Thursday 14 July 2011

Thiruvananthapuram/Trivandrum, Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, formerly known as Trivandrum, is the capital of the Indian state of Kerala. It is the headquarters of the Thiruvananthapuram District. It is located on the west coast of India near the extreme south of the mainland. Referred to by Mahatma Gandhi as the "Evergreen city of India", the city is characterized by its undulating terrain of low coastal hills and busy commercial alleys.


The city gets its name from the word, Thiru-anantha-puram, meaning the "Abode of Lord Ananta". The name derives from the deity of the Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple at the centre of the city. Anantha is the serpent Shesha on whom Padmanabhan or Vishnu reclines. This temple of Vishnu reclining on Anantha remains the iconic landmark of the city. It is estimated that the value of the monumental items and assets of the temple partially revealed are close to 100,000 crore (US$22.3 billion), making it the Richest temple in the world. The city was officially referred to as Trivandrum until 1991, when the government decided to reinstate the city's original name Thiruvananthapuram.

The capital city of Kerala, Trivandrum city is known as the gateway of one of the most beautiful states in India. Located on the south west coast of India, this tropical paradise is known as "God's own country" and for the right reasons. Lush green landscapes interspersed with crystal clear backwaters make this state the most visited tourist destination. The state maintains its traditional heritage even in the modern century and Trivandrum tourism industry is increasing by the moment. Also known as Thiruvananthapuram, your travel to Trivandrum will be one experience that you wouldn't forget for the rest of your lives. 

Trivandrum has a rich tradition that dates back to almost 1000 B.C. Even today, the past and present are found to exist in perfect harmony in Kerala. Trivandrum has a lot of tourist attractions that are worth visiting and the clean and serene environment makes the whole experience a truly memorable one. The city of Trivandrum is different from other large Indian cities and is a welcome break from the bustling commercial city life. Here, time moves slowly and offers plenty of opportunities to explore this beautiful city, which used to form a part of the ancient capital city of Travancore. 

The city maintains its cultural identity and also offers the latest amenities to its visitors. You will find small temples and huge malls on the same street. The city has many museums, palaces and wildlife sanctuaries that are a must visit for anyone traveling to Trivandrum. So come and see for yourself the beautiful city of Trivandrum and experience the magic.


Places to See:

Aranmula Boat Race


Held every year in the months of August - September, this famous boat race is major crowd puller and is held during the Aranmula Temple festival. 

Koyikkal Palace


This ancient palace is located at a distance of 18 kilometers from Trivandrum and dates back to the 15th century.

Napier Museum


If you want to know what a typical Nair family looks like, visit this museum that has a model of the traditional Nair family in Kerala. 

Varkala Beach


This beach has a seaside resort and is also an important pilgrimage of the Hindus. The beach has mineral springs that rise in a splendid way from the coasts. A major attraction here is the 2000-year-old Janardhana Swami temple that attracts many tourists. 

Agastyarkoodam


A towering peak in the Western Ghats, the Agastyarkoodam rises to a height of 1868 meters and looks like a sharp cone. The peak is accessible by foot and trekking on this peak is a great experience. 

Akkulam Lake


Situated at a distance of 3 kilometers from Ulloor junction of Trivandrum, this lake is the biggest Children's park in Kerala and also has boating facilities. 

Aruvippuram


Located in a scenic location in Trivandrum, this place is an important pilgrim center as well as a picnic spot. 

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum


This palace has been converted into a museum and is a classic example of traditional Kerala architecture. 

Neyyar Dam


Located near the lofty ranges of Western Ghats, this dam is a popular picnic spot and the catchment area of the dam is a picturesque spot to unwind and relax. 

Paripally Gajamela


Located at a distance of 48 kilometers from Trivandrum, Paripally is known for its elephant procession where some 50 elephants are beautifully decorated and paraded in the temple festival that takes place during February - March.


East Fort





East Fort got its name from the eastern entrance to the fort built by the Kings of Travancore. The old city was all inside the fort on four sides with the Sri Padmanabha Swamy temple at the center............
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1 comment:

  1. Aruvippuram is famous for the siva temple established by Sree Narayana Guru the saint and reformer of modern kerala.His message One God, One Religion and One Caste for mankind has greater importance nowadays.

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