Some of the important getaways from Thiruvananthapuram are:
Kovalam
Kovalam has been a favourite with the tourists since the 1930s. its three crescent beaches continues to attract attention.
Kanyakumari
The land's end of India is only 87kms from Thiruvananthapuram and a major tourist attraction. This beautiful spot is located in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu and is also known as Cape Comorin.
Kollam
Kollam is located 71 km to the north of Thiruvananthapuram. It is the centre of the country's cashew trading and processing industry.
Neyyar Dam
Neyyar Dam is located around 32 kms south east of Thiruvananthapuram. The reservoir offers excellent boating facilities.
Varkala
Varkala is a pilgrim centre for the devotees of Sree Narayana Guru, one of the patron saints of Kerala, whose motto was "One God, One Religion, One Caste". It is only 51kms from Thiruvananthapuram by road and also boasts of one of the best beaches in the State.
Anjuthengu (Anjengo)
Situated 40 km, north of Thiruvananthapuram along the sea cost, it is a place of historic importance. It was here that the first settlement of the English East India Company was established in 1864 A.D. According to recorded history, the limited area where five coconut palms stood was given on lease to the company by the then ruling prince of Travancore for trade purposes. The remains of the old English Fort, which had withstood many a siege, can be seen here even now.
Vizhinjam
About 2 kms south of Kovalam, it is believed to be an ancient port. The Vizhinjam Dutch and Portuguese had commercial establishments here. It is being developed as a modern fishing harbour.
Ponmudi
A pleasant resort at an elevation of 912m above sea level. It is 61 kms from Thiruvananthapuram and is connected by road. There are many trees and rubber estates around the hills.
Village fair
Come January and the village fair is organized near Kovalam. The locals create an entire village of the old and they also organize dance performances such as kathakali, koodiyattam, kalaripayattu, all dance forms of Kerala.
Backwater cruises is also available at Thiruvallam, five kms from Kovalam. It includes a visit to Edyar Island and a typical Kerala village.
