THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

AMRUTHASREE By AMRUTHASREE
March 7, 2025
3

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Your gateway to Thiruvananthapuram, the life-packed capital of Kerala! Renowned for its glorious past, picturesque beaches, and rolling greens, Trivandrum has something for every kind of traveler.

Best Time to Visit: October to March is the best time, but May has fewer crowds and you can still utilize the attractions with certain precautions against the heat, particularly at midday. Evenings and mornings will be more comfortable.

Day 1: History, Culture, and Spirituality
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Start your day early with a trip to the stunning Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Reach early to escape the sun and possible crowds. Don't forget the dress code (men: mundu, no shirt; women: saree or traditional wear) and that there is no photography or cell phones allowed within the temple.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Have a traditional Kerala lunch at a nearby restaurant close to the temple.
Late Afternoon (2:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Visit the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, which is near the temple. The interesting architecture and royal relics make a visit worthwhile.
Evening (5:30 PM - 7:30 PM): Attend the Napier Museum and Natural History Museum, located within the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo complex. You may spend a while in the air-conditioned museums to get relief from the heat. You can also have a short stroll in the Zoological Park in the cooler evening hours.
Optional Evening (7:30 PM onwards): You may watch an enchanting Kathakali performance.

Day 2: Beaches and Relaxation
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Kovalam Beach. Relax in the comparatively cool weather of the morning by taking a leisurely stay on Lighthouse Beach, a dip in the sea, or just viewing the coastal landscape. Alternatively, visit the Vizhinjam Lighthouse for great views.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Lunch at one of the seafood eateries in Kovalam.
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Get an invigorating Ayurvedic massage at one of the numerous centers in Kovalam.
Evening (5:30 PM onwards): Head to Shangumugham Beach to watch a stunning sunset. The mermaid statue is a favorite spot for photographs. Pick up some local snacks from the street vendors.

Day 3: Backwaters and Nature
Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM): Boat tour in the Poovar Backwaters. The morning is ideal to visit the peaceful waterways, observe the Golden Sand Beach, and bask in the greenery.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Lunch at a Poovar restaurant.
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Depending on your energy level and interest, you can go for a short safari at the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary or go to the Veli Lake Tourist Village to enjoy boating and other activities. Select an option that has less energy expenditure in the warmer period of the day.
Evening: Have a leisurely dinner in the city.

Other Places to Visit (Flexible according to your interests and temperature):
Sri Chitra Art Gallery: Visit the art collections within the air-conditioned comfort of the gallery.
Kanakakkunnu Palace: Take a tour of the palace and gardens, which could be best appreciated early morning or late evening.
Magic Planet Theme Park: An indoor amusement park activity, which could be an ideal afternoon activity.
Aazhimala Shiva Temple: Stop at this temple famous for its stunning architecture and ocean views, ideally early morning or late afternoon.

Food Tips:
Enjoy the variety of Kerala cuisine. Have local favorites such as appam with stew, puttu and kadala curry, assorted seafood preparations, and the cooling sambaram (spiced buttermilk).

Getting There:
Take auto-rickshaws, taxis (app-based as well), and local buses. For day excursions, take a car on hire for greater comfort, considering also the May heat.

Important Points to Ponder on May Travels:
Stay Hydrated: Take lots of water during the day.
Wear Light Clothing: Choose loose cotton clothes.
Sun Protection: Employ sunscreen, hats, and shades.
Midday Heat: Attempt to plan indoor activities or break for the middle of the day (approximately 12 PM to 3 PM).
Check Opening Times: Check out the opening times of sights, as they may have minor differences.

Popular Blogs