Trivandrum

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Trivandrum

Kerala’s first city, with its knotty official name of Thiruvananthapuram (often substituted by the shorter, more manageable Trivandrum), is a rich introduction to southern India's urban and cultural life. Trivandrum tends to be unjustly overlooked en route to the state's beachside settlements but easily warrants a few days of its own.

The City

Being the official capital of Kerala, Trivandrum is the state's most important administrative, cultural, and intellectual hub, home to significant institutions such as the science and tech development hubs of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and Centre for Development of Advanced Computing; the University of Kerala also has its base here. Having been renamed to Thiruvananthapuram in 1991, Trivandrum still most often goes by Trivandrum for convenience. There are a few sites of interest to visitors, from the Kerala Science and Technology Museum with its world-class planetarium to a good selection of museums and eateries serving south Indian specialities. The Shangumugham Beach is a pleasant daytime and/or evening getaway a stone's throw away from the Trivandrum International Airport; Kovalam Beach, slightly further afield, is another local favourite.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

There is plenty to warrant a stay in Kerala's capital city, Thiruvananthapuram, where visitors can experience the essence of Keralan urban life. If the city's museums and palaces prove insufficient, you can easily explore tranquil beaches nearby, including Kovalam, which is renowned as one of the world's finest. Further sights are only a short drive away.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Although entry into the shrine is allowed to Hindus alone, visitors of any religious denomination can marvel at the 30-metre-high golden gate (gopura) towering right next to the Fort. The sizeable structure is among the world's richest in terms of valuable metals and precious stones used in its interior decor. Its early origins remain …

Napier Museum

The Napier Museum collection is dedicated to Indian deities, historical artefacts, and items related to Keralan rulers and their achievements. The museum building itself is equally impressive for its architectural design. It is an eclectic mix of 19th-century styles, including elements of Indian, Chinese, and Gothic architecture, making it a unique and interesting example …

Thiruvananthapuram Zoological Park

Established in 1857, the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is one of Asia's oldest zoological parks. It is reported that the zoo inspired some elements of the animals depicted in the internationally acclaimed film 'Life of Pi'. Expect to see a variety of animals, including hippos, leopards, deer, and reptiles, among others. The zoo is quite large, …

Keralam - Museum of History and Heritage

The Museum of History and Heritage offers a fascinating journey through centuries of Keralan history, showcasing a diverse collection of artefacts that highlight the region's rich cultural heritage. One of the highlights is model displays of traditional Keralan …

Kovalam Beach

One of India's - and, indeed, the entire world's - finest beaches traces the Keralan coast roughly 15km away from central Thiruvananthapuram. The beach is a travellers' darling and a popular evening hangout spot for Thiruvananthapuram locals. The Lighthouse Beach at Kovalam's southern end has an elevated viewing platform and is especially …

Puthe Maliga Palace Museum

Once the residence of Travancore royals, the roughly 200-year-old Puthe Maliga Palace (also known as the Kuthira Malika) has been converted into a fascinating museum containing historical artefacts pertaining to the Travancore dynasty. A guided tour of the palace is included in the ticket price; admission to palace grounds is …

Dining

The state of Kerala is famously referred to as 'the land of spices', a reputation reflected in its cuisine, which makes generous use of turmeric, pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, ginger, and many other spices. A culinary experience not to miss is the 'sadya spread'—a meal served on a banana leaf, traditionally eaten by hand. This spread includes rice, a variety of curries, and desserts.

Villa Maya

One of the finest dining experiences in Kerala (and, according to some rankings, all of India), Villa Maya is an exquisite restaurant occupying a beautiful colonial mansion. The culinary emphasis is on elevated Keralan specialities, with a focus on seafood. Seating available inside the well-kept building or outside in private courtyard …

Zam Zam

This incredibly popular eatery serves up scrumptious Middle Eastern meat grills, north and south Indian specialities, seafood, and a sizeable selection of vegetarian dishes. For the best deals, check out the set combo meal menus, which are most often a steal. They are especially known for their ice …

Ariya Nivas

One of the best vegetarian dining establishments around, Ariya Nivas is an attractive restaurant that offers an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet at an extremely low price, and vegetarian thalis aplenty during dinner hours. They also have a typical south Indian breakfast selection …

Mothers Veg Plaza

Azad Restaurant

Azad has been in business since as early as 1940, a fact reflected in the menu that lists dishes with chicken, mutton and fish cooked according to the original 1940s recipes - but not only. It's a place well-known to and still frequented by locals, for both sit-in dining and …

Cafés

Cafés aren't a foreign concept to Thiruvananthapuram residents, and there are quite a few across town. For breakfast (or any other meal of the day, for that matter), try a local speciality called 'dosa': a pancake cooked to crispy perfection, made with rice and black lentil flower, served with one or more types of dip.

Indian Coffee House

The distinctive-looking spiral-shaped building containing this Indian Coffee House branch is well-known to Keralans, who regularly take advantage of its efficient service and inexpensive offerings of savoury meals and delightful …

Supreme Upper Crust

Supreme Upper Crust became an instant hit with locals upon its inauguration, and has seen an undwindling flow of patrons ever since. Highly praised for its French and Italian-inspired dishes, orderly workings and excellent in-house patisserie, the cafe is a delight for both visitors and …

Cofi Club

This longstanding local cafe is a time-tested place for good coffee, and a quaint hangout spot for a low-key meal or get-together. Entertainment is provided by the indoor pool table that guests are welcome to make use of. The menu is extensive, and includes local and international …

Bars & Nightlife

Thiruvananthapuram's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger Indian cities, with a focus on upscale hotel bars for hard liquor, as most other venues only offer wine and beer. Popular evening spots include Shangumugham Beach and Kovalam Beach, which attract locals and visitors alike. While traditionally limited, the city's entertainment scene is gradually expanding with new cafés and cultural events, reflecting a slow but steady evolution in its after-hours offerings.

V Bar

Hilton Garden Hotel's V Bar is a reputable venue for hearty meals and evening drinks. On Saturdays, chill bar vibes turn increasingly energetic with DJs spinning tunes and guests populating the dance floor. Drinks of all manner are served, including …

The Sky Bar

Out by Kovalam Beach, The Sky Bar is a pleasant choice for drinks in a refined seaside setting. The bar is located at The Leela Raviz Kovalam, an upscale clifftop resort featuring an infinity pool and many further amenities, located within walking distance from Kovalam …

Shopping

Several items make the must-buy shopping list in Kerala, all readily available in the state's capital. Visit one of Thiruvananthapuram's vibrant markets to pick up celebrated Keralan spices—and be sure to try the locally grown tea and coffee, which are favourites among both locals and visitors. In Thiruvananthapuram, you'll also find a rich selection of jewellery, including real gold and diamonds, alongside hand-crafted souvenirs, especially wood carvings. In addition, cosmetics infused with Keralan coconut essence are popular and make for unique gifts.