Thiruvananthapuram, also popular as Trivandrum, is the capital of “God’s Own Country” (Kerala). Bordered by the Arabian Sea in the West and Tamil Nadu in the East, the city is full of natural beauty and is packed with a range of stunning locales and famed backwaters and beaches.
If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in the lap of nature then Thiruvananthapuram is where you should be heading.
Lush green ancient temples, tea plantations, beautiful beaches, thrilling backwaters, museums and art galleries dot the landscape of Kerala giving people a range of activities to delve into. Thiruvananthapuram is also renowned for Ayurvedic treatments and wellness centres.
Though there are many attractions in Thiruvananthapuram no discussion about the city can be complete without talking about the lively markets of the city which offers everything from branded items to budget goods. Kasavu Mundu, Nettipattam, Shell Showpieces, Spices, Nilavilakku, Mural Paintings etc. are some of the goods that Thiruvananthapuram is famous for and if you are planning to visit the city then you then you must buy them as souvenirs.
The colourful markets of Thiruvananthapuram have vigour and vitality which is difficult to miss. You can buy from popular brands to exclusive Thiruvananthapuram stuff at the most reasonable rates. From swanky malls to street shopping, there are options galore for shoppers in Thiruvananthapuram. Let loose the shopaholic in you and indulge in top-notch stuff Thiruvananthapuram is famous for. Some of the top shopping destinations in Thiruvananthapuram you must visit are:
• Mall Of Travancore – Thiruvananthapuram’s first green mall
• Ramachandran Shopping Mall – A must-visit for saree lovers
• McAdils Antiques – Visit the place if you have an eye for souvenirs
• Chalai Market – A 100-year-old saga
• Sarwaa Lifestyle – Perfect hangout to shop and chill
• Connemara Market – Boon for spice lovers
• Stacey International – A destination for posh and polished
• Saphalyam Complex – Popular amongst youngsters
• MG Road – Perfect for budget goods
The typical local cuisines are another great attraction of Thiruvananthapuram and a major reason why the beautiful city demands to be visited. If you happen to visit the city then Puttu, Appam, Idli, and Iddiyapam are some of the local delicacies you must try without which your visit to the city would remain incomplete.
It is for all these fabulous features that Thiruvananthapuram has emerged as one of the most south-after destinations in the country with several airlines offering their services here. If you also want to visit the city then all you need to do is to book flights to Kerala and fly to your favourite city.
Places to visit in Thiruvananthapuram
Kovalam Beach
A destination of international repute, Kovalam Beach enjoys great popularity amongst both locals and visitors. A shallow beach with three adjacent beaches, Kovalam’s coastline is dotted with coconut trees and offers many leisure and fun activities. Go swimming in crystal clear, cool waters of the sea or just sit back and chill in the shades of the coconut tree or take a walk along the coast and see the sunset in the background. You can also eat local delicacies at the many eateries lined at the beach or buy some of the exclusive handicrafts. You can also visit the many resorts, spas and Ayurvedic centres that would draw all the fatigue from your body and have a very therapeutic effect.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Centrally located, Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the most prominent identities of Thiruvananthapuram and attracts devotees from the entire country as well as abroad. Constructed in Dravidian style, the temple leaves the onlookers amazed with its architecture.
Napier Museum
Popular for its Kerala-style architecture, Napier Museum boasts rare collections that can be cynosures delight. An electric assortment of bronze, historical and contemporary ornaments, temple carts, Ivory carvings and figures of Kathakali dancers are some of the highlights of the museum.
Sri Chitra Art Gallery
If you are interested in art and paintings, you would love Sri Chitra Art Gallery. The place is popular for showcasing the works of myriad great painters from different places. The collection here includes paintings of Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools. Great paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali also find their place in the gallery.
Zoological Gardens
Set amidst woodland, lakes, and lawns, Zoological Gardens is counted among the best-designed and well-maintained Zoological Park in Asia. The place is also very popular amongst tourists, particularly children.
Chalai Bazaar
Reputed to be Thiruvananthapuram’s oldest market, it stretches from East Gate to Killipalam. The bustling market sells everything from vegetables to gold. Full of vigour and vitality, the market was believed to have been established by Raja Kesavadas, Dewan of Travancore in the closing years of the 18th century.
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