"Best Hidden Gems in "

Created By: Cityseeker

21 Locations Bookmarked

Sankar's Coffee & Tea "Aromatic Nilgiri Tea"

If you are looking to purchase some authentic and delicious, locally grown tea leaves and coffee beans, look no further than Sankar's Tea & Coffee. Situated in PKP Manor near Pulimoodu Junction, patrons can locate the store by following the wafting aromas of fresh tea and coffee. This is the place where you can purchase some of the best Niligiri tea, as well as a by alice_henneman variety of coffee beans and dry nuts. While this store may be small, you are certain to find what you are looking for here.

+91 471 232 0469 M. G. Road, PKP Manor, Pulimoodu, Thiruvananthapuram

SMSM Institute "Local Handicrafts Store"

Built in the memory of Sree Moolam Thirunal, Maharaja of , SMSM Institute is a government-run handicraft store armed with the aim to maintain and encourage local, traditional art forms like wood carving, bell metal craft and screwpine mat weaving. Buy eco-friendly products like handbags and wall hangings that reflect ’s culture. Made from by Ashcoounter locally sourced products like coir, coconut shell and wood, the products are quite stunning to behold. The intricacy and detailing that goes in making each product will leave you admiring the traditional arts of Kerala. Though the handicrafts seems to priced on the steeper side, the quality, beauty, durability and the time that goes in creating each product is well worth the listed price. However, don’t just shop at this wonderful store for yourself, buy some great, souvenirs for friends and family back home and showcase them the wonders of God’s Own Country.

+91 471 233 0298 www.keralahandicrafts.in/ [email protected] Punnen Road, Thiruvananthapuram

Navarathri Mandapam "Song and Dance"

Navarathri is a popular Hindu festival celebrated in . During the nine- day festival, goddesses Lakshmi, Durga and Saraswathi are worshiped with much fervor and adulation. Navarathri Mandapam is one of the many structures located within the Sree . It is located on the right of the East Gopuram of the temple and is mainly used by Aviatorjk during the festival of Navarathri. The idols of the goddesses are placed at the Navarathri Mandapam during those nine days and special poojas and rituals are held in their honor. Besides its religious importance, Navarathri Mandapam is known for hosting several classical concerts and is truly a cultural hub of the city.

+91 471 245 0233 info@sreepadmanabhaswamytemple Enchakkal Westfort Road, Sree .org Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram Nefertiti Beauty Parlor "Glam Up"

If you want a makeover for a special party or program, or simply want to get a new haircut or color, Nefertiti Beauty Parlor is the place to come to. From facials to pedicures, the parlor offers a wide variety of treatments to ensure that you look your best from head to toe. Under the direction of Jane Abraham, the renowned stylist who is said to have opened the first by thomaswanhoff beauty parlor in the state of Kerala, the treatments offered at this parlor are both state-of-the art and suit the needs of each customer. Hair texturing, hot oil massages, gold facials, fruit clean ups, hand and leg polishing, eyebrow coloring and bridal makeup are some of the treatments which are offered here.

+91 471 232 1405 www.nefertitibeautyparlour.com/ MP Appan Road, Thiruvananthapuram

Alliance Française Art Gallery "French and Local Art"

The Art Gallery housed within the Alliance Française de Trivandrum is not just a mere art gallery but functions as a multipurpose venue. Don't let its size fool you because this very space has hosted several educational, cultural as well as art events which throw light on the French culture as well as its prevalence and association with India. The gallery is available by JimboRocks to be rented out by artists, provided all the prerequisites are fulfilled.

+91 471 232 0666 trivandrum.afindia.org/services/gall Forest Office Lane, Alliance Française ery de Trivandrum, Sudharsana, Vazhutacaud, Thiruvananthapuram

Ayurvedic Massage Center "Specialty Treatments and Massages"

Located in the Trivandrub Club, Ayurvedic Massage Center is a members only wellness center which specializes in various types of Ayurvedic treatments. Some are simply oil massages of various kinds, making use of fragrant medical oils which help the body to recuperate from certain health conditions. Other treatments include the Dhara treatment wherein by tinyfroglet medicated buttermilk or oil is steadily poured on the forehead following a specific pattern and Sirovasthy wherein a warm oil cap is left on the head for 30 minutes to cure visual problems, headaches and memory problems. All in all, undergoing a few treatments is a must if you want to decompress after a long work week.

+91 471 414 4444 www.trivandrumclub.net/php/show Off CV Raman Pillai Road, Trivandrum Content.php?linkid=20 Club, Thiruvananthapuram

Satyan Art Gallery "Photographs of a Legendary Actor"

Located at an important art and cultural junction of the city, Satyan Art Gallery is a fine tribute to the life of a renowned superstar of the Malayam film industry named Sathyaneshan Nadar. Established by the Kerala Cultural Forum, this art gallery is located inside the Satyan Memorial Building and comprises black and white photographs of the actor detailing his contribution to cinema over the years. Besides this, the gallery is known for hosting several cultural events regularly.

LMS Vellayambalam Road, Satyan Memorial Building, Museum Junction, Thiruvananthapuram Trivandrum Heritage Walk "Morning Walk of A Kind!"

The city of Thiruvananthapuram has a plethora of architectural beauty and one of the best ways to soak in the splendor of these historic marvels is the Trivandrum Heritage Walk. Led by Bina Thomas, passionate archaeologist, these tours are quite detailed and very interesting. The walk around the Pettah Railway Station is a particularly striking one by Ashcoounter because it gets visitors acquainted with the forgotten, historic importance of the railway station. At 7a, Thomas takes you on a tour of this old railway station then proceeds to the the centuries old St Anne’s Forane’ Church narrating the historical and cultural significance of many other spots that the group encounters in between.

[email protected] Railway Station Road, Pettah railway station, Thiruvananthapuram

Saatwika Ayurveda "Ayurvedic Treatments"

Saatwika Ayurveda is a holistic healing center which offers treatment for ailments ranging from insomnia to obesity. Using Ayurvedic methods of healing and massage, the center offers an array of treatments which are sure to remove all your stress and leave you feeling refreshed and energized. Anti-arthritic massages, slimming programs, body purification by Booking.com programs and immunization treatments are a few of the therapies and treatments which are offered at this center. A mix of herbal massages, saunas and yoga as well as several other traditional techniques are used for the best results.

+91 471 319 4222 saatwika.in/ [email protected] Kurups Lane, Thiruvananthapuram

Sarwaa "Beautiful Ethnic Items"

Tucked away on Sankar Road, this gem of a shop is a delightful find. Sarwaa will charm you with its eclectic collection of ethnic products that are are made from natural materials and fabrics. You will find artisan block- prints, jewelry, pottery, unique lamp shades, curios, collectibles, vintage knick-knacks, branded lingerie and gifts beautifully arranged in their by Associated Fabrication boutique. There is also a selective collection of books and organic products. Everything displayed is carefully selected and is made by local and regional artisans.

+91 471 302 2220 [email protected] Sankar Road, Althara Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram

St. Antony's Forane Church Valiyathura "Blessings From Above"

St. Antony's Forane Church Valiyathura is a prominent Christian religious sight in Thiruvananthapuram. The distinct architecture attracts lots of visitors to this place situated near the Shankumugham Beach. The church has daily mass and has a regular attendance of the local community. The by Public Domain church is involved in many social welfare activities around the region. The parish hall in the church compound hosts various church events and is rented out for cultural activities as well.

+91 471 250 1253 [email protected] Church Road, Valiyathura, Thiruvananthapuram Akkulam Tourist Village "Nature's Glory"

A beautiful tourist destination in the city, this lake side village has a lot of fun activities including boating. The vast lake and the green shores blend in with the crimson sky to form a surreal landscape during evenings. Owing to the natural beauty of the place, large number of tourists and locals can be spotted here with a relaxed attitude. Located close to the Medical College Hospital, this place can be easily accessed by road. Public transportation is also available. Do visit and enjoy a speed boat ride through the charming Akkulam Lake. Though admission is free to the village, rates are applicable for boat services.

www.keralatourism.org/destination/akkulam-tourist- Uloor Akkulam Road, Thiruvananthapuram village/7

Vizhinjam Cave Temple "Art in Stone"

This 18th-Century archaeological marvel is located in close to . There is a sculpture of 'Vinandhara Dakshinamurti', the god of wisdom, enclosed in a granite cave as the major deity of the temple. The walls have carved structures of 'Shiva and Parvati' which is incomplete and artistic. The temple is located near to the Vizhinjam Harbor and is easily accessible by road. Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple is a protected monument of the Archaeology Department of India and is a must-see place in the city.

www.keralatourism.org/destination/vizhinjam-rock-cut- Munavary Road, Kakkakuzhi, Thiruvananthapuram cave/237

Vellayani Lake "An Utopian Setting"

Existing since the Travancore era, Lake is a vast, freshwater lake that spans across more than 865 acres (350 hectares). The lake is serene; its banks are lined with towering palm trees while its water is home to beautiful lotus plants. During monsoons, along with its environs paint a postcard-perfect picture which makes this water body by Christian Guthier one of the most visited attractions of Kovalam. If you are looking to seek solitude, grab a fishing rod and a chair and sit on the lake's bank to experience sheer joy! Boat rides are also available for those who wish to cruise the clear waters of the Vellayani Lake.

Munavary Road, Kovalam

Numismatics Museum "Huge Collection of Ancient Coins"

The only Numismatics Museum established by the Department of Archaeology in Kerala, this museum has a collection of historical and valuable collection of coins acquired from across the world. It is located on the ground floor of the and inside the rooms of the historic palace comprising coins that once belonged to Indian dynasties by Ashcoounter such as the Nizam of Hyderabad, Tipu Sultan and the Gwalior royal family. Among the prized possessions of the museum are the oldest Indian coins that are identified as 'Karsha' - minted 2,500 years ago and more than 300 coins belonging to the Roman dynasty with faces of the Roman gods and rulers minted on it.

Nedumangad Town Road, Koyikkal Palace, Thiruvananthapuram Folklore Museum "Ancient Artifacts of the Royal Family"

The Folklore Museum is situated on the upper floor of the Koyikkal Palace which was once occupied by the Queen Umayamma Rani of Venad Royal Family in 17th Century. Established by the Department of Archaeology in 1992, this museum comprises an extensive collection of musical instruments, household equipment and some of the rare artifacts such as Chandravalayam and Nanthuni which is a string instrument made of wood. Besides, brass and copper-wares as well as ornaments and dresses belonging to the royal family are also preserved inside this museum.

+91 472 281 2136 www.keralatourism.org/destination/ Town Road, Koyikkal destination.php?id=31 Palace, Thiruvananthapuram

Anandam Ayurveda "Ayurvedic Massages"

Following the age-old science of Ayurveda, Anandam Ayurveda health center, located at the The Travancore Heritage, offers an array of treatments which are sure to cure several ailments, insomnia and stress being the foremost of these. A number of massages using medicated oils as well as other treatments like Shiroshara wherein oil is rhythmically by Unique Hotels Group poured on the forehead, are offered here. Several retreats and programs spanning three nights to 28 nights, are also offered here.

+91 471 226 7828 www.anandamayurveda.c [email protected] Chowara Post, The om/ m Travancore Heritage, Thiruvananthapuram

Academy for Mountaineering & Adventure Sports "Hone Your Outdoor Adventure Skills"

The Academy for Mountaineering & Adventure Sports is a non-profit organisation that is dedicated to empowering youth, as well as the general public, through outdoor adventure activities. With a wide variety of activities including trekking, valley crossing, rope climbing, by jenny downing mountaineering, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, rafting, water skiing, scuba diving, sky diving, microlight flying, parasailing and others, this NGO plans to motivate youth to take risks and develop positive character traits like team work and courage. Contact the academy to find out where you can try out any of the array of activities offered here, or visit their center in Alummoodu. As it is an NGO, you can be assured that you will be trained by qualified personnel, at reasonable prices.

+91 9446101056 www.amasadventurekeral [email protected] Highway 47, Alummoodu, a.com/ , Thiruvananthapuram

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary "Nature Lover's Paradise"

Named after the Peppara Dam, the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is an oasis of tranquility located a short drive away from Thiruvananthapuram. This sanctuary is home to emerald landscapes and scenic lookout points that are sure to leave you in awe. The region is surrounded by several peaks, the tallest of the lot being the Chemmunjimottai which towers over 1700 by Public Domain CC0 meters (5577 feet) above the verdant region. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary has a rich biodiversity; its deciduous trees are home to over 200 bird species while over 40 different species of reptiles are found in its swamps. Animals like tigers, elephants, deer and the Nilgiri langur are also found lazing in this tropical heaven. +91 471 232 1132 (Tourist www.keralatourism.org/de [email protected] - Kottoor Road, Information) stination/peppara-wildlife-s anctuary- thiruvananthapuram/242

Agastya Mala "A Mighty Mountain"

Towering over 1800 meters (5906 feet), Mala is a spectacular mountain range that is explored by many outdoor enthusiasts and devotees of rishi Agastya. The Majestic mountain reveals itself from quite afar and it beckons visitors with its verdant environs and mist-covered peak. There are several trekking routes to the pinnacle and you are sure by Ashcoounter to have a remarkable adventure because of the mountain's rich fauna. If you are here during monsoon, you can bathe under sparkling streams and swim in crystal clear pools at the base of cascading waterfalls.

+91 471 232 1132 (Tourist www.keralatourism.org/de [email protected] Thiruvananthapuram- Information) stination/agasthyakoodam- Road, western-ghats/245 Wildlife Sanctuary,

Vazhvanthol Waterfalls "Beautiful & Serene Falls"

Vazhvanthol Waterfalls is located near the first check-post in the forest, along the highway. Set amidst lush-green forested land, this set of small waterfalls is a popular spot for hikers to visit along the way to . Lose yourself in the wilderness as you take in all the fresh air and the scenic, pristine beauty of nature. Take a walk along the winding trails and by Ashcoounter enjoy the peace and quiet all around you. This is a great place to enjoy a picnic and a dip in the cool fresh water.

+91 471 236 0762 Off Chathancode Road, Near Bonacaud Estate Church, , Thiruvananthapuram

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