Overview
Thiruvananthapuram: The City of the Sacred Serpent
Nestled in God's Own Country, Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, or Trivandrum, is a city of exquisite panoramic beauty. The tranquil capital is a gateway to the enchanting destinations of Kerala, featuring picnic spots, historical monuments, beaches, and scenic shorelines.
The name Thiru-Anantha-Puram means the abode of the sacred serpent Anantha, on whose coil Lord Vishnu rests. Historically, Trivandrum played a pivotal role in the spice trade, with Poovar Port used for exchanging sandalwood and ivory. With the establishment of Travancore in 1729, the city entered a period of modernization.
Main Attractions of Thiruvananthapuram:
Sri Padmanabham Swamy Temple:
This temple is the heart of the city, housing divine deities within peaceful walls. Recognized as one of the 108 Lord Vishnu Temples, it dates back to the pre-Christian era. Nearby is CVN Kalari Sangam, an academy for martial arts demonstrations.
Napier Museum:
Designed by British architect Robert Fellowes Chisholm, the museum exemplifies Indo-Saracenic architecture. It features gabled tiled roofs, tall pillars, arches, wooden ceilings, and exhibits 15th-century carvings, ornaments, temple carts, and Balinese art.
Kuthiramalika Palace:
Adjacent to the Padmanabham Swamy Temple, this historical palace showcases Kerala's rich architecture. Built for the Travancore Kings, it displays the royal lineage and features the Crystal Throne of Maharajas imported from Bohemia.
Chitra Art Gallery:
Located on the northern side of Napier Museum, the gallery was established in 1935. It displays rare collections of traditional and contemporary paintings, including works by Rabindranath Tagore, K.C.S. Panicker, C. Raja Raja Varma, Nicholas Roerich, Svetoslav Roerich, and Jamini Roy.
Excursions from Thiruvananthapuram:
Nearby attractions include Kovalam (16 km) and Varkala (45 km).
Shopping in Thiruvananthapuram:
The city is a shopper’s paradise. MG Road is the main shopping district, offering handicrafts in wood, coir, and metal, spices, coffee, tea, cashew nuts, traditional saris, gold jewelry, and the famous Kerala banana chips.
When to Reach:
The best time to visit is from October to March for pleasant weather. A week-long Village Fair, starting on 3rd January, is also a sought-after time to experience the city’s charm. 
How to Reach:
Air: Trivandrum International Airport connects to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and major Indian cities.
Rail: Trivandrum Central is a key hub in South India, well-linked to all major cities.
Road: State Transport Corporation buses facilitate convenient travel within and around Trivandrum.
