Tourist Attractions in Trivandrum:
Koyikkal Palace:
It is one of the major tourist attractions in Trivandrum and is quite ancient, characterized by traditional Kerala architectural style with sloping roofs and a courtyard inside. It also houses two museums namely, the Folklore museum and Numismatics museum. The former one has a rich collection of musical instruments and models of folk arts and the latter has a startling collection of ancient coins that have been collected from different areas.
Napier Museum:
Built in the 19th century, it is a wonderful instance of the rich history of Kerala. The architecture of this museum features a rare combination of traditional Kerala, Mughal, Chinese, and Italian styles. You will come across ancient archaeological artifacts and exquisite paintings here.
Agastyarkoodam:
It is lofty peak located in the Western Ghats rising to an altitude of more than 1800 meters and takes the shape of a sharp cone. This peak can be reached on foot and is ideal for trekking.
Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple:
This is a splendid temple and stands by a tank, the Padmatheertham. This temple has amazing architectural brilliance and houses the deity is of Lord Vishnu in a reclining posture. This temple is one of the most attractive things to watch in Trivandrum especially for the pilgrimage tourists and should not be missed out at any cost.
Akkulam Lake:
It is undoubtedly one of the most important places of tourist interest in Trivandrum. Located near the lake is a children’s park and you can also get boating facilities at this place. It is also an ideal venue for picnic as it forms a beautiful locale to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Neyyar Dam:
It is a wonderful dam located near the ranges of Western Ghats, and is a well-liked tourist spot. This dam is also an ideal spot for the picnic and for spending some quality moments with friends and family.
Tourist attractions in Cochin:
Chinese fishing Nets:
These nets popularly known as Cheenavala is one of the unique features of the city. These are massive nets used by local fishermen to catch fish. Other than Cochin, these nets are found only in China.
Fort Kochi Beach:
The beach is a wonderful experience during sunsets with the silhouettes of Chinese fishing nets and ships forming its background which makes the experience a memorable one. Mouth watering fresh seafood is available at the stalls near the beach.
Santa Cruz Basilica:
This Basilica is located in Fort Kochi and was built by the Portuguese in 1505 AD and was later destroyed by the British. The present church was structured in 1905 and it was given the status of Basilica in 1984.
Dutch Palace:
Originally built by the Portuguese, this Palace was modified in the 17th Century by the Dutch and presented to the King of Kochi. The Palace is located at Mattancherry and incorporates fine collection of mural paintings depicting scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary:
This is a protected bird sanctuary located at the heart of the city Eranakulam and adjoins the backwaters and the sea. The sanctuary has a wide collection of both resident and migratory birds.
Willingdon Island:
It is a man made island created in 1933 which once served as an airport, sea port and Railway Terminus. It is situated 30 km from Cochin and is now the home to the Cochin Port and the headquarters of Southern Naval Command.
One can also visit other places like Veega Land, Cherai Beach, Parikshith Thampuran Museum, Palliport Fort, Bolghatty Palace and the Hill Palace on their visit to the city.