Trivandrum, officially known as Thiruvananthapuram, is the capital city of Kerala and a popular destination for tourists. It offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Here’s a travel guide for exploring Trivandrum; Remember to check the opening hours and any COVID-19 restrictions or guidelines that may be in place during your visit. Trivandrum offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a memorable destination in Kerala.

Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023/2024 ]

1. Padmanabhaswamy Temple:

  • Start your visit with a trip to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, an iconic Hindu temple known for its stunning architecture and religious significance. Ensure you follow the dress code (modest attire) when visiting.
Day 1: Trivandrum Local Sightseeing and Varkala Stay

2. Napier Museum and Sree Chitra Art Gallery:

  • These adjacent museums offer a glimpse into Kerala’s art and history. The Napier Museum houses a collection of historical artifacts, while the Sree Chitra Art Gallery showcases works by renowned Indian artists.
Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

3. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum:

  • Also known as the Horse Palace, this museum is adjacent to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. It’s a beautiful wooden palace with a collection of paintings, sculptures, and royal artifacts.
Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

4. Shanghumukham Beach:

  • Enjoy a relaxing visit to this serene beach, which also features a giant sculpture of a mermaid called “Matsya Kanya.”
Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

5. Thiruvananthapuram Zoo:

  • Located near the Napier Museum, this zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and reptiles.
Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

6. Science and Technology Museum:

  • Ideal for families, this museum features interactive exhibits on science and technology. It also includes a planetarium with shows on astronomy.
Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

7. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple:

  • Visit this famous temple dedicated to the goddess Attukal Bhagavathy, particularly during the annual Attukal Pongala festival.
Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

8. Poovar Island:

  • Located just outside Trivandrum, Poovar Island is a tranquil escape with serene backwaters, golden beaches, and lush greenery. You can take boat rides to explore the area.
Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

9. Veli Tourist Village:

  • This waterfront park offers recreational activities, a beautiful garden, and a floating bridge that connects the village to the beach.
Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

10. Kovalam Beach: – Kovalam is a short drive from Trivandrum and is famous for its crescent-shaped beaches, water sports, and beachfront restaurants.

Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

11. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: – Located around 30 km from the city, this sanctuary offers the opportunity to see wildlife, trekking, and a crocodile rehabilitation center.

Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

12. Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium: – Explore a variety of marine life and fish species at this popular aquarium located near Kovalam.

Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

13. Eat Local Cuisine: – Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic Kerala cuisine at local restaurants. Try traditional dishes like appam with stew, seafood, and banana chips.

Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

14. Shopping: – Trivandrum has bustling markets and shopping areas like Chalai Market and Connemara Market, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and handicrafts.

Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

15. Ayurvedic Wellness: – Kerala is renowned for Ayurvedic treatments. Consider visiting an Ayurvedic spa or wellness center for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Kerala Tour Guide To Trivandrum [ 2023 ] - Things To Do In Trivandrum

Best time to visit Trivandrum

The best time to visit Trivandrum, Kerala, largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek. Trivandrum enjoys a tropical climate, so it’s important to consider the weather patterns and seasonal variations when planning your trip. Here are the two primary seasons in Trivandrum:

1 ;- Winter Season (October to February):
Best time to visit Trivandrum
  • This is the most popular time to visit Trivandrum and Kerala as a whole.
  • The weather during these months is relatively cooler and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
  • The skies are clear, making it an ideal time for sightseeing, exploring temples, and enjoying outdoor activities.
  • It’s a great time to visit Trivandrum if you prefer milder temperatures and want to avoid the heavy monsoon rains.
2 ;- Monsoon Season (June to September):
Best time to visit Trivandrum
  • The monsoon season in Trivandrum brings heavy rainfall and high humidity.
  • This period is characterized by lush greenery, and the region looks its most beautiful.
  • If you enjoy the rain and wish to experience Kerala’s natural beauty at its peak, this might be a suitable time for you.
  • Keep in mind that outdoor activities may be limited during heavy rain, and there could be transportation disruptions.
3 ;- Summer Season (March to May):
Best time to visit Trivandrum
  • Summers in Trivandrum can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).
  • While it’s still possible to visit during this time, the heat and humidity can be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • If you plan to visit during the summer, be prepared for warm weather and stay hydrated.

In summary, the best time to visit Trivandrum for most tourists is during the winter season (October to February) when the weather is pleasant and conducive to sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, if you enjoy lush green landscapes and don’t mind occasional rainfall, the monsoon season (June to September) can offer a unique and beautiful experience. Summer (March to May) is less ideal due to the hot and humid conditions, but it can still be manageable if you plan accordingly.