Shri Padmanabhaswami Temple
Constructed in the Dravidian style by a maharaja of Travancore in 1733, the temple is dedicated to Vishnu, who reclines on the sacred serpent, Anantha, which gives Thiruvanathapuram its name. It is considered to be one of most prestigeous temple in kerala of historical value and is open to Hindus only,for which they must wear a 'dhoti' or 'sari'.
Kovalam Beach
Kovalam beach is 16kms away from Thiruvananthapuram. and attracts both, the rich andfamous who come here travelling. As a result, the beaches are dotted with both luxury and budget resorts, as well as cafes and several government-approved Ayurveda centres. Kovalam's sheltered natural bay is ringed by two rocky headlands. Its four beaches-Samudra beach, Ashok beach, Eve's beach and Lighthouse beach provide everything that the tourist want. While the beaches to the south are more crowded, the ones to the north offer ample secluded space for sunbathing, safe swimming in the placid blue waters.
Veli Tourist Village
Boardered by Veli lagoon and the Arabian Sea, the village includes water sports , waterfront park, floating bridge, children's park, restaurant, garden etc. it is 8km. away from the city.
Shangumugham Beach
It's a pleasant place to walk or watch the fishermen securing their catch. A large sculpture of a mermaid graces the roadside, an example of the work of the local artist Canai Kunuram. The beach is located 8 kms from Thiruvananthapuram city and is adjacent to the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, is a favourite spot of sunset watchers.
Neyyar dam
Neyyar dam, lying against the southern low hills of the western ghats, 32 kms away from theThiruvananthapura city is a popular picnic spot with a lake and a picturesque dam site. Neyyar dam affords a panoramic view of the the mountains and the lake. The lion safari is a star attraction. The reservoir also offers boating facilities in addition to a crocodile farm. The project offers facilities for boating and mountaineering. A miniature wild life sanctuary, a lake garden and a swimming pool are the major attractions.
Ponmudi
Ponmudi hill resort is cool and quiet. As the hills come awake you can begin a pleasurable exploration of the wooded paths. Trekking is a passion with visitors to Ponmudi. Ponmudi has other surprises too for you. Orchids, for instance, grow in abundance here. A charming deer park is only 3kms. from Ponmudi. Picnic hampers that the staff at the guest house would be happy to arrange,which you could take down the hill to a picturesque ruined dam site or golden valley which is walks.
Napier Museum
It is situated north of the city, at Museum road. It displays an eclectic assortment of historical and contemporary ornaments, temple carts, ivory carvings and life-size figures of kathakali dances in full costume. It has a famous collection of 8th-18th century south Indian bronze.
Sri Chitra Art Gallery
It is situated to the North of Napier museum and has an excellent collection of Indian art with examples from early to modern schools. Paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and works from Mughal and Rajput miniature paintings and Tanjore paintings embellished with semi-precious stones are displayed.
Kuthiramalika (Puthemalika) Palace Musuem
The palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Tirunal Balarama Varma, the King of Travancore who was also a great poet, musician, social reformer and state man. This palace has wood carvings in the traditional Travancore style. The palace museum displays various painting collections of the royal family. It is situated on the South East side of Sree Padmanabha Swami Temple.
Thenmala Ecotourism
India´s first plan ecotourism destination is located about 72 km. from Trivandrum. It is a small village at the foot hills of western ghats and predominantly a forest area. The famous shenduruney wild life sanctuary is the most important eco tourism resource of Thenmala ecotourism.
