Thiruvananthapuram
Located in the southwestern tip of India, Thiruvananthapuram is bounded by the Arabian Sea in the west and Tamil Nadu in the east. Named after Anantha Padmanabha or Lord Vishnu, the city is home to many ancient temples. But the landmark is the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple around which the city has been built on seven low hills. The wooded highlands of the Western Ghats in the eastern and northeastern borders give Thiruvananthapuram some of the most enchanting picnic spots. A long shoreline with internationally renowned beaches, historic monuments, backwater, stretches and a rich cultural heritage make this district a much sought - after tourist destination. Clean and green, Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala is one of the most beautiful cities in the country.
How to Reach
Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (6 km from the city) has over 30 air links with convenient connections to Colombo, Maldives, Singapore and the Middle East, Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and many other major airlines operate domestic flights to different parts of the country.
Airline offices: Airport Authority of India Ph: 2501424, Indian Airlines, Mascot Jn. Ph: 2316870, 2501537, Jet Airways, Sasthamangalam Ph: 2721018, Jet Airways (Airport) Ph: 2500710, Air India, Vellayambalam Ph: 2310310, 2501426, SriLankan Airlines Ph: 2471810, Oman Airways, Kowdiar Ph: 2437017/18, Kuwait Airways, Vellayambalam Ph: 2720013, 2500434 (Airport), Saudi Arabian Airlines Ph: 2721321, Silk Air Ph: 2554144, 255144, 2504141, Qatar Airways Ph: 3919091, 3919092, Kingfisher Ph: 2508822, Etihad Airways Ph: 3010000-5, IndiGo Ph: 2500239
Rail: There are direct trains from Thiruvananthapuram to all the main towns in Kerala as well as the major cities in India-Railway enquiry Ph: 139
Road: Long distance buses operate from the Central Bus Station at Thampanoor, opposite the Railway Station. KSRTC Ph: 2323886.Short distance buses Operate from the City Bus Station, East Fort Ph: 2575495, Taxi fare: Minimum charge Rs. 250 (Non A/c) and Rs 300 (A/c): Rs. 7 per running km, (Non A/c) and Rs. 8 per running km (A/c), Autorickshaw fare: Minimum charge Rs. 12; Rs 7 per running km.
Tourist Information office: Tourist Facilitation Centre, Department of Tourism, Park View Ph: 2321132, Tourist information Centre, Railway Station, Thampanoor Ph: 2334470, Tourist Information Centre, Domestic Airport Ph: 2501085, Tourist Information Centre, International Airport Ph: 2502298, Tourist Facilitation Centre, Kovalam Ph: 2480085, Tourist Reception Centre (KTDC), Thampanoor Ph: 2330031, Central Reservations (KTDC), Hotel Mascot Ph: 2316736, District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), Vellayambalam Ph: 2315397 Fax: 2313606 www.dtpcthiruvananthapuram.com.
Place to Visit
Kovalam
Telephone access code: +91-471
Accessing Kovalam
Air: Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (10km/20min.)
Rail: Nearest Station: Thiruvananthapuram Central (16 km/30min.)
Road: Kovalam is off the NH 47 Bypass, just 13 km from the National Highway that links Salem to Kanyakumari via Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram.
Bus: The KSRTC Bus Stand at Kovalam is near the Vizhinjam-Poovar Road, Bus services are available every 15 minutes to Thiruvananthapuram, Ph: 2480365, 2481365. Low floor bus services between the city and Kovalam are also available.
Kovalam: (16 km from Thiruvananthapuram) This internationally renowned seaside destination has been a favourite haunt of tourists since the 1930s. Just a short drive away from the State capital, Kovalam is easily accessible. It encompasses three adjacent crescent-shaped beaches-Lighthouse Beach, Eve’s or Howah Beach and the Ashok Beach Golden Sands, miles of shimmering sea, rocky promontories constantly caressed by the sensuous surf and brilliant sunshine, make this place truly sensational. A charming village in its yesteryears, Kovalam today has all the trappings of a popular beach destination. Lined with shops, restaurants, ayurvedic centres and accommodation options to suit all budgets, the place has the unmistakable ambience of resort. Kovalam Beach offers a variety of activities including snorkeling, catamaran rides, sunset viewing, cycling on the beach etc.
In and around Kovalam
Kovalam Beach: Fringed by headlands that rise steeply above the shore, Kovalam Beach is almost completely covered by coconut palms. Of the three small bays separated by rocky outcrops, the southern-most, known as the Lighthouse Beach, is the most popular. The lovely old lighthouse that gives the beach its name is the Vizhinjam Lighthouse. Edakallu, a rocky headland, separates Eve’s or Howah Beach from the Lighthouse Beach. The hill that separates Howah Beach from the third of Kovalam’s celebrated beaches houses the Government Guest House and the Halcyon Castle. One of Kovalam’s spectacular landmarks, this charming old castle adds to the beauty of the setting.
Thiruvallam: (10 km from Thiruvananthapuram) this serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe rides, kayaking and cruises in kettuvalloms. The Boat Club here organises tours to the nearby islands of Pozhikara and Edayar as well as visits to coir manufacturing units.
The Great Kovalam Poets Monument: Ancient poets of Kovalam, Ayyipilla Asan and Ayyanappilla Asan were the authors of epic poems such as, Janakeeya Maha Kaviangal, Ramakatha Pattu and Bharathampattu, lived in Kovalam, near the Light House Beach, Avaduthura in 1400 AD. The monument is protected by the Kerala Government Archaeological Department.
Vizhinjam: A fishing village 2 km south of Kovalam, Vizhinjam is a natural port and one of the busiest fishing harbours in the district is all set to become the biggest shipping port of the region.
Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium: (Open 0900-1730 hrs) Located near the Theatre Junction, this aquarium, which houses a rich treasure of marine wealth has perfected the image Pearl production technique, by which a mould of any shape, made of shell cement is implanted into the pearl oyster. In 2-3 months, a pearl in the shape of the mould will be ready. Entrance fee: Adults: Rs. 20 Children: Rs. 10 Ph: 2480224
Chowara: (8 km south of Kovalam) This fishing hamlet near kovalam has many picturesque spots. The Chowara Ayyappa Temple, atop a hill, offers an amazing view of the beach below. Chowara is also home to the ancient Amalothbhava Matha Church. The Azhimalathara Beach here is identified as the only place where the sea recedes from the coast and does not eat into the beach during the monsoon.
Poovar: (12 km South of Kovalam). An isolated but spectacular beach, Poovar is situated close to the Neyyar River estuary. A trading port in its early days, it is today an important tourist destination.
Lighthouse: This 35m lighthouse is perched atop the palm-covered Kurumkal Hill which juts out on to the sea. Visitors can climb the spiraling staircase inside to the top of the red and white tower and enjoy a spectacular view of the surroundings.
Samudra Beach: lying to the north of Ashok Beach, this beach can be accessed only by taking a detour past Kovalam Junction. It is an awesome sight to watch the waves crash on the rocks below as you walk along the stretch of sea wall here.
VARKALA
(45km from Thiruvananthapuram, 2hrs.) A seaside destination, red laterite cliffs rise majestically from its coastline. The famed Papanasam Beach, believed to wash away all sins, is a paradise for those who worship the sun, sand and the surf. Serene backwaters, natural mineral springs and secluded coves make this place really special. Sivagiri Mutt and the Nature Cure Centre are the other main attractions here. A century-old tunnel is yet another landmark.
In and around Varkala
Anjengo Fort: (20 km south of Varkala) Originally built by the Portuguese as a depot to store merchandise, it was converted into a fort by the British. Sandwiched between the sea and the backwaters, the fort premises shelter ancient tombstones and a garden.
Varkala beach: (10 minutes from Varkala) This serenely beautiful destination along India’s western coast is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre. A dip in the Papanasam sea is considered holy. According to a myth, sage Narada was approached by a group of mendicants who confessed to having sinned. Narada threw his valkkalam (cloth made from the bark of a tree) into the air, and the place where it landed was subsequently named Varkala. The mendicants were directed by Narada to offer their prayers in the newly created place by the seashore. The place where they prayed for redemption came to be known as the Papanasam Beach (Papanasam means redemption from sins). This calm and secluded beach is much-loved by tourists. A remarkable feature here is the long stretch of red laterite cliffs fringing the beach. The cliff-top is an ideal place to watch the spectacular sunset. A natural spring, said to have curative properties, originates from the cliff.
Ponnumthuruthu Island: (20km from Varkala) A delightful getaway surrounded by the Anjengo backwaters, this uninhabited isle is accessible by boat from the makeshift jetty at the nearby Nedunganda village. A 100 year old Siva-Parvathi Temple, rebuilt a decade back, is situated here and the entire island is temple property.
Sivagiri Mutt: (open 0430-1200 hrs, 1630-1730 hrs) 200 acres of sanctified land, this is the final resting place of the most eminent leader, saint and social reformer of Kerala, Sree Narayana Guru. SNDP (Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam), the organisation he founded for the upliftment of backward classes, is headquartered here. The Mahasamadhi of the revered guru is located on top of a hillock. Further down is the guru’s residence, where his humble belongings are kept on display. Ph: 2602807, 2602455.
Janardhana Swamy Temple: (Open 0400-1200 hrs, 1700-2000 hrs) Believed to be two thousand years old, the current structure dates back to the 12th century. The deity of this temple is Lord Vishnu and Hindu pilgrims come here to perform final rites for the deceased Ph: 2607575.
Thiruvambady Beach (Black Sand Beach): (1 km from Thiruvambady Road) Calm and serene, this solitary beach is adjacent to the North Cliff. This is an ideal place for those seeking peace and solitude and can be easily reached by climbing down the cliff or driving down a kilometre.
The Varkala Kathakali Centre: The Centre near the North Cliff organizes Kathakali and Mohiniyattom performances in the evenings. Visitors can watch the makeup process of the artistes and a performance backed by English commentary. Timings: 05.00-08.00 hrs. Ph: 2603612
Telephone access code: +91-470
ACCESSING VARKALA
Air: Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (55km)
Rail: Varkala has its own Railway Station. You can board a train from Thiruvanathapuram to Kollam or Kochi and get down here. However, you need to check if the particular train has a stop at Varkala.
Road: Varkala is nearer to Kollam (35 km) and is on the NH47 to Kallambalam Junction via pallipuram and Attingal. It takes 1 hr from Kollam, 2 hrs. from Thiruvananthapuram and 4 hrs from Ernakulam.
Varkala Government Guest House: 2602227
Kappil Beach and Backwaters: (53 km from Thiruvananthapuram and 8 km north of Varkala) A confluence of the sea, river and the backwater, this secluded, picturesque spot is worth visiting. The Priyadarshini Boat Club here offers boating facilities. Timings: 10.00 hrs to 06.00 hrs.
Pedal Boats (4 seater): 30 min. Rs. 100 (2 seater): 30 min. Rs. 60; Row Boats: 30 min. Rs. 60; Safari Boats: 1 hr. Rs. 750, 40 min. Rs. 600, 20 min. Rs. 400; Speed Boats: 30 min. Rs. 900, 10 min. Rs. 400
For details, contact: Manager Priyadarshini Boat Club
Ph: 0470-2662323
AGASTHYAKOODAM: (34 km- 1½ hours) part of the Sahyadri range of mountains, Agasthyakoodam, at a height of 1,890 m above sea level, is the second highest peak in Kerala. Teeming with wildlife, the forests of Agasthyakoodam abound in rare medicinal herbs and plants, and brilliantly hued orchids. A bird watcher’s paradise, this legendary mountain is accessible by foot from Kotoor, near Neyyar Dam, as also from Bonakkad. Trek, where even the very air is supposed to have healing properties. It is believed that sage Agasthya, the mythological character lived here. Women are not allowed up the peak and permission is required to trek. The season from December to April is advocated for trekking for which a forest pass has to be obtained from the Wildlife Warden, Forest Department, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram. Ph: 2360762
PADMANABHAPURAM PALACE: (52 km from Thiruvananthapuram- 2½ hrs. closed on Mondays) The seat of the erstwhile rulers of Travancore, this splendid palace is situated at Thuckalai, on the way to Kanyakumari. This is a well-preserved wooden palace, a glorious testimony to the traditional Kerala School of Architecture. The extraordinary murals, exquisite floral carvings and the black glossy granite floor have withstood the test of time. Ph: 04651-250255.
PONMUDI: (61km-2 ½ hours) An idyllic hill station, Ponmudi is located 915 m above sea level. One of the very few hill resorts situated close to the sea, Ponmudi is teeming with narrow, winding pathways and cool, green, wooded environs. Apart from the spice and tea plantation, the area is studded with waterfalls, picturesque view points and rich flora. With a variety of beautiful mountain flowers, wild orchids, exotic butterflies, small rivulets, springs and a deer park nearby, this hilly destination offers excellent trekking trails and camping opportunities. The tree house view tower is another attraction.
Food: KTDC restaurant
Accommodation: KTDC Golden Peak Ph: 0472-2890186, 2890225
www.ktdc.com Govt. Guest House: Ph: 0472-2890230 Rooms and cottages Rs. 430/-
1,100 (4 bed). For reservations, contact: The secretary, General Admn. Dept. (Political). Govt. Secretariat, Thiruvananthapuram Ph: 2327366.
In and around Ponmudi
Kallar: (46km from Thiruvananathapuram) This river is a charming stopover en route to the Ponmudi Hill Station. A kilometre up is the Golden Valley, where a tributary of the Kallar joins the main river. The nearby Meenmutty Waterfall offers an excellent trekking opportunity. Contact the Chief conservator of Wildlife in Thiruvananthapuram for trekking permission. Ph: 2529310, 2321610. Entrance fee Adults: Rs. 10, Children: Rs.5.
Special Attractions
Meshan Mani: On the eastern side of the Padmanabha Swamy Temple, installed in 1833 during the reign of Swathi Thirunal, is the Meshan Mani (clock). It has on its dial, a man’s face with two goats on either side. Crafted from mahogany by an artisan called Kulathooran, every time the clock completes an hour, the man opens his mouth and the goats hit his cheeks.
CNV Kalari: (Open 0630-2030 hrs. Tourists only on Wednesdays) The most famous amongst the many Kalari centres, CVN Kalari has its own Ayurvedic clinic. Located near the Padmanabha Swamy Temple, this place, which teaches Kerala’s ancient martial art, is within walking distance from the Central Railway Station. Ph: 2474182
Secretariat: Built in the Roman architectural style, this landmark building at Statue Junction, is the centre of Kerala Government’s administration. It houses the offices of ministers and bureaucrats. Ph: 2336576
Kerala Legislature Complex: Located at Palayam, the building where the Legislative Assembly of Kerala meets is a beautiful blend of classical and modern splendour. Situated behind the State Legislative Assembly Complex, the Legislature Museum throws light on the political history of the State. Ph: 2512524
University Observatory: (Open 10.00 - 06.30 hrs) Located near the Museum complex, this observatory which is 60m above sea level offers a bird’s-eye view of the city.
VJT Hall: Built to commemorate the golden jubilee of the coronation of Queen Victoria in 1896, the VJT Hall was inaugurated by Sree Moolam Thirunal Rama Varma on January 25, 1896. The hall has witnessed many historical events. Perhaps the most preferred venue for public functions in the city, this monument stands tall as a remnant of the colonial era. Ph: 2477441
The Kanakakkunnu Palace: The palace and its sprawling grounds are today a venue for many cultural meets and programmes. Ph: 2314615
Chacha Nehru Children’s Museum: (Open 10.30-05.00 hrs. closed on Mondays) Children of all ages will enjoy the vast collection of nearly 2,000 dolls, stamps and masks displayed here. Ph: 2324939
Vyloppilly Samskrithi Bhavan: (Programmes start at 1800 hrs) A traditional building that houses the personal belonging of the great Malayalam poet, the late Vyloppailly Sreedhara Menon. Kathakali shows are held here regularly. Ph: 2311842 www.mpcc.kerala.gov.in
Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) Palace Museum: (Open 08.30-01.00 hrs, 03.00 - 05.00 hrs. Closed on Mondays) The beautiful two storeyed Kuthiramalika (Horse Palace), near the Padmanabha Swamy Temple, houses numerous artefacts. The unique Navarathri Mandapam in front of the palace, a venue for concerts, uses traditional sound reflectors comprising of 50 clay pots hung upside down from the ceiling, creating an effect that outdoes even modern acoustic systems. This palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma-the King of Travancore, who was a great poet, musician, social reformer and statesman. This rare specimen of workmanship, in the traditional Travancore style of architecture has exquisite wood carvings. The palace museum displays paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family. Entrance fee: Adults: Rs. 10. Children: Rs. 3. Foreigners: Rs. 20. Camera permit (outside): Rs. 15. Video: Rs. 500 Ph: 2473952
Akkulam Tourist Village: (10 km from Thiruvananthapuram) (Open 1000-1800 hrs) A picnic spot with boating facilities, run by DTPC Thiruvananthapuram, Akkulam is a place children flock to. It has a well-equipped children’s park, a paddle pool and a swimming pool for adults. Ph: 2443043.
Boat rentals: (Open 06.00 – 05.30 hrs) Safari boat (20 min.): Rs. 400 for 12 people. Pedal boat (30 min.); Rs. 60 for 2 persons, Rs. 100 for 4 persons. Row boat (30 min.) Rs. 100 for 4 persons, Rs. 60 for 2 persons. Speed boat (10 min.); Rs. 600 for 4 persons.
Entrance fee: Children’s park (Open 09.30-07.00 hrs): Adults: Rs. 10; Children: Rs.5
Swimming pool (Open 06.00-06.30 hrs-swimming suit compulsory): Adults (1 hr): Rs. 30. Children (1hr.) Rs. 20. Entry ticket-1 hr Rs. 5 Monthly pass: Adults Rs. 600, Children Rs. 400; Life time membership: family Rs. 15,000, single Rs. 10,000 Summer training coaching camp Rs. 1,700 (2 months), Rs. 1,200 (1 month). For Details contact: Manager, Akkulam Tourist Village. Ph: 2443043 or DTPC Ph: 2315397
Aruvikkara Dam: (16km- ½ hour) Near the Durga Temple is a stream full of fish that fearlessly come close to the shore to be fed by the visitors. DTPC runs a snack parlour and a park in this picturesque picnic spot.
Koyikkal Palace, Nedumangad: (18 km from Thiruvananthapuram ½ hour) This ancient palace dates back to the 15th century. Museums of folklore and numismatics are set up here. Ph: 0472-2812136
The Numismatics Museum: The coins here belong to different parts of the world as well as to different eras. The rare and historically valuable collection of coins gives an insight into the trade relations of the State. Among the exhibits is the most valuable Indian coin- the 2,500 year old Karsha and Rasi, the world’s smallest coin.
The Folklore Museum: Set up in 1992, this museum is a treasure trove of quaint musical instruments, occupational implements, household utensils, models of folk art etc. that draws attention to the cultural background of the State.
Veli Tourist Village : (12 km from Thiruvananthapuram open 0800-1800 hrs) This picnic spot, where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea, offers boating facilities Pedal boats and paddle boats can be hired to explore the charms of the lagoon in a leisurely manner. For a quick ride over the waters, speed boats are available for hire. Children can also enjoy climbing over the huge sculptures that dot the landscape. Ph: 2500785
Boat rentals (1000-1730 hrs).
- Safari boat: Rs. 60 per head
- Speed boat: Rs. 600 for 4 persons
- Pedal boat: 2 seater- Rs. 60 for half an hour.
Neyyar Dam: (32 km from Thiruvananthapuram 1hr) A popular picnic spot, Neyyar Dam has a watch tower, a crocodile farm, a lion safari park and a deer park. Boating facilities are available at the reservoir.
Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary: (50 km from Thiruvananthapuram) This sanctuary spread over 53 sq.km on the Western Ghats, is accessible from Vithurai. With its rich flora and fauna, Peppara, dotted with hillocks, forests and eucalyptus plantations, is a great attraction for wildlife enthusiasts. For entry permits, contact: Wildlife Warden, Wildlife Division, Thiruvananthapuram Ph: 2360762
MUSEUM COMPLEX
Ph: 2316275 Email: museumzoo@gmail.com www.keralamuseumandzoo.org
The Napier Museum: (Open 10.00 - 04.45 hrs. Closed on Mondays, Wednesday forenoons, January 26th, August 15th, Thiruonam and Mahanavami) Built in the 19th century, this Indo-Saracenic structure boasts of a natural air conditioning system and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artefacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. The Javanese shadow play leather figures, used to depict the epics of Mahabharata and the Ramayana, are very interesting.
Sree Chithra Art Gallery: (Open 10.00 - 06.45 hrs. Closed on Mondays & Wednesday forenoons) Located near the Napier Museum, this art gallery opened in 1935 by the Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Roerich; exquisite works from the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art in India as well as paintings from China, Japan, Tibet ad Bali. The collection also includes unique copies of Indian mural paintings from pre-historic times down to the 18th century. Entrance fee (Museum & Art Gallery): Adults: Rs. 10. Children: Rs.4.
Sree Chithra Enclave: Opened in 1993, this museum depicts the history of the Travancore Royal Family and displays their personal belongings and artefacts. Old newspaper footage and deeds describing the events are also exhibited here.
The Zoological Park: (Open 09.00-06.15 hrs. Closed on Mondays) one of the first zoos in India, it was established as early as 1859. The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is among the best-designed in Asia and is set amidst woodland, lakes and lawns. A reptile house with different species of snakes and a vulture house are also located within the premises. Plastic is banned inside the park. Entrance fee: Adults: Rs. 10. Children between 5-12 yrs. Rs. 5. Camera permit: Rs. 25
KCS Panicker Gallery: Nominated as one of the nine eminent artists of India, Kerala’s renowned painter, Panicker, was born in 1911. He was instrumental in setting up the Progressive Painters Association in Chennai from 1944 to 1953. Being an artist who set a new trend, the gallery traces his works over a period.
Shankhumugham Beach: (8 km from Thiruvananthapuram) This place is a favourite haunt of sunset watchers. An indoor recreation club, the matsya kanyaka (a gigantic, 35m long sculpture of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are some of the attractions here. The Chacha Nehru Traffic Training Park here gives children the opportunity to learn the traffic rules.
Natural History Museum: (Open 10.00 - 05.00 hrs. Wednesday1300-1645 hrs. Closed on Mondays) This modern building houses the skeletal, bird, animal and taxidermy galleries as well as a museum. Entrance fee: Adults: Rs. 5. Children between 5-12yrs. Rs. 4 Photography not allowed.
Kerala Museum of History and Heritage: (Park view Building, Opposite Museum Compound) Charting Kerala’s historical and cultural evolution over the centuries, from pre-historic to historic times, Kerala’s progress in various fields during different periods is showcased in the museum’s nine galleries. Modern technological support makes this museum an ‘interactive’ one, with information kiosks and LCD displays to provide more information to visitors. Kerala State Science and Technology Museum Complex
Galleries: Electronic, Electrical, Mechanical, Popular Science, Mathematics, Automobile, Biomedical and the Children’s Science Park which includes an International Science Library. Fare: Children Rs. 10 Adults: Rs. 15
Priyadarshini Planetarium: (Show time: 10.30 hrs, 12.00 hrs, 02.00 hrs and 05.00 hrs) Opened in 1994 to the public, this is one of the most versatile planetariums in the country. The main GM-11 star field projector here can project almost all the constituents of the visible universe. It can also simulate the star-studded night sky over any location on the earth, on any day up to 12,500 years back or 12,500 years into the future. The Planetarium also arranges special shows for a group of more than 80 people. Entrance fee: Adults: Rs. 15. Children between 3-10 yrs. Rs. 10
3D Theatre: Show timing: After the show at Planetarium. Entrance fee Rs. 10
Musical fountain with laser shows and Thrillarium Astronomical Observatory (Timings 06.30 hrs on Thursdays & Fridays; Entrance fee: Rs. 10)
Valiathura: (10 km from Thiruvananthapuram) Located near Shankhumugham, this was once the only port along the South Kerala coast. During monsoons, fishermen carry their catamarans to the edge of the Valiathura Pier, which is 703 ft long, and throw them into the sea, then jump in and swim to it.
Places of Worship
Padmanabha Swamy Temple: (Open 04.15-0515 hrs, 06.45-07.15 hrs, 08.30-11.15 hrs, 11.45-12.00 hrs, 05..00- 06.15 hrs, 1845-1930 hrs) Located inside the East Fort, this temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. One among the 108 sacred Vishnu temples in India, the presiding deity here its Lord Vishnu reclining on Anantha, the Serpent. The idol, plated in gold and made out of a rare composition known as katu-sarkara-yogam, is acclaimed as a marvel. It is also noted for its mural plantings and stone carvings. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple. Dress code: Men-Dhoti without any upper clothing; Women-Saree or full skirt and blouse; Handbags, mobile phones, cameras etc. are not allowed: Ph: 2450233.
Beemapally: (12 km southwest of Thiruvananthapuram) An important place of worship, the Beemapally Dargah Shareef is dedicated to Bee Umma, a pious Muslim woman who was believed to posses great spiritual powers. The Chandanakudam Festival at Beemapally, lasting for 10 days, is one of the most colourful events. Ph: 2500379.
Sree Mahadeva Temple: Situated in Kazhakuttom, this ancient temple is believed to date back to the 14th century. Another old temple in the district is the Mitranandapuram Temple on the outskirts of the city.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Palayam: This 125-year-old church is very popular among the Catholic followers and is an important landmark of the city.
Parasurama Temple, Thiruvallam: (7km from Thiruvananthapuram) This 2,000 year-old temple on the banks of the River Karamana, is the only one in Kerala dedicated to Sree Parasurama, the mythological creator of the State. This temple is a venue for ancestor worship. As part of the Bali ritual, devotees make offerings to the souls of the departed, after taking a dip in the holy water. Ph: 2380706.
Vizhinjam Rock cut Cave Temple: (17 km-1/2 hr and 5km south of Kovalam jn. Open 09.00-06.00 hrs. closed on Mondays) There are rock-cut sculptures of the 18th century in the cave temple at Vizhinjam. The granite cave here encloses a one-celled shrine with a loose sculpture of Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi. The outer wall of the cave depicts half-complete relics of the Hindu God Siva with Goddess Parvathi.
