There are many things you can do in Thiruvananthapuram, previously called as Trivandrum. This beautiful city is the capital of Kerala State in South India.

1. Kovalam Beach
If you are a beach lover, you can’t miss the world famous Kovalam Beach. The coconut trees fringing the shores of the beach gives a spectacular look. Ayurvedic massages are also available here.

2. Padmanabhapuram Palace
A must visit place, located 60 kms away from the city station. It was the seat of the Travancore kings, with 127 rooms spread across a 6.5 acres complex. It is the biggest wooden palace in the whole of the country.

3. Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple
This is a Vishnu temple with a massive fort gateway built in Dravidian style and the shrine is 18 feet high. Only Hindus are allowed here with the traditional dress. The entire temple is carved with stories and figures from the Vedas and it is also the historic landmark of Thiruvananthapuram.

4. Napier Museum
Spending few hours in this 19th century museum is an enriching experience. You can see the collection of archeological and historical objects including bronze idols and ivory ornaments here which is located near Mascot Hotel (near PMG Junction).

5. Sree Chitra Art Gallery is a haven for art lovers. You can see some master pieces of art work of Kerala’s famous artist Raja Ravi Varma and other contemporary artists here.

6. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum
Located on the south-eastern side of Padmanabhaswamy temple, it is also known as Puthen malika.
It is a fine example of traditional Kerala architecture, housing the king’s collection of musical instruments and variety of arms.

7. Veli Tourist Village
If you are vacationing with your family the children would love a visit to Veli Tourist Village. There are many things for them to enjoy there.

8. Zoologicial garden
Placed in a well planned botanical garden, the park has some of the rare species of wildlife.

9. Suchindram Temple
Built in the best traditions of South Indian temple architecture, you can’t miss the exquisite beauty of the
structure and its carvings.

10. Kanyakumari
If you have time in your hand, you can travel another 3 hours and be there at the famous Kanyakumari where the three seas meet. Many attractions await you here such as the beach, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Gandhi Mandapam, Thiruvalluvar statue, kanyakumari Temple etc.

By: Lakshmi Menon