10 Best Places to Visit in Thiruvanthapuram

10 Best Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram with your family or friends or for couples. Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is known for its rich heritage, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches. This city has everything a traveler needs. The city is home to the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples in India, along with historic landmarks like Napier Museum and Kuthiramalika Palace. The wildlife, beaches, mountains and backwaters, one would never be short of any activity. Thiruvananthapuram seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering visitors a mix of ancient temples, scenic coastal landscapes, cultural sites, and contemporary amenities.

1. Kovalam Beach

A world-famous beach with a crescent-shaped coastline, clear waters, and a picturesque lighthouse. It’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Whether you choose to laze away with your favorite drink and stare into the horizon amid fishing activities, experiencing the myriad cultures or get adventurous by indulging in some sporty activities, Kovalam beach is one of the must visit place by tourist.

2. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

One of the richest temples in the world, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, renowned for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple which Dravidian styles of architecture evokes a sense of wonderment. The temple rose to fame in the global media after the wealth was discovered in its secret vaults. The temple’s history dates back to the 8th century and is one of the 108 sacred Vishnu temples in India. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Vishnu.

3. Veli Tourist Village

A charming park where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea, offering boating, a floating bridge, and a children’s play area. At the Veli Tourist Village, one gets to hop onto a mini-train modelled in the form of a vintage steam engine, experience the steam gushing out of the toy train as one enjoys the joy ride in the scenic surrounds of Veli. There is never a dull moment here with it being one of the go-to picnic spots in the city.

4. Napier Museum

A historic museum showcasing a collection of ancient artifacts, bronze idols, and traditional Kerala art, housed in an architectural marvel. The museum complex also houses the Zoological Park, Art Museum, Art Gallery, Sree Chithra Enclave, KCS Panicker Gallery, Aquarium and 3D Theatre. The museum was built in 19th century and named after the former Madras Governor General, John Napier.

5. Poovar Island

A scenic island where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea, known for its golden sand beaches and peaceful backwaters, located about 35 km from Thiruvananthapuram, Poovar drains Neyyar River into Arabian Sea. During monsoon, Neyyar River carries sand and mud and mineral deposits to Poovar, resulting in the formation of an estuary. With swaying coconut palms, endless golden sands, shimmering sea, crimson sunsets and lush green vegetation it always welcomes tourists with open arms.

6. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

A biodiversity hotspot where visitors can go trekking, take a boat ride, or see animals like elephants and crocodiles. Around 32 km from Thiruvananthapuram, one comes across 12,000 hectares of natural vegetation in the form of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It also offers trekking opportunity as people love going up the 1868m high Agasthyamala Peak which is a famous picnic spot as well.