| Though
the former name Trivandrum is easier on the tongue, Thiruvananthapuram
- the present official name is closer to it's mythological origins. The
word ' Thiru Ananthapuram' means the city of Anantha or the abode of the
sacred thousand headed serpent Anantha, who forms the couch on which reclines
Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu trinity. Built on seven hills,
it was the capital of the Venad chieftains. The city has grown as a tourist
and commercial centre, with the International airport becoming the main
gateway into Kerala. Being the state capital, it also throbs with political
activity.
Landmarks
Sri
Padmanabhaswamy Temple - Dedicated
to Padmanabha or Lord Vishnu, it is according to legend, was
built in stages , to house an idol discovered in the forest by a devotee.
The Government Art Museum,
in the heart of the city, houses the Sri Chitra Art Gallery as well
as the Zoological gardens. Located
on a hill opposite the Kanakunnu Palace, is the Government Observatory.
Adjacent to the airport, the
Shanghumugham Beach, is a popular spot for local tourists. It has
a roller skating rink, and other recreational facilities.
Veli
Tourist Village(11km) and Akkulam Lakeside Boat Club are other
popular recreational centres for the locals. For
shopping, try the SMSM Institute, the handicrafts emporium of the
Handicrafts Development Corporation of Kerala. The
Padmanabhapuram Palace , the seat of the Travancore rulers, is 55km
away in the state of Tamil Nadu.
Kovalam,
the world renowned beach, is about 16km away. There are several hotels
and restaurants including the five-star Kovalam Ashok Beach resort.
Details
City Area - 74 sqkm
Climate - Warm tropical
Temperature -
Summer Mean-Max - 36.2 degC
Mean Min - 18.0 C
Rainfall (May to November)
- 170cm
Tourist Season - September
to may
Tourist Info
Being the state capital,
it is well connected by air, road and rail.
|