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Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and magnificent architectural wonders. This vibrant city is deeply rooted in cultural and religious heritage, offering a wide range of attractions that guarantee an unforgettable visit while immersing you in its rich traditions. As the capital of Kerala and one of its largest cities, Trivandrum is renowned for its stunning beaches and elegant British-era architecture. Its lively atmosphere makes it a top tourist destination, with numerous captivating places waiting to be explored.
While Trivandrum boasts countless fascinating spots to explore, there are a few that truly stand out as must-visit gems that will leave you spellbound. Here’s a list of the top attractions in Trivandrum, guaranteeing your trip to Kerala will be unforgettable and filled with awe.
1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Shree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of Trivandrum’s most revered and iconic landmarks. Renowned for its exquisite architecture and tranquil ambiance, it holds the title of being the richest temple in the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shri Padmanabhaswamy, the city’s divine protector.
As one of the most frequented religious sites in India and globally, it is easily accessible, located just 1 km from the railway station and 6 km from the airport. Managed by the royal family of Travancore, the temple is magnificently illuminated during festivals, providing a stunning visual experience. Visitors are required to follow a strict dress code, with only traditional attire permitted.
Location: West Nada, Fort, East Fort, Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695023
Entry fee: INR 150 per person
Timings: 3:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Highlights: Architecture, seek the blessings of the Almighty.
2. Attukal Temple
Attukal Temple, one of the top tourist attractions in Trivandrum, is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, a form of Goddess Mahakali. The temple’s stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit spot in the city.
Attukal Temple holds multiple Guinness World Records, including for hosting the largest gathering of women during the annual Pongal festival, celebrated with immense devotion. After visiting the temple, you can stop by the nearby famous Indian Coffee House to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and snacks, adding the perfect end to your spiritual experience.
Location: Manacaud P.O, Attukal – Chiramukku Rd, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695009
Entry fee: Free
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Highlight: You should visit this place during the Pongal Festival.
3. Karikkakom Devi Temple
If you’re visiting the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, make sure to stop by the Karikkakom Devi Temple, located just 5 km northwest along the banks of the Parvati Puthanar River. This 600-year-old temple is one of Trivandrum’s top sightseeing spots and a fine example of South Indian architecture.
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Karikkakom, believed to be a form of Goddess Chamunda Devi. It’s unique as it worships the goddess in three different forms. Devotees come from far and wide to offer prayers, seeking blessings for childbirth, healing, and peace of mind.
Location: Karikkakom, Karikkakom, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695007
Entry fee: None
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Highlight: Feel the divine aura of Goddess Chamunda Devi.
4. Aazhimala Siva Temple
Located near the shores of a picturesque beach, Aazhimala Siva Temple is a vibrant temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple stands out for its breathtaking 58-foot statue of Lord Shiva and the surrounding rock formations shaped by the seaside.
Perched on a cliff near Vizhinjam, the temple offers stunning sunrise and sunset views. The sky glows with pink and orange hues, creating a mesmerizing scene. There is also a pond called ‘Sivaganga’ near the temple. The impressive statue was created by local sculptor P. S. Devadathan, making this temple one of the must-visit attractions in Thiruvananthapuram.
Location: Poovar to Vizhinjam Road before Pulinkudi Jn., Azhimala Temple Road, Kerala 695501
Entry fee: None
Timings: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM & 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Highlight: Peaceful ambiance
5. CSI Christ Church
CSI Christ Church is one of Trivandrum’s oldest and most popular tourist attractions. Built in 1859, it features beautiful Gothic-style architecture, including intricate glass windows portraying the Good Shepherd.
Situated in the Palayam area, this 150-year-old church has grown more magnificent with time. Its well-maintained interiors add to the charm. The church graveyard contains over 200 European graves. With more than 1,000 families as members, the church holds three services every Sunday in Malayalam, English, and Tamil, along with a Friday morning service.
Location: Mahatma Gandhi Rd, opp. Legislative Assembly, University of Kerala Senate House Campus, Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695033
Entry fee: None
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Highlight: Serene ambiance that lets you pray in peace.
6. Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple
If you plan to visit the renowned temples of Kerala, add Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple to your list of must-visit places in Trivandrum. Located in the city’s center, this temple attracts many pilgrims. The main deity is Sri Maha Ganapathy, a form of Lord Ganesha.
A unique feature of the temple is the presence of 32 different sculptures of Lord Ganesha. Visitors can offer an open-husked coconut, cracked at the temple, as a symbol of overcoming obstacles and achieving one’s deepest desires.
Location: Padmavilasam Rd, Pazhavangadi, Padma Nagar, Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry fee: None
Timings: 4:30 AM – 10:45 AM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Highlight: Request the blessings of the mighty Lord Ganesha.
7. Napier Museum
Napier Museum is a must-visit tourist destination in Trivandrum, perfect for a one-day excursion. Constructed in the mid-19th century by British officer Napier, it stands as a significant art and cultural center in the city. The museum offers a fascinating insight into Kerala’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Inside, you’ll discover exquisite sculptures, ancient coins, and a diverse collection of musical instruments spanning various eras. It’s an excellent stop for history lovers, located near the city zoo. A nominal entrance fee of INR 20 is charged per person.
Location: LMS Vellayambalam Road, near Museum Junction, Kanaka Nagar, Nanthancode, Trivandrum, Kerala 695033.
Entry fee: INR 20 per individual.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM, closed on Mondays.
Highlight: Historical artifacts.
8. The Palace Museum or Kuthira Malika
The Kuthira Malika Palace, home to the Palace Museum, was constructed by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balaram Varma, the king of Travancore. Situated in the Fort area, it is one of the top attractions in Trivandrum. The palace beautifully showcases the traditional Travancore architectural style.
The museum features royal paintings and priceless collections from the royal family. A distinctive aspect of the palace is its 122 wooden horses, intricately carved into its exterior, drawing many visitors. The palace is also renowned for hosting the annual Swathi Sangeethotsavam, a grand music festival celebrated within its grounds.
Location: Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple Rd, East Fort, Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695023.
Entry fee: INR 10 per person, INR 20 per person for foreign nationals.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM, closed on Monday
Highlights: Royal artifacts – including jewels, clothing, and more.
Swathi Sangeethotsavam – the annual music festival.
9. Folklore Museum
The Folklore Museum, located in the historic Koyikkal Palace, is the largest in Asia. Built in the 16th century by Umayamma Rani of the Venad Royal family, the palace is home to an impressive collection of royal artifacts, including unique musical instruments like the Chandravalayam and Nanthun.
Visitors can explore coins from the Gwalior Royal Family and other prominent regional kings. The museum features a wide range of gallery art and live performances of various dance forms—ranging from ceremonial to martial arts—and also offers souvenirs. Among its treasures are priceless artifacts that provide valuable insights into ancient temples and traditional Kerala homes.
Location: Sathram Junction, Pazhavadi, Nedumangad, Kerala 695541.
Entry fee: INR 100 per person.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Highlights: Antique artifacts.
10. Sunil’s Wax Museum
Sunil’s Wax Museum is Kerala’s first wax museum and a must-see attraction in Trivandrum. It showcases remarkable wax figures of 31 celebrities, making it the perfect spot for unforgettable photos. The lifelike details of the statues add to their uniqueness.
Visitors can pose for pictures with figures of renowned personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Salman Khan, Narendra Modi, and Sree Chitra Thirunal. Be sure to add this fascinating museum to your itinerary for a memorable experience in Trivandrum!
Location: South Street of Padmanabha Swamy Temple, opposite Priyadarshini Hall, East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram.
Entry fee: INR 100 average cost per person.
Timings: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Highlight: Wax statues of notable personalities such as Rajnikanth, Mahatma Gandhi, and more.
Conclusion
Trivandrum offers a variety of attractions that highlight its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. From the spiritual tranquility of temples like Shree Padmanabhaswamy Temple and Attukal Temple to the historical importance of museums such as Napier Museum and the Folklore Museum, there is something for every type of traveler. The city’s lively markets, beautiful beaches, and warm atmosphere make it a captivating destination. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking spiritual peace, Trivandrum guarantees a memorable experience that truly captures the essence of Kerala. Plan your visit in 2024 to explore these top ten attractions and immerse yourself in the charm of this exceptional city!
