Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Trivandrum’s strategic location at the southern tip of Kerala makes it a perfect base for day trips and short getaways. From golden beaches and peaceful backwaters to hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural towns, you’re never far from an adventure. Here are the top nearby destinations to explore on a day trip from Trivandrum:

 1. Kovalam Beach

 15 km | 30–40 minutes

 Why Visit?

• One of the most famous beaches in India
• Relax at Lighthouse Beach, try surfing or parasailing, or enjoy Ayurvedic massages
• Cafés, seafood, and vibrant beach life

 Tip: Visit early morning or evening to avoid the midday sun.

 2. Ponmudi Hill Station

 55 km |1.5–2 hours

 Why Visit?

• Mist-covered hill station at 1,100 m altitude
• Ideal for nature walks, trekking, tea plantations, and birdwatching
• Scenic drive with 22 hairpin bends

 Tip: Carry a light jacket—weather is cool and breezy.

 3. Poovar Island & Estuary

 30 km | 1 hour

 Why Visit?

• Explore the tranquil backwaters, mangroves, and golden beach
• Boat rides through the estuary where river, lake, and sea meet
• Great for photography and a romantic escape

 Tip: Sunset cruises are stunning—book in advance for best experience.

 4. Padmanabhapuram Palace

 50 km (in Tamil Nadu) | 1.5 hours

 Why Visit?

• A stunning 16th-century wooden palace of Travancore kings
• Admire carvings, murals, antique furniture, and royal architecture
• A slice of Kerala-Tamil cultural blend

 Tip: Closed on Mondays. Photography is limited inside, but the architecture is unforgettable.

 5. Varkala Beach & Cliff

 50 km | 1.5 hours

 Why Visit?

• Unique red cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea
• Chill beach cafes, yoga retreats, and scenic walking paths
• Visit Janardanaswamy Temple and Papanasam Beach for spiritual vibes

 Tip: Perfect for a relaxed day of sunset views, seafood, and coastal shopping.

 6. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Dam

 30 km | 1 hour

 Why Visit?

• Explore forest trails, a crocodile rehab center, lion safari, and a scenic dam
• Spot elephants, deer, and exotic birds
• Nature-filled picnic option close to the city

 Tip: Combine with a visit to Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Ashram nearby.

 7. Agasthyakoodam Trek (Seasonal)

 Base at Bonacaud (~60 km) | Trek: Full-day

 Why Visit?

• Sacred peak named after Sage Agastya
• One of the highest peaks in Kerala (1,868 m)
• Trekking allowed during Jan–March with permits

 Tip: Only fit trekkers allowed; strictly eco-sensitive—no plastic, no noise.

 8. Meenmutty & Kombaikani Waterfalls

 Near Neyyar Dam | 1.5–2 hours

 Why Visit?

• Hidden waterfalls inside forest areas
• Requires light trekking through Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
• Perfect for those who love nature, silence, and adventure

 Tip: Best visited post-monsoon (Sep–Feb). Go with a guide or forest official.

 9. Vellayani Lake

 12 km | 30 minutes

 Why Visit?

• One of the largest freshwater lakes in Kerala
• Peaceful spot for evening walks, boating, or photography
• Near the famous Vellayani Devi Temple

 Tip: Visit during Vellayani festival (once every 3 years) for a cultural experience.

 10. Kanyakumari – The Southern Tip of India

 90 km | 2–2.5 hours

 Why Visit?

• Stand at the southernmost tip of mainland India
• Visit Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Temple
• Watch the sunrise and sunset over three seas

 Tip: Start early and make a full-day trip with return by evening.

✅ Quick Overview Table

Whether you're in the mood for a mountain escape, coastal retreat, cultural stroll, or wildlife adventure, Trivandrum offers a launchpad to the best of South Kerala and beyond. All within a couple of hours' drive, these day trips let you experience diversity, serenity, and adventure—all in one journey.

From sea to summit, your next story is just a short ride from Trivandrum.