Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of God’s own country, Kerala. The city is nestled between the Arabian Sea and the rolling hills of the Western Ghats. The word ‘Thiruvananthapuram’ means the city of Lord Anantha in Sanskrit and Malayalam. It is famous for the iconic Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Thiruvananthapuram is blessed with immense natural beauty comprising serene beaches, lush hills, backwaters and beautiful lakes. The city presents a perfect balance between its rich cultural heritage and modern cosmopolitan nature.
Things to do in Thiruvananthapuram
Visit Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple for holy darshan. Take a tour to Poovar Island and enjoy a boat ride in Kerala backwaters. Further, go for an excursion to Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Trek to Agastyarkoodam and embrace the exotic nature. Spend some leisure time at the beaches like Shanghumukham, Veli and Puthenthope. Invigorate yourself by experiencing the healing therapies at the Ayurvedic wellness centres in the city.
Tourist attractions in Thiruvananthapuram
The major tourist attractions in Thiruvananthapuram include Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Napier Museum, Zoological Garden, Poovar Island, Shankhumugham Beach, Priyadarshini Planetarium, Agastyarkoodam and the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. Poovar is a small fishing village that is flanked by the Arabian Sea, Neyyar River and Kerala backwaters. Further, the Happy Land Water Theme Park and the Magic Planet are among the most fun places for children in the city.
Places to shop in Thiruvananthapuram
Chalai Market is the major shopping destination in Thiruvananthapuram. It is a century-old market lined with all kinds of shops such as clothes, jewellery, electronics and handicrafts. If you are looking forward to budget shopping, then MG Road must be your stop. The S.M.S.M. Kerala Government Emporium is a treasure land for traditional paintings, handicrafts, handlooms and other souvenirs. Further, Connemara Market is famous for its organic spices. For an upscale shopping experience, visit the shopping malls like the Mall of Travancore, Ramachandran Shopping Mall and Central Mall.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram is from October to February.
Modes of transport
Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses ply across the city of Thiruvananthapuram. Further, auto-rickshaws, taxis and app-based cabs are available in every corner of the city.
Weather in Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram observes a warm and humid summer. The city experiences heavy showers between June and October under the influence of south-west monsoons and north-east monsoons. Winters are mild in Thiruvananthapuram with the minimum temperature falling around 15 degrees Celsius.
Airport in Thiruvananthapuram
Trivandrum International Airport (IATA: TRV) is the first airport in the state of Kerala. It is located about 6 km from the city centre. IndiGo operates more than 50 weekly non-stop flights from Thiruvananthapuram to other key destinations in the country.