Trivandrum
or Thiruvananthapuram, the city of Anantha, the sacred serpent of
Lord Vishnu, is the capital of Kerala. Also known as Trivandrum, it
stirs up all the senses of a person with visual treats of beautiful
sunsets and coconut groves bordering its beautiful lagoons, fragrance of
spices and coffee, cool breeze delicate rushing across our skins and
delightful seafood cuisines of Kerala. Known as 'City of Seven Hills',
Thiruvananthapuram was once a popular port for Romans, Jews,
Arabs and Christians and is still one of the biggest centers for
sea-bound labor. According to a legend, Parashuram threw his axe into
the sea, which immediately receded and the city of Trivandrum emerged
with the state of Kerala.
Whether the land is true or not, the immense natural beauty of the
place certainly seduces one to fall in love with the place at first
sight. An important part of India's maritime history, today's
Thiruvananthapuram is a delightful concoction of traditionalism and
modernity. It is known for its Ayurvedic centers almost as well as space
research that goes on here unveiling the most distant secrets of the
universe. There are verdant green trees and beautiful backwaters and
lagoon cruises, the most exotic beaches featuring cool breezes and
scenic seashores and relaxing Ayurvedic massages that make
Trivandrum,
an Oriental paradise. The people here are warm and friendly.
Shopping Attractions:
Besides the traditional handicrafts of Kerala,
Thiruvananthapuram
is the best place to buy carved rosewood and teak items and Kathakali
masks from the various shops at MG Road. The craft shops at Station Road
offer sandalwood and brass products along with traditional Keralite
bell-metal oil lamps. Traditionally hand-woven Kasava sarees, exquisite
temple woodcarvings, brilliant Thanjur paintings, traditional inlaid
chests, cashewnuts and spices and mistletoe and wine at Connemara Market
are the other favorite picks of the region.
