South India - A Travel Guide Thiruvanantha Puram (Trivandrum)

[MysteRy]

Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is the capital city of Kerala. The city derives its name from Thiru-Anantha-Puram which means the place of the sacred serpent Anantha or Adishesha on which Lord Padmanabha (Maha Vishnu) reclines.  This vibrant city is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and historical significance.

Top Attractions

1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

This temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the 108 Tirupathis (Divya Desam). It was rebuilt by Marthanda Varma in 1733 AD. The idol is renowned for its composition, which includes 18000 salagramams that were brought from the Gandhaki river in Nepal. With intricate carvings in granite, the temple is a splendid example of South Indian architecture. The seven-tier gopuram and Padma Theertham, the holy tank outside offers an elegant look to the shrine. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.

This temple, managed by the Travancore Royal Family, has the largest collection of gold and precious stones in its vaults and is considered as the richest temple in the world.

Dress Code

The authorities are particular about males wearing a white dhoti and being bare-chested while visiting the temple.  Dhotis are available for rent at the temple entrance

Timings of worship

3.30 am to 4.45 am
6.30 am to 7.00 am
8.30 am to 10.00 am
10.30 am – 11.15 am
12.00 pm – 12.20 pm
4.30 pm to 6.10 pm
6.45 pm to 7.15 pm

2. Kovalam Beach (13 km)

Kovalam Beach is one of the best beaches in India. This peaceful health resort is endowed with a beauty of its own. Small palm-fringed bays separated by rocky headlands, pale sands, gentle surf and lush green lawns compel the visitors to overstay. Health and yoga centres here provide Kerala’s Ayurvedic touch to the visitors. The beach here is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.

3. Napier Museum

This museum houses a vast collection of archaeological and historical artefacts, bronze idols and ancient ornaments. The building is notable for its unique Indo-Saracenic architecture.
 
4. Kanakakunnu Palace
 
A historical monument built during the reign of the Travancore kings.  It is known for its grand architecture and sprawling grounds.  This palace hosts various cultural events and festivals.

5. Zoological Gardens

It is one of the best zoos in the country set in forest surroundings.  A good round the zoo and the sprawling garden takes almost half the day of the visitor.  Closed on Mondays.

6. Sri Chitralayam

Situated within the Museum complex, this art gallery has a vast collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and Roerich. Also preserved here are art works from Japan, China and Tibet, miniatures from northern India, gold leaf pictures from Tanjore and copies of the Ajanta frescoes, works from Java and Bali and contemporary works by local artists. 

7. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

This temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali,  is known as the Sabarimala of Women. The famous Attukal pongala festival attracts millions of women devotees.

8. Shangumugham Beach

This beach, located near the Trivandrum International Airport, is known for its scenic beauty, white sandy shore, and the giant sculpture of a mermaid. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists to watch the sunset.

Excursions Around

1. Poovar Island

A tranquil island 27 km from Thiruvananthapuram, is famous for its golden sand beach and backwaters. Ideal for a day trip, boating, and experiencing the serene village life.  You can stay in floating and land cottages.  The island offers massages and ayurvedic treatments to its visitors. Poovar is renowned for its lush mangrove forests.

2. Varkala

This town 51 km north of Trivandrum is known for the Vishnu shrine dedicated to Lord Janardhana.  Varkala is a seaside resort with mineral water springs on the beach. Varkala beach is famous for the striking geological formations of its cliffs. The samadhi of Sri Narayana Guru,  an ascetic and reformer is in Varkala.

3. Ponmudi

Ponmudi is a hill station, located 53 km from Thiruvananthapuram

4. Padmanabhapuram Palace

This was the seat of erstwhile Travancore rulers. Padmanabhapuram is situated 53 km south of Thiruvananthapuram on the way to Kanyakumari.  The palace contains relics of historical and artistic value, dating back to as early as 13th century.  Colourful 17th and 18th-century paintings and murals of Anantha Sayana (Lord Padmanabha reclining on serpent Ananta), Lord Ganesha and the cosmic dance of Lord Siva are noteworthy.  The palace is closed to visitors on Mondays.

Activities

Backwater Cruises: Experience the serene backwaters of Poovar with a houseboat cruise

Ayurvedic Treatments: Kerala is known for its Ayurvedic therapies, and Thiruvananthapuram has many wellness centers offering traditional treatments.

Local Cuisine: Try traditional Kerala dishes like Appam with Stew, Puttu with Kadala Curry, and seafood delicacies.

Shopping: Visit local markets for spices, handicrafts, and traditional Kerala sarees.

How to go

By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport connects the city to major Indian cities and international destinations.

By Train: Trivandrum Central Railway Station is a major railhead in Southern India.

By Road: Well-connected by road with frequent bus services to neighboring state Tamil Nadu.

Distance

Kanyakumari   90 km
Kollam   65 km
Kochi    221 km
Kozhikode    415 km