Trivandrum Heritage, History and Cultural Small Group Guided Tour
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Trivandrum Heritage, History and Cultural Small Group Guided Tour

Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Trivandrum's rich cultural landscape on this guided tour, showcasing its majestic temples, regal palaces, and vibrant local flavors. Visit the iconic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, a marvel of Dravidian architecture with deep historical ties. Discover the Napier Museum’s impressive collection of artifacts that highlight Kerala’s artistic heritage. Experience the grandeur of Kuthira Malika Palace, adorned with exquisite wooden carvings and a glimpse into royal life. Conclude your journey at Shanghumukham Beach, where you can unwind with stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the unique mermaid statue.

Available options

Trivandrum Guided Tour: Heritage & Local Flavours

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water
Entrance fee
Government Fees
Air-conditioned vehicle
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

1

ree Padmanabhaswamy Temple – The Jewel of Trivandrum
One of India’s richest and most revered temples, dedicated to Lord Vishnu reclining on Anantha, the sacred serpent. Its Dravidian-style architecture, intricate stone carvings, and towering gopuram showcase centuries of devotion and artistry. The temple is also famed worldwide for its hidden treasures and spiritual aura, making it a must-visit landmark in Kerala. ✨

2

Kuthira Malika (Horse Palace)
Built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal in the 19th century, this palace is famed for its 122 wooden horses carved into the eaves. A masterpiece of traditional Kerala architecture, it features sloping roofs, intricate woodwork, and royal courtyards. Today, it houses a museum that displays royal artifacts, paintings, and treasures of the Travancore dynasty, offering visitors a glimpse into Kerala’s regal heritage. ✨

3

Chithralayam Art Gallery
Located near Kuthira Malika, this gallery showcases rare photographs, portraits, and paintings of the Travancore royal family, along with unique art collections that reflect Kerala’s cultural heritage. A quiet spot for history and art lovers to explore the grandeur of a bygone era. ✨

4

Thrimoorthi Temple
A rare and sacred shrine dedicated to the Hindu Trinity – Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva – worshipped together under one roof. The temple reflects deep spiritual harmony and is known for its serene atmosphere, traditional Kerala architecture, and significance as a place where creation, preservation, and destruction are honored in unity. A peaceful stop for seekers of divine blessings and cultural insight. ✨

5

Relish authentic Kerala breakfast classics like idli, dosa, puttu, appam, and hot filter coffee served fresh with traditional flavors. A perfect taste of homely Kerala cuisine to energize your journey.

6

Napier Museum
A 19th-century architectural gem blending Indo-Saracenic style with Gothic roofs and ornate woodwork. The museum houses a rich collection of bronze idols, ancient ornaments, ivory carvings, temple chariots, and historic artifacts that narrate Kerala’s cultural and artistic legacy. Surrounded by lush gardens, it’s a perfect spot to explore heritage and unwind.

7

Located near the Napier Museum, this gallery displays a remarkable collection of traditional and modern artworks. Highlights include paintings by Raja Ravi Varma, Kerala’s legendary artist, alongside Tanjore, Mughal, and Rajput paintings, and rare collections from China, Japan, and Tibet. A must-visit for art lovers exploring Kerala’s cultural treasures. ✨

8

Indulge in the flavors of Kerala with a traditional banana leaf sadya paired with fresh seafood delicacies. Relish red rice, sambar, thoran, and payasam alongside mouthwatering specials like karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot), chemmeen curry (prawns), and fish fry. A perfect blend of homely taste and coastal richness that celebrates Kerala’s culinary heritage.

9

The beach features the iconic giant mermaid sculpture, star-shaped restaurant, and traditional fish stalls, making it a favorite evening hangout. A perfect spot to enjoy Kerala’s coastal charm and unwind by the Arabian Sea.

What's not included

Coffee and/or Tea
Breakfast
Meals

Available languages

Guide guide
HI EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Kerala

Kerala is known for its lush landscapes, serene backwaters, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a unique blend of tropical beauty, historical monuments, and vibrant festivals, making it a top destination for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Alleppey Backwaters

A network of lagoons, lakes, and canals, offering serene houseboat cruises through picturesque landscapes.

Nature 1-3 days Moderate to Expensive

Munnar

A hill station known for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and pleasant climate.

Nature 2-3 days Moderate

Kochi Fort Kochi

A historic area with colonial architecture, Jewish heritage, and vibrant cultural scene.

Historical 1-2 days Budget to Moderate

Varkala

A coastal town known for its cliffs, beaches, and natural springs.

Beach 1-2 days Budget to Moderate

Wayanad

A lush green district with wildlife sanctuaries, waterfalls, and trekking opportunities.

Adventure 2-3 days Budget to Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sadhya

A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, featuring rice, curries, and side dishes.

Lunch Vegetarian

Karimeen Pollichathu

A popular seafood dish made with pearl spot fish, marinated and fried.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian

Appam with Stew

Soft, lacy pancakes made from fermented rice batter, served with a mild coconut milk-based stew.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Thalassery Biryani

A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian (also available in vegetarian versions)

Popular Activities

Trekking in Wayanad Wildlife safaris in Periyar Paragliding in Vagamon Houseboat cruises in Alleppey Ayurvedic spa treatments Beach relaxation in Kovalam Kathakali performances Temple visits

Best Time to Visit

September to March

This is the best time to visit Kerala as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, houseboat cruises, and outdoor activities.

20°C to 32°C 68°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Malayalam
  • Widely spoken: English, Hindi
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kerala is generally considered safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, it's essential to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable tour operators and guides
  • • Agree on fares before using taxis
  • • Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas

Getting there

By air
  • Cochin International Airport • 25 km from Kochi city center
  • Trivandrum International Airport • 6 km from Trivandrum city center
By train

Kochi Railway Station, Trivandrum Central

By bus

Kochi, Trivandrum, Kozhikode

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to travel within Kerala. They range from basic to deluxe services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Fort Kochi Marine Drive Mattancherry

Day trips

Kumarakom
15 km from Kottayam • Full day

A serene backwater destination known for its houseboat stays and bird sanctuary.

Athirappilly Waterfalls
55 km from Kochi • Half day to Full day

One of the largest waterfalls in Kerala, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.

Ponmudi
61 km from Thiruvananthapuram • Full day

A hill station with tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.

Festivals

Onam • August-September (varies by year) Vishu • April 14-15 Thrissur Pooram • April-May (varies by year)

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Malayalam to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture
  • Try local street food and snacks, but be cautious and choose busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness
  • Visit temples and religious sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
  • Haggle politely when shopping at markets and bazaars, but be prepared to walk away if the price is not negotiable
  • Carry small denominations of cash for local shopping, transportation, and tipping, as change may not always be available
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 10-60
1
Childs
Age 4-9
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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