Located in the heart of the city, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the most revered Hindu temples in India. It is known for its intricate architecture and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Visitors are required to follow a strict dress code and photography is prohibited inside the temple.
The temple opens at 3:30 am and closes at 12 pm. It reopens at 5 pm and closes at 7:20 pm.
10:30AM: Napier Museum
The Napier Museum, built in 1855, is a perfect example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. The museum houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artefacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, and a temple chariot.
The museum is open from 10 am to 4:45 pm. It is closed on Mondays.
12:00PM: Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach is a beautiful and popular beach located just 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram. The beach is famous for its pristine waters, sandy shores, and clear blue skies. It is an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
The best time to visit the beach is from September to May. It takes 30 minutes to reach Kovalam Beach from Napier Museum.
2:00PM: Poovar Island
Poovar Island, located 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram, is a serene and peaceful island that offers a unique experience of backwater cruising, beach fun, and Ayurvedic rejuvenation. Visitors can take a boat ride through the backwaters, explore the mangrove forests, and relax on the golden sand beaches.
It takes around 1 hour to reach Poovar Island from Kovalam Beach.
5:00PM: Vizhinjam Lighthouse
The Vizhinjam Lighthouse is a 19th-century lighthouse located in Vizhinjam, a coastal town 3 km away from Kovalam. It offers a stunning view of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding beaches. Visitors can climb up the lighthouse to enjoy the panoramic view.
The lighthouse is open from 3 pm to 5 pm on weekdays and from 10 am to 1 pm on weekends.
Recommendations
If you have more time, do visit the Kanakakkunnu Palace and the Kuthiramalika Palace Museum. You can also take a day trip to Ponmudi Hill Station or Varkala Beach. For foodies, the local cuisine of Thiruvananthapuram is a must-try. Do not miss out on the traditional dishes like Puttu, Appam, and Fish Curry. To maximize your fun, consider hiring a local guide or taking a bike tour to explore the city.
Looking for hotels and flights in Thiruvananthapuram? Click here to book your trip.