Top Tourist Places in Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is a vibrant blend of historical riches, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. Often referred to as Trivandrum, this stunning city offers various attractions for all kinds of travelers. From majestic temples and museums to picturesque beaches and parks, you’re bound to find something that captures your interest. In this guide, we will explore the top tourist places to visit in Thiruvananthapuram.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram with Family

• Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple: A significant temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the key to spiritual experiences.
• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Famous for its majestic architecture and significant history.
• Kuthira Malika Palace Museum: A heritage site featuring exquisite wood carvings and a museum.
• Shankumugham Beach: Perfect for family outings with a serene atmosphere and stunning sunsets.
• Thiruvananthapuram Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in India housing a variety of species.
• Kanakakkunnu Palace: A lovely architectural site with expansive lawns and cultural events.
• Napier Museum: Showcased art and cultural artifacts depict the rich heritage of Kerala.
• Attukal Bhagavathy Temple: Known for its annual Pongala festival amidst beautiful surroundings.
• Kerala Science and Technology Museum: Engaging exhibits for curious minds of all ages.
• Akkulam Lake: A tranquil spot for boating and family picnics.

Best Time to Visit Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram experiences a tropical climate, making it suitable for visitors from October to February. The monsoon enhances the lush landscape but can be heavy from June to September, which may deter some travelers.

Weather and Climate in Thiruvananthapuram

The average temperature in Thiruvananthapuram ranges from 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F). The best weather occurs during the winter months:

• October – February: 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F)
• March – May: 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F)
• June – September: 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F) with heavy rainfall.

Best and Worst Times of the Year to Visit Thiruvananthapuram

Best time: October to February, as the weather is cooler and pleasant for outdoor activities. Worst time: June to September, which is the peak monsoon season resulting in heavy rainfall.

Top Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram with Kids

• Thiruvananthapuram Zoo: A fun day out watching various animals in a beautiful environment.
• Kerala Science and Technology Museum: Children can enjoy the interactive exhibits.
• Shankumugham Beach: A great beach for fun and relaxation.
• Akkulam Lake: Boating opportunities attract families.

Top Places in Thiruvananthapuram for Couples

• Shankumugham Beach: Known for romantic sunsets.
• Kanakakkunnu Palace: A peaceful setting for leisurely walks.
• Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Perfect for spiritual couples.

Top 10 Tourist Places in Thiruvananthapuram with Distance from Main Railway Station or Airport

• Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple – 3.5 km
• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple – 3 km
• Kuthira Malika Palace Museum – 4 km
• Shankumugham Beach – 8 km
• Thiruvananthapuram Zoo – 2 km
• Kanakakkunnu Palace – 3.5 km
• Napier Museum – 2.5 km
• Attukal Bhagavathy Temple – 2.5 km
• Kerala Science and Technology Museum – 2 km
• Akkulam Lake – 8 km

Top 10 Tourist Attractions and Destinations in Thiruvananthapuram

• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Renowned spiritual site and architectural marvel.
• Napier Museum: Important collection of Kerala’s cultural artifacts.
• Kuthira Malika Palace Museum: Ancient royal home with beautiful architecture.
• Shankumugham Beach: Scenic beach ideal for family and picnic outings.
• Thiruvananthapuram Zoo: One of the oldest zoos, home to diverse wildlife.
• Kanakakkunnu Palace: Hosts various cultural events throughout the year.
• Attukal Bhagavathy Temple: Celebrated for its grand festivals.
• Kerala Science and Technology Museum: Kid-friendly destination with engaging exhibits.
• Akkulam Lake: Offers tranquil boating experiences.
• Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple: An auspicious destination for devotees.

Top 10 Activities to Do in Thiruvananthapuram

• Visit the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
• Explore the wildlife at Thiruvananthapuram Zoo.
• Relax at Shankumugham Beach.
• Enjoy a historic tour of Kuthira Malika Palace Museum.
• Wander through Napier Museum’s art collections.
• Take a boat ride in Akkulam Lake.
• Partake in the Pongala festival at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple.
• Learn about science at the Kerala Science and Technology Museum.
• Stroll through lush gardens at Kanakakkunnu Palace.
• Engage with local culture through food tours.

Top 10 Famous Places & Dishes to Eat

• Italian Corner: Renowned for delicious pasta and pizzas.
• Hotel Ananda: Famous for authentic Kerala Sadya.
• Villa Maya: Offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Kerala cuisine.
• Rassam: Known for its finger-licking seafood.
• Udupi Hotel: Excellent vegetarian options.
• Ali Baba & 41 Dishes: Famous for diverse Indian platter.
• Cherries: Offers traditional snacks and tea.
• Kumarakom Lake Resort Restaurant: Known for picturesque dining by the lake.
• Emmanuel’s Diner: Great for wholesome breakfasts.
• Chennai Roll Company: Famous for wraps and biryanis.

10 Best Hotels and Resorts in Thiruvananthapuram

• Hilton Garden Inn: Luxury stay with modern amenities.
• Hotel Taj Green Cove Resort: Lead luxury resort offering scenic views.
• Hyatt Regency: A place for business and leisure.
• Keys Select Hotel: Recognized for comfort and value for money.
• O by Tamara: Rich in heritage and modern comfort.
• Trivandrum Heritage Villa: Ideal for a traditional stay experience.
• The Leela Kovalam: Luxury escape near the beach.
• Kerala Ayurveda and Yoga Institute: For peaceful rejuvenation.
• Renai Cochin: Charming property managed under ethical practices.
• Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel: Gateway to extensive beach stretches.

10 Budget and Cheap Hotels in Thiruvananthapuram

• Hotel Ganga 41: Budget-friendly with good amenities.
• Hotel Indraprastha: Decked with essential comforts.
• Nandanam Residency: Affordable and convenient.
• Palace Inn: Perfect budget stay.
• Hotel Jaya International: Budget accommodations with essential amenities.
• Hotel Horizon: Economic lodging with basic facilities.
• Hotel Santacruz: Clean and budget-friendly.
• STAY INN: Ideal for business travelers.
• Woodlands Hotel: Affordable and decent.
• Hotel Plaza: Centrally located budget hotel.

Top 10 Hidden Gems and Places to Explore in Thiruvananthapuram

• Agasthyakoodam: A beautiful trekking spot.
• Vellayani Lake: A serene destination away from the bustling city.
• Poovar Island: Exotic beach and backwater paradise.
• Chowara Beach: Less crowded and stunning beach.
• Padmanabhapuram Palace: A historical marvel located near the city.
• Meghamalai: A hidden hill station perfect for nature lovers.
• Vaikom: Known for its temple and beautiful canals.
• Attingal Palace: A blend of old architecture and rich history.
• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Paradise for birdwatchers.
• Vettukad Church: Noted for its architecture and serene vibe.

Nightlife in Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram features limited nightlife options compared to larger metropolitan cities. However, local bars and eateries like Barbeque Nation and Kerala Café allow visitors to unwind after a day of touring. Traditional coffee houses and some resorts also provide a relaxed atmosphere perfect for evening gatherings.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Thiruvananthapuram?

A 3-4 day trip is ideal to explore the main attractions. However, if you aim to visit nearby areas like Kovalam or Varkala, extending your trip up to a week is recommended for a relaxed experience.

Transportation Options within the City

Thiruvananthapuram offers various transportation options including:

• Auto Rickshaws: Best for short distances.
• Buses: Affordable and cover most city areas.
• Car Rentals: Available for convenience.
• Taxi Services: App-based services like Uber and Ola facilitate easy travel.

Local Customs and Etiquette

Kerala is known for its rich culture, and several customs are worth noting:

• Dress conservatively when visiting temples (preferably traditional attire).
• Respect local customs and practices.
• Taking photographs in certain temples might be prohibited; always ask.

Local Festivals and Events

Thiruvananthapuram is lively during festivals including:

• Pongala: A significant festival held at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple.
• Onam: The harvest festival celebrated with various cultural events throughout the city.

History of the City

Thiruvananthapuram boasts a rich history, with roots tracing back to ancient civilizations. The city evolved under various dynasties, most notably the Travancore Kingdom, known for its contributions to art, architecture, and culture.

Tips for Solo Travelers

• Stay in hostel accommodations to meet other travelers.
• Public transport is safe; however, prefer metered taxis for late-night travels.
• Always keep an extra power bank for your devices.

FAQs

• What is the nearest airport? Trivandrum International Airport serves as the main airport, located about 6 km from the city center.
• What language is spoken widely? Malayalam is the official language. However, English is commonly spoken and understood.
• Are there ATMs and bank facilities? Yes, ATMs and banks are widely available throughout the city.
• Are there guided tours available? Yes, local guides and tour packages are offered for first-time visitors.
• Is public transport reliable? Public transport is affordable; however, plan according to the local schedules.