December 1st, 2017 by Charvee Sharma

Offering a wonderful blend of nostalgic colonial legacy and strongly rooted heritage, the city of Trivandrum harbors an extraordinary vibe. Growing into a swanky metropolis, Trivandrum proudly retains its cultural heritage and scenic charm, making it a favorite amongst travel enthusiasts.

Weather

With an average temperature of 27 degrees, the tropical climate of Trivandrum rarely disappoints. In summers the temperature can go up to 35 degrees; however pre-Monsoon showers in the months April-May bring winds of cool air to the city. Winter months of October – February with a minimum temperature of 18 degrees make Trivandrum ideal for a vacation.

Places to Visit

From idyllic beaches to a sprawling metropolis, the city of Trivandrum has everything in store for the feel of a modern city.

Beaches

(i) At a distance of 16 kms from the city, Kovalam Beach has been a favorite haunt of tourists for long. Serene views of the setting sun, long shorelines creating a beautiful bay of calm waters and exotic options for leisure, this beach attracts the crowd for all right reasons. In close proximity to Kovalam stands Vizhinjam lighthouse, a must visit for breathtaking views of the Arabian sea and enchanting colors of sunset over the skyline.

(ii) Separated by a foreland called Edakallu, Hawa Beach serves as a less crowded avenue for travellers looking for secluded and soothing stretches of sandy shores.

(iii) Located conveniently at 8 kms from the hustle and bustle of the city lies Shanghumukham Beach, offering magical hues of sunsets and exquisite shoreline. This beach also hosts the famous sculpture of Jalakanyaka (Mermaid) carved by renowned artist, Raja Ravi Varma adding to its splendor.

(iv) A paradise for seekers of a pristine beach, Poovar Island lies carefully nestled between the Arabian Sea, Kerala backwaters and the majestic Western Ghats. A relatively unexplored area, a boat ride through this tropical island would accompany the charm of breezy backwaters translating into a sublime countryside experience.

Museums

(i) Located in proximity to Padmanabhaswamy Temple stands Kuthiramalika Palace Museum whose name is derived from the 122 beautifully carved wooden horses which welcome its visitors. Famous for its structural elegance with Travancore styled architectural features, this museum hosts priceless collections of the royal family, paintings and traditional furniture.

(ii) One of the most visited places, located in the heart of Trivandrum, Napier Museum is an exemplary example of Indo-Saracenic architecture housing some rare and unusual collection of historic and archaeological artifacts, ancient ornaments, and idols, wooden and ivory carvings. A must for all history buffs, this museum serves as a valuable insight into Kerala’s rich cultural legacy.

(iii) Located within the museum complex, Sree Chithra Art Gallery displays a rare collection of paintings by famed artists like Raja Ravi Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Roerich along with exquisite works from the Mughal, Rajput and Tanjore schools of art.

Religious sites

(i) Situated in the heart of the city, Padmanabhaswamy Temple gathers tourists throughout the year, dedicated to Lord Vishnu who is shown in eternal sleep posture. The temple stands out for its unique blend of Dravidian and Kerala style architecture, showcasing fine aesthetic temperament. Interestingly, this temple has also caught limelight for being speculated as the richest temple of the world.

(ii) Located in the same vicinity stands Attukal Bhagawati temple, dedicated to the divine mother in Kerala. Famed for being known as the Sabarimala of women, this temple has gained popularity for its annual Pongal festival in which an offering of rice is cooked by throngs of women.

(iii) Other famous temples in Trivandrum include Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple, Aazhimala Siva Temple and Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple. In adherence to cultural traditions, most temples in this city allow only a specific traditional dress code for both men and women.

Where to Eat

The history of food in lanes of Malabar has always held spices as an indispensable part. Flavours of Kerala have been shaped and evolved over the years by various influences. The Kerala food culture promises scrumptious delights.
Dine at:

  • For purely vegetarian options, Hotel Annapoorna, Opposite Pazhavangadi Ganapathi Temple
  • For delicious meals served 24*7, Hotel Buhari, Pazhavangadi
  • Indian Coffee House, Central Station Road
  • Hotel Arulakam, Thampanoor
  • Variety of dosas at Nivedhya Cafe Udupi, Palayam

Where to Shop

(i) The streets of Connemara Market are fluttered with local vendors selling a variety of coir products, spices, vegetables and other household items.

(ii) Kerala’s prime shopping avenue, Chalai Bazaar is all about endless lanes within lanes, clustered with shops, bustling with vendors selling goods of all kinds.

(iii) The swanky lifestyle store, Sarwaa, situated on Sankar road, houses a unique range all kinds of home décor products, ethnic jewellery and rustic handicrafts.

Bordered alongside the Arabian Sea, Trivandrum is blessed with fascinating history and scenic beauty that appeals one and all. Explore this coastal city of Kerala to get lost in the exotic blend of diversities.

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About Charvee Sharma

Born in a big city, Charvee finds her heart in small towns. A free spirit, who loves to wander places in search of stories, within stories. At the end of a long day, she finds her therapy in long aimless walks and conversations, with the Moon.