Thiruvananthpuram

Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city of the southern state of Kerala that has an interesting natural topography combining wooded highlands and idyllic beaches. Its strategic location ensures easy accessibility from any part of the country. Earlier known as Trivandrum, the city has a major railway station, an international airport and an extensive road network.
The citys religious attractions include the famous Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple (the citys presiding deity) and Attukal Bhagavathy Temple which are beautiful heritage structures also. In and around Thiruvananthapuram are many beautiful beaches like Shangumugham beach, Kovalam beach and Veli beach. Preserving and display of the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kerala is a task faithfully done by the various museums in the city Puthenmalika Palace Museum, Napier Museum and Sri Chitra Art Galley. Kerala State Science and Technology Museum, Chacha Nehru Childrens Museum, Zoological Park and Planetarium provide kids excellent opportunities to have fun and learn at the same time. There are plenty of places for excursions around the city of historic, religious and leisure interest such as the 17th century Anchunthengu Fort, Ponmudi hill resort, Beema Palli Mosque, Vettukud Church, Akkulam tourist village, Neyyer Dam, Padmanabhapuram Palace and Varkala Beach.
Best time to visit: October to February
Languages spoken: Malayalam, Tamil, English
Climate: Hot and humid summers, heavy rains during monsoon and pleasant winters
Heritage and Holy sites: Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Kanakakunnu Palace, Karikkakom Temple, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Christ Church, Beema Palli, Anchuthengu Fort, Arruvikkara, Vettukud Church
Knowledge Centres: Puthenmalika Palace Museum, Napier Museum, Kerala State Science and Technology Museum, Chacha Nehru Childrens Museum, Natural History Museum, Sri Chitra Art Gallery
Picnic Spots: Shangumugham beach, Kovalam beach, Veli beach, Ponmudi hill, Varkala beach, Zoological Park, Vizhinjam Beach, Neyyar Dam, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Akkulam tourist village

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