Thiruvananthapuram, popularly known as Trivandrum, is the capital city of Kerala and a perfect destination for travelers who love history, serene beaches, and vibrant cultural heritage. The city effortlessly blends its rich traditions with its colonial past, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.

As one of the must-visit places in South India, Trivandrum showcases a wide variety of attractions suited for every kind of traveler. Situated along the Arabian Sea, the city is famous for its majestic temples, pristine beaches, fascinating museums, and elegant palaces.

Despite its growing modernity, Thiruvananthapuram has preserved its old-world charm, reflected in its beautiful architecture and cultural landmarks. There are countless attractions worth exploring, and in this article, we’ll take you through the top 6 places to visit in Thiruvananthapuram during your Kerala trip.

# Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the top attractions to explore near Trivandrum. Located about 32 km from the city, this sanctuary was established in 1958 and offers a range of experiences, including a bus safari, a crocodile farm, guided trekking, the Elephant Rehabilitation Centre, and sightings of wildlife such as deer and leopards.

# Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Thiruvananthapuram. Located just 6 km from Trivandrum Airport in the East Fort area, this architectural marvel stands as a symbol of the city’s spiritual heritage. Visitors must follow a traditional dress code to enter the temple.

# Kuthiramalika Palace Museum

Situated near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) Palace Museum was built by Maharaja Swathi Balarama Varma. The museum showcases valuable royal collections such as Belgian mirrors, exquisite wooden furniture, traditional paintings, and Kathakali mannequins, making it a must-visit for history lovers.

# Napier Museum and Zoo

Established in 1857 across 55 acres, this is the oldest zoological garden in India. The Napier Museum complex includes the Great Napier Museum and the Natural History Museum, both known for their rare artifacts. The museum is particularly famous for its Japanese leather puppetry used to depict scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana.

# Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Cave

Located around 17 km from Trivandrum, the Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Cave is an important historical site featuring ancient carvings. The outer wall of the cave displays images of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, including a depiction of Shiva dancing and holding a bow. It is a significant attraction for those interested in India’s artistic heritage.

# Vizhinjam Lighthouse

Situated on the Kurumkal hilltop, about 10 km from the city, the Vizhinjam Lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian Sea on one side and lush coconut groves on the other. Built in 1925, it remains one of the best places to visit in Thiruvananthapuram for scenic photography and coastal charm.