Trivandrum - the capital of the state of Kerala is a beautiful Seaside city built on seven hills. The city gets its name from the word, Thiruvanathapuram, meaning the city of Anantha or the abode of the sacred Serpent Anantha on which Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu trinity reclines. The famous Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple is dedicated to Vishnu and is a landmark in the city.

Napier Museum : It is an absolute gem of architectural exuberance, combining traditional Kerala styles with good doses of Chinese and Mughal influences. The 19th century English architect, Chisholm, threw himself in a few touches of brighten for good measure and ended up with a building that is guaranteed to leave you smiling at its electric charm.

Sri Chitra Art Gallery : Next to museum , this is in a smaller traditional building. It houses the collections of the Travancore ruling family and includes an interesting assortment of turn of the century Bengali school paintings, Rajasthani and Mughal miniatures. Tanjore paintings and a selection of works by a Russian Emigrant, Svetosku Roerich and by Kerala s favorite artist Ravi Raja Verma.

Padmanabha Swamy Temple : Dedicated to Lord Vishnu it has been held sacred by the Hindus from antiquity. The temple is a sprawling complex with a magnificent gopuram or tower. It is the most important building in Trivandrum., but is open only to Hindus.

Kawdiar Palace : The home of the Late Maharaja and his family, is off limits to visitors, but you can get a glimpse from the main gate.