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26°c

AQI 60

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India

Thiruvananthapuram is known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for relaxation and exploration of historical sites.

Thiruvananthapuram is popular for

Kerala Backwaters

Kovalam Beach

Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Seafood Cuisine

Ayurvedic Treatments

Ponmudi Hills

Thiruvananthapuram in next 3 month

jan

19/32°C

AQI 50
feb

20/33°C

AQI 41
mar

22/34°C

AQI 55
apr

24/34°C

AQI 42
may

24/33°C

AQI 22
jun

24/31°C

AQI 19
jul

23/29°C

AQI 15
aug

23/32°C

AQI 22
sep

23/29°C

AQI 14
oct

23/30°C

AQI 27
nov

23/31°C

AQI 35
dec

22/33°C

AQI 47

December in Thiruvananthapuram is mild and pleasant with clear skies and good air quality, making it a great time to visit.

Usual trip duration

2-3 days

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Thiruvananthapuram by visiting the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, and Kuthiramalika Palace. You can also relax at the beautiful beaches and indulge in authentic Kerala cuisine.

💰

Affordable with some luxury options

Places to Stay
Things To Do

Ideas To Plan Your Trip

Beach hopping: Explore pristine shorelines 🏖️

Spice plantation tour: Discover aromatic flavors 🌿

Ayurvedic wellness retreat: Rejuvenate mind and body 🌸

Cultural immersion: Embrace local traditions and art 🎭

Trekking in the Western Ghats: Embrace nature's beauty 🌄

Cuisine exploration: Indulge in diverse culinary delights 🍛

Yoga and meditation: Find inner tranquility 🧘

Traditional dance performances: Experience vibrant entertainment 💃

Boat safari in mangrove forests: Discover diverse ecosystems 🛶

Tea estate visit: Savor refreshing tea flavors 🍵

Places To Visit

temple

museum

beach

zoo

planetarium

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

TEMPLE

Ancient and majestic Hindu temple

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum

MUSEUM

Historic wooden palace with artifacts

Napier Museum

MUSEUM

Art and natural history museum

Shanghumugham Beach

BEACH

Sandy beach with sunset views

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

TEMPLE

Famous Hindu temple

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

ZOO

Large zoo with diverse wildlife

Kerala Science and Technology Museum

MUSEUM

Interactive science exhibits

Thiruvananthapuram Planetarium

PLANETARIUM

Astronomy and space exhibits

Places To Eat

Aasife Biriyani - Kesavadasapuram (Trivandrum)

Cafe Jade - All Day Dining (24X7)

Mani Mess

Agrahaara Restaurant

FOOD TEXT

Villa Maya

BLND Restobar

O Café

Bait

Zam Zam Restaurant

The Yellow Chilli

Mothers Veg Plaza

Baker's Arch Garden Cafe

Al Taza - Trivandrum

Paragon Restaurant

Supreme Upper Crust

Burj Al Mandi Restaurant

Bab Arabia

Ruchi Veg Restaurant

Pathayam - Millets Café

How to Reach
More About Thiruvananthapuram

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram?

The best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India is during the winter months, from September to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C. This makes it ideal for sightseeing, exploring the beaches, and enjoying outdoor activities. The humidity is also relatively lower compared to other times of the year, making your travel experience more enjoyable. Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and high humidity.

How can you reach Thiruvananthapuram?

Thiruvananthapuram is well-connected to the rest of India and the world through various modes of transportation:

ModeDetails
By AirTrivandrum International Airport (TRV) is well-connected to major domestic and international cities. Regular flights operate from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Dubai, and Singapore. Taxis and airport buses are readily available for transport to the city center.
By TrainThiruvananthapuram Central (TVC) is a major railway station with frequent trains from major cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Kolkata. It is one of the busiest railway stations in South India.
By RoadThiruvananthapuram is well-connected by road to other cities in Kerala and neighboring states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. National Highways 66 and 744 pass through the city. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private bus services operate frequently.
What are the must-visit attractions in Thiruvananthapuram?

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, offers a diverse range of attractions:

AttractionHighlights
Padmanabhaswamy TempleA renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate architecture and rich history. Strict dress code applies (men: dhoti, women: saree or skirt and blouse).
Kovalam BeachA famous beach known for its crescent shape, lighthouse, and Ayurvedic massage centers. Suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
Napier MuseumAn art and natural history museum housing a rare collection of archaeological and historical artifacts, bronze idols, ornaments, and a chariot.
Kanakakunnu PalaceA historical palace known for its architectural brilliance and beautiful gardens. Often hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
Shangumugham BeachAnother popular beach known for its serene atmosphere and the giant sculpture of a mermaid.
Poovar IslandAn island located at the Neyyar River estuary known for its pristine beaches, backwaters, and floating cottages.
What are some popular activities to enjoy in Thiruvananthapuram?

Thiruvananthapuram offers a wide range of activities for tourists:

  • Beach Activities: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and catamaran rides at Kovalam and Shangumugham beaches.
  • Backwater Cruises: Experience the serene backwaters of Poovar Island on a houseboat or traditional Kerala boat.
  • Ayurvedic Treatments: Indulge in traditional Ayurvedic massages and therapies at reputed centers.
  • Cultural Experiences: Attend Kathakali performances or visit local temples to experience Kerala's rich culture.
  • Trekking and Nature Walks: Explore the nearby hills and forests with guided trekking tours.
  • Visit Museums and Historical Sites: Discover the rich history and culture of the region by visiting museums and historical monuments.
What are some interesting nearby destinations to visit from Thiruvananthapuram?

There are several interesting places you can visit near Thiruvananthapuram:

DestinationDistance (km)Highlights
Kanyakumari90The southernmost tip of India, known for its sunrise and sunset views, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, and Thiruvalluvar Statue.
Varkala50Known for its stunning cliffs, Varkala Beach (Papanasam Beach), Janardanaswamy Temple, and Sivagiri Mutt.
Ponmudi60A hill station known for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and viewpoints.
Neyyar Dam32A dam and wildlife sanctuary with boating facilities and a crocodile rehabilitation center.
Where can you find good shopping spots in Thiruvananthapuram?

Thiruvananthapuram offers diverse shopping experiences:

Shopping SpotSpecialty
Chalai MarketA traditional and bustling market offering everything from groceries and spices to textiles and hardware.
Connemara MarketKnown for its fresh seafood and fish.
MG RoadFeatures modern shopping malls and branded stores offering apparel, footwear, electronics, and more.
Sarwaa MarketGood for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Kerala items.
Ramachandran TextilesOffers wide variety of fabrics and textiles.
What are the best restaurants and local eateries in Thiruvananthapuram?

Thiruvananthapuram offers diverse dining options:

Cuisine TypeRestaurant/Eatery
Kerala CuisineMother's Veg Plaza, Villa Maya, Zam Zam Restaurant (for non-veg options).
SeafoodThe Tides Restaurant, Bait.
Multi-CuisineIndian Coffee House, Ambrosia.
Street FoodLocal eateries near Chalai Market and East Fort offer a variety of snacks and local delicacies.
What types of accommodation are available in Thiruvananthapuram?

Thiruvananthapuram offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences:

  • Luxury Hotels: The Leela Raviz Kovalam, Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel.
  • Mid-Range Hotels: Apollo Dimora, Hotel Residency Tower.
  • Budget Hotels and Guesthouses: Several budget-friendly options are available near the railway station and bus stand.
  • Homestays: Offer a more personalized and authentic experience.
  • Resorts: Located near Kovalam and Poovar Island, offering beach access and recreational facilities.
Is Thiruvananthapuram a safe city for tourists?

Yes, Thiruvananthapuram is generally considered a safe city for tourists. Kerala, in general, is known for its low crime rate and friendly locals. However, it's always wise to take certain precautions:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets and bus stands.
  • Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas.
  • Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
  • Use reputable transportation services, such as pre-paid taxis or ride-hailing apps.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
What local transportation options are available in Thiruvananthapuram?

Several local transportation options are available in Thiruvananthapuram:

  • Buses: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses are a cost-effective way to travel within the city and to nearby areas.
  • Auto-rickshaws: Easily available and suitable for short distances. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
  • Taxis: Available through taxi stands or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola.
  • Rental Cars: Several car rental agencies offer self-drive or chauffeur-driven cars.
  • Motorcycles/Scooters: Rental options are available for those who prefer to explore the city independently.
What languages are spoken in Thiruvananthapuram?

The primary language spoken in Thiruvananthapuram is Malayalam. However, English is widely understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and shops. Hindi is also understood by many people, especially those working in the tourism sector. Learning a few basic Malayalam phrases can enhance your travel experience and make it easier to interact with locals.

What are the key festivals celebrated in Thiruvananthapuram?

Thiruvananthapuram, like the rest of Kerala, celebrates a number of vibrant festivals. Here are some of the key ones:

  • Onam: The most important festival in Kerala, Onam is a harvest festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in August-September. It includes traditional feasts (Sadhya), boat races, cultural performances, and flower decorations (Pookkalam).
  • Attukal Pongala: This is the largest annual gathering of women for a religious activity. It takes place at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple and involves women cooking Pongala, a sweet rice porridge, as an offering to the goddess.
  • Aarattu: This is a major temple festival, especially at the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The festival involves a procession of deities and a holy bath in the sea.
  • Thiruvananthapuram Carnival: Celebrated during the New Year period, it includes street parades, cultural shows, and festive decorations.
  • Vishu: Celebrated in April, it marks the Malayalam New Year. It is a time for family gatherings and auspicious beginnings.