Slipping out of busy commercial alleys of Thiruvananthapuram can come off as a big relief. This capital of Kerala is surrounded by a picturesque neighbourhood that can serve as a perfect respite from your daily work life. So this weekend, keep your schedule clear because we are about to suggest you some cool weekend getaways from Thiruvananthapuram. Trust us pristine valleys, backwaters and lifetime memories are just a 3-hour ride away.
Thenmala
To a tourist delight, Thenmala has been divided into 5 zones: Adventure zone, Deer Rehabilitation zone, Cultural zone, Boating zone and Leisure zone. The site has an active Eco-Tourism Project going on which excellently classifies the place and appeals to a wide range of tourists. There’s one thing about Thenmala that attracts tourists not only from the local areas but also from all around the world; it has a wide range of flora and fauna, even the exotic variety. Walking amidst the widespread green cover in this hilly terrain holds special place for every nature lover. The place also has a lot of scope for adventurous activities and sports. Trekking, biking, musical fountain, rope bridge and mountaineering are some of the things you can try there. One chief attraction of this place is the Palaruvi Waterfalls – a great choice for honeymooning and picnicking.
How to Reach: Thenamla is fairly well connected, so reaching there won’t be a trouble. Mere 70 km away, you can reach within 1 hour 30 minutes.
Best Time to Visit: Dec-Feb
Kanyakumari
Famously known as “Cape Comorin”, the southernmost point of India has some of the best landscapes waiting for you to explore. The most magnetic feature which draws tourists in swarms is the outstanding views of dusk and dawn this coastal town has. Those who appreciate art can admire this coastal town for its refined art and culture. Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Gandhi museum and Udayagiri Fort are counted in the top attractions of this place. The spicy seafood and of course the native south Indian dishes like idlis, uttapam, dosa, and vada are other important reasons to visit this place. At least for foodies!
How to Reach: It is situated 85.3 km away from Thiruvananthapuram and you should reach there within 2 hours.
Best Time to Visit: Oct-Mar
Kochi
If you ask us, Kochi must be on your bucket list. Surrounded by the mighty Arabian sea, this city is a beautiful amalgamation of Indian culture with Western influence. Consequently, Kochi enjoys a unique identity in the south for having a rich mix of ancient and modern culture.
In addition, whether you are a history buff, a shop-till-you-drop kind of person or just plain sporty adventurous soul, there’s something for all in Kochi. From museums, malls, children’s park to temples, you have plenty of options to enjoy your day. Nature lovers too have a treat waiting for them here. Beautiful backwaters, wildlife parks and a wide variety of flora and fauna will keep an aesthetic hooked for long. Don’t forget to gorge on the local cuisine.
How to Reach: Located 205 km away from Thiruvananthapuram, it takes about 3 hrs to reach there. All three air, rail and road routes are available.
Best Time to Visit: Nov-Feb
Munnar
This hill station is situated at an interesting converging point of three rivers: Nallathanni, Muthirapuzha, and Kundala. That’s why it is named Munnar which means three rivers. This Western Ghat hill station is definitely one of the reasons why Kerala is so sought after by travellers around the world. Needless to say, this place is a haven for nature enthusiasts. There are a number of waterfalls (Chinnakanal and Pallivasal Falls) that demand a visit. Other scenic sensations include Attukal, Nadukani, Meenuli, Rajamala, echo point and Pothanmedu. Visiting there, you can clearly see that this hilly terrain is also a one-stop destination for all the bikers, trekkers, and picnickers.
How to Reach: It is situated 290 km away from Thiruvananthapuram. Your journey should be over within 5 hr and 30 mins.
Best Time to Visit: Aug-May
Kumarakom
The small and scenic islands are what you get at this tourist’s paradise. It has also gained a worldwide popularity because of its amazing backwater tourism. Its enthralling beauty can appeal to anyone. Dotted with greenery and surrounded by streams, it’s a dream come true for every nature lover. No wonder its pristine beauty attracts thousands of tourists from all around the world. It is best known for its coconut groves, palm trees, and paddy fields. A lucky bird lover can also spot a Siberian Crane and wide variety of migratory birds. Houseboats are other major attraction of this place.
How to Reach: It shouldn’t be more than 3 hr ride to Kumarakom, considering it is 164 km away from the capital of Kerala.
Best Time to Visit: Sep-Mar
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