5 Best Places to visit in and around Thiruvananthapuram

Five weekend getaways in Thiruvananthapuram you shouldn’t miss.

Got an amazing weekend and thinking of making it exciting by a thrilling getaway ?


If you happen to be in Thiruvananthapuram, you could pay a visit to following places.

Here goes my list…

1. Ponmudi

For all the local tourists out there at Thiruvananthapuram, Ponmudi is a chilly solace to the hot and humid climate they witness in the city. It is 65 km away from the city. Though it cannot be compared to major hill stations, the place is just enough to chill out for a day for its cool, pleasant and soothing climate . Not so cold but a pleasant chilly weather to relax your mind and soul. You can also visit Meenmutty waterfalls on the way to Ponmudi , provided you have time for trekking.  It’s near to Kallar river enroute Ponmudi.

2. Jatayu Nature Park

Jatayu nature park is around 45 kms from Thiruvananthapuram via MC road. It is located at Chadayamangalam near Kollam district . It’s renowned for the worlds largest bird sculpture. You can avail the cable cars to reach the top and enjoy the scenic view of the park. There are walkways to let you enjoy the park. Apart from the scenery the park offers adventure tourism such as  Paint ball, rappelling, rock climbing, jumaring etc. For more details regarding timings, you can visit their official website below:
Website: Jatayu Earths Center

3. Azhimala cliff and beach

The latest attraction here is the 58-feet-tall Gangadhareshwara sculpture (Azhimala Siva statue) completed at the Azhimala temple. The sculpture was erected on a rock situated at an altitude of 20-feet from the sea to resist the wind and salty air from the sea. You can watch the sunset at Azhimala beach also known as Vizhinjam beach, a relatively a calm surrounding compared to Kovalam beach which is nearby. You can also club the visit with Poovar island which is another exotic estuary location nearby.

4. Veli Tourist Village

Amidst Veli lake , its an ideal place to spend with family and is budget friendly. The recently inaugurated solar powered miniature train is the latest attraction of the place. Floating cafe and children’s park make the visit worthwhile when you are travelling with small children. An enjoyable boat ride is another treat , that  the place has got to offer. It is 12 km from the city. Timing is 9:00 am to 6 pm.

5. Thiruvananthapuram Museum and Zoo

Located at the heart of the city spanning for about 55 acres, the place has got lot to offer. Variety of animals , birds and aquatic animals, the place is best enjoyed by both elders and children alike. It has children’s park and you can easily spent a day there. Napier museum is another attraction and Kanakakunnu palace is also nearby. You  can enjoy long walks with family by exploring all the attractions. The place is easily accessible being in the city centre. Zoo timing is from 9:00 am to 5 pm. It is closed on Mondays.

Bonus place:

If you want a completely different entertainment, you can plan to go to Magic planet. A magic themed park, first of its kind is located at Kinfra Film & Video Park near Kazhakkoottam, Thiruvananthapuram.
Website:    Magic Planet