Things To Do
in Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, sits along the Arabian Sea and blends royal heritage with coastal charm. The city is known for its grand temples, museums, and colonial-era architecture set amid lush greenery. It serves as a gateway to Kerala's backwaters, hill stations, and pristine beaches like Kovalam.
With a vibrant arts scene, a budding IT hub, and welcoming locals, it's a place to explore cuisine, culture, and history at a relaxed pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, where the intricate architecture and serene ambiance will captivate you. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Kanakakunnu Palace gardens, enjoying the lush greenery and the morning sun. Grab a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, indulging in dosas and filter coffee.
In the afternoon, head to the Napier Museum, where you can admire the rich collection of art and history that reflects Kerala's cultural heritage. Following the museum, take a leisurely walk to the nearby zoological park, one of the oldest in India, to observe a variety of animals in a beautiful, natural setting. Enjoy a light lunch at a café nearby, sampling some local cuisine.
As the sun begins to set, visit the bustling local markets, where you can shop for handcrafted souvenirs, spices, and textiles. End your day at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying a delicious dinner with views of the city. The evening is perfect for relaxing and reflecting on the day while enjoying the warm Kerala breeze.
Kick off your morning with a refreshing visit to Kovalam Beach, where the soft golden sands and gentle waves create an inviting atmosphere. Take part in yoga on the beach as the sun rises, setting a peaceful tone for the day. Enjoy a hearty seaside breakfast at one of the beachside shacks, savoring local seafood delicacies.
Spend the afternoon engaging in thrilling water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing, feeling the adrenaline rush as you glide over the azure waters. Alternatively, you can opt for a relaxing session of Ayurvedic massage at a spa overlooking the beach, rejuvenating your body and mind. Lunch can be enjoyed at a beach restaurant, with fresh catch of the day and tropical drinks.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, watching the vibrant colors of the sky reflect on the water. Enjoy a beach bonfire with local music and dance performances, immersing yourself in the local culture. Conclude your evening with a romantic dinner under the stars, relishing traditional Kerala dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🧊Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🚌Public transport ride | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🕌Temple entry / local attraction | $0-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich royal and religious heritage with modern city life
- Coastal scenery, backwaters, and nearby hill stations
- Delicious Kerala cuisine with abundant seafood
- Friendly locals and relatively affordable travel costs
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some sights have entry restrictions and dress codes
- Coastal weather can bring unpredictable rain during monsoon
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello / Greetings
- "Sugamano alle? (Ningal sukam aano?)" - Are you well?
- "Ente peru entha?" - What is my name?
- "Dayavayi sahayam cheyyamo?" - Could you please help me?
- "Njaan alle? Njaan theliyilla." - I am not sure.
Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive Dravidian architecture and iconic gopuram; photograph from surrounding streets and public viewpoints while respecting restricted areas.
Colonial-era museum set in green lawns with stately architecture, ideal for wide shots and detail photography.
Palm-fringed coastline with turquoise water and a historic lighthouse; best at sunrise or sunset.
Backwater scenery with calm water, boats, and a small island; reflective water makes for serene imagery.
Wide sandy shoreline with artistic sculptures and fishermen's dhows for dramatic silhouettes.
Spacious grounds and city overlook offering panoramic cityscape photography.
Food in Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A coconut-based fish curry with aromatic spices and a hint of jaggery; commonly served with rice or chapati.
Must-Try!
Fermented rice pancake paired with a creamy vegetable or chicken stew.
Steamed rice cakes served with black chickpeas curry; a staple breakfast or light meal.
A banana-leaf spread of multiple curries, poriyal, olan, avial, and rasam; typically eaten at festivals and special occasions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling wholesale market near Thampanoor where you can taste fresh coconut, banana chips, roasted peanuts, and seasonal fruits.
Casual stalls offering Kerala snacks like pazham pori (banana fritters), samosas, and fried fish; perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered in temples; remove shoes before entering sacred spaces.
Namaste with folded hands is common; avoid touching others’ heads or using the left hand for giving/receiving.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; some temples restrict photography inside.
Safety
Tipping in Thiruvananthapuram
Ensure a smooth experience
If service charge is not included, a tip of 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated; small tips to drivers and hotel staff are common but not mandatory.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May is hot and humid; carry sunscreen, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
June–September brings heavy rains and high humidity; carry rain gear and waterproof footwear, and be mindful of sea conditions at beaches.
October–February offers cooler, more comfortable days with clear skies and festive events; a popular time for urban exploring and museum visits.
Thiruvananthapuram at Night
Hiking in Thiruvananthapuram
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged tea-covered hills with forest trails and panoramic viewpoints about 60–70 km away from the city.
Western Ghats forest trails and biodiversity; permit requirements and weather considerations apply.
Airports
How to reach Thiruvananthapuram by plane.
Located about 15 km from the city center; connects major Indian cities and some international routes; taxis and airport shuttles are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group; Malayalam is the primary language; communities include Hindu, Christian, and Muslim.
Presence of Technopark and institutions; a growing number of students and tech workers.
Coastal communities around the harbor and markets contribute to the local culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular national sport with local matches in parks and school grounds.
Widely played by youth and adults; local leagues and casual games in neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thiruvananthapuram.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala cuisine has a wide array of vegetarian dishes such as avial, thoran, olan, sambar, and dal; most restaurants offer clearly labeled veg options and banana leaf meals; ask to avoid fish, eggs, and ghee if needed.