There are many tourist places near Trivandrum that you can visit on a sightseeing tour or for a weekend getaway. These locations highlight the beauty of Trivandrum, away from the crowds in the city. You can explore these beautiful places when in Trivandrum and enjoy the best vacation.
10 Best Tourist Spots Around Trivandrum
Agasthyakoodam
Agasthyakoodam is the second highest peak in Kerala. If you enjoy trekking and are looking for places to visit near Trivandrum that are in the lap of nature, then Agasthyakoodam will not disappoint. The trek to the peak is tough but the journey is worth it. Agasthyakoodam is covered in lush greenery and is known for orchid blooms, mosses, ferns, and lichens. It is also a paradise for those who enjoy bird watching.
Ponmudi
If you are planning on a vacation in the hill stations near Trivandrum, Ponmudi is a great choice. Located in the northeast of Trivandrum, Ponmudi is a hill station where you can explore mountain springs and rivulets. When you visit, you will be able to see millions of butterflies all around. Ponmudi is also famous for its tea and spice plantations. You can visit these plantations and stand at one of the viewpoints that overlook the beautiful hills and valleys of Ponmudi.
Kallar Meenmutty Waterfalls
To visit the Kallar Meenmutty waterfalls near Trivandrum, you will need to trek up the rocky terrain. Along the way, you will get to see the towering Kapok trees with monkeys swinging from the branches! When you reach the top, you will see the impressive falls cascading down the rock formations. The trek will require you to walk along the Kallar river banks and you will reach the Kallar Meenmutty Waterfalls after trekking for about 3 kilometers.
Vellayani Lake
The Vellayani Lake is the largest in the city of Trivandrum. If you are looking for places near Trivandrum to relax and spend a leisurely evening with friends and family, then the lakeshore is the best place. You will also get to explore the backwaters around the nearby villages. The Vellayani Lake is famous for its beautiful Lotus blooms, and white ducks that swim in it. The lake is also an excellent fishing site.
Gavi
The village of Gavi is located near Idukki and is about 197 kilometers from Trivandrum. It is one of the hill stations near Trivandrum that you can plan a short trip to or visit over the weekend. Gavi is a part of ecotourism in Kerala as it is situated right in the lap of nature surrounded by lush hills. The village is an important location for camping and wildlife safaris. Other activities in Gavi include trekking, night safaris, and road trips through the misty hills.
Varkala Beach
Also known as the Papanasam Beach, the Varkala Beach is a popular tourist destination in the Trivandrum district. It is one of the beaches near Trivandrum that has towering cliffs that overlook the gleaming blue waters of the Arabian Sea. Varkala Beach is also the spot for surfing near Trivandrum. You can spend the day here and enjoy sunbathing or exploring the natural springs nearby. You will also get to see spectacular sunsets from the beach.
Poovar Island
When deciding on places to visit near Trivandrum, you cannot miss out on the infamous backwaters of Kerala. Poovar Island is a tropical island surrounded by serene backwaters. It is ideal for a weekend getaway from Trivandrum, and you can spend days walking along the beach and see the waves crashing on the shores. You can also sit under the shade of palm trees and watch the sunset. There are many floating cottages that you can stay in when exploring Poovar Island.
Kurisadi Waterfalls
The Kurisadi Waterfalls are majestic waterfalls near Trivandrum. It is formed by the streams of the Manyakam River. The waterfall is nestled in the greenery of shrubs, grass, and towering evergreen trees. When you visit Kurisadi, you can swim in the clear waters and enjoy the cool and refreshing showers of the waterfalls. The region is now part of ecotourism in Kerala, and you can go on a guided tour of the surrounding forests.
Kovalam Beach
One of the most famous beaches near Trivandrum is Kovalam Beach. Located in the coastal town of Kovalam, only 18 kilometres south of Trivandrum, the Kovalam Beach is a pristine stretch of glittering sands. The shallow waters on this part of the coast, and the low tidal waves make it a popular tourist destination, especially if you want to dip your feet in the sea.
Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary
The Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary are two places near Trivandrum that you must visit when in the city. Neyyar Dam is near a popular picnic spot and you can spend the day here with family and friends after a safari through the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is spread across several acres of land on the Western Ghats. You can go on a lion safari, stop by the crocodile farm, and also see the rehabilitation of Indian elephants.
If you are planning your next trip to Trivandrum, include some of the above locations. KeralaRTC buses offer an easy, comfortable and budget-friendly ride to these destinations around Trivandrum. From the hills and beaches to the sanctuaries, Trivandrum is known for these wonderful destinations.
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