Thiruanananthpuram, also better known as Trivadrum is the capital of the state of Kerala. It is located on the west coast, towards the extreme south of Indian mainland. It is to the lush greenery and never aging life and energy of this place that Mahatma Gandhi crowned it with the title of “Evergreen city of India”.
Ornamented by the undulating terrain of low coastal hills and busy commercial alleys, the city of Trivadrum beautifully balances industrial and scientific advancements with the rudimentary touch of nature.
The city of Trivadrum is hub of academic excellence and home of the intelligentsia. It boasts of some great science and technology institutions like Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology(IIST), the Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management and many more fall in the list. Apart from this, Trivadrum also has some much renounced colleges for Medical and botanical studies.
History- Trivadrum is an ancient region with trading traditions dating back to 1000 BCE. It is believed that the ships of King Solomon landed in a port called Ophir.
Even in the history of Modern India, or the pre-independence era, Trivadrum played a role of substantial importance in the freedom struggle being an active centre for the Indian National Congress.
Attractions in Trivadrum-
Thiruananthpuram district holds a number of tourist spots. It offers you an entire gamut of enchanting natural experiences. With its backwaters, hill stations, beaches, lagoons and wild life sanctuaries is a adorable paradise for natural lovers. It is one of the places that adds to the abundant natural beauty and charm of the beautiful state of Kerala.
If you are at Trivadrum, then there is quite a long list of places that you must visit and that promises to leave you amazed and mesmerized. Some of them are-
- Agastyakoodam- It is one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats. As the legend goes, it is believed that great sage Agasthya had his abode at this peak. Similar to a sharp cone, Agastyakoodam, is famous for its abundant natural herbs. Since this peak is related to sage Agastya and many people who visit this place arsincere celibates and ascetic, the presence of woman is strongly disliked here. It also houses the Neelakurinji, a special flower that blooms once every 12 years.
- Akkulam - Akkulam is one of the picnic spots, in Thiruananthpuram city. The spot is developed on the banks of Akulam Lake, which is an extension of the Veli Lake. The natural beauty, charming ambience are a fascination for the tourists and the Boat club hikes the thrill factor by offering speed, safari, pedal and row boats from Akkulam to Veli Tourist Village.
The swimming pool has gliders and other amenities to raise the fun quotient. It also has a children’s park that is an enticing experience for the kids.
- Anchuthengu- Situated 40 km north of Thiruananthpuram city, along the sea coast, Anchuthengu is a place of historical importance. It was here that the first settlement of the English East India Company was established in 1864 A.D. There is also a highly revered church here that is worth visiting.
- Shankumugam Beach- In the vicinity of Trivandrum airport, this beach is a pleasure. The sprawling white sand and the tranquilizing serenity of the atmosphere is a perfect place to elope from the hustle and bustle of the crowd. The skating school is an opportunity for the people who fancy skating.
- Aruvikkara- 16 km north of Trivadrum, this city has been blessed by the lush green scenic beauty. It houses an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, on the banks of the river.
- Meenmutti and Kombaikani Waterfalls- These are two magnificent waterfalls on the upper reaches of the Neyyar reservoir. A trek of two km, through dense forests, is the picturesque beauty brimming glory of the nature. The waterfall of Kombaikani is also just a couple of km away and the aura of that place is enchanting.
- Kovalam Beach- This beach is internationally famous, and is one of the finest beaches in India. Sunbathing or enjoying the vastness and marvelous mighty expansion and form of the sea, this place will leave you transfixed and will revitalize your senses.
Other places that are worth visiting are Azhimala Beach, Museum and Zoo of the city, Thiruvallam, Veri Lagoon etc.