The capital of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram is a popular tourist destination on the shore of the Arabian Sea. From serene beaches to lush hills, the city is blessed with enormous natural splendour. It was previously known as Trivandrum. Thiruvananthapuram is famous for Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple that carries immense religious relevance in Hinduism. Further, the historical monuments in the city present its rich cultural heritage.
Things to do in Thiruvananthapuram
Visit Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple to offer prayer. Have a trip to Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Trek to Agastya Mala Peak and embrace the pristine beauty of nature. Visit the Napier Museum and Kanakakunnu Palace to know the cultural history of the region. Further, enjoy boat rides in backwaters at Poovar. View the sunset and spend a great evening at the beaches like Shanghumukham Beach, Veli Beach and Puthenthope Beach. Invigorate yourself by visiting the Ayurvedic therapy and healing centres in Thiruvananthapuram.
Tourist attractions in Thiruvananthapuram
The top sightseeing places in Thiruvananthapuram include Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Agastyarkoodam, Poovar Island, Napier Museum, Shankhumugham Beach, Zoological Garden, Priyadarshini Planetarium and the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. Agastya Mala Peak is the second-highest peak in Kerala and a Hindu pilgrimage site. The slopes of the peak are covered with purple orchids and rare medicinal herbs. Poovar Island is a small fishing village flanked by the Arabian Sea, Neyyar River and Kerala backwaters.
Places to shop in Thiruvananthapuram
The major shopping places in Thiruvananthapuram are Chalai Market and MG Road. One of the oldest markets in the city, Chalai Market is lined with garments shops, jewellery stores, electronics showrooms and others. MG Road is a great option for budget shopping. Further, Connemara Market is famous for spices. When it comes to shopping marts in the city, the Mall of Travancore, Central Mall and Ramachandran are worth to be mentioned.
Best time to visit
The period from October to February is considered as the best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram.
Modes of transport
Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs a network of buses in and around the city of Thiruvananthapuram. Further, auto-rickshaws, taxis and app-based cabs are available throughout the city.
Weather in Thiruvananthapuram
Situated on the south-western coastal front, Thiruvananthapuram remains warm and humid most of the year. The city receives heavy rainfall under the influence of south-west monsoons and north-east monsoons from June to October. Winters are mild in Thiruvananthapuram with the minimum temperature hovering around 18 degrees Celsius.
Airport in Thiruvananthapuram
Trivandrum International Airport (IATA: TRV) is located about 6 km from the city centre. It is the first airport in the state of Kerala. IndiGo operates more than 50 weekly non-stop flights from Thiruvananthapuram to other major destinations in the country.