Places To Visit in Trivandrum – The Cultural Capital of God’s Own Country

Welcome to Trivandrum, a city of vibrant culture and rich history!

Located in the southern part of India, Trivandrum is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or simply looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Trivandrum has it all.

Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in the world, or the Napier Museum, home to a fascinating collection of art and artifacts from across India.

If you’re looking to experience the great outdoors, Trivandrum has no shortage of options. Take a stroll through the lush gardens of Kanakakunnu Palace or spend a day at Kovalam Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in India. And if you’re feeling adventurous, head to the nearby Ponmudi hills for a thrilling trekking experience.

Foodies will delight in the city’s culinary offerings, from traditional South Indian cuisine to international dishes. Be sure to try the local specialties, such as Kerala-style fish curry, dosa, and sambar.

And at the end of a long day, relax and unwind in one of Trivandrum’s many luxurious hotels or resorts, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Arabian Sea or the city’s picturesque skyline.

Don’t wait any longer to experience the beauty and excitement of Trivandrum. Book your trip today and discover why this city is a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world!

About Trivandrum

Trivandrum, also known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital city of the Indian state of Kerala. Located on the west coast of India, it is situated at the southern tip of the Indian subcontinent and is bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east.

The history of Trivandrum dates back to the 10th century, when it was ruled by the Ay kingdom. Later, it came under the rule of the Venad kingdom, which was known for its powerful kings, such as Marthanda Varma, who is considered to be one of the greatest rulers of Kerala. During his reign, Trivandrum became a major center of trade and commerce and the city’s rich cultural heritage began to take shape.

In 1745, Marthanda Varma established a new capital at Trivandrum and named it after the deity of the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, which is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. Under the British colonial rule, Trivandrum was a part of the princely state of Travancore, which was ruled by the Maharaja of Travancore.

After India gained independence from the British in 1947, Travancore became a part of the Indian Union and Trivandrum became the capital of the newly formed state of Kerala in 1956. Today, Trivandrum is a thriving cosmopolitan city that is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and vibrant cuisine.

Trivandrum is also home to several renowned educational institutions, including the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, and the University of Kerala. With its beautiful landscapes, historical landmarks, and dynamic culture, Trivandrum remains a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Architecture of Trivandrum

The architecture of Trivandrum reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage and history. The city is known for its blend of traditional Kerala architecture and modern styles, which can be seen in its temples, palaces, government buildings, and residential areas.

One of the most famous examples of traditional Kerala architecture in Trivandrum is the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, which is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple features intricate carvings and sculptures, and is renowned for its gopuram (entrance tower) that stands at 100 feet tall. The temple is also famous for its Kuthira Malika Palace, which is a stunning example of traditional Kerala architecture, with its sloping roofs, wooden balconies, and ornate carvings.

Another famous architectural landmark in Trivandrum is the Napier Museum, which is a museum of art and natural history that was built in 1880. The museum features a blend of British colonial and traditional Kerala architecture, with its red-and-white color scheme, pointed arches, and ornate moldings.

The city also has several examples of modern architecture, such as the Secretariat Building and the Kerala Legislative Assembly Complex, which were built in the 1990s. These buildings feature sleek, modern designs that reflect the city’s growing cosmopolitan character.

In addition to these landmarks, Trivandrum is also known for its traditional residential architecture, which is characterized by sloping roofs, wooden balconies, and intricate carvings. Many of these homes are still standing in the city’s older neighborhoods, such as Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.

Overall, the architecture of Trivandrum is a reflection of the city’s rich cultural heritage and history, and is a fascinating blend of traditional Kerala styles and modern designs.

41 Places to Visit in Trivandrum

1. Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple – A famous Hindu temple with stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
2. Kovalam Beach – A beautiful beach known for its clear waters and scenic views.
3. Napier Museum – A museum showcasing art and natural history with a blend of British colonial and traditional Kerala architecture.
4. Kanakakunnu Palace – A former royal palace now used as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions.
5. Poovar Island – A scenic island with beautiful beaches and backwaters.
6. Vizhinjam Lighthouse – A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the sea.
7. Neyyar Dam – A popular tourist spot with a beautiful reservoir and wildlife sanctuary.
8. Agastya Mala Peak – A stunning mountain peak that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
9. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum – A beautiful palace museum known for its intricate carvings and artwork.
10. Thiruvananthapuram Zoo – A popular zoo with a wide range of animals and a butterfly park.
11. Veli Tourist Village – A beautiful tourist village with a lake, gardens, and water sports activities.
12. Padmanabhapuram Palace – A beautiful palace located just outside Trivandrum with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
13. Shanghumukham Beach – A scenic beach with beautiful views of the sea and sunset.
14. Koyikkal Palace – A former palace now turned into a museum showcasing traditional Kerala architecture and culture.
15. Attukal Temple – A famous Hindu temple known for its annual Attukal Pongala festival.
16. Karamana River – A scenic river that flows through Trivandrum with beautiful views and boat rides.
17. Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium – A popular aquarium showcasing marine life from the Arabian Sea.
18. Chalai Market – A bustling market known for its spices, local produce, and street food.
19. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary – A beautiful wildlife sanctuary with a variety of flora and fauna.
20. Kerala Science and Technology Museum – A museum showcasing scientific and technological advancements in Kerala.
21. St. Joseph’s Cathedral – A beautiful cathedral known for its stunning architecture and stained-glass windows.
22. Varkala Beach – A beautiful beach located just outside Trivandrum known for its cliffs and scenic views.
23. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple – A famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Attukal Bhagavathy.
24. Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple – A famous temple dedicated to the Hindu god Parasurama.
25. Priyadarshini Planetarium – A popular planetarium showcasing the wonders of the universe.
26. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary – A wildlife sanctuary known for its diverse flora and fauna and the Neyyar Dam.
27. Thiruvallam Backwaters – A scenic backwater area known for its serene beauty and boat rides.
28. Sreevaraham Temple – A popular Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
29. Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple – A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh.
30. Varkala Cliff – A scenic cliff with breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding area.
31. Vettukad Church – A popular Christian pilgrimage center known for its annual feast celebrations.
32. Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple – A famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Chamundi.
33. Kanaka Kunnu Palace Ground – A popular park known for its lush greenery and scenic views.
34. Shree Chitra Art Gallery – A popular art gallery showcasing the works of renowned Indian artists.
35. Sree Parasurama Swami Temple – A famous Hindu temple dedicated
36. Government Art Museum
37. Sivagiri Mutt
38. St. Mary’s Cathedral
39. Santhigiri Ashram
40. Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple
41. The Zoological Park Complex

These are just some of the many wonderful places to explore and experience in Trivandrum. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just want to relax on a beautiful beach, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Weather and Best time to visit Trivandrum

Trivandrum, also known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital city of Kerala, India. The city has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The best time to visit Trivandrum is during the winter months between October and March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.

Here’s a breakdown of the weather in Trivandrum throughout the year:

• Summer (March to May): The summer season in Trivandrum is hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 36°C. The heat and humidity can be quite uncomfortable, making it less popular among tourists.
• Monsoon (June to September): Trivandrum receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which can cause flooding and disrupt travel plans. However, the lush greenery during this time can be quite beautiful, making it a good time to visit for nature enthusiasts.
• Winter (October to February): The winter season in Trivandrum is the best time to visit as the weather is pleasant and comfortable with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C. The cool breeze and clear skies make it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

In summary, the best time to visit Trivandrum is during the winter months from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for tourists. However, if you don’t mind the rain, the monsoon season between June and September can also be a good time to visit for nature lovers.

How To Reach Trivandrum

Trivandrum, also known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital city of Kerala, India. It is well connected to major cities in India and abroad via air, rail, and road. Here are some of the ways to reach Trivandrum:

• By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is located 6 km from the city center and is well-connected to major Indian cities and international destinations. Many airlines operate regular flights to and from Trivandrum, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara.
• By Rail: Trivandrum Central Railway Station is a major railhead in South India and is well-connected to major cities in India. Several superfast and express trains pass through Trivandrum connecting it to cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
• By Road: Trivandrum is well-connected to other cities in Kerala and neighboring states via road. National Highway 66 passes through Trivandrum connecting it to cities like Kochi, Kozhikode, and Mangalore. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services to and from Trivandrum.
• By Sea: Trivandrum has a major port at nearby Vizhinjam, which connects the city to other coastal cities in India and international destinations.

In summary, Trivandrum is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad via air, rail, road, and sea. Tourists can choose the mode of transportation depending on their location and preference.

Accommodation options in Trivandrum

Trivandrum, also known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital city of Kerala, India. It is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of accommodation options for visitors. Here are some of the types of accommodation you can find in Trivandrum:

• Hotels: Trivandrum has a wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury, that offer comfortable rooms and amenities like restaurants, swimming pools, and fitness centers. Some popular hotels in Trivandrum are The Leela Kovalam, Hilton Garden Inn, and Vivanta Trivandrum.
• Homestays: Homestays are a popular accommodation option in Trivandrum, offering visitors a chance to experience the local culture and lifestyle. Many local families offer rooms in their homes to tourists and provide meals and other amenities. Some popular homestays in Trivandrum are Kayaloram Heritage Lake Resort, Moksha Homestays, and Anantya Resorts.
• Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a budget-friendly accommodation option in Trivandrum, offering basic amenities like clean rooms and bathrooms. Some popular guesthouses in Trivandrum are Fort View Residency, Sreelakshmi Residency, and Sajhome.
• Resorts: Trivandrum has several resorts located in scenic locations like beaches and hills, offering visitors a chance to relax and unwind in nature. Some popular resorts in Trivandrum are Poovar Island Resort, Estuary Island Resort, and Beach and Lake Ayurvedic Resort.

In summary, Trivandrum offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays to luxury hotels and resorts. Visitors can choose the type of accommodation that suits their budget and preferences.

Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Trivandrum as per user Reviews

As an AI language model, I don’t have access to real-time user reviews. However, based on popular online travel websites, here are the top 10 hotels in Trivandrum based on user ratings and reviews:

1. The Leela Kovalam – A luxurious beachside resort offering stunning views and world-class amenities.
2. Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum – A modern hotel in the heart of the city with excellent facilities and services.
3. Vivanta Trivandrum – A stylish hotel with contemporary rooms and excellent dining options.
4. Uday Suites – A boutique hotel offering spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and excellent service.
5. Hycinth Hotels – A chic hotel with well-appointed rooms, a rooftop pool, and a spa.
6. Hotel Lake Palace – A charming hotel with lake views and easy access to local attractions.
7. Keys Select Hotel Thiruvananthapuram – A contemporary hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent dining options.
8. The Residency Tower – A centrally located hotel with modern rooms and excellent amenities.
9. Windsor Rajadhani – A well-designed hotel with modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and a fitness center.
10. Trivandrum Hotel – A budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and excellent service.

It’s important to note that user reviews and ratings can be subjective and may vary based on individual preferences and experiences.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Trivandrum

Here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Trivandrum:

1. Weather: Trivandrum experiences a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The best time to visit Trivandrum is between October and February, when the weather is cooler and drier.
2. Clothing: As a conservative city, Trivandrum has a dress code that emphasizes modesty. When visiting religious sites or public places, it’s recommended to wear conservative clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
3. Food: Trivandrum is known for its delicious South Indian cuisine, including dishes like dosa, idli, and sambar. Visitors should be cautious about eating street food or consuming unfiltered water.
4. Transportation: Trivandrum has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and taxis. Visitors can also rent a car or a motorcycle to explore the city at their own pace.
5. Currency: The currency used in Trivandrum is the Indian Rupee. It’s recommended to exchange your currency at authorized exchange counters or ATMs.
6. Language: The official language of Trivandrum is Malayalam, but English is widely spoken and understood. It’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in the local language to communicate with locals.
7. Safety: Trivandrum is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s recommended to take basic safety precautions like avoiding isolated areas, carrying a copy of your passport, and being aware of your surroundings at all times.

In summary, Trivandrum is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and delicious food. Visitors can have a memorable trip by keeping these travel tips in mind and being respectful of local customs and traditions.

Best Places for Shopping in Trivandrum

Trivandrum is a great place for shopping, offering a range of options from traditional handicrafts to modern shopping malls. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Trivandrum:

1. Chalai Market: Chalai Market is a bustling street market located in the heart of Trivandrum, offering a wide range of products like textiles, spices, and handicrafts. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts.
2. MG Road: MG Road is a popular shopping destination in Trivandrum, offering a range of shops selling clothing, jewelry, and electronics. The road is also known for its street food and local snacks.
3. Connemara Market: Connemara Market is a heritage market located in a historic building in Trivandrum, offering a range of products like handicrafts, spices, and textiles. It’s a great place to shop for traditional Kerala souvenirs.
4. Saphalyam Complex: Saphalyam Complex is a modern shopping mall located in the heart of Trivandrum, offering a range of shops selling clothing, jewelry, electronics, and more. It’s a great place to shop for modern products and brands.
5. Kairali Handicrafts: Kairali Handicrafts is a government-run store located in Trivandrum, offering a range of traditional handicrafts and souvenirs like wood carvings, coconut shell crafts, and handloom textiles. It’s a great place to shop for authentic Kerala souvenirs.
6. Pothys: Pothys is a popular clothing store located in Trivandrum, offering a range of traditional Indian clothing like sarees, salwar suits, and lehengas. It’s a great place to shop for festive and formal wear.

In summary, Trivandrum offers a range of shopping options, from traditional street markets to modern shopping malls. Visitors can shop for a range of products like handicrafts, textiles, and clothing, and can find something to suit their taste and budget.

Things you should buy as a Tourist 

Trivandrum is a great place for shopping and offers a range of products that tourists can buy as souvenirs or gifts for their loved ones. Here are some things that you should buy as a tourist in Trivandrum:

1. Handicrafts: Trivandrum is known for its beautiful handicrafts, including wood carvings, coconut shell crafts, and handloom textiles. These make great souvenirs and gifts.
2. Spices: Trivandrum is known for its spices, including black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon. Visitors can buy high-quality spices from local markets like Chalai Market and Connemara Market.
3. Tea and coffee: Kerala is known for its tea and coffee plantations, and visitors can buy high-quality tea and coffee from local stores and markets.
4. Ayurvedic products: Trivandrum is home to several Ayurvedic spas and centers, and visitors can buy Ayurvedic oils, soaps, and other products from local stores.
5. Jewelry: Trivandrum is known for its beautiful jewelry, including gold and silver ornaments. Visitors can buy jewelry from local stores and markets.
6. Sarees and textiles: Trivandrum is known for its traditional handloom sarees and textiles, including the famous Kasavu sarees. Visitors can buy these from local stores and markets.
7. Art and paintings: Trivandrum is home to several artists and galleries, and visitors can buy beautiful paintings and artworks from local stores and markets.

In summary, Trivandrum offers a range of products that tourists can buy as souvenirs or gifts, including handicrafts, spices, tea and coffee, Ayurvedic products, jewelry, sarees and textiles, and art and paintings. Visitors can explore local markets and stores to find something that suits their taste and budget.

Nightlife in Trivandrum

Trivandrum is not known for its nightlife as it is a relatively conservative city. However, there are still some options for those looking to enjoy the evenings in Trivandrum. Here are some of the popular nightlife spots in Trivandrum:

1. Bars and Pubs: There are a few bars and pubs in Trivandrum that serve alcoholic beverages. Some popular ones include The Attic Lounge Bar, Ootupura Bar, and Thirsty Crow.
2. Nightclubs: Trivandrum does not have a vibrant nightclub scene, but there are a few nightclubs that cater to party-goers. Some popular ones include Temple Club and Decent Hotel Disco.
3. Cultural Programs: Trivandrum has a rich cultural heritage and hosts many cultural programs in the evenings. Visitors can enjoy classical music, dance performances, and theater shows at venues like Nishagandhi Auditorium and Sooryakanthi Auditorium.
4. Beaches: The beaches in Trivandrum like Kovalam Beach, Shangumugham Beach, and Varkala Beach are popular spots to enjoy the evenings. Visitors can take a stroll on the beach, watch the sunset, and enjoy local street food.
5. Movie Theatres: Trivandrum has several movie theaters that screen the latest movies in Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi. Some popular theaters include Sree Padmanabha Theatre, New Theatre, and Ariesplex Cinemas.

In summary, Trivandrum does not have a vibrant nightlife, but there are still some options for visitors to enjoy the evenings, including bars and pubs, nightclubs, cultural programs, beaches, and movie theaters.

Activities and Things to do in Trivandrum

Trivandrum is a vibrant city that offers a range of activities and things to do for visitors. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Trivandrum:

1. Visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple: This temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Trivandrum and is known for its intricate architecture and design.
2. Explore the Museums: Trivandrum is home to several museums, including the Napier Museum, the Kerala Science and Technology Museum, and the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum. These museums showcase the history and culture of the region and are a great place to spend an afternoon.
3. Relax on the Beaches: Trivandrum is known for its beautiful beaches, including Kovalam Beach, Shangumugham Beach, and Varkala Beach. Visitors can relax on the beaches, go for a swim, and enjoy local street food.
4. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Trivandrum is known for its delicious food, including seafood, vegetarian dishes, and local specialties like dosa, idli, and appam. Visitors can try local restaurants and street food stalls to experience the flavors of Trivandrum.
5. Take a Boat Ride: Visitors can take a boat ride on the backwaters of Trivandrum and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.
6. Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries: Trivandrum is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary and the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary. Visitors can explore these sanctuaries and see animals like elephants, tigers, and deer.
7. Attend Festivals: Trivandrum hosts several festivals throughout the year, including Onam, Vishu, and Attukal Pongala. Visitors can attend these festivals and enjoy the cultural celebrations.

In summary, Trivandrum offers a range of activities and things to do for visitors, including visiting temples, exploring museums, relaxing on the beaches, enjoying local cuisine, taking a boat ride, visiting wildlife sanctuaries, and attending festivals.

Lesser Known facts about Trivandrum

Trivandrum is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Here are some lesser-known facts about Trivandrum:

1. Trivandrum is also known as Thiruvananthapuram, which means the “City of Lord Anantha” in Sanskrit. The city gets its name from the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Anantha Padmanabha form.
2. Trivandrum was the capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Travancore, which was ruled by the Travancore Royal Family from the 18th to the 20th century.
3. The Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum is one of the richest temples in the world. In 2011, treasures worth over $22 billion were discovered in the temple’s underground vaults.
4. Trivandrum is home to several institutions of national importance, including the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, the Indian Space Research Organization, and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.
5. Trivandrum is also known for its unique art form, called Koodiyattam, which is believed to be the oldest surviving form of Sanskrit theater in the world.
6. The famous Kovalam Beach in Trivandrum was discovered by European hippies in the 1970s and has since become a popular tourist destination.
7. Trivandrum has the highest literacy rate among all Indian cities, with a literacy rate of 93.72%.

In summary, Trivandrum is a city with a rich history, culture, and unique traditions. From its famous temples and beaches to its academic and scientific institutions, Trivandrum has several interesting facts and stories that make it a fascinating destination to explore.

FAQ about Trivandrum

Here are some frequently asked questions about Trivandrum:

What is the best time to visit Trivandrum?

1. The best time to visit Trivandrum is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool.

What are the top tourist attractions in Trivandrum?

2. The top tourist attractions in Trivandrum include the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kovalam Beach, the Napier Museum, the Kerala Science and Technology Museum, and the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum.

How do I reach Trivandrum?

3. Trivandrum has its own airport, Trivandrum International Airport, which is well connected to major cities in India and abroad. The city also has a major railway station, Thiruvananthapuram Central, which is connected to several cities in India.

What are the best places to shop in Trivandrum?

4. Some of the best places to shop in Trivandrum include the Chalai Market, the Connemara Market, and the MG Road.

What are some of the best hotels to stay in Trivandrum?

5. Some of the best hotels to stay in Trivandrum include the Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum, the Vivanta by Taj – Trivandrum, and the Hycinth by Sparsa.

What are some of the best local dishes to try in Trivandrum?

6. Some of the best local dishes to try in Trivandrum include dosa, idli, appam, puttu, sambar, and seafood.

What is the local language spoken in Trivandrum?

7. The local language spoken in Trivandrum is Malayalam, but many people also speak English and Hindi.

What are some of the top things to do in Trivandrum?

8. Some of the top things to do in Trivandrum include visiting temples, exploring museums, relaxing on the beaches, enjoying local cuisine, taking a boat ride, visiting wildlife sanctuaries, and attending festivals.

Is Trivandrum a safe place to visit?

9. Yes, Trivandrum is generally a safe place to visit, but as with any city, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

What is the weather like in Trivandrum?

10. Trivandrum has a tropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The monsoon season in Trivandrum lasts from June to September.