Kovalam

The Portuguese were more than a little surprised to find Christianity already established along the Malabar coast when they arrived here 500 years ago. And more than a little annoyed that these Christians had never heard of the Pope. Long before Vasco da Gama led the Portuguese to India the coast had been known to the Phoenicians who came in search of spices, sandalwood and ivory. Kerala was not only a spice centre in its own right but also a transshipment point from the Moluccas. The Biblical Ophir, visited by King Solomon, is also thought to be in Kerala at the site of the small village of Puvar, south of Trivandrum. The Arabs and Chinese also made their mark on Kerala and fishermen still use Chinese fishing nets to this day.

Padmanabhapuram Palace: Located at 54 kms from Thiruvananthapuram across the border in Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari district, the palace nestles at the foot of the Veli hills. Built during the 14th cenury it was called Darpakulangara, but later in the 18th century it was renovated and renamed as the Padmanabhapuram palace.

Kaudiar Palace: This palace is the home of the late Maharaja Sree Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma and his family. The view of the grand old building from the gate is excellent, but unforunately it is off limits to the public.

Anchuthengu Fort: Located 36 kms from Thiruvananthapuram, the historic remains of the fort built by the British East India Company in the 17th century and an adjoining cemetery are the noteworthy relics of this first major British trading station on the Malabar Coast.

Koyikkal Palace: Classified as a double storeyed ‘nalukettu’, Koyikkal Palace was the official residence of the of the rulers of the erstwhile State of Travancore. This ancient palace, located 18 km from Thiruvananthapuram on the way to Ponmudi hillstation and the Kuttalam waterfalls, dates back to the 15th century.

Napier Museum: The museum contains a fine collection of Kerala's bronzes, ornaments and contumes, and a model of "Tharawad'-the traditional Nair family home.

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum: a classic specimen of Kerala Architecture is situated in 'Kuthiramalika'. The palace, with its excellent carvings and amazing architectural designs, is by itself a slice of heritage. The museum has a wide range of exhibits representing the erstwhile state of Travancore.

Science & Technology Museum: The Science and Technology Museum, situated in Thiruvananthapuram was established with the prime objective of setting up of galleries with working, animated or participatory type of exhibits, on all disciplines of Science and Technology.

Varkala Beach: a sea side resort, as well as an important Hindu centre of pilgrimage. High cliffs with rich mineral springs rise majestically from the coastline. The 2000 year old Janardana Swamy Temple and the Nature Centre are the two main attractions here.