Discover Amazing Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, still widely and affectionately known as Trivandrum, isn't just the capital of Kerala; it's the southern anchor of the entire state, a city where a rich, intricate history meets the stunning beauty of the Arabian Sea. The name itself means "City of Lord Ananta" (the serpent on which Lord Vishnu rests), a reference to the city's spiritual heart: the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

But Thiruvananthapuram is far more than its temples. It’s a captivating blend of colonial architecture, bustling modern life, world-class Ayurvedic wellness, and the most accessible, beautiful beaches in South India. You can spend the morning marveling at art, the afternoon relaxing on a palm-fringed coast, and the evening exploring a bustling local market. It’s a complete cultural package.

For me, the charm of this city lies in its proximity to everything. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment, pristine beaches, or the cool, misty air of a hill station, the things to do in Thiruvananthapuram and its immediate surroundings make it an ideal base for any traveler exploring the tip of India.

How To Reach Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram’s significance as a capital and a major international gateway makes it easily accessible by all means of transport.

By Air (The International Gateway)

• Trivandrum International Airport (TRV): Located just 6 km from the city centre, TRV is one of the busiest airports in South India. It handles both domestic flights (from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, etc.) and a large volume of international traffic, particularly from the Middle East, making travel exceptionally convenient.

By Rail (The Central Hub)

• Thiruvananthapuram Central (TVC): This is a major railway junction that connects the city to all corners of India, with daily express trains running to cities like New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
• Kochuveli Railway Station (KCVL): A newer terminus, located slightly outside the city centre, which handles several long-distance trains, helping ease congestion at TVC.

By Road

• The city is well-connected by National Highway 66 (NH 66) and other state highways.
• Bus Services: The Thiruvananthapuram Central Bus Station (Thampanoor) is a primary hub for KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) buses, offering frequent, comfortable services to every major town in Kerala and Tamil Nadu (including Kovalam, Varkala, and Kanyakumari).

Best Time To Visit Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram has a tropical climate. While you can visit all year, the optimal time depends on whether you prefer beach weather or a lush, rainy retreat.

Peak Season: Winter (October to March)

• What to Expect: Pleasant, dry, and cool weather. Temperatures range comfortably between 20°C and 32C. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities, beach visits, and sightseeing.
• Best For: Sightseeing, beach sports, and general outdoor exploration. This period also hosts major cultural events like the Attukal Pongala festival (Feb/Mar) and the Kerala Houseboat Festival (Jan), making the city vibrant and busy. Book early!

Off-Season: Monsoon (June to September)

• What to Expect: Heavy rainfall, high humidity, and lush greenery.
• Why Visit? This is the traditional and best time for Ayurvedic rejuvenation and therapeutic treatments. The cool, damp weather is believed to enhance the body’s receptivity to the treatments. The waterfalls are also at their most powerful.

Shoulder Season: Summer (March to May)

• What to Expect: Hot and humid, with temperatures climbing to 35°C.
• Best For: Budget travel and exploring nearby hill stations like Ponmudi for respite. Crowds are fewer, and you can enjoy the beaches during the early morning and late evening hours.

Things to Do in Thiruvananthapuram

The city’s diverse offerings mean you can easily blend culture, history, nature, and relaxation into a single trip.

Heritage and Spirituality

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple:

• • The Icon: This ancient temple is built in a magnificent blend of Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it gained international fame for the discovery of immense treasure in its vaults.
  • Must-Know: Dress code is strictly enforced: men must wear dhoti (waist wrap) and women must wear sari or mundum neriyathum (traditional two-piece set). Entry is restricted to Hindus only.

Napier Museum & Zoological Park:

• • The Cultural Hub: Located in the heart of the city, the beautiful 19th-century Napier Museum is an architectural gem blending native Kerala, Mughal, Chinese, and Italian styles. It houses a rare collection of bronze idols, ancient ornaments, and ivory carvings.
  • Next Door: The adjacent Thiruvananthapuram Zoo (one of the oldest in India) and the Sree Chithra Art Gallery (housing works of Raja Ravi Varma and other masters) form a fantastic cultural triangle for a full day of exploration.

Kanakakunnu Palace:

• • A beautifully preserved royal palace that once served as the summer retreat for the Travancore royal family. Today, its lush grounds and traditional architecture host numerous cultural programs and exhibitions.

Coastal Relaxation and Natural Beauty

Kovalam Beach:

• • The Famous Coast: Just 13 km from the city, Kovalam is internationally renowned for its three crescent-shaped beaches: Lighthouse Beach (the most popular), Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach.
  • Must-Do: Climb the red and white Vizhinjam Lighthouse for a spectacular view of the coastline. The area is famous for Ayurvedic resorts and seafood restaurants.

Poovar Island:

• • Located further south, this small coastal village is famous for its mesmerizing estuary where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea.
  • The Magic: Take a backwater cruise through the golden sand beaches, coconut groves, and the unique sight of the lake, river, sea, and land meeting. It’s a truly serene escape.

Veli Tourist Village:

• • A picturesque spot where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea. It’s a popular recreation area offering boating, picnicking, a floating bridge, and a children's park.

Adventure and Day Trips

Ponmudi (The Golden Peak):

• • About 60 km from the city, this enchanting hill station is the perfect day trip to escape the heat. Known for its rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and winding roads (22 hairpin bends!), Ponmudi offers stunning views and a fantastic cool climate.

Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary:

• • Located about 30 km from the city, this offers a huge reservoir, the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary (home to elephants and various reptiles), a crocodile farm, and a highly popular Lion Safari Park. It’s a great destination for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.