The most visited city in Kerala by foreign and domestic tourists, Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city of the state Kerala and is located in the southern part of India. The city is extremely beautiful as all of Kerala, which is now famous for being called ‘God’s own country’.
Thiruvananthapuram is also one of the oldest cities in India, and is referred to in many ancient Greek and Roman texts.
Thiruvananthapuram has a marked place in history and has many historical structures, museums and palaces. Also the city is green and clean, which makes it stand out among busy Indian cities.
Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The Padmanabhaswamy temple is very special for Thiruvananthapuram city. The entire city was built with the temple in the center. The architecture is simply splendid and is a mixture of both Kerala and Tamil styles of building. This temple was nominated from India in the final round of Seven Wonders of the World.
The deity is Lord Vishnu. Vishnu is in a rare reclining position that is called Sree Padmanabha.
The temple interiors have fantastic structures like musical pillars, the golden Mandap and a corridor with five hundred sculptured pillars. Also a large collection of temple murals are in possession of the temple. The royal crown of Travancore is kept preserved in the Temple and it is possible to catch a glimpse of the magnificent royal crown.
Only Hindus are allowed to enter inside the temple.
East Fort
East Fort is an ancient fort built around Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Much of the fortifications have been removed, except for the East fort. The east fort gate is illuminated in the evenings and offers a splendid sight.
The Secretariat
The Kerala Government Secretariat is one of the most well known buildings of the city. Constructed in 1860, this building is magnificent and impressive. The architecture shows a medley of influences namely Roman, Dutch, English and native Kerala styles of architecture. This is due to Kerala’s past connections with these countries. There is a museum inside.
Kovalam Beach
Kovalam beach is known the world over as being one of the best beaches. There are two large beaches and excellent swimming. Kovalam is about 17 km from Thiruvananthapuram.
Shanghumukham Beach
A clean and well managed beach, Shanghumukham is 8 km from the city and is not far from the airport. A giant sculpture of a mermaid made by Kanai Kunjiraman is on display.
Parts of these palaces are open for tourists and well worth visiting for the architectural splendor.
Padmanabhapuram Palace
No visit to Thiruvananthapuram can be called complete without a visit to Padmanabhapuram Palace. The Padmanabhapuram Palace has a place in the Guinness Books of Records, as the world’s largest wooden palace. The entire palace is made out of teak and rosewood and has splendid granite flooring. There is a magnificent Durbar hall, constructed out of glass and rosewood. Numerous antiques are housed here.
The Padmanabhapuram Palace is about 65 km from Thiruvananthapuram city.
Attingal palace
The durbar hall and public areas are open to public
Koyikkal Palace
This palace is in Nedumangad.
The best way to see Thiruvananthapuram is by foot, wandering about seeing the different structures. Most of the attractions in the city are quite near to each other.
Thus Thiruvananthapuram is perfect if you want to enjoy the best beaches along with some culture and history added.
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