Idyllic beaches, serene hill slopes, mesmerizing lakes, historic monuments and famous religious centers all set against a vibrant cultural backdrop that is Thiruvananthapuram for you.
Go exploring around, and soon you realize that the city is indeed a mystifying blend of diversities. Despite being the state capital, there is no maddening rush of a usual metropolis. No wonder, the green, clean and safe city with its moderate climate lures quite many tourists from across the globe all the year round.
Kovalam Beach
Of course, the captivating beauty of the setting sunset is the highlight here. But the absolutely beautiful Kovalam beach lures tourists for more reasons than one. The stunning lighthouse, the undisturbed coastline and the palm-fringed shallow beach, all together make Kovalam a must-see destination. The enchanting sky hues reflecting against the hurried waves beneath is a treat in itself. The artificial off-shore coral reef, the first of its kind in the country, attracts both elders and kids alike.
Many leisure options too await you here. Go sunbathing and you end up getting an awesome coppery tan in a few minutes. Herbal massaging, swimming, catamaran cruising are a few other options available on the beach. With quite many authentic ayurvedic parlors around, medical tourism also flourishes here.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The city owes its name to the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, situated right in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram. The main deity is that of Lord Vishnu in eternal sleep posture on Anantha, the hooded serpent. The eighteen feet idol has to be viewed through three separate doors.
The temple is known for its architectural marvel in stone and bronze as well. Brilliant mural sketches adorn the interiors. While moving around the temple, do not miss the famous corridor supported by three hundred sixty-five and a quarter pillars, all made of granite. You need to see it to believe the architectural splendor and craftsmanship that has gone into its making.
Kuthiramalika Palace, situated close to Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple is also worth visiting. The interiors are decorated with wooden carvings and mural paintings. The other exhibits at the palace include armory, idols, sculptures, jewellery etc used by the Kings of Travancore.
Poovar
If a quiet holiday on a pristine beach is what you are looking for, no better place than Poovar. A rare meeting point of lake, river and sea, this serene village is situated to the south of River Neyyar. Poovar beach separates the river from the Arabian Sea and hence its geographical importance. Poovar is relatively unexplored and thereby beach activities are minimal. The boat trip through the lagoon, enjoying the lush greenery on both sides, is an added attraction.
The Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, well-known for its unique Image Pearl production technique is located near Poovar. A visit to Vizhinjam, where the construction of the proposed International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport is underway is also worth considering. To get a real glimpse of coastal life of Kerala, peep into Vizhinjam fish market area, just a few kilometers away from the tourist beach. Ardent lovers of seafood should not give it a miss.
Ponmudi
As the name ‘Ponmudi’ indicates, this hill resort is indeed a golden crown in Kerala’s tourism map. The site of the lush green environs as you drive up the hairpin bends is indeed refreshing. Streams, tea bushes, mountain flowers and big wild butterflies add beauty to the misty trekking trail. Ponmudi is a quickly developing spot for adventure tourism, with quite many cottages fast mushrooming in near vicinity.
Shanghumukham Beach
A secluded beach, far away from the hassles of the city is what Shanghumukham has to offer. It is an ideal getaway destination with silvery white sand and calm sea. The gigantic statue of mermaid popularly called as ‘Jalakanyaka’ is the landmark of Shanghumugham beach.
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