sorted beaches in the country, the beach lovers must act fast on deciding Trivandrum as their perfect destination. One can enjoy natural peace and picturesque views and many more in this land of numerous attractions.

Places To See

Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple
Located in the heart of the city of Trivandrum, the temple houses the statue of the residing deity- Lord Vishnu. Designed beautifully in the Dravidian style, the temple is managed by the former royal family of Travancore. The main attraction is the idol of Padmanabha Swamy. It is from this shrine that the city got its name. The temple has 6 secret cellars and a treasure worth 90, 000 crores was found here in 2011.

The Kanakakkunnu Palace
One of the most magnificent palaces in India, the Kanakakkunnu Palace has elaborate carvings and design. It beautifully represents the rich cultural heritage of Kerala during the days of kings and queens. The palace was built during the reign of the King of Tracancore with the purpose of carrying extravagant feasts, rituals and other royal ceremonies.

Napier Museum
Established in the year 1855, the Napier Museum is located next to the Kanakakkunnu Palace. The museum has been designed by Robert Chisholmand and named after the then governor of Chennai, Lord Napier. It is also called the Natural History Museum. The building flaunts gothic architecture and minarets. Besides, it also has natural air conditioning. On display are priceless ornaments, bronze idols, temple chariots, metal carvings, ivory carvings and many historical relics pertaining from 12th to 15th century.

Sree Chithra Art Gallery
The gallery lies in close proximity to the Napier Museum. It attracts thousands of visitors who come here to witness a wide collection of paintings of the noted painter Raja Ravi Varma. The art gallery also houses paintings of various styles such as Rajput style, Rajasthani style and Mughal style. You can also view the Balinese and Tanjore style of paintings. There is also a section which showcases miniature paintings.
Tip: You would need to have at least 2 hours to look at the displays.

The Happyland Amusement Park
Head to the amusement park for some great family fun. Located in the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram in a place called Vembayam, the amusement park has many fun-rising as well as pulse-racing rides such as Crazy Cruise, Uphill Drive, Flying Fox, Challenger, Colombus and many more. The Kid’s Village has rides exclusively for kids. One can enjoy an exotic view of the sea shore from here. The park incorporates all standard safety norms.
Tip: There is an entry fee to access the amusement park. The timing is from 10:30 am to 6:00pm. The park remains close on Saturdays, Sundays and all public holidays.

Things To Do

Agastya Mala Peak
Also called the Agastyarkoodam, the peak is 1, 868 metres tall. It is the tallest peak in Thiruvananthapuram. The Thamirabarani River, Karamana River and the Neyyar River originate from here. The peak is also a highly revered pilgrimage center for the Hindus. The top of the peak houses a full-sized statue of Agastya with a backdrop of exquisite landscape.
Tip: You have to trek to reach the Agastya Mala Peak. However, you will have to take the permission of the forest department of Kerala. Note that trekking is permitted only in the months of January and February.

The Akkulam Lake
The Lake is located about 10 km away from Thiruvananthapuram city. The lake and its beautiful surroundings provide an ideal venue for a picnic. It is also a popular backwater destination. You can also enjoy a boat ride here. The lake is actually a part of the Veli Lake, where it joins with the sea.
Tip: You can also visit the Akkulam Tourist Village lies on the bank of this lake and take delight in numerous activities like swimming, water sports etc.

The Chalai Bazaar
This is one of the most popular shopping areas in Trivandrum. The market place covers the 2km road that connects Killippalam and East Fort. Both sides of the road are dotted with shops selling eatables, flowers, antiques, souvenirs and other sundry items.
Tip: Most of the shops are open from 9 am to 8 pm except on Sundays.

Karamana River
Visit this scenic river as it flows through Trivandrum. The river originates from Agasthyarkoodam peak, situated at the southernmost tip of the Western Ghats. The river falls into the Arabian Sea after covering a distance of 68 km westward near Kovalam at Panathura area. There are two dams built along the course of the river. These dams are Peppara Dam and Aruvikkara Dam. The Peppara Dam is built on the upper reach of the river and is used for irrigation purposes while the Aruvikkara Dam supplies water for consumption.
Tip: Enjoy a walk on the banks of the river to appreciate the surrounding scenery.

The Neyyar Dam
The dam was constructed in the year 1958, at the confluence of the Neyyar River, Kallar River and Mullayar River. This place is popular as a picnic spot and for family outings. You can also witness several ingenious species of flora and fauna. There is also a wildlife sanctuary where you can enjoy a safari ride and witness animals such as lions and deer in their natural habitat.
Tip: You can also enjoy an elephant ride in the elephant rehabilitation center which is 7 km away from the dam.

Things to Do