10 best places to visit in Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is a popular tourist destination in Kerala. It is the capital city of the state and has a rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks. In this article, we will explore 10 of the best places to visit in the Thiruvananthapuram district.

1. Padmanabhaswamy Temple 

Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped in the form of Padmanabha, which means "one who has a lotus in his navel." The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, which are the holiest shrines in Vaishnavism. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and ancient murals. The main deity, Padmanabhaswamy, is seen lying on the Anantha, the serpent of infinity. The deity is made of a rare combination of 12008 Salagrama stones, which are believed to be extremely sacred. The idol is adorned with gold and precious stones and is considered to be one of the richest deities in the world.

The temple complex is spread over an area of 2.5 acres and comprises several mandapams and shrines. The mandapams are beautifully decorated with murals and carvings that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple's architecture is a perfect blend of Dravidian and Kerala styles, which makes it unique.

The temple is famous for its rituals and festivals. The Navaratri festival, which is celebrated for nine days, is one of the most important festivals at the temple. During this festival, the deity is adorned with different kinds of jewellery and is taken out in a procession around the temple. The temple also celebrates the Alpashi Utsavam and the Laksha Deepam festival.

The temple has been in the news in recent years due to the discovery of hidden treasures in its vaults. The vaults were opened in 2011, and they revealed a vast amount of gold, silver, precious stones, and other valuable artefacts. The estimated value of the treasures is said to be around $22 billion, making it the richest temple in the world.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a magnificent shrine that showcases the rich heritage and culture of Kerala. Its stunning architecture, beautiful carvings, and intricate murals make it a must-visit destination for tourists. The temple's rich history and spiritual significance, combined with its hidden treasures, make it a unique and fascinating place to visit.

2. Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach is a world-renowned tourist destination located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of the southern Indian state of Kerala. The beach is one of the most famous beaches in India and attracts millions of visitors every year. This beach is renowned for its pristine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and golden sands. The beach is divided into three parts, Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach. Lighthouse Beach is the most popular of the three and is named after the lighthouse located at the southern end of the beach.

The beach offers several water sports activities, including surfing, parasailing, and swimming. The beach is also known for its yoga and meditation centres, which attract many tourists seeking to rejuvenate their minds, body, and soul.

Kovalam Beach is also home to several resorts and restaurants that offer comfortable accommodations and delicious cuisine. The beach is an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travellers looking for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the unique features of the Beach is the sunset views. Every evening, tourists gather on the beach to witness the breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Arabian Sea. The sight of the sun slowly disappearing into the horizon is a memorable experience for many visitors.

Kovalam Beach is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers tourists an opportunity to relax and unwind amidst the serene natural surroundings. Its scenic beauty, water sports activities, yoga and meditation centres, and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit destination for travellers visiting Thiruvananthapuram and Kerala.

3. Napier Museum 

The Napier Museum is a popular museum located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala state in India. The museum is named after the former Governor of Madras, Sir John Napier and was built in the 19th century. It is a popular tourist attraction and a significant landmark of the city.

This Museum is known for its unique architectural style, which combines traditional Kerala and Victorian styles. The museum houses a vast collection of artefacts, including bronze sculptures, ancient ornaments, ivory carvings, and traditional Kerala art forms such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. The museum also has a rich collection of archaeological and historical artefacts, dating back to the Chera and Chola dynasties.

The highlight of the Museum is its natural history gallery, which displays a wide variety of fauna and flora from Kerala and other regions of India. The gallery has a vast collection of stuffed animals, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and several species of birds, reptiles, and fishes. The museum also has a collection of ancient coins and currencies, pottery, and other artefacts from different regions of the world.

Visitors can also explore the art gallery at the Museum, which houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other art forms from different regions of India. The museum also has a library that houses rare manuscripts and books, which is open to researchers and scholars.

Apart from its exhibits, the Napier Museum also has a beautiful garden that features a variety of trees, plants, and flowers. The garden is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks. Its unique architectural style, vast collection of artefacts, natural history gallery, art gallery, library, and beautiful garden make it a must-visit destination for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

4. Thiruvananthapuram Zoo 

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, also known as the Trivandrum Zoo, is a popular tourist attraction located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city, the capital of Kerala state in India. The zoo is spread over an area of 55 acres and is home to a variety of animal species from India and around the world. The Zoo was established in 1857 and is one of the oldest zoos in Asia. The zoo houses over 80 species of animals, including Indian rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, lion-tailed macaque, lion, leopard, Asiatic elephant, and several species of birds, reptiles, and fishes. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural habitats and learn about their behaviour, diet, and conservation efforts.

One of the highlights of the Zoo is its butterfly park, which houses a large number of butterfly species. The park features a greenhouse, where visitors can witness the life cycle of butterflies and learn about their role in pollination. Another unique feature of the zoo is its snake park, which is home to a variety of venomous and non-venomous snakes, including the King Cobra, Indian Python, and Russell's Viper. The park also has a separate enclosure for crocodiles and alligators.

Apart from its animal exhibits, the Zoo also has a botanical garden, which features a variety of plants and trees. The garden is spread over 2.5 acres and has a collection of over 300 species of plants, including medicinal plants, orchids, and palm trees.

Visitors can also enjoy a toy train ride around the zoo, which provides a fun and unique way to explore the different exhibits. There is also a children's park, a souvenir shop, and a food court that serves a variety of local and international cuisines. Its diverse collection of animals, butterfly park, snake park, botanical garden, and other attractions make it a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

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5. Varkala Beach 

Varkala Beach is a beautiful and serene beach located in the coastal town of Varkala in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala, known for its stunning cliffside views, golden sands, and clear blue waters.

One of the unique features of Varkala Beach is its majestic cliffs that run along the shoreline. The cliffs rise to a height of 15 meters, providing a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea. The view from the top of the cliffs is simply awe-inspiring and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The beach is also popular for its natural mineral springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. Visitors can take a dip in these springs, which are said to have therapeutic benefits for various ailments.

Apart from the scenic beauty and mineral springs, Varkala Beach also offers a range of adventure activities for visitors. These include surfing, parasailing, and paragliding, which are a hit among adventure enthusiasts.

This beach is also known for its vibrant and lively culture. The beach is lined with numerous shacks and cafes that offer local delicacies and seafood, as well as live music and entertainment. The beach is also home to several Ayurvedic spas and massage centres, where visitors can indulge in rejuvenating massages and treatments.

Varkala Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Kerala. Its stunning views, adventure activities, cultural experiences, and therapeutic mineral springs make it a unique and unforgettable destination. So, if you are planning a trip to Kerala, don't forget to include this beach in your itinerary!

6. Kuthiramalika Palace 

Located near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, this palace was built by the Maharaja of Travancore and is known for its intricate wooden carvings and beautiful architecture. Visitors can explore the palace and learn about its history and significance. It is also known as the Horse Palace, a stunning palace located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. The palace was built in the 1840s by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma, the King of Travancore, and is an excellent example of traditional Kerala architecture.

The palace's unique name, Kuthiramalika, comes from the fact that the palace is adorned with beautiful carvings of 122 horses. These carvings are found on the wooden friezes that decorate the roof of the palace, and each horse is different from the others, making them a unique attraction for visitors.

The palace itself is a beautiful two-story building made of teakwood and features intricate carvings and murals on its walls and ceilings. The palace is decorated with traditional Kerala architecture, with sloping roofs and beautiful wooden beams. The interiors of the palace are just as impressive, featuring beautiful antique furniture, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful paintings.

Today, Kuthiramalika Palace is a museum and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can tour the palace and learn about the history and culture of Kerala through the exhibits on display. The museum showcases a vast collection of artefacts, including ivory sculptures, antique musical instruments, traditional jewellery, and weapons.

The palace also has a beautiful garden and a pond, providing visitors with a serene and peaceful atmosphere to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. The palace is open to visitors all year round, and guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the palace's rich history and culture.

Kuthiramalika Palace is a beautiful and historic palace that is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. Its unique design, beautiful carvings, and impressive collections of artefacts make it a must-see attraction for visitors to Thiruvananthapuram.

7. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary 

This sanctuary is located about 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. Visitors can also explore the nearby Neyyar Dam and the Agasthyakoodam Peak. This protected area spans an area of 128 square kilometres and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

The sanctuary is named after the Neyyar River, which originates in the Agastyarkoodam Peak and flows through the sanctuary, forming the Neyyar Reservoir. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the reservoir and explore the beautiful surroundings of the sanctuary.

The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, wild boars, and many other species of mammals, reptiles, and birds. The sanctuary is also home to a large number of medicinal plants and herbs.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in the sanctuary, such as trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife safaris. The sanctuary has several trekking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The birdwatching experience in Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is also amazing, with over 170 species of birds recorded in the area.

The sanctuary also has a Crocodile Rehabilitation and Research Centre, which is a major attraction for visitors. The centre is home to several species of crocodiles, including the endangered Indian Mugger crocodile.

Overall, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary offers a unique and immersive experience of Kerala's natural beauty and wildlife.

8. Kanakakunnu Palace

This palace, located in the heart of the city, is known for its beautiful gardens and stunning architecture. The palace is now used as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions. Visitors can explore the palace and enjoy the beautiful gardens. The palace was built in the late 19th century during the reign of the Travancore king, Sree Moolam Thirunal. It was originally built as a guest house for the royal family to host their guests, including dignitaries and foreign officials.

The palace is a perfect example of traditional Kerala architecture, featuring red-brick walls, sloping roofs, and ornate carvings. The palace is set amidst lush green gardens, which add to its serene and picturesque charm.

Today, the palace has been converted into a cultural centre and is used to host various events, including art exhibitions, music concerts, and theatre performances. The centre also houses a museum, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. The museum displays a vast collection of traditional Kerala handicrafts, including ivory carvings, metalwork, and woodwork.

The palace is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to admire its beauty and learn about the rich history of Kerala. The palace is open to visitors all year round, and guided tours are available for those who want to explore the palace and its gardens.

In addition to the palace, the sprawling lawns and gardens surrounding it are also popular destinations for picnics and outdoor events. The gardens are filled with lush green trees and colourful flowers, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The palace and its surroundings are a true reflection of the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and offer visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.

9. Poovar Island

This beautiful island, located about 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram, is known for its backwaters and serene beauty. Visitors can take a boat ride through the backwaters and explore the nearby beaches and temples. The island is also famous for its seafood. This small island is situated at the estuary of the Neyyar River and the Arabian Sea and is known for its beautiful backwaters, pristine beaches, and lush greenery. 

One of the main attractions of the Island is its golden sand beach, which is surrounded by coconut trees and offers breathtaking views of the sea. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports and activities, such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The island is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of migratory birds.

Another popular attraction on Poovar Island is the Poovar Backwaters, which are a network of lagoons, canals, and estuaries that offer a unique and immersive experience of Kerala's backwater culture. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride along the backwaters and explore the villages and local life of the region.

It is also home to the famous Poovar Island Resort, which is a luxury resort that offers world-class accommodations and amenities. The resort is built on a sprawling 25-acre property and is surrounded by lush greenery and coconut trees. Overall, Poovar Island is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday, an immersive backwater experience, or a luxurious getaway, Poovar Island has something to offer for everyone.

10. Vizhinjam Lighthouse

This historic lighthouse, located near Kovalam, offers stunning views of the surrounding sea and coastline. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic views. The lighthouse also has a museum nearby.

These are just a few of the many attractions that the Thiruvananthapuram district has to offer. So plan your trip to this beautiful city and explore its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.