Akhil's Guidebook
Sightseeing
Kovalam is a small coastal town in the southern Indian state of Kerala, south of Thiruvananthapuram, which is half an hour drive from this house. At the southern end of Lighthouse Beach is a striped lighthouse with a viewing platform. Palm-backed beaches also include Hawa Beach and Samudra Beach. Heading south, Vizhinjam Juma Masjid mosque overlooks the busy fishing harbor. Inland, Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium displays technology used in pearl production.
The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programs, and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night.
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科瓦蘭海灘
Kovalam is a small coastal town in the southern Indian state of Kerala, south of Thiruvananthapuram, which is half an hour drive from this house. At the southern end of Lighthouse Beach is a striped lighthouse with a viewing platform. Palm-backed beaches also include Hawa Beach and Samudra Beach. Heading south, Vizhinjam Juma Masjid mosque overlooks the busy fishing harbor. Inland, Sagarika Marine Research Aquarium displays technology used in pearl production.
The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programs, and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night.
Vellayani Lake, or Vellayani Kayal as known in the local language, is the largest freshwater lake in the Thiruvananthapuram district, of Kerala, India situated 15 minutes away from the house.
In and around the lake one can find abundant flora and fauna that can be best explored over a boat ride or a walk along the boulevard. It also happens to be known for its unique ecosystem. The lake got an intriguing past too. The story goes like this - once there was a beggar who was feeling thirsty, and his search of water made him visit a saint, who was meditating at that time. He wanted to give water to the beggar but her vessel was almost empty with only a few drops of water. He then took the last few drops from the pot into his palm and threw them as far as he could, saying a small prayer. Surprisingly, the place where the drops of water fell gradually turned into a big lake, which is now known as Vellayani.
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Vellayani Lake
Vellayani Lake, or Vellayani Kayal as known in the local language, is the largest freshwater lake in the Thiruvananthapuram district, of Kerala, India situated 15 minutes away from the house.
In and around the lake one can find abundant flora and fauna that can be best explored over a boat ride or a walk along the boulevard. It also happens to be known for its unique ecosystem. The lake got an intriguing past too. The story goes like this - once there was a beggar who was feeling thirsty, and his search of water made him visit a saint, who was meditating at that time. He wanted to give water to the beggar but her vessel was almost empty with only a few drops of water. He then took the last few drops from the pot into his palm and threw them as far as he could, saying a small prayer. Surprisingly, the place where the drops of water fell gradually turned into a big lake, which is now known as Vellayani.
Sasthampara is just about 20 minutes drive from the house. Situated near the village of Vilappil, this small plateau comprises small hills and rock formations.
The spot offers a panoramic view of Kovalam, the Vizhinjam harbor, the capital city, and its apartment complexes, Mookkunnimala, Agasthyar Koodam, Ponmudi, and the Sahyadri Hills.
Shasthampara Road
Shasthampara RoadSasthampara is just about 20 minutes drive from the house. Situated near the village of Vilappil, this small plateau comprises small hills and rock formations.
The spot offers a panoramic view of Kovalam, the Vizhinjam harbor, the capital city, and its apartment complexes, Mookkunnimala, Agasthyar Koodam, Ponmudi, and the Sahyadri Hills.
Elephant Rehabilitation Centre Kappukadu is 50 minutes drive from the house.
Cradled in the arms of the Agasthyakoodam hill range in the Western Ghats is the exotic destination Kottur. Covered with forests, this area is home to rare flora and fauna. The area is marked with tall forest tree species and numerous rivulets and streams. An integral part of the Agasthyakoodam Biological Park, visitors are allowed to visit 1.5 km past the forest checkpoint with a watchtower. From here visitors can get a spectacular glimpse of Thottumpara, Kathirumundi, Agasthyakoodam, and Pandipathu Peaks along with the Ponmudi Hills.
Elephants can be spotted in these parts as well. The trail to the watchtower is said to be frequented by these majestic animals that have become accustomed to human presence. These forests are home to many tribal establishments as well. Beyond the watchtower, the places to visit include Mankode, Chonanpara, and Anchu Nazhikathodu leading all the way to the Peppara Dam Project area. One needs permission from the Forest Department before being allowed access to these parts.
Those who do venture into Anchu Nazhikathodu have a greater chance of spotting elephant herds. You can see wild boar, Nilgiri langur, giant squirrel, bear, bison, sambar, jungle fowl, grey hornbill, and a vivid range of butterflies here. The area is also renowned for its rich variety of medicinal plants.
Elephant lovers can visit the nearby Rehabilitation Centre at Kappukad. Here you can see aged elephants and young ones alike, dwelling in peace in a safe haven designed especially for them. A twenty-minute elephant safari can be availed between 11:00 and 17:00 hours. The safari is of twenty minutes duration at Rs.100 per person.
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Kottoor Kappukadu Elephant Rehabilitation Centre
Elephant Rehabilitation Centre Kappukadu is 50 minutes drive from the house.
Cradled in the arms of the Agasthyakoodam hill range in the Western Ghats is the exotic destination Kottur. Covered with forests, this area is home to rare flora and fauna. The area is marked with tall forest tree species and numerous rivulets and streams. An integral part of the Agasthyakoodam Biological Park, visitors are allowed to visit 1.5 km past the forest checkpoint with a watchtower. From here visitors can get a spectacular glimpse of Thottumpara, Kathirumundi, Agasthyakoodam, and Pandipathu Peaks along with the Ponmudi Hills.
Elephants can be spotted in these parts as well. The trail to the watchtower is said to be frequented by these majestic animals that have become accustomed to human presence. These forests are home to many tribal establishments as well. Beyond the watchtower, the places to visit include Mankode, Chonanpara, and Anchu Nazhikathodu leading all the way to the Peppara Dam Project area. One needs permission from the Forest Department before being allowed access to these parts.
Those who do venture into Anchu Nazhikathodu have a greater chance of spotting elephant herds. You can see wild boar, Nilgiri langur, giant squirrel, bear, bison, sambar, jungle fowl, grey hornbill, and a vivid range of butterflies here. The area is also renowned for its rich variety of medicinal plants.
Elephant lovers can visit the nearby Rehabilitation Centre at Kappukad. Here you can see aged elephants and young ones alike, dwelling in peace in a safe haven designed especially for them. A twenty-minute elephant safari can be availed between 11:00 and 17:00 hours. The safari is of twenty minutes duration at Rs.100 per person.
Crocodile farm
A crocodile farm was started at the site in 1977, accommodating around 44 mugger crocodiles. The number of crocodiles varies as muggers are raised and released to the Neyyar river and lake near the dam site. It also accommodates other reptiles like snakes that are caught straying at the tribal villages nearby for short periods before they are released back into the sanctuary, most recently an Indian Python.
Steve Irwin memorial
Established in May 2007, the Research Centre was initially named the Steve Irwin National Park, in honor of the late naturalist Steve Irwin, who was known as "The Crocodile Hunter". Irwin was killed by a stingray barb while filming a documentary in 2006. The crocodile park was the world's first-known memorial honoring the sportsman. A life-size plaque depicting Irwin was placed by the Kerala Forest Department at the gate of the park (though it was removed later). The Centre was inaugurated by Benoy Viswam, the Forest Minister in the Government of Kerala.
Controversies
In 2009, Irwin's estate sent a legal cease-and-desist notice to the park, alleging violation of intellectual property rights and instructing them to cease using Irwin's name and image without the consent of the estate. This led to the removal of Irwin's name from the crocodile park. The picture engraved at the park's gate was also removed.
Crocodile attacks
In 2001, mugger attacks were reported on tribals living near the dam site. Studies conducted by KFRI found these to be isolated incidents resulting from abnormal behavior of a minority of the mugger population. A few weeks later an adult male crocodile accused of killing a tribal woman was trapped near the dam site.
Crocodile rehabilitation and research centre മുതല പുനരധിവാസ - ഗവേഷണ കേന്ദ്രം
Neyyar Dam RoadCrocodile farm
A crocodile farm was started at the site in 1977, accommodating around 44 mugger crocodiles. The number of crocodiles varies as muggers are raised and released to the Neyyar river and lake near the dam site. It also accommodates other reptiles like snakes that are caught straying at the tribal villages nearby for short periods before they are released back into the sanctuary, most recently an Indian Python.
Steve Irwin memorial
Established in May 2007, the Research Centre was initially named the Steve Irwin National Park, in honor of the late naturalist Steve Irwin, who was known as "The Crocodile Hunter". Irwin was killed by a stingray barb while filming a documentary in 2006. The crocodile park was the world's first-known memorial honoring the sportsman. A life-size plaque depicting Irwin was placed by the Kerala Forest Department at the gate of the park (though it was removed later). The Centre was inaugurated by Benoy Viswam, the Forest Minister in the Government of Kerala.
Controversies
In 2009, Irwin's estate sent a legal cease-and-desist notice to the park, alleging violation of intellectual property rights and instructing them to cease using Irwin's name and image without the consent of the estate. This led to the removal of Irwin's name from the crocodile park. The picture engraved at the park's gate was also removed.
Crocodile attacks
In 2001, mugger attacks were reported on tribals living near the dam site. Studies conducted by KFRI found these to be isolated incidents resulting from abnormal behavior of a minority of the mugger population. A few weeks later an adult male crocodile accused of killing a tribal woman was trapped near the dam site.
Agasthyakoodam is nature’s ode to bird watchers. One of the highest peaks in Kerala, it has long been known as a bird watcher’s paradise and many gather here to catch sight of exotic avian species. It can be viewed from near Neyyar Dam as well as Bonacaud. Agasthyakoodam is also known for its remarkable flora and fauna, especially certain rare medicinal herbs which have been discovered here. Over 2000 species including lichens, orchids, mosses and ferns have been recorded in the area.
The peak was named after the sage Agasthya and is a popular pilgrim site. A shrine dedicated to him is located here and is frequented by devotees. The air itself is said to have medicinal qualities. The peak is a 90 minute drive with Bonacaud being the last motorable spot. Trekking is restricted as only a few people are allowed to go up the peak. One must get a forest pass from the wildlife office in Thiruvananthapuram with January to April being the recommended months.
Contact Details:
Wildlife Warden
Forest Department
PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram
Ph: +91 471 2362291
Location
Latitude: 8.803654, Longitude: 77.197952
Geographical Information
Altitude: 1890 m Above sea level
Agasthyakoodam അഗസ്ത്യ കൂടം
Agasthyakoodam is nature’s ode to bird watchers. One of the highest peaks in Kerala, it has long been known as a bird watcher’s paradise and many gather here to catch sight of exotic avian species. It can be viewed from near Neyyar Dam as well as Bonacaud. Agasthyakoodam is also known for its remarkable flora and fauna, especially certain rare medicinal herbs which have been discovered here. Over 2000 species including lichens, orchids, mosses and ferns have been recorded in the area.
The peak was named after the sage Agasthya and is a popular pilgrim site. A shrine dedicated to him is located here and is frequented by devotees. The air itself is said to have medicinal qualities. The peak is a 90 minute drive with Bonacaud being the last motorable spot. Trekking is restricted as only a few people are allowed to go up the peak. One must get a forest pass from the wildlife office in Thiruvananthapuram with January to April being the recommended months.
Contact Details:
Wildlife Warden
Forest Department
PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram
Ph: +91 471 2362291
Location
Latitude: 8.803654, Longitude: 77.197952
Geographical Information
Altitude: 1890 m Above sea level
The Padmanabhaswamy temple is a Hindu temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital of Kerala, India. It is considered as the richest place of worship in the world situated 25 minutes away from the house.
For further information please click the below link and read the article.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimdobson/2015/11/13/a-one-trillion-dollar-hidden-treasure-chamber-is-discovered-at-indias-sree-padmanabhaswam-temple/?sh=52145d391ba6
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Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
West NadaThe Padmanabhaswamy temple is a Hindu temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital of Kerala, India. It is considered as the richest place of worship in the world situated 25 minutes away from the house.
For further information please click the below link and read the article.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jimdobson/2015/11/13/a-one-trillion-dollar-hidden-treasure-chamber-is-discovered-at-indias-sree-padmanabhaswam-temple/?sh=52145d391ba6
The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is located in the city of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, India which is 25 minutes drive from the house. It occupies 55 acres of woodland, lakes, and lawns
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Thiruvananthapuram Zoo
The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is located in the city of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, India which is 25 minutes drive from the house. It occupies 55 acres of woodland, lakes, and lawns
Kanakakkunnu Palace is situated in Thiruvananthapuram near the Napier museum, India. It is India's first digital garden, created by Akhilesh S. V. Nair and A. Gangaprasad, University of Kerala, Department of Botany. Today the palace and its sprawling grounds are the venues for many cultural meetings and programs.
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Kanaka Kunnu Palace
Sooryakanthi RoadKanakakkunnu Palace is situated in Thiruvananthapuram near the Napier museum, India. It is India's first digital garden, created by Akhilesh S. V. Nair and A. Gangaprasad, University of Kerala, Department of Botany. Today the palace and its sprawling grounds are the venues for many cultural meetings and programs.
Azhimala in Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, picturesque with the tranquil yet erratic sea, mellow fisherfolk, a handful of tourists and the revered Shiva Temple, is now host to a congregation of tourists. In majestic glory, a 58-ft-tall statue of Lord Shiva as Gangadhareswara, with his windswept, tumultuous dreadlocks enclosing a triumphant Goddess Ganga, has been intricately sculpted on the premises of the Azhimala temple, adjacent to the sea.
Unveiled recently, the country’s tallest statue of Lord Shiva has gone viral — both on land and on social media. Sculpted by 29-year-old P S Devadathan over six long years, the concrete statue, mounted on a rock at an altitude of 20 ft from the sea, invokes a magnificent grandeur and a sense of sacredness.
Aazhimala Siva Temple
Azhimala Temple RoadAzhimala in Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram, picturesque with the tranquil yet erratic sea, mellow fisherfolk, a handful of tourists and the revered Shiva Temple, is now host to a congregation of tourists. In majestic glory, a 58-ft-tall statue of Lord Shiva as Gangadhareswara, with his windswept, tumultuous dreadlocks enclosing a triumphant Goddess Ganga, has been intricately sculpted on the premises of the Azhimala temple, adjacent to the sea.
Unveiled recently, the country’s tallest statue of Lord Shiva has gone viral — both on land and on social media. Sculpted by 29-year-old P S Devadathan over six long years, the concrete statue, mounted on a rock at an altitude of 20 ft from the sea, invokes a magnificent grandeur and a sense of sacredness.
Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasham Beach is a beach situated in Varkala Town of Varkala Municipality in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, India. The beach skirts the Arabian Sea, part of the Indian Ocean.
Varkala beach is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea.[1] These cliffs are of tertiary sedimentary formation, and named by geologists as Varkala Formation. They are a geological monument as recorded by the Geological Survey of India. Water spouts and spas occur on the sides of these cliffs.
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Varkala cliff
Varkala Beach, also known as Papanasham Beach is a beach situated in Varkala Town of Varkala Municipality in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala, India. The beach skirts the Arabian Sea, part of the Indian Ocean.
Varkala beach is the only place in southern Kerala where cliffs are found adjacent to the Arabian Sea.[1] These cliffs are of tertiary sedimentary formation, and named by geologists as Varkala Formation. They are a geological monument as recorded by the Geological Survey of India. Water spouts and spas occur on the sides of these cliffs.
Shankumugham Beach is a beach in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, south India. The beach is on the western side of Thiruvananthapuram and very near to Trivandrum International Airport
The vast stretch of white sand and the serene atmosphere, away from the crowd in the city, provide all the ingredients for relaxation and for spending an ideal evening. - The city of the Holy Anantha with eating kiosks and an open-air theatre with car parking facilities. Good food can be enjoyed at the Old Coffee House, just across the beach, which is also a vantage point for enjoying the sunset. The beach is not well maintained, with garbage littering the entire area.
Shanghumugham beach is considered as the ‘Arattukadavu’ of Sri Ananthapadmanabhan - The presiding deity of the city. Thousands of Hindus perform ‘Bali Tharpanam’ during special occasions. Shankhumugham is the prime location for Ganesh Nimarjan at the time of Vinayaka Chathurthi.
On the Arattu day at Thiruvananthapuram, images of Lord Padmanabhaswamy, Lord Narasimha, and Lord Krishna are taken in procession to the Laccadive Sea at Shanghumugham beach. His Highness the now-titular Maharaja of Travancore will lead the procession with the royal sword in hand, who will be escorted by members of the royal family, armed guards, temple authorities, mounted police, and officers. After the ceremonial bath at Shanghumugham, images are taken back in procession which marks the conclusion of the festival.
The sculpture of Sagarakanyaka - Mermaid by Kanayi Kunhiraman is an added attraction. This giant statue is more than 35 metres long. The 'Jawaharlal Nehru Park of Traffic signs for children' is situated here, which is helpful for the children to understand the traffic rules while playing in the park. The park also provides cycling facilities for small children.
The military area of Southern Air Command of the Indian Air Force and part of the main airport are situated near Shankumugham Beach.
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Shangumugham Beach
Shankumugham Beach is a beach in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, south India. The beach is on the western side of Thiruvananthapuram and very near to Trivandrum International Airport
The vast stretch of white sand and the serene atmosphere, away from the crowd in the city, provide all the ingredients for relaxation and for spending an ideal evening. - The city of the Holy Anantha with eating kiosks and an open-air theatre with car parking facilities. Good food can be enjoyed at the Old Coffee House, just across the beach, which is also a vantage point for enjoying the sunset. The beach is not well maintained, with garbage littering the entire area.
Shanghumugham beach is considered as the ‘Arattukadavu’ of Sri Ananthapadmanabhan - The presiding deity of the city. Thousands of Hindus perform ‘Bali Tharpanam’ during special occasions. Shankhumugham is the prime location for Ganesh Nimarjan at the time of Vinayaka Chathurthi.
On the Arattu day at Thiruvananthapuram, images of Lord Padmanabhaswamy, Lord Narasimha, and Lord Krishna are taken in procession to the Laccadive Sea at Shanghumugham beach. His Highness the now-titular Maharaja of Travancore will lead the procession with the royal sword in hand, who will be escorted by members of the royal family, armed guards, temple authorities, mounted police, and officers. After the ceremonial bath at Shanghumugham, images are taken back in procession which marks the conclusion of the festival.
The sculpture of Sagarakanyaka - Mermaid by Kanayi Kunhiraman is an added attraction. This giant statue is more than 35 metres long. The 'Jawaharlal Nehru Park of Traffic signs for children' is situated here, which is helpful for the children to understand the traffic rules while playing in the park. The park also provides cycling facilities for small children.
The military area of Southern Air Command of the Indian Air Force and part of the main airport are situated near Shankumugham Beach.
Food scene
Green mall with international brands, kids' play areas, a multiplex, food court & vertical garden.
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Travancore商場
International Airport RoadGreen mall with international brands, kids' play areas, a multiplex, food court & vertical garden.
This traditional market is in the heart of the city in the East Fort area. This caters to all sections of the people. Anything from vegetables, groceries to gold can be bought here. It was established during the reign of the Travancore king.
查萊市場
This traditional market is in the heart of the city in the East Fort area. This caters to all sections of the people. Anything from vegetables, groceries to gold can be bought here. It was established during the reign of the Travancore king.
City/town information
Thiruvananthapuram (or Trivandrum) is the capital of the southern Indian state of Kerala. It's distinguished by its British colonial architecture and many art galleries. It’s also home to Kuthira Malika (or Puthen Malika) Palace, adorned with carved horses and displaying collections related to the Travancore royal family, whose regional capital was here from the 18th–20th centuries.
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Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram (or Trivandrum) is the capital of the southern Indian state of Kerala. It's distinguished by its British colonial architecture and many art galleries. It’s also home to Kuthira Malika (or Puthen Malika) Palace, adorned with carved horses and displaying collections related to the Travancore royal family, whose regional capital was here from the 18th–20th centuries.