9 Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram

This is the city which has something in store for everyone! Be it pilgrims or nature lovers, history buffs or culture fans, the city impresses everyone alike with its precious assets.

There are long-spread beautiful beaches, pristine hill slopes, lovely lakes, age-old monuments and renowned religious centers which are set up against the vibrant cultural back drop in this city. Thiruvananthapuram

blends many diversities yet it lacks a maddening crowd.

It’s a green city with clean surroundings which lures tourists from across the world throughout the year. Now, let’s see a few of the attractions that have been drawing tourists to this place:

1. Kovalam Beach

What makes this beach special and beautiful is the ultimate view of the sunset, a pretty light house, a continuous well-defined coastline and what not!  There is a clear sky on top of the waves which yet again gives a perfect view.

One of the most unique aspect is the extension of the artificial off-shore coral reef, which attracts kids and adults alike. You can also opt for herbal massaging, cruising, swimming, sunbathing etc. when you are here. Many tourists love visiting Ayurveda parlors which can be seen everywhere around the beach.

2. Padmanabhaswamy Temple

This renowned temple houses an 18-feet long idol of Lord Vishnu. Such is its grandeur and magnanimity that it has to be seen from three different doors. There is stupendous architecture seen on stone and bronze as well. There are beautiful pillars which add more decor to the temple’s corridor. They are all made up of granite and spell the wonders of craftsmanship in their making. The interiors are well-decorated with sketches. There is a palace situated close to the temple which is called as Kuthiramalika Palace. It houses armory, jewelry, idols etc. which were in use by Kings of Travancore.

3. Varkala Beach

This exotic beach comes equipped with many mineral springs as well as rocky cliffs. There are blue lagoons nearby at a place called Kappil where you can chill out with your friends. Also, there is a boat cruise between Edava and Kappil which enthralls kids and adults alike. There is a pilgrimage center nearby known as Janardhanaswami temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Sivagiri Mutt. It is 2000-year-old! Also, there is a Samadhi of the renowned saint Sree Narayana Guru here.

4. Poovar

This beach is a little different from the rest as it is a meeting point of lake, river and sea. Presently it is a little unexplored and hence you can enjoy your quiet holidays here. The renowned Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, is situated near Poovar and is famous for its pearl making techniques.

5. Ponmudi

It is a hill resort which is surrounded by gushing and clear streams, lush green tea bushes, wild butterflies and mountains that are enveloped by mist around. There are many adventure activities available here adding more to the adrenaline rush.

6. Shanghumukham Beach

If you want to explore silver white sands along with a calm sea, then this is the right choice for you. The landmark here is the big mermaid statue which is also called as ‘Jalakanyaka’.

7. Neyyar Dam

The blue lake along with the gravity dam are major attractions at Neyyar dam, which is situated 30-km south of the town. The boat cruise on blue waters will enthrall and excite you.

There is Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary nearby which is home to several wild animals.

The suburbs of the dam also have crocodile breeding center and the lion safari park which attract a major chunk of tourists.

8. Napier Museum and Zoo

If you want to see some of the rarest collection of idols, artefacts and ornaments, then this is the right place for you. This is a complex which houses a zoological park as well as the Napier museum. It speaks volumes about Kerala’s rich heritage.

Also you can see a mixture of varied architectural styles. Many rare species can be seen at the zoo. There is a snake park inside known as the Anaconda House where kids can have real fun! Also you can see several peacocks when there is a cloudy sky.

9. Meenmutty/ Kombaikani Falls

This place has hills, falls, forests and lush green surroundings which are a treat to your eyes. Meenmutty is a picturesque resort which can be traced near Neyyar Reservoir.

If you want to reach the waterfall, you need to trek for two kilometers while passing through the Agasthyakoodam forests. Those who want to take a step ahead to view more beautiful environs should trek a little ahead to reach Kombaikano Falls. You can see unspoiled nature at its best with zero per cent human interference.

The specialty of this city is that the more you explore it, the more facts would come out and the more beautiful it will look. You keep on unveiling Thiruvananthapuram and the city will give you loads in return.

Lot of fun and thrill can be experienced while exploring this city!