Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at the Indian Coffee House, a popular landmark in Thiruvananthapuram. Established in 1958, this iconic restaurant is known for its delicious South Indian breakfast dishes like masala dosa, idli sambar, and filter coffee. The simple yet elegant decor and friendly staff make it a must-visit place for foodies. Make sure to try their famous cutlet and egg roast too.
After breakfast, head to Kuthira Malika Palace, located in the heart of the city. This historic palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma in the 19th century and is known for its unique architecture and intricate wood carvings. Take a guided tour and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Kerala. The palace museum houses a rare collection of paintings, sculptures, and musical instruments.
For lunch, head to Villa Maya, a fine-dining restaurant housed in a restored 18th-century Dutch mansion. The restaurant serves a fusion of Indian and European cuisines with a focus on local ingredients. The ambiance is elegant and sophisticated, with indoor and outdoor seating options available. Try their signature dish - Malabar chicken biryani, which is cooked in traditional earthen pots and served with raita and papadum.
After a hearty lunch, head to Kovalam Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Kerala. The beach offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and is lined with palm trees and shacks selling local snacks and drinks. Take a stroll along the beach or indulge in some water sports like parasailing and surfing. The sunset view from the lighthouse at the end of the beach is a must-see.
For dinner, head to Buhari Restaurant, a legendary restaurant chain that started in Chennai in 1951 and now has outlets across South India. The restaurant is known for its authentic Chettinad cuisine and biryanis. Try their mutton chukka and parotta, which is a spicy and flavorful dish made with tender mutton pieces and a blend of aromatic spices. The ambiance is simple and homely, with friendly staff and prompt service.
End your day by checking into Uday Suites, a luxurious hotel located near the airport. The hotel offers spacious and well-appointed rooms with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, minibar, and flat-screen TV. The hotel also has a rooftop pool, fitness center, and spa for guests to relax and rejuvenate. The staff is warm and hospitable, and the location is convenient for travelers.
Start your day with a traditional Kerala-style breakfast at Ariya Nivaas, a cozy family-run restaurant in Sasthamangalam. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes like appam, puttu, idiyappam, and kadala curry, which are made with fresh and organic ingredients. The ambiance is homely and rustic, with wooden furniture and vintage decor. Don't miss their filter coffee, which is brewed to perfection.
After breakfast, head to Napier Museum, a popular museum in Thiruvananthapuram. The museum houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, including ancient weapons, coins, sculptures, and manuscripts. The museum also has a natural history section that showcases the rich biodiversity of Kerala. The museum building is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and is surrounded by lush green gardens.
For lunch, head to Zam Zam, a small but popular restaurant in East Fort. The restaurant is known for its delicious biryanis, kebabs, and tandoori dishes. Try their mutton biryani, which is cooked with fragrant rice and tender mutton pieces in a traditional dum style. The restaurant also serves fresh and soft naan bread, which is perfect for mopping up the spicy gravies.
After lunch, head to Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a majestic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is one of the richest temples in the world and is known for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings. Take a guided tour of the temple and learn about its religious and cultural significance. The temple also houses a museum that showcases the temple's history and treasures.
For dinner, head to Barbeque Nation, a popular chain of restaurants that serves a variety of grilled dishes and barbeques. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience, where guests can grill their own food at the table and customize it according to their taste. The restaurant also has a buffet option that includes a wide range of starters, main course dishes, and desserts. Try their juicy and succulent chicken tikka and fish tandoori.
End your day by checking into Hycinth Hotels, a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city. The hotel offers spacious and well-furnished rooms with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, minibar, and flat-screen TV. The hotel also has a rooftop pool, fitness center, and spa for guests to relax and rejuvenate. The staff is courteous and helpful, and the location is convenient for travelers.