Trivandrum is the capital city of Kerala, filled with culture, history, and natural beauty. Trivandrum is famous for its serene beaches, majestic temples, lush hills, and rich heritage. The city is no less than a heaven on earth for travellers seeking spirituality and modern leisure.
From historic palaces and ancient temples to lively markets and scenic viewpoints, places to visit in Trivandrum truly reflect the charm and diversity of the region. Trivandrum offers a range of attractions that make it one of the top tourist places in Kerala. During your Kerala trip, a visit to Trivandrum lets you experience the perfect blend of tradition, nature, and modern charm. So if you want to experience the raw beauty of nature and enjoy an unforgettable view, Trivandrum is waiting for you. In this guide, we cover the best places to visit in Trivandrum.
Top 20 Places to Visit in Trivandrum
Here are the 20 best places to visit in Trivandrum. Each place has its own significance, like some centuries-old Nation’s heritage, serene beaches, and spiritual solace.
1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is the most famous tourist place in Trivandrum. This historic temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, where the temple showcases the Dravidian architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures. The Mandir’s sanctorum offers you peace, calm, and a spiritual feeling for everyone who visits. It is one of the best places to visit in Trivandrum with its hidden treasury & royal history.
Location: East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fees: Free
Timings: 3:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Highlights: Experience the spirituality and historical significance.
2. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple
One of the must-visit places in Trivandrum for its spirituality and unique celebrations. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Bhadrakali. The celebration of the Attukal Pongal festival is one of the main attractions of the temple. It holds a Guinness World record for the largest congregation of women. The temple view is a perfect masterpiece of architecture and is the most peaceful place for devotees and tourists.
Location: Manacaud P.O., Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry fees: Free
Timing: 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Highlights: Grand celebration of the Pongal festivals.
3. Karikkakom Devi Temple
This temple is considered to be a 600-year-old heritage. Dedicated to Goddess Maa Chamunda. The temple architecture beautifully represents South Indian craftsmanship. Pilgrims come here to perform a ritual seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and family welfare. The temple’s surroundings give you peaceful vibes and make it one of the favourite tourist places in Trivandrum.
Location: Karikkakom, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fees: free
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Highlight: Experience the divine aura of Goddess Chamunda
4.Kovalam Beach
Kovalam Beach is one of the favourite tourist places in Trivandrum, with its golden sands, palm-fringed shorelines, and calm waters attracting tourists for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying the traditional Kerala massage at nearby wellness centres. Kovalam is also a hub for water sports and sunset photography, beaches offers a vibrant seaside experience that makes it best places to visit in Trivandrum.
Location: Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry fee: Free
Timing: Open 24 Hours
Highlight: Ideal for sunset views and beach activities.
5. Varkala Beach
Varkala Beach is situated a outside Trivandrum, with its natural beauty and spiritual charm. This beach is famous for its stunning view with its cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea making it must-visit places in Trivandrum. The tourists enjoy walking along the cliffside cafes, taking an Ayurvedic treatment, and visiting the nearby Janardanaswamy Temple. It is one of the places to visit in Trivandrum.
Location: Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: Open 24 Hours
Highlights: Scenic cliffside views over the Arabian Sea.
6. Napier Museum
It is one of the great stops for Trivandrum sightseeing, offering insight into Kerala’s rich heritage & treasures. The museum houses is an impressive collection of ancient sculptures, traditional Kerala ornaments, and murals. It is a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts and history lovers, while other tourists can enjoy the peaceful museum grounds and beautiful landscape gardens surrounding the heritage building. These make it one of the best Thrivandrum Sightseeing.
Location: Museum Road, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: 15Rs for Indians, 150Rs foe foeeigners
Timing: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Highlight: Marvel at traditional Kerala wooden architecture
7. Padmanabhapuram Palace
This palace offers Kerala’s architecture and unique wooden carving. This palace includes a royal chamber, durbar halls, and exquisitely decorated interiors. This place takes you back in time while exploring the elegant craftsmanship and historical artefacts. It is considered one of the best places to visit in Trivandrum.
Location: Padmanabhapuram, KanyaKujari District, Kerala
Entry Fee: 20 Rs for Indians, 200Rs for foreigners
Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Highlights: Marvel at the traditional Kerala wooden architecture
8. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum
The Kuthiramalika Palace was built by the Maharaja Swathi Thirunal. The palace is a living example of a unique architectural design, carved horse motifs, and antique collections. The presence of the palace signifies a glimpse of royal life, with artefacts ranging from musical instruments to Traditional attire. If you are planning a Kerala trip, this is a must-visit place in Trivandrum.
Location: East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: 10 Rs for Indians, 50 Rs for Foreigners
Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Highlight: Admire the intricate wooden carving and royal artefacts.
9. Shanghumukham Beach
It is one of the famous tourist places in Trivandrum. The beach is famous for its sprawling sands, coconut groves, and sunset views. The giant sculpture of a mermaid near the beach is a striking landmark, giving a perfect viewed for photography. Tourists here can enjoy a peaceful walk, beach games, and the coastal breeze. This beach is one of the must-visit tourist places in Trivandrum for families and solo travellers looking for relaxation and natural beauty.
Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: Open 24 Hours
Highlight: Iconic Jalakanyaka sculpture & sunset views.
10. Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary
If you love wildlife, then Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary is a preferred destination for sightseeing in Trivandrum. Nature and hills surround you, where you can enjoy boating facilities and some scenic spots suitable for photography. The sanctuary has a plethora of wildlife, which includes elephants, deer, and various bird species, making it a great spot for lovers of nature. This is an experience you probably haven't had before. Other attractions nearby include the crocodile farm and very calm surroundings near the dam.
Location: Neyyar, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: 20Rs for Ingdians, 50Rs for foreigners
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Highlight: wildlife sighting and scenic boating experiences
11. Vellayani Lake
Vellayani Lake offers a serene environment that is perfect for boating and picnics, and a good time spent with families. The lake is surrounded by coconut groves. It's a breathtaking view, giving a perfect camera shot. Locals come here away from the city chaos for peace and relaxation. The sunset views over the lake are enchanting, adding to its charm as a top destination for Trivandrum sightseeing.
Location: Palace Road, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Highlight: explore cultural performance & royal gardens
12. Kanakakkunnu Palace
The palace is encircled by large green gardens, embracing royal history and cultural charm. Some cultural programs, traditional shows, and festivities are organized here, providing tourists with a real-time experience of Kerala's tradition and rituals. The unique design of the palace building and the well-kept lawns make it a must-visit place in Trivandrum.
Location: Palace Road, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Highlight: Enjoy cultural performance & royal gardens
13. Sreekanteswaram Temple
Sreekanteswaram Temple is dedicated to lord Shiva. The temple architecture and the sacred vibes attract tourists and locals to visit here. It is considered the best places to visit in Trivandrum for the worship of Lord Shiva. Mandir hosts daily Pooja and offers an authentic experience of Kerala’s religious traditions. The Mandir is full of Kerala’s rituals & religious traditions, it is best places in Trivandrum.
Locations: Sreekanteswaram, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Highlight: Traditional rituals & calm spiritual environment
14. Chalai Market
It is a marketplace offering a lively shopping experience with spices, textiles, souvenirs, and local delicacies. These decades-old markets display the city’s cultural diversity and vibrant energy. Tourists take a walk through the narrow lanes, interact with local vendors, and taste authentic Kerala snacks. Chalai market is must-visit places in Trivandrum for those to love shopping and trying different meals.
Location: Chalai, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Highlight: Authentic shopping and local flavour
15. Ponmudi Hills
Ponmudi Hills are also known as “Golden Peak”, surrounded by a thick forest, tea plantations, and winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the valley. One of the great spots for Trivandrum sightseeing for a quality time with family or a short nature trek. In the winter season, the hills get covered with snow, giving breathtaking views to be captured. All these make it a most beautiful and peaceful places to visit in Trivandrum.
Location: Ponmudi, Thiruvananthapuram District, Kerala
Entry Fees: 30Rs per person
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Highlight: Scenic views, tea gardens, foggy hills, and peaceful atmosphere.
16. Vizhinjam Lighthouse
The Vizhinjam Lighthouse is located near Kovalam Beach. This red & white colour tall lighthouse offers a breathtaking view of the Arabian Sea and aesthetic photos to be captured. It is a calm and refreshing spot where you can enjoy the sea breeze and take amazing photos. Sunset is the best time to visit here because the golden light makes the lights make sea look magical and makes it a famous tourist places in Trivandrum.
Location: Vizhinjam, Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: 20 Rs per person
Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Highlight: Amazing panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and coastline
17. Magic Planet Theme Park
It is considered one of the top tourist attractions in Trivandrum. The main focus of this theme park is magic shows, science tricks and an interactive performance. People come here to enjoy stage shows and street magic, while the games are either fun or entertaining for people of all ages. It is one of the unique places to visit in Trivandrum, where you can observe that learning and entertainment have come together.
Location: KINFRA FILM and Video park, Kazhakkoottam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: 400 Rs per person
Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Highlight: Fun magic shows for families and kids
18. Veli Tourist Village
Veli Tourist Village is the best tourist places in Trivandrum, with its quiet natural setting by the Veli Lake and the Arabian Sea. This is a wonderful place for boating, picnics, and family outings. There is a children's park, sculptures, and walking paths that are fun for people of all ages. The view of the backwaters meeting the sea is beautiful. It’s one of the must-visit places in Trivandrum for a relaxing day outdoors.
Location: Veli, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: 10 Rs per person
Timing: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Highlight: Boating and peaceful lakeside atmosphere
19. Thiruvananthapuram Zoo
Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is one of the finest spots to visit in Trivandrum for families, kids, and animal lovers. It is also one of the oldest zoos in India, established in the 19th century, and is nestled in a lovely green park. The zoo includes elephants, tigers, lions, deer, hippos, reptiles, birds, and a variety of other animals from India and other parts of the globe and making it best places to see in Trivandrum.
Location: Museum Road, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: 20 Rs for adults, 5 Rs for children
Timing: 9:00 AM – 5:15 PM
Highlights: Wide variety of animals in a natural setting
20. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the key tourist places in Trivandrum for nature enthusiasts as well as backpackers. The sanctuary has mountains, rivers and forests, all of which house elephants, leopards, deer and many species of birds. Visitors will have the opportunity for guided treks, can enjoy the picturesque dam and experience the raw & real beauty of Kerala. This would be an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy nature and adventure as part of their Trivandrum sightseeing
Location: Peppara Dam, Vithura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Entry Fee: 50 Rs per person
Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Highlights: Trekking and wildlife spotting
Conclusion
Trivandrum is a city of tradition, culture, and natural beauty in the state of Kerala. The city has something for every kind of traveller, from peaceful temples and royal palaces to scenic beaches, green hills, lively markets, and old monuments. These places to visit in Trivandrum are the real attraction for visitors and locals. All these are live examples of Kerala’s rich history, rituals, architecture and lifestyle.
When you are interested in spirituality, wildlife, shopping, or simply want to relax and enjoy the views, Trivandrum's tourist spots never disappoint. So if you're excited, pack your bags, let’s explore Kerala’s places to visit in Trivandrum.
