Southern Odyssey

Trivandrum is a pretty underrated place with the feel of a city but it’s own slow pace of life. After going through Padmanabhaswamy temple Wikipedia’s a page I was pretty excited to see the temple although I am not really a temple person.

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But I would highly recommend everyone to visit this place at least once in their lifetime just because I’ve never seen such a temple ever : it’s history, it’s magnanimity , the stories associated with it, and the main temple shrine itself - I’ve personally never seen such an idol of any deity - to be viewed from three separate doors and it’s huuuge.

Things to keep in Mind

-there’s a dress code in temple

- no electronics allowed

- try going on Pongal- beautifully decorated but too much rush

- if possible go for VIP Darshan as general devotees don’t really get to see much

- no parking available but accessible by public transport

Certainly one of the most renowned beaches of Kerala, but don’t expect too much from it.

Unlike beaches of Goa this beach is fragmented and not a large and long stretch of sandy beach. Though you’d find it really clean. The beach is surrounded by loads of hotels and restaurants with beach facing view.

Things to keep in mind :

- sunrise a must watch

- watching fishermen grab their catch is a different experience

- beach too crowded in tourist season

- off season a great time to be there

A must visit place if you’re visiting Trivandrum. Located in midst of the beautiful mountains this magnificent and magnanimous sculpture is a treat to watch. To witness the sculpture it requires a trek to the top. The place is very well maintained ( even better than international airports).

Thing to keep in mind

- book your tickets online

-modes of going to the top - cable car, walk your way up, helicopter

- amazing cafe on top with surprisingly affordable pricing, enjoy your coffee with a beautiful view

- cable car ride is hardly 10 minutes so just walk your way up

- don’t forget to go for the zip line

Certainly one of the hidden gems of Kerala. This place will mesmerise you with its natural beauty. No building just pure natural beauty. Around 2.5 hour drive from Trivandrum. You can literally spend your whole day here trekking. Just register with forest department and you’re free to go anywhere. Take your own food and don’t expect any restaurants or even small eateries here. Truly a wonderful place to be close to yourself and escape the hustle and bustle of the city life.

Things to keep in mind

-hilly terrain, take care of motion sickness if any

- plastic is banned

- no entry after 4pm

-too much rush on weekends

One of the places to just relax and watch these elephants doing through their chores. Certainly a place to visit for wildlife lovers and watch the elephants bath and eat.