Trivandrum

Trvandrum also known as Thiruvananthapuram is famed for its idyllic beaches, serene hill slopes, beautiful lakes, historic monuments and famous religious centres. This capital city of Kerala is a mystifying blend of diversities. Despite of being the state capital, Trivandrum is considered among the cleanest cities in the country, as there is no maddening rush like other metropolis. It's the clean, green and safe environment of the city that attracts tourists like a moth to a flame. Offering ayurvedic treatments, the place has emerged as a famous wellness destination catering to domestic and international medical tourists.

Attractions

The prime attraction for tourists here is the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple houses 6-metre-high reclining statue, and has been built in Dravidian Style architecture. Decked with fine stone carvings and murals, this 8th century temple is one of the 108 abodes of Lord Vishnu.

Another popular attraction is the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, which is located near the temple. The museum houses various artefacts, and was built by Travancore's Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma. This attractive two-storeyed palace serves as a famous venue for concerts.

Trivandrum is blessed with gorgeous beaches. The mesmerising beauty of Shankhumugham Beach makes Trivandrum a much sought-after tourist destination. This beach is renowned for offering enchanting views of sunset.

Lighthouse Beach in Kovalam is another popular beach dotted with swaying palms trees, with its main attraction - the red and white tower providing pleasant vistas of surroundings. Travellers can indulge in interesting activities here like - long walks by the coastline, sunbathing, snorkelling, catamaran rides, surfing, beach volleyball, cycling and swimming. Valiathura, Samudra, Thiruvambady are other prominent beaches attracting numbers of beach lovers.

Built in the 19th century, Kanakakkunnu Palace is perched atop a small hill. It was once a royal guest house and the venue of royal functioning. The palace is worth a visit for its well-maintained grounds, which are the venue for many cultural programmes.
The 19th Century Napier Museum is another major tourist attraction in Trivandrum. Housing a rare collection of bronze articles, antique musical instruments, and ivory carvings among others, the Indo-Saracenic structure is named after former Madras Governor General John Napier.

Other major attractions in Trivandrum are:

• Padmanabhapuram Palace
• KCS Panicker Gallery
• Zoological Park
• Veli Tourist Village
• Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• CVN Kalari Sangham

How to Reach Trivandrum
By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is located at a distance of 6 km from the city. It has regular flights connecting Trivandrum to the rest part of the country. There are direct flights to Colombo, Maldives, Singapore and the Middle East.

By Rail: There are direct trains from Trivandrum Central Railway Station to all major cities of the country.

By Road: With its excellent road network, Trivandrum is connected to its all nearby cities.