Trivandrum

Fast Facts
District : Trivandrum, capital of Kerala
Distance : 218 kms, south of Kochi
Attractions : Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Vizhinjam, Bhagawathy Temple
Best Time to Visit : October to February

Location
Thiruvananthapuram, formerly called as Trivandrum, is the capital city of the southern state of India, Kerala. The place lies towards the southern end of the state and the Indian sub continent, just 87 kms from the far southern end. The city is located on the low lying hills of the Western Coast of India, interspersed by ridges and lanes. An area of about 250 square kilometres between Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea comprise the city of Trivandrum.

Introducing Trivandrum
Trivandrum is an ancient city the traces of which can be found as early as 1000 B.C. Even then the city was an established trade and commerce centre. For a great period the city was ruled by 'Ays' which were subsequently over throned by the Venad rulers in the 10 century. The city was made the capital of Travancore in the year 1745 during the reign of Marthanda Varma and that changed the outlook of this ancient city. Thus started the growth and development of the city on modern lines and the region soon gained immense popularity. The city is one of the primary commercial and industrial areas located in the state of Kerala.

Tourist Attractions in Trivandrum
Trivandrum consists of a number of tourist attractions that include popular beaches, sacred places, commercial attractions and some historical places. Some important attractions in and around Trivandrum are as:
Shree Padhmanabhaswamy Temple : The temple is located in the heart of the city. The temple is dedicated to 'Padmanabhaswamy', an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is built in a typical Dravidian style, which is unusual for a temple in Kerala and features a tall gopuram. It happens to be one of the most revered places of Hindus and every year thousands of them reach the site to pay the homage and for offerings.

Bhagawathy Temple : The Bhagawathy Temple located in the city is dedicated to Goddess Bhagawathy and is one of the popular worshipping places. The temple site is a great attraction during the festival days of Ponal Utsavam, which is celebrated for 10 days.

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum : The palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal. The architecture of the palace represents typical Travancore style with incredible wood carving. The palace also features paintings and valuable articles belonging to the royal family, that have been preserved here.

Kovalam Beach : Just 16 kms from the city is situated the marvellous Kovalam Beach. The beach comprises of a series of beaches, the best one being the southern most. The beach area has emerged as a great tourist place and is lined up with resorts and tourist cottages.

Government Art Museum : The Government Art Museum or Napier Museum as it is popularly called has been built in the year 1880 in the honour of Lord Napier. The museum houses great archaeological and historical artifacts.

Vizhinjam : The place used to be a popular site for the Dutch and Portuguese traders. It is located south of Kovalam beach and represents a modern fishing harbour.

M.G.Road : The road is a popular shopping area located in the city. Sandalwood, brass and oil lamps are extensively sold in the markets here. A lot of general stores and arts, antiquities shops are located at M.G.Road. The Connemara Market is great shopping place here.

Places Where You Can Stay
There are established a range of hotels at Trivandrum. Budget hotels are most in number and located throughout the city. Some known hotels of Trivandrum are:

5 star hotels : The Muthoot Plaza Hotel.

4 star hotels : The South Park Hotel, Hotel Saj Lucia, Hotel Residency Tower.

3 star hotels : Hotel Mascot, Hotel Pankaj.

Budget Hotels and Lodges : Hazeen, Manacaud, Prasanth Tourist Home, Jas Hotel.

How to Reach
The capital city is connected with other city and states by all major means of transport. There are buses, trains and airways providing the services in the city.