Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum is the capital of Kerala and is located in the west coast of India. Built on seven hills this ancient city is known for its pristine sandy beaches, magnificent monuments and many famous temples. Trivandrum was earlier a part of the princely state of Travancore and it is one of the oldest cities in India. Thiruvananthapuram got its name from the deity Lord ‘Anantha' or Shesha of Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Thiruvananthapuram literally means the City of Anantha.
Thus city because of its natural beauty as well as rich cultural heritage attracts many tourists from near and far making Trivandrum one of the most sought-after tourist destinations of India. The city also offers tourists an opportunity to visit the ayurvedic centres spread across the city.
Thiruvananthapuram Tourist Places
There are many places of tourist interest in and around the city. The most important of all the places is the Padmanabha Swamy Temple situated in the city. The temple is built in a Dravidian style of architecture and is one of the most popular Vishnu Temples in South India. The presiding deity of the temple Lord Vishnu is reclining on a large serpent that is 'Anantha'. The city got its name from this temple. The temple is open only to Hindus. The temple's seven story carved gopuram and the intricate carvings, and mural paintings adorning the temple are a treat to the eyes.
Neyyar dam
It is situated at 30km east of Thiruvananthapuram. This popular picnic spot has a watch tower, crocodile farm, lion safari park and deer park. The catchment area of the dam offers a panoramic view. A miniature wild life sanctuary, a lake garden and a swimming pool are other major attractions.
Napier Museum
This art & history museum was established in the year 1855. Named after Lord Napier who was the governor of the then Chennai from 1866 - 1872. This structure boasts of natural air conditioning and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artefacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings.
Agasthyakoodam
It is 60 Kms North East of Trivandrum and is the second highest peak in Kerala, at a height of 1890mts above sea level. The forests of Agasthyakoodam are rich in rare medicinal herbs and plant as well as some very unique orchids. The peak is accessible by foot and trekking on this peak is a great experience.
Sree Chithra Art Gallery
This art gallery showcases the rich and priceless collection of select paintings of Raja Ravi Varma. Apart from this the paintings of Russian painter Svetoslav Nikolaievich Roerich is also displayed here. The other highlight of the place is the exquisite piece of art work from the Rajput, Tanjore and Mughal dynasties.
The Kanakakunnu Palace
This architectural marvel is a testimony to the rich heritage of Trivandrum. Built mainly to hold royal banquets & ceremonies, today the palace and its sprawling grounds are the venue for many cultural meets and programmes.
Veli tourist village
This is a popular picnic spot in Kerala, located 8 kilometres away from Thiruvananthapuram city. Here the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea and the picturesque Veli Lagoon is separated by a narrow sandbar from the Arabian Sea. A Waterfront Park with a floating bridge and boating facilities are some of the attractions in this tourist village.
Kovalam, one of the finest beaches in the whole of India, is only a half an hour ride from the city. Kanyakumari which is only two hour ride away from Trivandrum is a major tourist destination. Shankumugham Beach which is at a short distance from the city is known for its pristine white sandy beaches and is an ideal place to relax. Thiruvallam, Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, Aruvippuram, Paripally Gajamela, ponmudi hill station, Zoological Gardens are also worth visiting.
The city is well connected by air, rail and road to all Metros. Trivandrum International Airport is 10 Kilometres from the city. Railway station is situated at the heart of the city with trains operating to and from all the major cities in the country. Trivandrum has well connected roads to all towns and cities. The Bus Station which is located close to the railway station is operated by the State Owned Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Plenty of accommodation options are also available in the city.