ToursGeneral Information about Trivandrum Area : 2,192 sq.kmPopulation : (1991 census) 2,938,583 Temperature range : 32.2 C - 26.6 CBest time to visit : September to may Trivandrum is the gateway to one of the most beautiful states in India-Kerala. Stretching along the southern coast of country with the backwaters of Arabian sea reaching deep into the verdant countryside, Kerala affords a fascinating experience. Trivandrum is sprawling over seven hills covered with English government buildings side-by-side local traditional wooden houses in this seaside capital city.True to its composite and cosmopolitan character, the capital city's attraction's run from museums, art galleries, temples and zoo's. With a seven stotreyed Gopuram, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is the most famous site of the capital city. How to reach
Trivandrum is an International Airport. Air India, Air Lanka and Indian Airlines operates direct flights to Middle East, Sri Lanka and Maldives.Trivandrum is connected by rail to important cities like Mumbai, New DelhiJammu,Howrah, Madras etc. Prime Attractions of Trivandrum
ThiruvallamThis serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe rides. Aruvikkara DamThis picturesque picnic spot is on the banks of the Karamana river. Near the Durga Temple here is a stream full of fish that fearlessly come close to the shore to be fed by the visitors.Museum ComplexThe Napier Museum: Built in the 19th century, the Indo - saracenic structure boasts a "natural" air conditioning system and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. Sree Chithra Art Gallery: Located near the Napier Museum, this art gallery displays select paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Roerich and exquisite works from the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art in India. The collection also includes paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali. The Zoological Park: One of the first zoos in India, it is located in a well-planned botanical garden. The Kanakakunnu PalaceThe palace and its sprawling grounds are today the venue for many cultural meets and programmes.Science and Technology Museum ComplexThe exhibits here are related to science, technology and electronics.Shankhumugham BeachJust 8 km from the city, this is a favourite haunt of sunset watchers. ObservatoryLocated at the highest point in the city, near the Museum complex 60 metres above sea level, one can have a bird's eye view of the city from here.SecretariatBuilt in the Roman architectural style, this is the centre of government administration in Kerala and houses the offices of ministers and the bureaucracy.Veli Tourist VillageThis picnic spot, where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea, offers boating facilities. Akkulam Tourist VillageA picnic spot with boating facilities, Akkulam is a place children flock to. It has a well equipped children's park and a paddle pool. There is a swimming pool for adults too. Vizhinjam Rock Cut CaveThere are rock cut sculptures of the 18th century in the cave temple at Vizhinjam. The granite cave here encloses a one-celled shrine with a loose sculpture of Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi. The outer wall of the cave depicts half complete reliefs of the Hindu God Shiva with Goddess Parvathi.Sree Mahadeva TempleSituated in Kazhakuttom, this ancient temple is believed to date back to the 14th century. Another old temple in the district is the Mitramandapuram Temple on the outskirts of the city.Neyyar DamA popular picnic spot with a watch tower, crocodile farm, lion safari park and deer park. Boating facilities are available at the reservoir.Padmanabhapuram Palace The seat of the erstwhile rulers of Travancore, this splendid palace is situated at Thuckalai, on the way to Kanyakumari. This is a well preserved wooden palace, a glorious testimony to the traditional Kerala school of architecture. .Padmanabha Swamy TempleThe temple is located inside the East Fort. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) Palace MuseumThe palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma - the King of Travancore, who was a great poet, musician, social reformer and statesman. This rare specimen of workmanship in the traditional Travancore style of architecture also has exquisite wood carvings. Agasthyakoodam: Part of the Sahyadri range of mountains, Agasthyakoodam is the second highest peak in Kerala, at a height of 1890 metres above sea level.
Trivandrum is an International Airport. Air India, Air Lanka and Indian Airlines operates direct flights to Middle East, Sri Lanka and Maldives.Trivandrum is connected by rail to important cities like Mumbai, New DelhiJammu,Howrah, Madras etc. Prime Attractions of Trivandrum
ThiruvallamThis serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe rides. Aruvikkara DamThis picturesque picnic spot is on the banks of the Karamana river. Near the Durga Temple here is a stream full of fish that fearlessly come close to the shore to be fed by the visitors.Museum ComplexThe Napier Museum: Built in the 19th century, the Indo - saracenic structure boasts a "natural" air conditioning system and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. Sree Chithra Art Gallery: Located near the Napier Museum, this art gallery displays select paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Roerich and exquisite works from the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art in India. The collection also includes paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali. The Zoological Park: One of the first zoos in India, it is located in a well-planned botanical garden. The Kanakakunnu PalaceThe palace and its sprawling grounds are today the venue for many cultural meets and programmes.Science and Technology Museum ComplexThe exhibits here are related to science, technology and electronics.Shankhumugham BeachJust 8 km from the city, this is a favourite haunt of sunset watchers. ObservatoryLocated at the highest point in the city, near the Museum complex 60 metres above sea level, one can have a bird's eye view of the city from here.SecretariatBuilt in the Roman architectural style, this is the centre of government administration in Kerala and houses the offices of ministers and the bureaucracy.Veli Tourist VillageThis picnic spot, where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea, offers boating facilities. Akkulam Tourist VillageA picnic spot with boating facilities, Akkulam is a place children flock to. It has a well equipped children's park and a paddle pool. There is a swimming pool for adults too. Vizhinjam Rock Cut CaveThere are rock cut sculptures of the 18th century in the cave temple at Vizhinjam. The granite cave here encloses a one-celled shrine with a loose sculpture of Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi. The outer wall of the cave depicts half complete reliefs of the Hindu God Shiva with Goddess Parvathi.Sree Mahadeva TempleSituated in Kazhakuttom, this ancient temple is believed to date back to the 14th century. Another old temple in the district is the Mitramandapuram Temple on the outskirts of the city.Neyyar DamA popular picnic spot with a watch tower, crocodile farm, lion safari park and deer park. Boating facilities are available at the reservoir.Padmanabhapuram Palace The seat of the erstwhile rulers of Travancore, this splendid palace is situated at Thuckalai, on the way to Kanyakumari. This is a well preserved wooden palace, a glorious testimony to the traditional Kerala school of architecture. .Padmanabha Swamy TempleThe temple is located inside the East Fort. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) Palace MuseumThe palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma - the King of Travancore, who was a great poet, musician, social reformer and statesman. This rare specimen of workmanship in the traditional Travancore style of architecture also has exquisite wood carvings. Agasthyakoodam: Part of the Sahyadri range of mountains, Agasthyakoodam is the second highest peak in Kerala, at a height of 1890 metres above sea level.
Thiruvananthapuram means "City of Lord Anantha" in Sanskrit and Malayalam. The name derives from the deity of the Hindu temple at the centre of the city. Anantha is the serpent Shesha on whom Padmanabhan or Vishnu reclines. The temple of Vishnu reclining on Anantha, the Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple remains the iconic landmark of the city. The city was officially referred to as Trivandrum in English until 1991, when the government decided to reinstate the city's original name Thiruvananthapuram in all languages. However, the city is still referred to as "Trivandrum" informally because Thiruvananthapuram is very difficult to pronounce for most people.
Thiruvananthapuram is an ancient city with trading traditions dating back to 1000 BC.It is believed that the ships of King Solomon landed in a port called Ophir (now Poovar) in Thiruvananthapuram in 1036 BC.The city was the trading post of spices, sandalwood and ivory.However, the ancient political and cultural history of the city was almost entirely independent from that of the rest of Kerala. The early rulers of the city were the Ays. With their fall in the 10th century, the city was taken over by the rulers of Venad.
The rise of modern Thiruvananthapuram began with accession of Marthanda Varma in 1729 as the founding ruler of the princely state of Travancore (Thiruvithamkoor in the local vernacular). Thiruvananthapuram was made the capital of Travancore in 1745. The city developed into a major intellectual and artistic centre during this period. The golden age in the city's history was during the mid 19th century under the reign of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal and Maharaja Ayilyam Thirunal. This era saw the establishment of the first English school (1834), the Observatory (1837), the General Hospital (1839), the Oriental Research Institute & Manuscripts Library and the University College (1873). The first Lunatic Asylum in the state was also started during the same period. Sanskrit College, Ayurveda College, Law College and a second grade college for women were started by Moolam Thirunal (1885–1924).
The early 19th century was an age of tremendous political and social changes in the city. The Sree Moolam Assembly, established in 1904 was the first democratically elected legislative council in any Indian state. Despite not being under direct control of the British Empire at any time, the city however featured prominently in India's freedom struggle. The Indian National Congress had a very active presence in the city. A meeting of the Indian National Congress presided by Dr. Pattabhi Sitaramaiah was held here in 1938.
The period of Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma, who took over in 1931, witnessed many-sided progress. The promulgation of "Temple Entry Proclamation" (1936) was an act that underlined social emancipation. This era also saw the establishment of the University of Travancore in 1937, which later became the Kerala University.
With the end of the British rule in 1947, Travancore chose to join the Indian union. The first popular ministry headed by Pattom Thanu Pillai was installed in office on 24 March 1948. In 1949, Thiruvananthapuram became the capital of Thiru-Kochi, the state formed by the integration of Travancore with its northern neighbour Kochi. The king of Travancore, Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma became the Rajpramukh of the Travancore-Cochin Union from July 1, 1949 until October 31, 1956. When the state of Kerala was formed on November 1, 1956, Thiruvananthapuram became the capital of the new state.
The rise of modern Thiruvananthapuram began with accession of Marthanda Varma in 1729 as the founding ruler of the princely state of Travancore (Thiruvithamkoor in the local vernacular). Thiruvananthapuram was made the capital of Travancore in 1745. The city developed into a major intellectual and artistic centre during this period. The golden age in the city's history was during the mid 19th century under the reign of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal and Maharaja Ayilyam Thirunal. This era saw the establishment of the first English school (1834), the Observatory (1837), the General Hospital (1839), the Oriental Research Institute & Manuscripts Library and the University College (1873). The first Lunatic Asylum in the state was also started during the same period. Sanskrit College, Ayurveda College, Law College and a second grade college for women were started by Moolam Thirunal (1885–1924).
The early 19th century was an age of tremendous political and social changes in the city. The Sree Moolam Assembly, established in 1904 was the first democratically elected legislative council in any Indian state. Despite not being under direct control of the British Empire at any time, the city however featured prominently in India's freedom struggle. The Indian National Congress had a very active presence in the city. A meeting of the Indian National Congress presided by Dr. Pattabhi Sitaramaiah was held here in 1938.
The period of Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma, who took over in 1931, witnessed many-sided progress. The promulgation of "Temple Entry Proclamation" (1936) was an act that underlined social emancipation. This era also saw the establishment of the University of Travancore in 1937, which later became the Kerala University.
With the end of the British rule in 1947, Travancore chose to join the Indian union. The first popular ministry headed by Pattom Thanu Pillai was installed in office on 24 March 1948. In 1949, Thiruvananthapuram became the capital of Thiru-Kochi, the state formed by the integration of Travancore with its northern neighbour Kochi. The king of Travancore, Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma became the Rajpramukh of the Travancore-Cochin Union from July 1, 1949 until October 31, 1956. When the state of Kerala was formed on November 1, 1956, Thiruvananthapuram became the capital of the new state.
Veli Tourist VillageA large recreational centre located near the airport along a sheltered lagoon offers landscaped gardens and water-sports facilities. It is a popular picnic spot. Accommodation facilities are available in the youth hostel
Aruvikkara16 km. It is both a pilgrim centre and a picnic spot, with a waterfall nearby. On the banks of the Karamana River, the spot houses a temple, where a rock cut shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhagvathy, the divine embodiment of female power. A stream with fishes, which come up to be fed by visitors, is another attraction.
Beema Palli(5 kms south of Trivandrum) An important Muslim pilgrim centre, it is dedicated to Beema Beevi, a pious Muslim lady believed to have possessed divine powers. Devotees of all faiths visit the mosque.
Public ParkTruly a representative of the clean and verdant aspect of the city, the Public Park houses many important institutions, like the Zoo and the Botanical Gardens. The observatory on the Observatory hill is also located in the Public Park.
VizhinjamNear Kovalam, it's a fishing port, which is also important for an ongoing pioneer project to generate electricity from wave energy.
Anchuthengu FortLocated 36 kms from Trivandrum. The historic remains of the fort built by the British East India Company in the 17th century and an adjoining cemetery are the noteworthy relics of this first major British trading station on the Malabar Coast.
Padmanabhapuram Palace (Tamil Nadu) 54 kms. A place of elaborate woodwork, it was the ancient seat of the Travancore rulers. It contains relics of historical and artistic value.
Koyikkal PalaceKoyikkal Palace, the ancient palace, located 18 km from Trivandrum on the way to Ponmudi hillstation and the Kuttalam waterfalls, dates back to the 15th century.
Kaudiar PalaceThis palace, home of the late Maharaja Sree Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma and his family is off limits to the public
Padmanabhapuram Palace (Tamil Nadu) 54 kms. A place of elaborate woodwork, it was the ancient seat of the Travancore rulers. It contains relics of historical and artistic value.
Koyikkal PalaceKoyikkal Palace, the ancient palace, located 18 km from Trivandrum on the way to Ponmudi hillstation and the Kuttalam waterfalls, dates back to the 15th century.
Kaudiar PalaceThis palace, home of the late Maharaja Sree Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma and his family is off limits to the public
Sucheendram (Tamil Nadu) 74 kms. The temple contains beautiful carvings and sculptures. There is an impressive statue of Hanuman and navagrahas carved on the ceiling imitating universe.
Aaranmula Parthasarathy TempleParthasarthy temple, dedicated to Parthasarathi or Lord Krishna is said to date back to the days of the Mahabharata. The Vaishnavite Alwar Saints have sung its glory.
Kulathupuzha TempleKulathupuzha Temple is situated on a forest range on the Trivandrum - Shenkotta road, Kulathupuzha is known for the Sastha temple.
Aaranmula Parthasarathy TempleParthasarthy temple, dedicated to Parthasarathi or Lord Krishna is said to date back to the days of the Mahabharata. The Vaishnavite Alwar Saints have sung its glory.
Kulathupuzha TempleKulathupuzha Temple is situated on a forest range on the Trivandrum - Shenkotta road, Kulathupuzha is known for the Sastha temple.
Ponmudi61 kms. It is a beautiful hill station away from the city. The natural scenery, salubrious climate and the scope of hiking in high trails make the visit an exhilarating experience
Napier MuseumThe museum contains a fine collection of Kerala's bronzes, ornaments and contumes, and a model of "Tharawad' the traditional Nair family home.
Kuthiramalika Palace MuseumKuthiramalika Palace Museum, a classic specimen of Kerala Architecture is situated in 'Kuthiramalika'. The palace, with its excellent carvings and amazing architectural designs, is by itself a slice of heritage. The museum has a wide range of exhibits representing the erstwhile state of Travancore.
Science & Technology MuseumThe Science and Technology Museum, situated in Trivandrum was established with the prime objective of setting up of galleries with working or animated and participatory type of exhibits, on all disciplines of Science and Technology
Kuthiramalika Palace MuseumKuthiramalika Palace Museum, a classic specimen of Kerala Architecture is situated in 'Kuthiramalika'. The palace, with its excellent carvings and amazing architectural designs, is by itself a slice of heritage. The museum has a wide range of exhibits representing the erstwhile state of Travancore.
Science & Technology MuseumThe Science and Technology Museum, situated in Trivandrum was established with the prime objective of setting up of galleries with working or animated and participatory type of exhibits, on all disciplines of Science and Technology
Veli Tourist VillageA large recreational centre located near the airport along a sheltered lagoon offers landscaped gardens and water-sports facilities. It is a popular picnic spot. Accommodation facilities are available in the youth hostel
Aruvikkara16 km. It is both a pilgrim centre and a picnic spot, with a waterfall nearby. On the banks of the Karamana River, the spot houses a temple, where a rock cut shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhagvathy, the divine embodiment of female power. A stream with fishes, which come up to be fed by visitors, is another attraction.
Beema Palli(5 kms south of Trivandrum) An important Muslim pilgrim centre, it is dedicated to Beema Beevi, a pious Muslim lady believed to have possessed divine powers. Devotees of all faiths visit the mosque.
Aruvikkara16 km. It is both a pilgrim centre and a picnic spot, with a waterfall nearby. On the banks of the Karamana River, the spot houses a temple, where a rock cut shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhagvathy, the divine embodiment of female power. A stream with fishes, which come up to be fed by visitors, is another attraction.
Beema Palli(5 kms south of Trivandrum) An important Muslim pilgrim centre, it is dedicated to Beema Beevi, a pious Muslim lady believed to have possessed divine powers. Devotees of all faiths visit the mosque.
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