The Lighthouse Beach beach is rightly named after the Kovalam Lighthouse which overlooks its ivory white sands and turquoise waters of the Lakshadweep Sea. Lined with palm trees and always breezy, the Lighthouse Beach comes recommended during summers and monsoons alike. If you are here when the sun is shining brightly, head out into the deep blue and frolic in the waves. Rains are best enjoyed at the coast at one of the many shacks serving piping hot seafood. A number of water sports are carried out at the beach, of which paragliding comes most recommended if you wish to soak in an amazing view of the beach town. Those here with someone special, they can skip the day time and head out to the Lighthouse Beach to see the sun go down.
Thiruvananthapuram Zoo was established in 1857 by the King of Travancore to attract tourists. Spread across 22 hectares (55 acres) that cover picturesque dense forests and lakes, the zoo has several species of animals not only from India but also from other countries. A renovation in 1995 led to the zoo's modernization, and what was once an animal park used for recreation has now acquired the role of a conservation center for endangered species. Animals are now kept inside enclosures in a more naturalistic set up. Species of animals inside this well-maintained habitat include the royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic lion, One-Horned Great Indian Rhino, Nilgiri langur, poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, along with African hippos, giraffes, and Cape buffaloes. Considered to be one of the oldest in India, the zoo is a recommended tourist destination.
Attached to the Neyyar reservoir, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a large spread of ecological reserve lying to the south-east of Thiruvananthapuram. The waving terrain, and the exotic flora which has abundant collections of medicinal herbs defines the charm of the place. Neyyar Dam, built primarily for irrigation purposes is an arresting sight here. The sanctuary is home to a variety of endangered species of animals, including Sambar deer, Nilgiri Langur, Sloth bear and others. This sanctuary houses attractions like Crocodile Rehabilitation Center, Lion Safari Park and Deer Rehabilitation Center, making it a must-visit when in Thiruvananthapuram.
A popular honeymoon destination, the town of Poovar is worth that short drive from Thiruvananthapuram. Known for its sandy beaches, jade waters and tropical climate, a visit to Poovar is a delight in every sense. The Chola Empire chose Poovar for several trades due to its proximity to the sea, and it also had many European as well as Middle Eastern ties during 1000 BCE. Today, those historic traces can still be experienced at this quaint town. Poovar is also one of the very few places on earth that sees a confluence of three different water bodies and land.
Trivandrum International Stadium, also known as Greenfield Stadium, is built with international norms and standards in line with regulations by FIFA and the International Cricket Council. Not only does the stadium have facilities for 55,000 spectators to enjoy a game of national and international cricket or football, but it also comes with an olympic size swimming pool, basketball, badminton and lawn tennis courts. The stadium can also be a site for social, cultural and corporate events with its convention and trade exhibition center. The stadium is also home to numerous retail outlets, restaurant and ample parking facilities for the convenience of guests and visitors.
Towering over 1800 meters (5906 feet), Agastya Mala is a spectacular mountain range that is explored by many outdoor enthusiasts and devotees of rishi Agastya. The Majestic mountain reveals itself from quite afar and it beckons visitors with its verdant environs and mist-covered peak. There are several trekking routes to the pinnacle and you are sure to have a remarkable adventure because of the mountain's rich fauna. If you are here during monsoon, you can bathe under sparkling streams and swim in crystal clear pools at the base of cascading waterfalls.
A popular honeymoon destination, the town of Poovar is worth that short drive from Thiruvananthapuram. Known for its sandy beaches, jade waters and tropical climate, a visit to Poovar is a delight in every sense. The Chola Empire chose Poovar for several trades due to its proximity to the sea, and it also had many European as well as Middle Eastern ties during 1000 BCE. Today, those historic traces can still be experienced at this quaint town. Poovar is also one of the very few places on earth that sees a confluence of three different water bodies and land.
Trivandrum International Stadium, also known as Greenfield Stadium, is built with international norms and standards in line with regulations by FIFA and the International Cricket Council. Not only does the stadium have facilities for 55,000 spectators to enjoy a game of national and international cricket or football, but it also comes with an olympic size swimming pool, basketball, badminton and lawn tennis courts. The stadium can also be a site for social, cultural and corporate events with its convention and trade exhibition center. The stadium is also home to numerous retail outlets, restaurant and ample parking facilities for the convenience of guests and visitors.
The turquoise waters of this natural paradise is a delightful scene. Large number of foreign tourists can be found sunbathing and relaxing at the sandy Varkala Beach throughout the day. A number of beautiful resorts and spas add to the charm of the place. Also available is a range of restaurants serving authentic Indian cuisine. Varkala Beach is also called 'Papanasam' (dissolving the sins) as locals come to this place for bathing in its holy waters. Besides, the adventure seekers can enjoy surfing, body surfing and Boogie board rides at this beach.
The city of Thiruvananthapuram is bestowed with pristine landscapes and the Ponmudi Hill Station is one of them. Towering over 1000 meters (3281 feet) above sea level, this hill is a blissful escape from everyday tensions and the bustle of city life. Gently rolling hills are inextricable from Ponmudi's charm along with narrow winding paths that are lined with lush green trees. Covered in translucent mist, mornings at Ponmudi Hill Station are a glimpse of paradise. As you hike around the foliage, hand in hand with your special someone, you are sure to spot silver streams cutting through hills, calves running around and colorful birds hovering over your trail.
Towering over 1800 meters (5906 feet), Agastya Mala is a spectacular mountain range that is explored by many outdoor enthusiasts and devotees of rishi Agastya. The Majestic mountain reveals itself from quite afar and it beckons visitors with its verdant environs and mist-covered peak. There are several trekking routes to the pinnacle and you are sure to have a remarkable adventure because of the mountain's rich fauna. If you are here during monsoon, you can bathe under sparkling streams and swim in crystal clear pools at the base of cascading waterfalls.
Azure waters of the Arabian sea lap at the beautiful sandy beaches of Kovalam, an iconic landmark that attracts many visitors. The Kovalam Beach is actually made of three crescent-shaped beaches, which are protected from the rough seas by a rocky outcropping. Visitors swim, frolic, relax and indulge in catamaran sailing as they take in the best that nature has to offer. The beach complex is also home to a smattering of ayurvedic health resorts, whereas there are also facilities on the beach where you can get a herbal body massage.