Nine Must-See Tourist Spots in Thiruvananthapuram

Situated between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, Thiruvananthapuram (or Trivandrum), the capital of Kerala, is a veritable treasure trove just waiting to be discovered! Discover the top 9 attractions that will make this vacation place unforgettable, including stately palaces, sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife.

Travel to Padmanabhaswamy Temple to Ask for Grace 1.
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the famous Padmanabhaswamy temple has a seven-tiered gopuram and is said to be more than three thousand years old! The most interesting part, however, is the enormous Vishnu figure that sits within, seeming to wake up with his right hand wiping his eyes as he lies on the five-hooded snake Anantha. You will be astounded by the intricate sculptural elements and gem-encrusted pillars that flank the inner sanctuary’s mirrors.

The primary god venerated is Vishnu
Constructed according to conventional standards: Dravidian style
Only Hindus are permitted to enter the inner rooms.
If you want to avoid crowds, go in the mornings.
Among the temple’s many attractions is a melodic stone pillar that, when struck, produces a resonant sound.

Visit the Napier Museum to See the Heritage Trove
With its one-of-a-kind fusion of Kerala, Mughal, Chinese, and Italian architectural elements, the 19th-century Trivandrum Napier Museum is a treat for art and history enthusiasts. Part of its allure comes from the verdant botanical gardens that surround it. Inside, you’ll find eight thousand objects that will astound you, including antique coins, chariots used in temples, ivory carvings, and idols.

Featured item: a lid ornament called the “Tree of Life” that is 200 years old

Designed and constructed by: Robert Chisholm of Britain
Indian citizens pay Rs20, whereas non-citizens must pay Rs 300.
Open daily from 10 am to 4:45 pm (Mondays closed).
As you make your way down the halls, be sure to see the 400-year-old Keralan murals.

Step inside the opulence of Kuthira Malika Palace.
In the 1840s, the renowned King Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma constructed Kuthira Malika Palace, which is located just across from Padmanabhaswamy temple. Intricate timber carvings, pillow-cushion lounging nooks, Belgium glass mirrored walls, and a sitting space for horses—all part of the spectacular palace interior! In addition, the verdant royal grounds provide breathtaking vistas of the city below.

The highlight is the intricately carved ceiling that is 80 feet or higher.
King Swathi Thirunal of Travancore was the builder.
Fee for entry: 50 Indian rupees, 200 SAARC rupees, and foreign rupees.
Time slots: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm daily
Take a moment to explore the royal museum and get a sense of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.

Experience the Beach Life at Kovalam Beach
Taking in the breathtaking scenery as the waves lap against the crescent-shaped shoreline of Kovalam is the perfect way to unwind. Located just fifteen kilometers from Trivandrum, the once-sleepy fishing town of Kovalam became the premier beach resort in Kerala in the 1930s. Its three adjacent beaches provide a variety of atmospheres to suit your taste.

The shallow seas bordered by palm trees are the main attraction.
Popular things to do: surfing, sunbathing, and Ayurvedic treatments.
There are no entry fees.
November through March is the ideal time to go.
For some added excitement, you may go wooden canoeing or banana boating in Kovalam’s glistening backwaters.

Observing the Sun Set from Kanakakunnu Palace
Perched on a tiny hill, the majestic Kanakakunnu Palace complex provides a breathtaking view of the Thiruvananthapuram cityscape and beyond. Tours of the fabled palace of the Travancore monarch, constructed in the traditional style of Kerala architecture, allow visitors to learn more about the building’s interesting history, which dates back to the 1850s.

The museum’s collection of royal treasures is a highlight.
Early morning or late at night are the ideal times to go.
Where: Close to the Napier Museum
No admission fees are required.
Be sure to stay for the breathtaking sunset that will illuminate the town against the backdrop of the ocean in shades of purple and orange.

Experience Nature Up Close at the Trivandrum Zoo
The Trivandrum Zoo, spanning 55 acres, provides an excellent opportunity for families to get up close and personal with animals. The cages have been updated to provide animals with contemporary comforts while preserving their natural habitat, even though they are a century old. Marvel at the regal Royal Bengal tigers, native lion-tailed macaques, and Indian rhinos as they frolic among the chirping exotic birds of the globe.

Remarkable occurrence: the ridge-tailed babbler is endemic to this area.
Museum Road, Kanaka Nagar is the place.
The cost to enter is twenty rupees.
Days and hours: 8 am to 5 pm (Mondays excluded)
Teens may attempt rowing around the picturesque lake that surrounds the miniature train lines, while younger children can enjoy elephant pleasure rides.

The Shanghumukham Beach Photographic Sanctuary
Shanghumukham Beach, well-known for its tranquil beauty, provides a welcoming refuge for residents and visitors alike, situated next to the runway of Trivandrum Airport! Theeram are smaller traditional canoes, so you may relax while paddling around shallow waterways. Fantastic picture opportunities with the gigantic mermaid sculpture, fishing boats, and swaying palms are everywhere as you stroll along golden dunes amid black pebbles.

Mermaid sculpture by Kanayi Kunhiraman is 35 meters tall and is the showpiece.
Where it is: Approximately 8 kilometers from the heart of the city
There are no entry fees.
When it’s best to go: Around 5 p.m., just before sunset
Before you go, be sure to get a photograph of the vibrant sunset as it sets over the Arabian Sea.

Come to Veli Tourist Village to Form a Bond with Nature
The Veli Tourist Village is a restorative natural retreat outside of Trivandrum, Kerala, situated at the mouth of the Veli River, which empties into the Arabian Sea. Ride a pedal boat over the serene lake as you pass verdant foliage and a variety of migrating species, including kingfishers and herons. A children’s park, an open-air theater that also organizes plays, strolling paths shaded by trees, and floating bridges are all part of the park.

Remarkable: Peaceful waterfront locations
Venue: Approximately 8 miles from the heart of the city Entrance fee: Rs 50, which includes a boat trip
Time of day: Mornings and evenings are ideal for a visit.
Banana chips and other local treats are the perfect way to round off your stay at one of the thatched-roof businesses near the lake.

Tour the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary in a Jeep 9.
About 32 kilometers outside of Thiruvananthapuram city is the tranquil Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, the perfect place for a unique jungle journey. Wildlife like as tigers, Asian elephants, sloth bears, and Nilgiri langurs are free to wander the verdant slopes of the Western Ghats, where the sanctuary is located. Take rocky jeep excursions deep into the wilderness in the hopes of seeing these rare critters and photographing breathtaking landscapes.

Emphasis: Center for breeding crocodiles
When: 6:30 am to 4:00 pm
Fee: Rs 15 for Indian citizens, Rs 300 for non-citizens
Optimal time: from October to May (skip monsoons)
Before that exciting vacation, make sure you have your binoculars, hats, and batteries charged.

I hope you’re itching to see the history, culture, and beauty of Thiruvananthapuram for yourself after taking this virtual tour! The capital of Kerala has a wide array of treasures to offer, from beautiful beaches to rich biodiversity and heavenly temples. You better get cracking on your vacation plans right now.