Two Days Exploring Trivandrum

Sunday, September 3: Exploring the City

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Trivandrum, also known as Thiruvananthapuram. In the morning, visit the iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a stunning 16th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Marvel at its intricate architecture and explore the temple complex.

In the afternoon, head to Napier Museum, a fascinating museum showcasing a collection of ancient artifacts, bronze sculptures, and historic relics. Don't miss the chance to admire the beautiful Indo-Saracenic style of the building itself.

As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Kovalam Beach. Enjoy the golden sands, watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea, and indulge in delicious seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

• Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Napier Museum: Estimated cost - INR 30 (approx. $0.40), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kovalam Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Flexible

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day located near Kovalam Beach. This quaint cafe offers a variety of breakfast options and a cup of coffee to kickstart your day. The average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
• For lunch, dine at Malabar Café situated in the heart of Trivandrum. This restaurant serves delicious traditional Kerala cuisine with a modern twist. The average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
• For dinner, visit Villa Maya, a charming heritage restaurant housed in a colonial building. Indulge in a variety of exquisite dishes from Indian, Asian, and European cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 1000 rupees per person.

Monday, September 4: Exploring Nature

On your second day, venture into the natural wonders of Trivandrum. Start your morning by visiting the enchanting Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a boat ride on the Neyyar Dam reservoir, surrounded by lush greenery and inhabited by various species of birds and animals.

In the afternoon, head to the picturesque Ponmudi Hill Station, located about 55 km away from Trivandrum. Enjoy the scenic drive through tea plantations and thick forests. Once there, go for a trek, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and marvel at the panoramic views from the top.

In the evening, unwind at the Veli Tourist Village, a serene and beautiful waterfront park. Take a paddleboat ride on the interconnected lagoon and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

• Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 200 (approx. $2.70), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Ponmudi Hill Station: Estimated cost - INR 500 (approx. $6.70) for transportation, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Veli Tourist Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Trivandrum offers a few hidden gems and local favorites worth exploring. One such place is the Kuthiramalika Palace, also known as the Horse Palace. This elegant palace showcases a rare collection of exquisite wooden horses, traditional art, and historical artifacts.

Another local favorite is the Kovalam Art Gallery, which displays contemporary and traditional artwork by local artists. The gallery provides a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the region.

For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Chalai Market. This bustling market is a favorite among locals for its wide variety of fresh produce, spices, and street food. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and try some authentic Kerala delicacies.

For hotel and flight prices, check out https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays.