Padmanabhapuram palace :
It is a magnificent wooden palace of the 16th century, situated 50 km away from Trivandrum, it comes under Tamil Nadu state yet it is administered by Government of Kerala.
The palace is closed for lunch from 1 to 2 PM, so plan accordingly. Palace has beautiful wood and stone sculptures, large mirror made up of polished metal, gallery of paintings and more.
Poover Island :
Main attraction at Poover is backwater boating. The boating packages come in hourly packages. If you want to have lunch at floating restaurant you would have to go for a 2 hour package, but I wouldn't recommend it as the food in the restaurant was not that great. While cruising you go thorough wild trees, mangroves, and coconut trees.
Kovalam Beach :
It is one of the beautiful beaches in Kerala. They have para sailing, wind surfing and water scooter ride . This beach is dotted by Quite a lot of beautiful resorts .
Veli Tourist Village :
This is a beautiful picnic spot with an awesome garden and a small play area for kids. It is a place where Veli lake meets the Arabian sea. Speed boating here it is a must try (The employees are very helpful). They have a small play area for a kids. Veli tourist village has a floating bridge that connects the lake to the sea shore. It also has a floating restaurant, you can try out some evening snacks or lunch over there.
Sangumugam Beach :
This beach is just 10 minutes ride from Velli tourist village. Large mermaid statue called Jalakanyaka is the main attraction here. It is not as crowded as kovalam beach, so if you are someone who would like to spend a quite time with nature you will like this place.
Padmanabhaswamy temple :
It is one of the oldest temples in Kerala or I would rather say India. They have a magnificent Lord Venkateshwara idol. Dress code is strict here men and women must wear traditional dress to get entry in to the temple. The temple is well managed, with high security. It is THE richest temple in the world.
Pazhavangadi Ganapathy temple :
Pazhavangadi Ganapathy temple :
It is famous for breaking of coconut to the obstacles and fulfil the desires. This temple is at a walk able distance from Padmanabhaswamy temple.
Tips :
- You can take auto rickshaw to travel within Trivandrum and opt for rental cars to visit places outside Trivandrum
- Most of the site seeing places are closed on Monday, so plan accordingly.
- Don't forget to try Parotta and malabar chicken(Spice Alert!!) from Zam Zam restaurant, they are awesome.
- If you are looking out for good hotel to stay with in the heart of the city go for Hilton hotel they have extraordinary service.
- Try Banana chips and upperi from any snack shop, they are quite famous in Kerala.