Things to do in Kovalam

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Visitors can visitSree Padmanabhaswamy Templeto experience a serene religious atmosphere and visit the golden towers and exquisite stone carvings. The details and craftsmanship inside the temple showcase the masterful artistry of ancient Indian architecture.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, India. It is dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathy and is considered one of the "Kalis of South India." The temple attracts many tourists with its unique architectural style and profound religious heritage. Its architecture blends traditional Kerala style with exquisite carvings, showcasing the essence of Hindu temple architecture. Every year, the temple hosts grand festivals that attract thousands of devotees and tourists. Among them, the famous "Attukal Pongala" is a festival dedicated to female devotees, where thousands of women cook offerings in the open space in front of the temple, creating a spectacular scene.

Aazhimala Shiva Temple

Aazhimala Shiva Temple is a temple that uniquely blends sea views with religion. Behind the temple lies the undulating coastline of the Indian Ocean, while in front are rocky cliffs and sandy beaches. Visitors entering along the path to the temple are first struck by the towering main statue and the stretching coastline. The temple architecture adopts a traditional South Indian style, with finely carved roofs, spires, and walls, complemented by the surrounding natural rock walls and sea views, creating a solemn and expansive atmosphere. Regarding temple facilities, there are spacious courtyards, walking platforms, and viewing areas designed specifically for viewing the sea and worship. The courtyard paths are clean, featuring a combination of stone paving and wooden decorations. The temple is situated right by the coast, allowing visitors to stroll along the rocky paths after worship, listen to the waves crashing against the rocks, and feel the sea breeze. The temple area includes rest spaces and basic service facilities, allowing visitors to appreciate the architecture and sculptures while also finding time for quiet contemplation.

Pazhavangaadi Sree Maha Ganapathy Temple

No. 3 of Family-friendly Attractions in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is located in the capital of Kerala, India, and is one of the oldest and best-preserved zoos in India. It is adjacent to the Natural History Museum and the botanical garden, blending history, culture, and natural landscapes. The park is lush with greenery, featuring woods, lakes, and lawns, making it a natural oasis in the city. It houses a diverse range of local and exotic animals, including primates, large carnivores, birds, and reptiles. The reptile house, in particular, features displays of snakes and turtles, which are highly appealing to children and those interested in wildlife. Beyond serving as a place for sightseeing, the zoo also takes on responsibilities for education and conservation. It participates in wildlife breeding, rescues injured or orphaned animals, and spreads awareness about the importance of biodiversity and ecological conservation to the public.

Kanakakkunnu Palace

Kanakakkunnu Palace is an architectural heritage site with both historical and cultural value. Built in the 19th century during the reign of Sri Moolam Thirunal of the Kingdom of Travancore, the palace was primarily used as a venue for royal guests, hosting banquets and receptions. Its name means "golden hill," and the palace is situated on a small, lush hill surrounded by lawns, trees, and flowers, offering a tranquil environment. The architectural style here blends traditional Kerala architectural elements with colonial influences. The exterior features exquisite wooden structures and high roofs, while the interior decoration is simple and elegant, reflecting the lifestyle and aesthetic tastes of the Travancore dynasty at that time. Although the palace is no longer used as a royal residence, it remains an important window into the history of the region. The gardens and open spaces surrounding the palace also provide a place for leisure for residents, becoming a popular spot for family walks and student gatherings. For tourists, it is not only a historical site but also an active cultural center, allowing people to appreciate the architecture and natural environment while experiencing the rich artistic atmosphere of Thiruvananthapuram.

Shangumugham Beach

Shangumugham Beach, located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala in southern India, is not far from the city center and is a popular coastal recreational area for locals and tourists. Facing the vast Arabian Sea, the beach is known for its wide sandy beaches and spacious coastal walkways. Its convenient location makes it a popular spot for evening strolls, leisure activities, and experiencing local coastal life. The beach is surrounded by numerous cultural and artistic elements, most notably the large sculpture "Matsya Kanyaka" (Mermaid) by sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman. Situated on the beach, this sculpture offers a unique viewing point and an iconic photo opportunity. Gandhi Park and several smaller recreational facilities are also nearby, enhancing the atmosphere of this public space. Shangumugham Beach is particularly lively during festivals, such as local traditional festivals or religious events, when residents gather for celebrations and ceremonies. The beach area also has entertainment facilities suitable for children, so it is common for families to come and play. In the evening, the sunset on the coastline is particularly attractive, and many people choose to watch the sunset here and experience the fusion of nature and the city.

No. 4 of Family-friendly Attractions in Kerala

Napier Museum

Napier Museum is located in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, India (Thiruvananthapuram), and is a museum that blends history, art, and culture. It was built in the late 19th century and named after Lord Napier, the then governor of Madras. The building was designed by a British architect, combining traditional Indian elements with Gothic style, and its exterior is known for intricate woodcarving, colorful painted details, and distinctive rooflines, making it one of the city's landmarks. The collections are diverse, including ancient sculptures, bronzes, ceramics, ivory carvings, textiles, and traditional instruments. South Indian religious statues and artworks in particular feature prominently, helping visitors understand the history and cultural background of Kerala and the wider South Asian region. The exhibits not only showcase artistic value but also reflect local traditions in religion, daily life, and craftsmanship. The museum has spacious courtyards and surrounding green areas that provide places to relax, and its proximity to the zoo and botanical garden makes it a popular area for family visits. It frequently attracts students, researchers, and culture enthusiasts, and is an important part of the city's cultural education.

Kairali Sree Nila Theatre

Parasurama Swami Temple, Thiruvallam