Thiruvananthapuram District

Attractions in Thiruvananthapuram

Editor's Choice

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, preserves its royal heritage through a dense concentration of 18th and 19th-century palaces and specialized museums. This collection highlights the Travancore dynasty's architectural legacy, featuring the iconic wooden carvings of Kuthira Maliga and the grand Kowdiar Palace. Beyond the city center, the list includes the world’s first palm-leaf manuscript museum, the dramatic cliffside Aazhimala Siva Temple with its massive sculpture, and the Kottur Elephant Sanctuary, showcasing the region's diverse cultural and natural landscapes.

Editor's Choice — Map

A

Kottur Elephant Sanctuary and Rehabilitation Centre

A rehabilitation center located in the Agasthyasoodam forest area, providing a natural habitat for rescued and orphaned elephants.

B

Maharaja Swathi Thirunal's Palace

A 19th-century royal residence showcasing traditional Kerala architecture with intricate wood carvings and historical artifacts related to the musician-king.

C

Kanakakkunnu Palace

Built under the reign of Sree Moolam Thirunal, this palace features colonial-style architecture and serves as a venue for cultural festivals and exhibitions.

D

Kowdiar Palace

Built in 1934, this remains the official residence of the Travancore Royal Family, notable for its grand Kerala-style architecture and hilltop location.

E

Kuthira Maliga Palace

Also known as the Mansion of Horses, this 19th-century palace features 122 carved wooden horses and a museum of royal heirlooms.

F

Palm-leaf Manuscript Museum

The world’s first museum dedicated to palm-leaf manuscripts, housing ancient documents on Kerala's history, administration, and culture.

G

Aazhimala Siva Temple

Located on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea, featuring a 58-foot tall concrete sculpture of Lord Shiva in the Gangadhareswara pose.

H

Kerala Biodiversity Museum

Located in a former boathouse, this museum uses interactive exhibits to showcase the state's diverse flora, fauna, and environmental history.

I

Sri Swathi Thirunal Museum

Dedicated to the life and musical contributions of the 19th-century Maharaja of Travancore, featuring musical instruments and royal memorabilia.

J

Air Force Museum

Displays vintage aircraft, engines, and photographic exhibits detailing the history and technological evolution of the Indian Air Force.

K

Coin Museum

Houses a collection of historical currency from various dynasties, including rare coins from the Travancore kingdom and colonial eras.

L

Thiruvallam Backwaters

A scenic waterway junction where the Karamana and Killi rivers meet, known for traditional country boat cruises and proximity to ancient temples.

M

Sree Padmam Palace

A traditional administrative and residential building located within the historic fort area near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

N

Pattom Palace

A historical residence associated with the Travancore royal family, featuring traditional architectural elements and landscaped grounds.

O

Saraswathi Vilasam Palace

A royal structure located near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, historically used for cultural and administrative functions of the Travancore state.

Other Lists

Thiruvananthapuram Essentials Coastal Escapes Sacred Sites & Temples Museums and Art Centers