Discover Incredible Places in Thiruvananthapuram
Explore our handpicked collection of breathtaking destinations across India
Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. The temple is a blend of Kerala and Dravidian architecture and is known for its intricate carvings and towering gopuram. The presiding deity, Lord Padmanabhaswamy (Vishnu reclining on the serpent Anantha), is depicted in a unique posture. The temple is significant for its historical, religious, and cultural importance and is closely associated with the Travancore royal family. Non-Hindus are not permitted inside the temple. Dress code is strictly enforced, requiring men to wear dhotis and women to wear sarees or long skirts and blouses. Photography inside the temple is prohibited.
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple
The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kannaki (Parvati), located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. It is famous for the Attukal Pongala festival, a massive annual gathering of women devotees who prepare a sweet dish called 'pongala' as an offering to the goddess. This festival, held in February/March, attracts millions of women, making it the largest single gathering of women in the world. The temple complex is vast and houses several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities. The temple architecture is typical of Kerala style with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. The serene atmosphere and spiritual significance make it a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike.
Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve
The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Western Ghats, known for its rich biodiversity. It's home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many endemic and endangered species. The landscape is dominated by rolling hills, tropical rainforests, and grasslands, offering breathtaking views. Trekking is a popular activity, but requires permits and adherence to strict conservation guidelines. The reserve plays a vital role in watershed protection and is a crucial habitat for numerous medicinal plants and animals.
Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach, a globally renowned haven in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is celebrated for its crescent-shaped sandy shores, swaying palm trees, and serene blue waters. Comprising three adjacent beaches – Lighthouse Beach, Hawah Beach, and Samudra Beach – Kovalam offers diverse experiences. Lighthouse Beach, the most popular, boasts the iconic red and white striped lighthouse offering panoramic views. Hawah Beach, known for its rocky outcroppings, provides a tranquil escape. Samudra Beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing, offers a more laid-back atmosphere. Kovalam's charm lies in its blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rejuvenating ambiance, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and exploration.
Puthen Malika Palace Museum
Puthen Malika Palace Museum, also known as Kuthiramalika Palace, is a two-storied palace in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. It is located near the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The palace is made of rosewood, teak, and marble, and features intricate carvings and ornate decorations. Visitors can explore the palace's many rooms, which house a collection of artifacts belonging to the Travancore royal family, including paintings, sculptures, and antique furniture. The palace is a beautiful example of traditional Keralan architecture and offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the region's former rulers. Its unique sloping roofs and the horse-shaped brackets that support them give the palace its distinct character.
Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasam Beach, is a cliff-backed sandy expanse in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Renowned for its natural spring believed to possess medicinal and cleansing properties, it's a popular destination for both spiritual seekers and leisure travelers. The dramatic red cliffs provide a stunning backdrop to the Arabian Sea, offering breathtaking sunset views. Shacks and restaurants line the clifftop, serving fresh seafood and local delicacies. The beach is relatively less crowded than other popular beaches in Kerala, offering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Activities like paragliding, swimming, and sunbathing are common. The Janardanaswamy Temple, situated close by, adds a cultural dimension to the visit.
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the Western Ghats of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, offers a captivating blend of nature and wildlife. The sanctuary is a haven for diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, deer, leopards, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy boating on the serene Neyyar Dam, trek through lush forests, and explore the captivating lion safari park. The sanctuary's picturesque landscape, featuring rolling hills, dense forests, and the tranquil Neyyar River, provides a refreshing escape from city life. It's an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and those seeking tranquility amidst nature's splendor.
Ponmudi Hill Station
Ponmudi, meaning 'Golden Peak', is a serene hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Known for its misty valleys, lush greenery, and winding roads, it offers a tranquil escape from city life. The hill station is a haven for nature lovers, with diverse flora and fauna, including rare medicinal herbs and exotic wildlife. Visitors can enjoy trekking through the hills, exploring the tea gardens, and taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The cool climate and refreshing air make it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
Napier Museum
The Napier Museum, located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, is an art and natural history museum. Showcasing a remarkable collection of archaeological and historical artifacts, including ancient ivory carvings, bronze idols, and ornate temple chariots. Its Indo-Saracenic architecture, featuring gothic arches and minarets, adds to its charm. The museum also houses a natural history section with exhibits of stuffed animals and skeletons. Visitors can explore the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, located within the same complex, which displays works by renowned Indian artists like Raja Ravi Varma and Nicholas Roerich.