Trivandrum

Although entry into the shrine is allowed to Hindus alone, visitors of any religious denomination can marvel at the 30-metre-high golden gate (gopura) towering right next to the Fort. The sizeable structure is among the world's richest in terms of valuable metals and precious stones used in its interior decor. Its early origins remain steeped in mystery.

The Napier Museum collection is dedicated to Indian deities, historical artefacts, and items related to Keralan rulers and their achievements. The museum building itself is equally impressive for its architectural design. It is an eclectic mix of 19th-century styles, including elements of Indian, Chinese, and Gothic architecture, making it a unique and interesting example of that era’s architecture.

Established in 1857, the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is one of Asia's oldest zoological parks. It is reported that the zoo inspired some elements of the animals depicted in the internationally acclaimed film 'Life of Pi'. Expect to see a variety of animals, including hippos, leopards, deer, and reptiles, among others. The zoo is quite large, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is advisable for visitors planning to explore the entire area.

The Museum of History and Heritage offers a fascinating journey through centuries of Keralan history, showcasing a diverse collection of artefacts that highlight the region's rich cultural heritage. One of the highlights is model displays of traditional Keralan interiors.

One of India's - and, indeed, the entire world's - finest beaches traces the Keralan coast roughly 15km away from central Thiruvananthapuram. The beach is a travellers' darling and a popular evening hangout spot for Thiruvananthapuram locals. The Lighthouse Beach at Kovalam's southern end has an elevated viewing platform and is especially scenic.

Once the residence of Travancore royals, the roughly 200-year-old Puthe Maliga Palace (also known as the Kuthira Malika) has been converted into a fascinating museum containing historical artefacts pertaining to the Travancore dynasty. A guided tour of the palace is included in the ticket price; admission to palace grounds is free.