Discover Thiruvananthapuram: Cultural Heritage and Natural Beauty in Kerala's Capital
Thiruvananthapuram, affectionately known as the birthplace of Padmanabhan—an incarnation of Lord Vishnu—serves as the administrative heart of Kerala. This city, which Mahatma Gandhi once described as the "Evergreen city of India," houses the Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple, acknowledged as the world's wealthiest temple with assets surpassing 1000 billion Indian rupees. According to a recent survey by the Times of India, Thiruvananthapuram is ranked as the best city to live in within Kerala, thanks to its serene beaches, lush hills, towering mountains, and meandering lakes. The district is home to approximately 3.3 million residents, with nearly two million in its urban areas.
Historically, Thiruvananthapuram was part of the erstwhile Travancore State. The state was divided into three administrative sections during Maharaja Rama Varma’s reign (A.D. 1758-1798) - Padinjaremukhom, Vadakkemukhom & Tekkemukkom; Tekkemukkom encompasses what is today known as Thiruvananthapuram District, also one of Kerala’s most cherished vacation spots.
The rule of Marthanda Varma marked a pivotal era in Travancore's history as he expanded the kingdom by annexing neighboring regions and defeating the Dutch at Colachel in 1741. He later modernized his military which helped secure his reign and dedicated his kingdom to his deity Sri Padmanabha (Lord Vishnu). Henceforth, rulers regarded themselves servants of Sri Padmanabha.
Thiruvananthapuram exudes a distinctly South Indian culture. As the "Land of Lord Padmanabhan," it epitomizes hospitality and has been instrumental in nurturing several notable artists like Maharaja Swathi Tirunal & Kumaranasan among others—making it a bastion of Kerala’s cultural heritage.
Agriculture along with pottery represent traditional occupations here; however, many inhabitants are now engaged in diverse professions given its role as both capital city & an IT hub.
Revered as the "Evergreen City Of India," Trivandrum offers dynamic landscapes alongside administrative and cultural significance. Its broad array of attractions includes stunning beaches like Kovalam Beach, historical sites such as Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, diverse museums including Napier Museum & vibrant wildlife sanctuaries like Neyyar Dam.
Flanked by the majestic Western Ghats & vast Arabian Sea—Trivandrum rests on seven hills adding a mystical charm to this remarkable locale.
Prominent spots worth visiting include:
Padmanabha Swamy Temple: Renowned globally for its opulence.
Agasthyakoodam: A trekker's delight with challenging trails.
Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) Palace Museum: Celebrating traditional art forms.
Veli Tourist Village: Featuring diverse recreational activities.
posite attractions catering to all types of travelers.
Ponmudi & Varkala: Offer unique natural and spiritual experiences respectively.
Neyyar Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary: Ideal picnic location combined with a vibrant display of flora.
Visitors are advised that October through February constitutes an optimum time for exploring Trivandrum due to milder temperatures while those interested in Ayurvedic treatments might find the monsoon season from July until September suitable for their needs despite high humidity levels.
Things to Do
Swimming.
Surfing.
Skiing.
Parasailing.
Catamaran ride.
Scuba diving.
Shopping.
Sightseeing.
To Shop
Souvenirs, handicrafts and paintings can be purchased from S.M.S.M. Kerala Government Emporium.
The Chalai market contains several shops that sell various items like wooden artefacts, coir artefacts, brass items, handicrafts etc.
Balaramapuram Kaithari is one of the best places in Trivandrum to buy traditional Keralite clothes.
You can buy fresh spices and clothes at a cheap rate from the Connemara Market.
Coffee and tea leaves & variety of nuts can be purchased from Sankers Coffee and Tea.
The Attukal Shopping Complex is a one-stop shop for almost every item.
Travel Tip
Please ensure you carry some sort of identity proof with you.
While visiting the temples, make sure to follow the dress codes.
Sunscreen, cotton clothes, sunglasses and hats are a must.
Don't forget to carry an Umbrella, especially during the monsoon season.
Getting There
By Air - Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport to Trivandrum which is situated at a distance of 6.7 Km.
By Rail - Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Trivandrum which is located at a distance of 5.6 Km.
By Road - Many State transport buses and private buses are easily available from major cities of the country like Alleppey, Kochi, Bangalore, Madurai, Chennai, etc to Trivandrum.
FAQs:
What are the top attractions in Thiruvananthapuram?
Thiruvananthapuram boasts attractions like the opulent Padmanabha Swamy Temple, the scenic Kovalam Beach, historic sites such as Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, diverse museums like Napier Museum, and vibrant wildlife sanctuaries including Neyyar Dam.
What is the best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram?
The best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram is from October to February when the weather is milder, ideal for exploring beaches and cultural sites. The monsoon season from July to September is suitable for Ayurvedic treatments despite higher humidity levels.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Thiruvananthapuram?
Visitors can indulge in swimming, surfing, skiing, parasailing, catamaran rides, scuba diving, shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts, and sightseeing at various cultural and natural landmarks.
What are some local shopping options in Thiruvananthapuram?
Shopping enthusiasts can explore Kerala Government Emporium for souvenirs, Chalai market for wooden and coir artifacts, Balaramapuram Kaithari for traditional Keralite clothes, Connemara Market for spices and clothes, Sankers Coffee and Tea for coffee and tea leaves, and Attukal Shopping Complex for a wide range of items.
Any travel tips for visiting Thiruvananthapuram?
Travelers are advised to carry identity proof, adhere to dress codes at temples, pack sunscreen, cotton clothes, sunglasses, hats, and an umbrella especially during the monsoon season for a comfortable visit to Thiruvananthapuram.