Things To Do
in Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is the capital city of the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is famous for its lush greenery, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks such as the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The city has a rich cultural heritage with traditional dance, music, and art forms thriving in the region.
Thiruvananthapuram is also known for its delicious cuisine and warm, welcoming locals.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Kovalam Beach, where you can enjoy the sunrise and take a refreshing swim. Grab a light breakfast at one of the local cafes along the shoreline.
Visit the Lighthouse Beach and take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores. Enjoy lunch at a beach shack, savoring fresh seafood and local dishes.
Wind down at Hawah Beach, perfect for witnessing stunning sunsets. Dine at a beachfront restaurant to relish the flavors of Kerala.
Begin your day by visiting the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple, known for its stunning architecture. Ensure you dress appropriately as it's a sacred site.
Explore the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum to learn about the history and heritage of Travancore. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying authentic Kerala cuisine.
End the day with a visit to the Napier Museum, home to intricate artifacts and art pieces. Spend some time in the adjoining lush gardens before dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance
- Beautiful natural surroundings including beaches and hills
- Pleasant tropical climate
- Growing IT and education sectors
- Welcoming and diverse community
- Access to quality educational institutions and healthcare
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- Limited public transportation options
- Occasional issues with waste management
- Higher humidity levels in summer
- Job opportunities may be limited in some sectors
- Cost of living can be high compared to other regions in India
Best Activities in Thiruvananthapuram
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the wildlife, nature trails, and boating in the serene Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Enjoy trekking, hiking, and wildlife sightings in the beautiful hill station of Ponmudi.
Relax, sunbathe, and indulge in water sports at the picturesque Kovalam Beach.
Embark on a challenging trek to the peak of Agasthyakoodam and enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
Tours
Uncover the best of Thiruvananthapuram with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram
Visit one of these nice places.
This 19th-century museum boasts beautiful gardens and offers great views for photo opportunities.
A popular beach in Thiruvananthapuram, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and an iconic sculpture of a mermaid.
Located around 55 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram, Ponmudi offers breathtaking views of the lush green hills and valleys, making it perfect for photography.
Food in Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional feast served on a banana leaf, featuring an array of vegetarian dishes such as avial, olan, and thoran, accompanied by rice and desserts like payasam. Best enjoyed at local family restaurants or during festivals and special occasions.
Must-Try!
Pearl spot fish marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaf, and grilled to perfection. Savor this delicacy at popular seafood restaurants like Buhari Hotel or Villa Maya.
Soft, fluffy pancakes made of fermented rice batter, served with a mild and fragrant stew of mixed vegetables or meat. Visit Ariya Nivaas or Indian Coffee House for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Thiruvananthapuram better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for a vibrant showcase of local produce, spices, and street food. Indulge in savory snacks like banana fritters, fried seafood, and traditional chaats.
During festivals and events, such as Onam, immerse yourself in the flavors of Kerala's street food, including local favorites like parippu vada (split pea fritters), pazhampori (banana fritters), and masala dosa.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Thiruvananthapuram, it's important to show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures.
When visiting religious or cultural sites, it's important to dress modestly to show respect for the local customs and traditions.
When eating, it's customary to use the right hand for meals, as the left hand is considered unclean.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Thiruvananthapuram with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Thiruvananthapuram
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Thiruvananthapuram, India, but it is appreciated in certain situations, such as at high-end restaurants or for exceptional service. It is usually around 10% of the bill amount.
In Thiruvananthapuram, India, cash is widely accepted for most transactions. However, credit and debit cards are becoming increasingly common, especially in larger establishments. Mobile payment apps and online banking are also gaining popularity for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Thiruvananthapuram.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Thiruvananthapuram, with pleasant weather and a vibrant cultural scene. Expect comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Summers are hot and humid in Thiruvananthapuram, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. Expect occasional showers and high humidity.
Thiruvananthapuram experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. While the lush green landscape is breathtaking, be prepared for frequent downpours and high humidity.
Thiruvananthapuram at Night
Hiking in Thiruvananthapuram
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Agasthyarkoodam is a popular trekking destination in the Western Ghats, offering a challenging hike with stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and a rich biodiversity.
Ponmudi is a hill station located about 61 km from Thiruvananthapuram, known for its winding roads, lush greenery, and several trekking trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints.
Vellayani Lake is a serene spot located south of Thiruvananthapuram, offering easy hiking trails around the lake with beautiful landscapes and local flora.
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 30 km from the city, offers numerous hiking trails through rich forests and the opportunity to see wildlife, including elephants and various bird species.
Known for its tea plantations and stunning landscapes, Meghamalai offers several hiking routes suitable for nature lovers looking for a moderate hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Thiruvananthapuram through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Thiruvananthapuram by plane.
Located approximately 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram, this is one of the busiest international airports in India and serves as a major gateway to southern India.
Situated around 300 km from Thiruvananthapuram, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is a vital transportation hub for the region.
About 700 km from Thiruvananthapuram, this is one of the major international airports in India, connecting numerous global destinations.
Located near Kochi, this airport is around 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram and is known for being the first fully solar-powered airport in the world.
About 200 km from Thiruvananthapuram, this airport serves international flights mainly to the Middle East, catering to a large expatriate population.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Hindus represent the largest religious demographic in Thiruvananthapuram, reflecting a significant cultural and historical presence in the region.
Christians form a substantial community in Thiruvananthapuram, with various denominations contributing to the city's diversity.
Muslims are an important demographic group in Thiruvananthapuram, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
This category includes various other religious and ethnic groups, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Thiruvananthapuram.
The Soul of Thiruvananthapuram
Discover the essence of Thiruvananthapuram through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Thiruvananthapuram, with many local teams and cricket matches taking place in schools and community grounds.
Football has a significant following in Thiruvananthapuram, with various clubs and organizations promoting the sport in the region.
Badminton is widely played in Thiruvananthapuram, with numerous tournaments held and facilities available for training.
Athletics is popular among schools and colleges in Thiruvananthapuram, with many students participating in track and field events.
Basketball is gaining popularity, particularly among the youth, with several local courts and competitions organized.
Hockey also has its fan base in Thiruvananthapuram, with clubs and schools actively participating in competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thiruvananthapuram.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Thiruvananthapuram embraces vegetarianism, and most restaurants offer an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for the 'sadya' meal, coconut-based stews, and lentil-based preparations for authentic flavors.
While traditional Kerala cuisine heavily features rice-based dishes, including appam and idiyappam, it's essential to inquire about preparation methods and cross-contamination when dining out. Many establishments are accommodating towards gluten-free requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Thiruvananthapuram with these cultural adventures.
