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 …

The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo - Asia's oldest - reportedly served as inspiration for the animals of internationally-acclaimed "Life of Pi". Today, the zoo's inhabitants comprise hippos, leopards, deer, reptiles, and many more. The grounds are expansive, so do wear your walking …

The Museum of History and Heritage showcases artefacts through centuries of Keralan history. There are also a few multimedia and interactive displays, making a tour entertaining, alongside educational. One of the highlights are model displays of traditional Keralan …

The Napier Museum collection is dedicated largely to Indian deities and Keralan rulers of yesteryear, their endeavours and conquests. There are plenty of fascinating artefacts on display, but the building itself is equally worth a look around, being a fine (albeit atypical) example of 19th-century …

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

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 historic artefacts pertaining to the Travancore dynasty. A guided tour of the palace is included in the ticket price; admission to palace grounds is …