Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is the capital city of Kerala, located in southern India. The city is renowned for its British colonial architecture and is rich in cultural heritage. One of its key landmarks is the Kuthira Malika (Puthen Malika) Palace, featuring intricately carved horse sculptures and showcasing the history of the Travancore royal family, which ruled the region from the 18th to the 20th century.
The bustling Mahatma Gandhi Road is lined with shops offering art, antiques, carpets, and traditional saris, giving visitors a taste of local craftsmanship. To the north, the Napier Museum houses a collection of ancient Indian carvings, bronzes, and natural-history exhibits, while the Sri Chitra Art Gallery features works by famed artist Raja Ravi Varma and other miniature Indian paintings.
The city is also home to the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, which features animals such as Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, and Indian rhinos. Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a grand Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Vishnu, stands to the south, with its iconic 7-tier entrance tower. For beach lovers, Shankumugham and Kovalam beaches, located along the coast, are popular spots for relaxation and water activities.
places to visit in Thiruvananthapuram
Napier Museum: An art and natural history museum showcasing ancient Indian sculptures, bronzes, and other historical artifacts. It’s one of the prominent landmarks of the city.
Kanakakkunnu Palace: Located near the Napier Museum, this 19th-century palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is now used as a venue for cultural programs and events.
Koyikkal Palace: A historic palace located in Nedumangadu, this 16th-century structure was once the residence of the royal family and is now a museum displaying artifacts related to Kerala’s royal history.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: An iconic Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its stunning architecture and the mysterious wealth discovered in its vaults. The temple is a significant spiritual and cultural site.
Kovalam Beach: A popular beach destination featuring a lighthouse, umbrella rentals, and several dining options, making it a perfect place for relaxation and water activities.
Veli Lake and Tourist Village: A picturesque lake surrounded by a beautiful landscape with a beach, playground, sculptures, and opportunities for boating. It’s a great spot for families and tourists.
Attukal Temple: Known as the “Sabarimala for Women”, this Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali attracts a large number of devotees, especially during the annual Pongala festival.
Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple: Located in the heart of the city at East Fort, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Thiruvananthapuram Zoo: Situated within the heart of the city, the zoo spans 55 acres and houses a variety of animals, making it a family-friendly attraction.
Kerala Science and Technology Museum: A fascinating museum focused on popularizing science and technology among the public, especially children. It offers interactive exhibits, including a planetarium.
Best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram
The best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers, from March to May, are hot and humid, with temperatures rising up to 37°C, making it less ideal for sightseeing. The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, but the cool weather is favorable for sightseeing if you don’t mind the rain. Winters, from November to February, offer temperatures between 18°C and 30°C, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities and exploration. Overall, winter is the most recommended time for a visit.
