Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Thiruvananthapuram, Near the Southern Tip of India!

Located near the southern tip of the Indian subcontinent, Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala, a state known for its lush landscapes and cultural richness. The city is home to India’s largest IT park, making it a vital hub for the country’s booming tech industry.

Once the seat of the historic Kingdom of Travancore, Thiruvananthapuram remains one of the most prominent cities on India’s western coast. Its mild climate and the refreshing breeze from the Arabian Sea contribute to the city’s calm and relaxed atmosphere. Within the city, you’ll find several attractions, including globally renowned Hindu temples and a zoo that houses native Indian species.

Thiruvananthapuram also serves as a gateway to other top destinations such as Kanyakumari, the southernmost town of India, and the beautiful Kovalam Beach. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder travelers from around the world come to explore this vibrant city. Here are the 10 best places to visit in Thiruvananthapuram that you shouldn’t miss!

1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

One of the most iconic landmarks of Thiruvananthapuram, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known as one of the oldest temples in Kerala.

This temple is strictly off-limits to non-Hindus. Even for Hindus, entrance requires traditional attire—dhotis for men and sarees for women—reflecting the high level of sanctity and discipline observed here.

While entry is restricted, the exquisite architecture alone is worth the visit. A combination of Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles, the temple features intricately carved towers that glisten under the sunlight during the day.

In 2011, the temple gained global attention when treasures were discovered in its underground vaults—valued at over 6.7 billion USD (approximately 244 billion Thai Baht). These treasures were found in a chamber that had been sealed for over 150 years, adding an air of mystery to the site.

When visiting Thiruvananthapuram, don’t miss the chance to experience the wonder and mystique of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

2. Pazhavangadi Ganapathi Temple

Located northeast of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Pazhavangadi Ganapathi Temple is another revered Hindu temple in Thiruvananthapuram. While Padmanabhaswamy Temple glows golden under the sun, this temple stands out with its distinct black-painted exterior, creating a striking contrast.

Like many sacred Hindu sites, this temple also restricts entry to non-Hindus. However, you can observe the worshippers from outside. The deep devotion and focused prayers of the faithful are truly touching and offer a glimpse into their spiritual life.

It’s a good idea to visit both the Padmanabhaswamy Temple and the Pazhavangadi Ganapathi Temple together for a deeper understanding of Hindu culture and religious practices in Kerala.

3. Puthen Malika Palace Museum

The Puthen Malika Palace Museum is a former royal residence of the Maharaja of the Travancore Kingdom, now open to the public as a museum. This beautiful palace showcases an exquisite collection of royal artifacts, including ivory and crystal thrones, musical instruments, ceramics, and an impressive array of weapons once owned by the king.

Beyond the exhibits, the palace itself is a masterpiece of architecture. The intricate wooden carvings throughout the structure—especially the delicately carved ceilings—are must-see highlights. The palace is also well-known for hosting the annual Classical Music Festival in January or February, attracting large crowds each year.

Located along the pathway leading to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the entrance to the museum is easy to access. When visiting Thiruvananthapuram, don’t miss the chance to explore this historic site and immerse yourself in its cultural treasures.

4. Napier Museum

The Napier Museum, located in the cultural district of Thiruvananthapuram, is a popular tourist spot known for its striking pink and brown façade. Named after Lord Napier, the former Governor of Madras, this museum sits in a vibrant area filled with cultural attractions like zoos and art galleries.

The museum building itself is a rare blend of styles, showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture, a mix of Kerala, Mughal, Chinese, and Italian influences. Inside, visitors can find a rich collection of South Indian bronze statues, 17th-century wooden chariots used in Hindu festivals, intricate ivory carvings, and hand-carved wooden deities.

With so many rare and historical exhibits, it’s well worth taking the time to visit this unique cultural landmark.

5. Natural History Museum

Located next to the Napier Museum, the Natural History Museum in Thiruvananthapuram began as a private collection. Today, it features a wide range of exhibits, including taxidermy displays of mammals and birds, and galleries that explore the origins of humankind. With its rich archives, it attracts not only tourists but also researchers and scholars from both within and outside Thiruvananthapuram.

Every exhibit tells a fascinating story, making this museum a must-visit spot when exploring the cultural park area of Thiruvananthapuram.

6. Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

Covering a large part of the cultural park area, the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is one of the oldest zoological parks in Asia. It houses a wide variety of animals, including native Indian species such as elephants, Indian lions, and Bengal tigers. You'll also find reptiles like snakes and turtles, as well as birds and other animals such as ostriches, pelicans, and zebras.

This zoo is a favorite among local families, and it's common to see many children enjoying their visit.

If you're traveling to Thiruvananthapuram with kids, this zoo is highly recommended. Observing India's native wildlife up close is both educational and fun.

7. Sree Chithra Art Gallery

Located next to the entrance gate of the zoo, the Sree Chithra Art Gallery is a must-visit destination in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, for lovers of classic Indian and international art. This gallery mainly showcases the works of Raja Ravi Varma, a celebrated painter from Thiruvananthapuram known for blending Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana with the techniques of Western classical art. Active in the late 19th century, Ravi Varma is considered one of India’s greatest artists.
Apart from his paintings, the gallery also features stunning artworks from the Mughal Empire, Rajput period, and Rajasthani tradition, as well as intricate paintings from China, Japan, and Tibet. It is a truly diverse art space.
Sree Chithra Art Gallery also plays a vital role in promoting modern Indian art, serving as a platform for contemporary artists to showcase their talents. If you're planning a trip to Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to explore this vibrant gallery.

8. Museum of History Heritage

The Museum of History Heritage, located within the Cultural Park area in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a fascinating destination for history buffs and cultural travelers. The museum exhibits a wide array of artifacts including prehistoric burial items, Kerala bronze sculptures, stone statues, and coins excavated from trade with the Roman Empire. These pieces reflect the region’s rich and ancient history.

Visitors can also explore displays related to rituals, beliefs, customs, traditions, trade, art, and everyday life of past societies, giving a deeper understanding of Kerala’s archaeological and cultural heritage.

If you're curious about the history of Thiruvananthapuram and its evolution over the centuries, this museum is a great place to start your cultural journey.

9. Kovalam

Kovalam, located about 15 kilometers south of Thiruvananthapuram, is one of Kerala’s most popular resort destinations. This coastal paradise offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly stays, making it a favorite for travelers of all kinds. Food in Kovalam is both affordable and delicious, perfect for those who want to relax and recharge after a busy sightseeing tour around India.

One of the top attractions here is the Vizhinjam Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking panoramic views. From the top, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree vista of the Arabian Sea, the palm-lined coastline, and the lush landscapes of Kerala. If you're heading toward the southernmost town of India, Kanyakumari, consider spending 2 to 3 peaceful days in Kovalam to unwind.

10. Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, located at the southernmost tip of India, is a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus. Just a 2-hour drive from Thiruvananthapuram, it’s where the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal converge. Hindus gather here to perform ritual baths during sunrise and sunset, marking it as a deeply spiritual experience.

Unlike the bustling sacred city of Varanasi, Kanyakumari offers a peaceful and calming atmosphere, making it the perfect destination to rest and rejuvenate your body and soul.

Notable attractions include the Gandhi Memorial, which housed Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes before they were scattered into the sea, the Kumari Amman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kumari believed to have defeated demons and protected the world’s freedom, and the impressive Vivekananda Rock Memorial, honoring the great Tamil poet and philosopher Swami Vivekananda.

If you're visiting southern India, consider extending your trip from Thiruvananthapuram to experience this tranquil sacred site and witness the spiritual tradition of sea bathing.

◎ Summary: A City Full of Charm — From the History of India to Sacred Hindu Sites

How was it? Thiruvananthapuram and its surrounding areas offer numerous opportunities to experience the passionate faith of Hindu devotees. It's a destination where you can truly feel the depth of Hindu beliefs and traditions.

In addition, resort areas like Kovalam provide relaxing spaces where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere — another great appeal of this region.
We highly recommend visiting Thiruvananthapuram to discover its spiritual and scenic beauty for yourself!