April 26, 2025, 10:00 AM
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Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)information, the capital of Kerala, offers a rich blend of heritage, nature, and culture. Here are some of the top tourist places in and around the city.
1.Padmanabhaswamy Temple – A place to visit in trivandrum's temple with intricate Dravidian architecture; known for its immense spiritual and historical significance.
One of the most famous and enigmatic Hindu temples in the world is the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, which is situated in the center of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is of great religious, architectural, and historical value. Lord Vishnu is worshipped here in the unusual reclining form known as "Anantha Shayana" on the snake Adi Shesha. With its enormous passageways, elaborate stone carvings, and tall gopuram (temple entryway), it is a shining example of Dravidian architecture. A huge idol of Lord Vishnu fashioned of "Katusarkara Yogam," a unique concoction of herbs and minerals, is kept in the sanctum sanctorum. The Travancore royal line, who have traditionally been the temple's guardians rather than its owners and who respectfully name themselves "Padmanabha Dasa" (servants of Lord Padmanabha), has a strong connection to the temple, which is thought to be more than a thousand years old. The temple became well-known throughout the world in 2011 after the Supreme Court of India ordered the opening of multiple underground vaults, which revealed an incredible collection of rare artifacts, jewels, and gold valued at billions of dollars. The mystique of the temple is increased by the fact that one of the vaults, referred to as "Vault B," has not been opened because of religious beliefs and legends surrounding it. The Padmanabhaswamy Temple attracts pilgrims and inquisitive minds from all over the world with its rich customs, rigorous dress codes, and profoundly spiritual ambiance. It is a potent emblem of devotion, history, and unresolved mystery.
2.Kuthiramalika Palace Museum –One of the tourist place in trivandrum city which is next to the Padmanabhaswamy temple, known for wooden carvings and royal exhibits from the Travancore dynasty.
Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma constructed the Puthenmalika Palace Museum, also known as Kuthiramalika Palace Museum. The palace was constructed in the 18th century and is situated a short distance from Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple's eastern entrance. The 122 horses that support the southern roof of the palace are carved in a distinctive design out of teak wood, hence the name. It is still unclear why the palace was designed with its main entrance facing south. The structure is beautiful and has significant architectural merit. The palace, officially known as Puthen Malika, is a component of a vast complex of royal structures near Padmanabhaswamy Temple. After Maharaja Swathi Thirunal's death in 1847, the building remained vacant for over a century. On April 1, 1995, the palace's sixteen rooms were made public as a museum. Although only a fraction of the palace is accessible to the public, a visit will provide an insight into the lifestyle of the Travancore monarchs. The museum's displays mostly consist of wooden Kathakali figures, portraits of the Travancore royal family, and paintings (by Mr. Roerich, Raja Ravi Varma, and other well-known artists). The ivory throne of Swathi Thirunal, the crystal-glass throne of Visakom Thirunal (a gift from Czechoslovakia), bronze sculptures in the Chola style, and weapons made from antelope horns with metal tips are among the numerous swords, daggers, darts, knives, spears, and shields made of rhinoceros skin. idols of Anjaneya, Rama, and Krishna.
3.Napier Museum – Houses rare archaeological and historical artifacts, set in an Indo-Saracenic style building.
The Napier Museum, must see place in trivandrum.
4.Sri Chitra Art Gallery – Renowned for Raja Ravi Varma paintings and collections from across Asia.
One of the most prominent art institutes in South India is the Sri Chitra Art Gallery.
5.Kovalam Beach – Just 16 km from the city, it’s one of the most popular beaches in Kerala. Lighthouse Beach is a highlight.
Kovalam Beach, one of India's most well-known and charming coastal locations.
6.Shangumugham Beach – Close to the airport, known for stunning sunsets and the giant mermaid sculpture (Matsya Kanyaka).
Shangumugham Beach is a charming and culturally significant location that combines recreational and spiritual aspects with natural beauty. The beach, which is well-known for its long stretch of white sand and the calm Arabian Sea waters, provides a peaceful diversion from the busy metropolis.
7.Varkala Beach – A bit farther (about 40 km), but perfect for cliff views, surfing, and laid-back vibes.
One of Kerala's most alluring coastal locations is Varkala Beach.
8.Agasthyakoodam – A part of the Western Ghats and a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers (requires permission).
Agasthyakoodam, also called Agastya Mala.
9.Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary – Home to elephants, leopards, and a crocodile rehabilitation center.
One of Kerala's best-kept natural secrets, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
10.Ponmudi Hill Station – A peaceful getaway with misty hills, tea plantations, and trails, about 60 km from the city.
Ponmudi is a lesser-known gem tucked away in the Western Ghats, a tranquil hill station roughly 55 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.
