Overview
Pack of delights
Best time to visit (High & peak months) :
October to March
Experiences :
Beaches, heritage and culture, Ayurveda
City calling code :
+91-471
Recommended no. of days for a tourist :
2
Best buys :
Sculptures in rosewood and sandalwood, brass and "bell-metal" lamps, souvenirs made of coconut, coir, bamboo and straw, Kathakali masks
Essentials to be carried along :
Cotton outfits, sun glasses, hat, sunblocks
All about the city :
The capital of 'God's own country' Thiruvananthapuram is a very apt introduction to the Keralan culture and the modern developments that the state has undergone to keep itself abreast with the rest of the world. The rich tradition of the town dates back to almost 1000 B.C. Thiruvananthapuram is popularly known as the 'City of Sacred Serpent' as it derives its name from Anantha, the five headed serpent upon which Lord Vishnu reclines. The major temple here has the image of Lord Vishnu reclining on this serpent.
Trivandrum as Thiruvananthapuram was earlier known sprawls over seven hills and is thus like Rome an undulating city - one moment you are up, the next, down. Once a pleasant sleepy town has now emerged as a major tourist destination and scores a perfect 10 for all the three A's of tourism viz. attraction, accessibility and amenities. Begin your day with a stroll down the by lanes lined with old mansions, visit the museums and palaces, get rejuvenated at an authentic Ayurveda centre, watch a Kalaripayattu performance or observe the spectacular sunset at the Shanghumugham beach. The environs of Thiruvananthapuram also have a lot to offer.
