Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)

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How to reach Trivandrum

By Air
The nearest air port Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is situated 7 km away from the city.

By Rail
Trains to various places are acessable from Trivandrum Cental and Trivandrum Pettah rail way stations.

By Road
Bus services starts from K.S.R.T.C Central Bus stand, Thampanoor and city services from East Fort to various places.

Loacal Transport
There are 3 options you can either hire a car preferably from a government-approved agency or take a taxi or if you prefer a cheaper mode of transport hire an auto rickshaw.

Climate

Temperature

Summer
Mean Max. :36.2°C
Mean Min.  :20.6°C
Winter
Mean Max. :35°C
Mean Min.  :18°C

Rainfall
170 cms. (May to November)

Thiruvananthapuram - The Capital of Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, formerly known as Trivandrum is gateway to one of the most beautiful Indian states, Kerala.

Stretching along the southern coast of the country, with the Backwaters reaching deep into the verdant countryside, Kerala affords a fascinating experience. The city of the Thousand - headed Anatha, the holy serpent on which Lord Vishnu reclines.

Trivandrum is one of the most beautiful cities of India. Perched on undulating terrain of low coastal hills near the southern edge of the Indian mainland, clean and green Trivandrum, which was previously called Trivandrum, is an ancient city with trading tradition dateing back to 1000 BC.

The city once formed a part of the capital of Travancore, which had its capital at Padmanabhapuram, now in Tamilnadu.The city is also a welcome departure from other large cities of India in its spacious layout and regulated life.

It is also an excellent base to explore the interiors of Kerala, the southernmost region of India, and from Kochi, the Lakshadweep Islands. The city offers all modern facilities needed by a visitor and is a centre for cultural activities.

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Varkkala Beach

Varkkala is a sea side resort, as well as an important Hindu centre of pilgrimage. High cliffs with rich mineral springs rise majestically from the coastline.

The 2000 year old Janardana Swamy Temple and the Nature Centre are the two main attractions here. High cliffs border the excellent beach.

It's a beautiful beautiful beach that has a more than 2000 years old shrine of Lord Vishnu. Varkkala beach is rich in mineral water springs that are known for their medicinal value.

A dip in the holy waters of Varkkala beach is believed to purge the body and the soul of all the sins hence the name 'Papanashini' for this shore. At the break of dawn following the new moon in the Malayalam month of 'Karkidakam', thousands offer 'Vavu Bali', a ritual believed to help the souls of ancestors rest in peace.

Significance : Varkkala Beach has a 2000 Year Old Shrine of Lord Vishnu

How To Get There

By Rail
The railway station is 3 kms from the beach.

By Road
Varkkala is 54 km from Thiruvananthapuram and 37 km from Kollam.

Aarattu

Pallivetta (Royal Hunt) and Arattu (Holy Bath) are part of the rituals of the festivals of some of the major temples of Kerala.

The speciality of the Arattu at the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is that the head of the royal family of erstwhile Travancore still provides escort to the procession of idols. The two annual ten-day festivals of the temple fall in October- November and March- April.

Speciality : The Head of Travancore Royal Family Escorts The Procession of Idols.

Agastyarkoodam Peak

Agasthyarkoodam Peak, India: The Agasthya forest believed to have been the abode of sage Agasthya, a character from mythology. Agastyarkoodam Peak is a spectacular peak in the Western Ghats that rises to a majestic height of about 1868 m in the form of a sharp cone. It is accessible only on foot, with 61 kms of trekking from Bonacaud, and 32 kms from Neyyar Dam.

The lower elevations of this peak are also known for their abundance of rare herbs and medicinal plants. Around 2000 medical plants used for Ayurveda treatments are found here. Europeans, particularly those from England, were the first to discover the rare medicinal plants in Agasthyarkoodam. They have established tea gardens around the base stations of Agasthyarkoodam at Brimore, Bonacaud and Ponmudi. John Allen Brown, a Scottish scientist, had established a miniature weather station at Agasthyarkoodam. It is the abode of rare flora and fauna and even wild animals.

Acording to a local belief, the peak was the abode of sage Agasthya, who was a confirmed bachelor. Hence, the aborigines dislike the presence of women on the hill. Women are not allowed up the peak.

Main Attraction : The Flower, 'Neelakurinji'
Altitude : 1868 m Above Sea Level
Best Time : The season from December to April is advocated for trekking, for which a forest pass has to be obtained from the Wildlife Warden, Forest Department, Thiruvananthapuram.

Akkulam Lake

Akkulam Lake is situated 3 kms away from Ulloor junction, in Thiruvananthapuram city. Boating facilities are provided in the lake. The children's park here is one of the biggest in Kerala.

Akkulam tours with Tourism in Kerala promise to take you to new heights of pleasure. With all the natural beauty that this place abounds in, it forms the perfect picnic spot for those looking for a quiet hideaway and for those who love natural beauty.

The boat club located close to the Akkulam Lake is perfect for those who would care to go on exciting boating tours. The Children's park located in Akkulam, is one of the most important tourist attractions in this part of Thiruvananthpuram in Kerala.

This quite picnic spot is a great favorite with tourists. The large swimming pool for adults and a paddle pool for children are major highlights of this picture book lush green tourist spot located close to Thiruvananthapuram.

Ananthapadmanabhaswamy Temple

Sree Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, the temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an awe-inspiring structure that has a 100 feet high 'gopuram', built in Dravidian style. Lord Vishnu, the presiding deity, reclines in the posture of 'Ananthashayanam' on the coiled serpent 'Anantha'.

The temple, known for the Mural paintings and stone carvings is one among the 108 temples dedicated to Vishnu in India. Its 7 stored gopuram built in the 16th Century is one of the finest specimens of traditional South Indian temple architecture which reflects the Kerala influence.

Renovated in 1733 AD by the then ruler of Travancore, Raja Marthanda Varma, this holy shrine attracts thousands of Hindu devotees. The temple corridors are lined with 368 sculpted stone pillars, intricate carvings and Mural paintings.

Outside the temple courtyard, there is a medley of shops that sell souvenirs, handicrafts, woodcarvings and handiwork of sandal. One can witness the craftsmen do their work right from carving the wood to polishing.

In the October/November months of every year, there is held the Navarathri Festival of musical concerts at the Navarathri Mandapam, adjacent to the main building of the temple. Only Hindus are allowed inside and dress regulations are strictly followed.

Aruvippuram

Aruvippuram is a pilgrim centre located in a picturesque location, 24 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. It is also a small but lovely picnic spot. The place derives its name from a stream.

It is famous for the Siva temple established by Sri Narayana Guru. The Guru consecrated the Siva idol in the year 1888. Aruvippuram Sivarathri is a very popular event attended by a large numbers of devotees and followers of Guru.This holy shrine attracts a number of devotees during the 'Sivarathri' festival in March.

Beema Palli Mahotsavam

The holy shrine of Beema Beevi, more popularly known as Beempalli is situated about five kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram city. The shrine is dedicated to Beema Beevi, a pious muslim lady believed to have divine powers.

It is one of the most distinguished mosques in Kerala, which draws large gatherings. Pilgrims of all ages from all over the nation can be seen heading towards the shrine all along the routes during this festival. The mosque is visited by devotees of all religions. The ten-day Chandanakudam Festival, which starts on the first of jama dul Akbar (March- April) of the Hijra year, attracts thousands of pilgrims.

The devotees bring earthen pots (kudams) filled with coins as offerings. These pots are coated with sandal wood paste (chandanam). Hence the name 'Chandanakudam'.

Flavour Food Festival

Flavour, the exotic food festival provides a rare opportunity to the gourmets to taste the traditional, authentic Cuisine of Kerala and India. The national food festival is held in Thiruvananthapuram from 5th to the 11th of April, every year.

Kaudiar Palace

This palace, home of the late Maharaja Sree Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma and his family is off limits to the public. But the view of the grand old building from the gate is excellent, a co-operative gate keeper just might let you walk a few meters inside for a better view.

Koyikkal Palace

Koyikkal Palace, the ancient palace, located 18 km from Thiruvananthapuram on the way to Ponmudi hillstation and the Kuttalam waterfalls, dates back to the 15th century.

The Koyikkal Palace, situated far of away from the city, was actually built for Umayamma Rani of the Venad royal family who ruled the land between 1677 and 1684. The palace is a double stroreyed traditional nalukettu with slanting gabled roofs and an inner courtyard.

Today, the palace houses a Folklore Museum and a Numismatics Museum set up by the Department of Archaeology. The Folklore Museum, a treasure house of quaint musical instruments, occupational implements, household utensils, models of folk arts etc, was set up in 1992.

The Folklore Museum
The Folklore Museum, a treasure house of quaint musical instruments, occupational implements, household utensils, models of folk arts etc, was set up in 1992.

The exhibits here draw attention to the rich cultural background of the State. The exhibits include rare articles like Chandravalayam (not found in any other such museum in Kerala), a small percussion instrument used as an accompaniment while reciting the ballad Ramakathappattu (the story of Lord Sree Rama); and Nanthuni, a sweet sounding musical instrument made of wood and string used while singing the Onappattu and Nanthunippattu during Onam the harvest festival of Kerala.

The Folklore Museum housed on the first floor of the palace also has a wide range of household utensils including wooden kitchenware, brass/copperware etc. representing the lifestyle of the Keralites during different eras. Thaliyola (old manuscripts), Chilambu (a sort of anklet) used by Umayamma Rani and Maravuri (dress material made of the bark of trees) etc. are well preserved here.

Housed on the first floor of the palace, the museum also has a wide range of household utensils including wooden kitchenware, brass/copperware etc. representing the lifestyle of the Keralites during different eras.

'Thaliyola' (old manuscripts), 'Chilambu' (a sort of anklet) used by Umayamma Rani and Maravuri (dress material made of the bark of trees) etc. are well preserved here.

The Numismatics Museum
The Numismatics Museum at the Koyikkal Palace is the only one of its kind in the State. Occupying the ground floor of the palace, the coins here belong to different parts of the world as well as to different eras. This rare and historically valuable collection is a vestige of the trade relation of the State in the bygone ages.

This rare and historically valuable collection is a vestige of the trade relation of the State in the bygone ages. Among the exhibits are some of the oldest coins of Kerala - Ottaputhen, Erattaputhen, Kaliyugarayan Panam etc. A Venetian coin named Amaida, believed to have been presented to Jesus Christ, is also a property of this museum. The museum also has coins used by various Indian dynasties - the Gwalior royal family, the Nizam of Hyderabad, Tipu Sultan, Hyder Ali, etc. The most valuable among the Indian coins found here are 'Karsha'. These are nearly 2500 years old.

Among the collection are nearly 374 Roman gold coins, each worth up to five hundred thousand rupees today, depicting Roman gods and goddesses like Venus, Hercules, Mars, Ceres, Genius, etc and rulers like Hardin (AD 117 - 138).

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, a classic specimen of Kerala Architecture is situated in 'Kuthiramalika'. The palace, with its excellent carvings and amazing architectural designs, is by itself a slice of heritage. The museum has a wide range of exhibits representing the erstwhile state of Travancore.

The Kuthiramalika Palace was built by His Highness the Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma of Travancore. The Palace museum adorned with paintings and amusing collections of the erstwhile royal family. It is an example of Travancore style of architecture.

The Museum displays the paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family. The Paintings and other curios offer a rare glimpse into the private lives of the members of the royal family. The first room of the palace houses 14 life-size figures depicting various scenes from the Kerala legends and Kathakali.

Magnificent ivory cots, thrones of kings, a musical tree that produces the eight 'swaras' when tapped, etc are a few of the attractions of the museum.

Timings : The Palace and Museum is open to visitors on all days except Monday from 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 3 to 5.30 p.m.

Napier Museum

An architectural splendour, the Napier Museum combines traditional Kerala style with the Chinese and Mughal influences much evident in its architecture.

The Museum is named after the former Madras Governor General John Napier. The Napier Museum is also called the Government Art Museum. The Museum building is a combination of the Kerala, Mughal, Chinese and Italian architectural styles.

The Sree Chitra Art Gallery features a rare collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and Roerich among others, and fascinating works from the Mughal, Rajput and Tanjore schools of art. An oriental collection consisting of paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali offers a visual treat and are a tribute to the art and culture of these countries.

Timings : The museums are open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4.45 p.m. On Wednesdays, the museum opens only at 1 p.m.

Kanakakunnu Palace

The Kanakakunnu Palace in Trivandrum is one of the most famous. The city of Trivandrum is very rich with its ancient buildings and architectures. The Kanakakunnu Palace, situated near the Napier Museum in Thiruvananthapuram, is one of the last vestiges of the colonial era.

The Kanakakunnu Palace was constructed in the reign of the Travancore King, Hiss Highness Sree Moolam Tirunal (1885-19240). The Palace was the main venue for Royal banquets. Later Hiss Highness Sree Chithira Tirunal modified the Palace & constructed tennis courts in the palace premises. This  stunning  piece  of

The Kanakakunnu Palace in Trivandrum is one of the major tourist attractions in the city of Trivandrum. The palace is located in the central area of the city of Trivandrum in the state of Kerala in India. It is just beside the famous Napier Museum in Trivandrum. The building is really beautiful and the decorations are also awesome. The palace reflects magnificent skill of art and is one of the greatest heritages of the city of Trivandrum. In front of the palace there is a huge ground and it is used for several cultural programs.

How to Reach

By Road
Nearest Bus station is Thiruvananthapuram Central Bus Station

By Rail
Nearest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station.

By Air
Nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport.

Neyyar Dam

Neyyar dam, lying against the southern low hills of the western ghats, 32 kms away from the Thiruvananthapuram city which is a favourite haunt for picnickers. eyyar has some of the rarest medicinal herbs in Kerala. The lake formed by the dam across the Neyyar river is the bluest of blue, making boating irresistible for tourists.

The reservoir also offers boating facilities in addition to a crocodile farm. The project offers facilities for boating and mountaineering. The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary of which the dam is a part is the habitat of over a hundred rare species of fauna including elephants, wild buffaloes, wild boar, porcupines, tigers and a variety of snakes. A crocodile breeding centre and a lion safari park are also located in the dam site.

Main Attraction : Lion Safari Park.

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

The Neyyar reservoir is easily navigable and extends 9.06 sq. km. The vegetation varies from tropical wet evergreen to grasslands. The Agasthyakoodam hill, 1890 metres high, lies in the premises of the sanctuary.

The vegetation varies from tropical wet evergreen to grasslands. The Agasthyarkoodam hill, 1890 metres high, lies in the premises of the sanctuary. Declared as a sanctuary in 1958, it is the drainage basin for the Neyyar River and its tributaries - Mullayar and Kallar.

Area : 128 sq. kms.
Main Attraction : Crocodile Rearing Centre, Lion Safari Park.
Altitude : 1890 m Above Sea Level.
Best time to visit : October to March.

Nishagandhi Festival

Every year, from February 21st to 27th renowned classical dancers perform at the Nisangandhi, an open air theatre in Thiruvananthapuram city.

Minukku Vesham - Kathakali, from February 21st to 27th renowned classical dancers perform at the Nisangandhi, Bharatha Natyam (Tamil Nadu).

Main Attraction : Classical Dance Performances.
Timings : February From 21st To 27th.

Musical And Dance Performances
Classical dances of almost all the states of India are staged during the festival. Mohiniyattam (Kerala), Bharatha Natyam (Tamil Nadu), Kutchippudi (Andhra Pradesh), Odissi (Orissa), Manipuri (Manipur) and Kathak (a north Indian Classical Dance) are the major dances performed.

Renowned artist and connoisseurs of dance from all over India come to enjoy this cultural treat.

Padmanabhapuram Palace

Situated 54 kms from Thiruvananthapuram, It is situated at Thucklai, on the way to Kanyakumari. This palace was once the capital of the State of Travancore. In the neighbouring state of Tamilnadu is the magnificent wooden palace, the Padmanabhapuram Palace of the 16th century Travancore rulers.

Padmanabhapuram Palace, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, it was once the traditional home of the royal family of Travancore. The palace was constructed around 1601 A.D by Iravi Iravi Varma Kulasekhara Perumal who ruled Travancore between 1592 A.D. and 1609 A.D. In the late 18th century, the capital of Travancore was shifted from here to Trivandrum, and the place lost its former glory. However, the palace complex continue to be the best examples of traditional Kerala architecture, and some portions of the sprawling complex are also the hall mark of traditional kerala / Dravidian building art. The Padamanabhapuram.

Travancore, which was a princely state for over 400 years, included a large part of present-day Kerala and the western part of Tamil Nadu. Though the palace is now in the State of Tamil Nadu, it was once the traditional home of the royal family of Travancore, so it is maintained by the Government of Kerala.

The extraordinary Murals, exquisite floral carvings and the black glossy granite floor have withstood the test of time. Some fascinating 18th century Murals can be seen in the puja room on the upper floors of this palace.

Main Palace Complex structures are :

Mantrasala
A steep and narrow flight of wooden stairs leads to a trap door that opens into the first floor, which houses the mantrasala, or council chamber, where the king held his cabinet meetings. The narrow staircase and the heavy trap door are said to have been designed with the intention of warding off unexpected attacks- only one person can enter at a time. Mantrasala literaly know as "King’s Council Chamber" is the most beautiful place of the entire palace complex. It has windows, with coloured mica, which keep the heat and the dust away. Herbs soaking in water were put into the box-benched seats along the front wall as natural air-conditioning. Delicate and beautiful lattice work is all around the council chamber.

The floor is also done here is quite special, with a fine and perfect finish. The floor is dark coloured and is made of a mixture of varied substances, including burnt coconut shells, egg white and so on. The remarkable aspect is that this particular floor finish and texture could not be duplicated in any other construction.

Thai Kottaram
Thai Kottaram literaly know as "Mother’s Palace", designed in traditional Kerala style, is the oldest construction in the entire palace complex and is believed to be constructed around mid-16th century with painted ceilings, rose wood and teak carved ceilings with 90 different floral designs. True to the traditional Kerala style, there is an inner courtyard, called 'Nalukettu'. In the inner courtyard, sloping roofs from all four sided taper down. Four pillars on four corners support the roof.

On the south-west corner of the mother’s palace, there is a relatively small room, called the chamber of solitude or 'Ekantha Mandapam'. The camber of solitude has very beautiful and intricate wood carvings of every description all around of particular interest is a pillar of single wood , with very detailed and beautiful floral designs.

Nataksala
Nataksala literaly know as "Hall of Performace". This is a relatively new building, constructed at the behest of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, who reigned in Travancore from 1829 to 1846. He was a great connoisseur of arts, especially music and dance. He himself composed music and has left a rich legacy to classical carnatic music.

The Nataksala or the hall or performance has solid granite pillars and gleaming black floor. There is a wooden enclosure, with peepholes, where the women of the royal household used to sit and watch the performance.

Four-storeyed central building
The four-storied building is located at the centre of the palace complex. The top floor (called upparikka malika) served as the worship chamber of the royal household. Its walls are covered with exquisite 18th century murals, depicting scenes from the puranas, and also few scenes from the social life of the Travancore of that time.

There are several rooms just below the worship chambers, which included the king's bedroom. The ornamental bedstead is made of 64 types of herbal and medicinal woods, and was a gift from the Dutch merchants. Most of the rooms here and in other parts of the palace complex have built-in recesses in walls for storing weapons like swords and daggers.

Thekee Kottaram
Thekee Kottaram literaly know as "The southern palace" is as old as the ‘Thai kottaram’ (Mother's palace), which would make it about 400 year old. Now, it serves as a heritage museum, exhibiting antique household articles and curios. Collections of items give an insight into the social and cultural ethos of that period.

Frescos Adorning The Walls
The murals for which the palace is famous are alive with details, colour, graceful form and religious fervour and adorn the walls of the meditation room, used by the raja and heirs apparent, directly above the bedroom. However, this section has been closed to preserve the murals. The museum across the ticket counter has beautiful wooden sculptures and displays copies of the murals from the palace.

Features of the Palace
The famous dining hall, which could accommodate 2,000 people at one sitting. The paintings in the prayer room are simply superb. However this room is mostly kept locked and one has to have permission to enter.

Every rom has its own characteristic style and is unique in style. One is transported to a bygone era as soon as one-steps into the entrance hall. A huge brass oil lamp hangs from an ornate teak, rosewood & mahogany ceiling carved with 90 different lotus flowers.

On the wall is a painting of 'Onamvillu', ceremonial bows being offered to a reclining Lord Vishnu on the occasion of Onam (a harvest festival). Another interesting artefact is the sword placed in front of Lord Vishnu's idol in the prayer room.

How To Get There
Frequent buses run from Thiruvananthapuram's Thampnoor bus stand for Padmanabhampuram.

Timings : 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. expect Monday.

Paripally Gajamela

Paripally, 48 kms north of Thiruvananthapuram is noted for its Gajamela or Elephant pageant. Ever year over 50 elephants are taken out on a ritual procession on the tenth day of the festival (February- March).

The people of Kerala are extremely keen on elephant pageants. The gentle giant has been revered like divinity and accorded the privilege of escorting the numerous gods and goddesses of this land.

The pooram and vela festivals are the best occasions to watch the majestic tuskers in all their caparisoned splendour. Colourfully decked up elephants numbering fifteen to hundred or more line up on the temple premises. With mahouts atop them, holding high tinselled silk parasols (muthukuda) and swaying white tufts (venchamaram) and peacock feather fans (aalavattom) to the rhythm of the temple orchestra.

Uniquely to Paripally, the elephants in these processions are offered as Nercha (ritual offerings to the deity for prosperity) by devotees at the temple of the Goddess Bhadrakali.

Priyadarshini Planetarium

Priyadarshini Planetorium is one of the most sophisticated and versatile planetaria in India. Planetarium near PMG Jn. Just 3 km from railway station & bus stand and hardly 7 km air port.

This fabulous planetarium complex has a centrally air conditioned Sky theatre of planetarium, Conference hall, Workshops, Sound - studio etc. with a seating capacity of 184, Priyadarsini Planetarium is rated as one of the best horizontal domed planetaria of global standards.

The planetarium has organised shows on:
"Mand and The Universe" dealing with the origin and different stages of development of astronomy, the structure of different planets and the Origin of the Universe. "Myriad Suns" dealing with the birth and death of stars, black holes, neutron stars, star clusters, galaxies, nebula, supernova.

Timings : 10:30am - 12:00pm, 15:00pm - 17:00pm.
Main Attraction : Centrally Air Conditioned Sky Theatre.

Sankhumugham Beach

Located 8 kms from Thiruvananthapuram city, and adjacent to the Thiruvananthapuram Airport and Veli Tourist Village. The Shankhumugham Beach is a favourite haunt of sunset watchers. On holidays, the city comes out to the beach for a weekly refreshing. Long and wide sandy beach can accommodate tens of thousands.

An indoor recreation club, the 'Matsya Kanyaka', a gigantic 35 m long sculpture of a mermaid and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are the major attractions here. The water here, is not suitable for bathing. Shankhumugham Beach is a popular city beach.

This beach provides good facilities like an indoor recreation club, children's traffic training park and a star shaped restaurant.

Science & Technology Museum

The Science and Technology Museum is established in 1984, the Museum, is an autonomous organization, setup by the Government of Kerala, to serve as a dynamic medium of science Communication for the public and for inculcating sense of enquiry and scientific temperament in the minds of the young. The Museum established with the prime objective of setting up of galleries with working or animated and participatory type of exhibits, on all disciplines of Science and Technology.

The exhibits here are related to science, technology and electronics. The museum mainly satisfies the curiosities of high school students interested in Science subjects. The Planetarium has 40-minute science-related shows in English at noon daily.

Timings : The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm, on all days of the week except Mondays.

Sree Chitra Art Gallery

This Gallery established in 1935 has a century old world famous paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, the pioneering Indian genies in the art of oil painting who was born and brought up at Kilimanoor Palace in Kerala, is a star attraction in this gallery. The Art Galler is located in the Napier Museum grounds, Sree Chitra Art Gallery displays select Paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Roerich and exquisite works from the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art in India. The collection also includes paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali.

The art gallery housed in a traditional building next to Napier Museum, houses the collections of the Travancore ruling family, and include an interesting assortment of turn-of-the-century Bengali school paintings, and Rajasthani and Mughal miniatures.

Raja Ravi Varma's works include a number of portraits of kings and their families, British residents and distinguished individuals. The paintings are so life like that one can easily get a glimpse of a part of Kerala's history, by looking at them.

Timings : 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. except on Wednesday and Mondays Ist Half.

Swathi Festival

Swathi festival is a gala event of music organised by the Government of Kerala every year in the last week of January.

The venue is famous Kuthiramalika Palace. Thiruvananthapuram, where once upon a time the great poet-king of Travancore, Sri Swathi Thirunal, composed many of his verses.

An august gathering of great maestros from all over the country celebrate Indian classical music in all its variety and grandeur.

Vettukadu Church

The Madre De Teus Church, popularly known as Vettukadu church.

This church is situated around 7 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. The 'Madre De Deus' Church popularly known as the Vettukad Church attracts thousands of devotees from all religions. The annual celebration here is called the 'Feast Of Christ, The King'.

Vettukadu Perunal

The annual festival of the church is celebrated over the ten days culminating in the last Sunday of the laturgical year. Various religious rites are carried out during the festival days.

On the last Saturday, the image of Christ the king is taken out in a big colorful procession. A solemn High Mass, sermons, Eucharistic procession and benediction mark the final day.

Significance : Madre De Teus Church.
Main Attraction : A Colorful Procession on the last day of Perunal.

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Caves

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave is about 17kms from the city. It is basically constitutes the rock cut sculptures of the 18th century in the cave temple at Vizhinjam. The granite cave here encloses a one-celled shrine with a loose sculpture of Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi. The outer wall of the cave depicts half-complete reliefs of the Hindu God Shiva with Goddess Parvathi.

Aattukal Pongala

The Aattukal Bhagavathi Temple dedicated to the Goddess Bhagavathi is situated in Trivandrum city. Pongala, an exclusive festival for women, falling in February/ March, is the speciality of this temple.

The name 'Pongala' means 'to boil over' and refers to the ritualistic offering of porridge made of rice, sweet brown molasses, coconut gratings, nuts and raisins. Only women devotees are allowed to participate in this ritual. Thousands of women devotees start assembling in the temple premises and on either sides of the roads leading to the shrine.

Peppara wildlife sanctuary

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is composed of the dense forests and the Peppara dam built on the Karamana River and was declared as a sanctuary in 1983 to increase the drinking water supply to Thiruvananthapuram and the adjoining suburbs. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is merged partially with the Palode reserve (24sq.kms) and the Kottoor reserve (29sq.kms); all the three together forming the whole of the area covered by the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary. The wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 53 sq.kms with the reservoir spread in an area of 5.82 sq.kms. Located about 50kms. North East of capital city Thiruvananthapuram in Nedumangad taluk of Thiruvananthapuram district, the topography of the wildlife sanctuary is quite hilly. More»»

Public Park

Truly a representative of the clean and verdant aspect of the city, the Public Park houses many important institutions, like the Zoo and the Botanical Gardens. The observatory on the Observatory hill is also located in the Public Park.

Timing : 09.00 hrs. - 17.00 hrs

Veli Tourist Village

Veli is located 8 kms from Thiruvananthapuram city. A large recreational centre located near the airport along a sheltered lagoon offers landscaped gardens and water-sports facilities. Veli Tourist Village is a popular picnic spot. Accommodation facilities are available in the youth hostel.

The village is borded by Veli lagoon and Arabian sea which makes it one of the picturesque location. The lagoon is separated from the sea by narrow sand bar. Besides water sports, am 18 acre waterfront park with floating bridge connects the village to the Shankhumukham beach and also there is a children's park around the floating bridge.

Timing : 8:00am - 6:00pm.

Vizhinjam

Vizhinjam Beach is about 18 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram Center. Vizhinjam was once a commercial centre for the Europeans, Portuguese and Dutch who had trade ties with the local kings. Vizhinjam is a small coastal Town in Thiruvananthapuram. There is a small natural sea port in Vizhinjam. Kovalam beach is only just 3 km from Vizhinjam. The areas in and around Vizhinjam are known for its world class Ayurvedic treatment centers and Internationally acclaimed Beach Resorts.

Features of Vizhinjam port

Vizhinjam port is located 18 km south of Thiruvananthapuram on the West coast of India.

The site offers the following unique advantages:

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Tour from Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)

Anchunthengu Fort

Anchuthengu Fort is around 36 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram. The historic remains of the Anchunthengu Fort in Thiruvananthapuram built by the English East India Company in the 17th century, and an adjoining cemetery are noteworthy relics of this first major British trading station on the Malabar coast.

Aruvikkara

Aruvikkara is 16 kms away from Thiruvananthapuram. It is an important pilgrim centre located at a distance of 16 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Flowing by is the Karamana River, on the banks of which, is the rock-shrine dedicated to 'Bhagvathi', the divine embodiment of Female power.

There is a waterfall nearby. The place is of a lot of tourist interest and the site of a mini dam. Thiruvananthapuram gets its water supply from this dam, is worth seeing. It is both a pilgrim centre and a picnic spot.

There is a waterfall nearby. The place is of a lot of tourist interest and the site of a mini dam, which supplies water to the state capital, is worth seeing. It is both a pilgrim centre and a picnic spot.

Kovalam Beach

On the Malabar coast along the Kerala shore line is a small village, called Kovalam is 16 Kms away form Thiruvananthapuram. Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach of Kerela, with three adjacent crescent beaches. The southern most beach and the most popular from the three, is the Lighthouse Beach. Further south on the beach one can have a spectacular view of the Vizhinzam mosque, but photography is prohibited here. The middle beach is called Hawah. Each morning this beach acts as a base for the local fisherman. The northern most beach, Samudra, is least affected of all by the changing times. It is dotted with few rudimentary wooden fishing vessels. This sleepy town suddenly came on the tourist map when its fabulous beaches were discovered.

Nowadays Kovalam beach become one of the most popular beach hangouts in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and truly the coconut trees along the beaches gives it a ravishing look. The palm-fringed bays in secluded coconut groves, promise a relaxed stay. The boundless blue waters of the Arabian Sea and miles of white sands washed away by the surf at the feet of the stalwart palms and the rocky promontories, makes Kovalam beach paradise. This marvellous beach is a tourist's dream come true.

Kovalam is a natural bay ideal for kayaking, swimming, surfing and skiing. One can swim in the shallow blue water and have a sunbath in the exotic tropical sun can adorn you with a good suntan. The coast at many places is lined with beautiful patches of coral reefs or you can crest the waves on logs of lashed woods on catamarans.

A sheltered natural bay with cool soothing palms and gentle waves. Where when you are tired of aquatics, swimming or sunbathing, you can explore the handicrafts, jewellery and cloth shops spread along the waterfront. Not to speak of the delightful sea-food fare including lobsters available at the beachside restaurants.

In the evening the quiet atmosphere of the place is enlivened by Kathakali performances, the classical dance-drama of Kerala. This mellow Kerala coastal village was once a picturesque settlement built next to two palm-fringed coves enclosed by rocky headlands, but development has been almost unplanned.

Ponmudi

The salubrious hill station of Ponmudi is at a distance of 61 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Ponmudi meaning Golden Crown. The enchanting bounty of nature can be witnessed here in the quiet surroundings.

Perched at an altitude of over 100 m above sea level on the Western Ghats, the shimmering green waters of the winding streams and verdant woods of Ponmudi do not spare anybody. Trekking is a passion with the visitors to Ponmudi, lying within easy driving distance from Thiruvananthapuram.

One will find oneself compulsively pausing every now and then to drink in deep the spectacular sweep of the hill ranges, tea-estates and the mist-covered valleys, peppered with little toy-like stone cottages painted a pretty violet, pink, or white with pointed and peaked roofs.

There are a good number of shops on the beach. Shops sell Blankets, Goods, Jewellery and ornaments mainly from Kashmir, Rajasthan or Nepal. Spices, the specialty of Kerala, are also available here.

How to Reach

By Road

65 kms Distance from northeast Thiruvananthapuram. Bus services are frequent.

Beema Palli

Beema Palli is a shrine An important Muslim pilgrim centre, on Beach Road, 5 km south west of the Railway station. The Shrine is dedicated to Beema Beevi, a Muslim women believed to have divine powers and the festival is held in her memory. The 10 day festival begins on the 1st of the Hijra month of Jamadul -Akbar (March -April) and comes to a climax on the 10th day.

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