At
the southern end of the state, Thiruvananthapuram is a district
surrounded by the Arabian sea and the Western Ghats. The district
headquarters, also of the same name, is the Capital of the state. During
the British period and till a few years ago, it was known as Trivandrum,
a name that suited the English to pronounce. A quiet, neat and clean
city, it has a rich cultural heritage too.
The
city of Thiruvananthapuram presides over one of the most scenic states
stretching along the southern coast of the country, with the backwaters
of the Arabian Sea reaching deep into the verdant countryside, Kerala
affords a fascinating experience, the city once formed a part of the
kingdom of the of Travancore, which had its capital at Padmanabhapuram
(now in Tamil Nadu). Most of that royal heritage of fine buildings and
palaces now houses the State Secretariat and other offices. But the
beauty of the city is still intact, in the wide open avenues, parks,
gardens, cultural institutions and undulating countryside.
Attractions
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The most impressive landmark
in the town, the temple's presiding deity is Vishnu reclining on
serpent Anantha. It has a seven-story tower, umpteen number of
pillars, intricate carvings and mural paintings. Only Hindus are
allowed in. There are other entry regulations too. The temple is
located in East Fort.
- Museum Complex
Art and natural history museums, art
gallery and zoological and botanical gardens are located in a plot
in the heart of the city. Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) palace
museum: Located near Padmanabhaswamy temple, the palace was built by
Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma. The king was a great poet,
musician, social reformer and statesman. The museum contains
paintings and other collections of the royal family.
- Science & Technology Museum
Located near Mascot
hotel, it is a valuable site for students and researchers.
- Sanghumugham Beach
A favourite haunt of sunset
watchers. A gigantic 35 m sculpture of a mermaid, called Matsya
Kanyaka, is a major attraction here. There is facility for
recreational activities. The place is near the airport and the Veli
tourist village.
How to reach
- By Air
Thiruvananthapuram is both a domestic and an
International airport with regular flights. The airport is 6 kms
from the city.
- By Rail
Convenient trains connect Thiruvananthapuram
with the rest of the country.
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Trivandrum
Tour Guide