Top places to visit

top attractions

 1. Padmanabhaswamy Temple

 East Fort
 Timing: 3:30 AM – 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 7:20 PM
 Entry: Free (strict dress code applies)

 Why Visit?

• One of the richest and most revered temples in the world
• Dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the unique Anantha Shayana (reclining) posture
• Marvel at Kerala-Dravidian architecture, golden domes, and intricate stonework

 Tip: Men must wear mundu (no shirts), and women must wear saree or full-length dresses.

 2. Kovalam Beach

 ~15 km from city center
 Open all day

 Why Visit?

• One of India’s most famous beaches with golden sand and palm-lined shores
• Enjoy swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and beachside cafes
• Split into Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach

 Tip: Climb the lighthouse for panoramic sea views.

 3. Napier Museum

 Museum Road
 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed Mondays)
 Entry: ₹10 (Indian), ₹50 (Foreigner)

 Why Visit?

• 19th-century museum showcasing Kerala’s art, culture, and royal history
• Unique Indo-Saracenic architecture with Gothic roofs and stained glass windows
• Houses bronzes, ivory carvings, temple chariots, and historical relics

 Tip: Combine with a visit to the nearby Zoo and Art Gallery.

 4. Kuthiramalika (Puthen Malika) Palace Museum

 East Fort, near Padmanabhaswamy Temple
 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
 Entry: ₹30

 Why Visit?

• Built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, a royal composer
• Stunning wooden architecture with 122 carved horses (kuthira)
• Displays royal furniture, musical instruments, and paintings

 Tip: Take a guided tour to understand the rich Travancore history.

 5. Sree Chitra Art Gallery

 Near Napier Museum
 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed Mondays)
 Entry: ₹20

 Why Visit?

• Houses works of Raja Ravi Varma, Nicholas Roerich, and other Indian/Asian artists
• Includes Tibetan thangkas, Mughal miniatures, and Japanese art
• A treat for art lovers and history enthusiasts

 6. Ponmudi Hill Station

 ~55 km from Trivandrum
 Best visited: Early morning to evening

 Why Visit?

• A serene hill station with tea gardens, misty slopes, and forest trails
• Great for trekking, biking, nature photography, and escaping the city heat
• Spot butterflies, wildflowers, and streams along the way

 Tip: Carry warm clothes; weather is cooler in higher altitudes.

 7. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Dam

 30 km from city
 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
 Entry: ₹20

 Why Visit?

• Home to Asian elephants, crocodiles, deer, and rare birds
• Take a boat ride, visit the lion safari park and crocodile rehabilitation center
• A wonderful spot for eco-tourism and family outings

 8. Veli Tourist Village & Lake

 ~12 km from city center
 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
 Entry: ₹10

 Why Visit?

• Where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea
• Offers boating, pedal boats, gardens, sculptures, and kids’ play areas
• Great for a relaxing picnic with water views

 9. Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Cave Temple

 Near Kovalam
 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
 Entry: ₹5

 Why Visit?

• Small but significant 7th-century rock-cut shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva
• Ancient carvings and peaceful setting
• Good for a short cultural detour while visiting Kovalam

 10. Shanghumugham Beach

 Near Trivandrum Airport
 Open all day

 Why Visit?

• Popular with locals for evening walks and sunsets
• Features the iconic "Matsya Kanyaka" (mermaid sculpture)
• Great for chilling out, watching waves, and grabbing snacks

 Tip: Visit before or after your flight—it’s very close to the airport!