Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala, is quite a busy and official city. However, travelers need not ever despair in Kerala as every location has more than enough to offer. If you are planning a visit to Trivandrum, here is our hand-picked list of the top 7 tourist places you must visit in Trivandrum.

Crocodile farm, lion safari, deer park and boating across the pristine Neyyar River. For all this, head to the Neyyar Dam and Wildlife sanctuary 29 kms East of Trivandrum. Nestled at the foothills of Western Ghats, the sactuary is spread over 128 sq. kms and is home to some of India’s finest natural heritage. You could also trek to Agasthyakoodam from Neyyar dam. It’s the second highest peak in Kerala at 1890 meters.

One of the must visit places for travellers in Trivandrum, the Napier Museum (named after the governor of Madras), will give you a first-hand account of the past of the region. The napier museum has bronze figurines and other historical artefacts on display besides housing painter Raja Ravi Verma’s works in the Sri Chitra Art Gallery.

Encounter the colonial history of India at Anchuthengu fort. This was the East India Company’s first settlement in Kerala and the fort was built in the 16^th Century with the consent of the rani of Attingal. Located by the shore of the Anchuthengu beach, this fort was an important trading center for the East India Company. Surely the ruins make for a great travel experience in Trivandrum.

For tigers, panthers, elephants, lion-tailed macaques and more, head to Peppara Dam and Wildlife sanctuary, just 39 kilometers away from Trivandrum. The dam here, constructed on Karamana river, provides drinking water to the capital of Kerala. Enjoy the serene nature here. You could also indulge in some bird watching.

16 kilometers to the south of Thiruvananthapuram, is the beach town of Kovalam – one of Kerala’s popular tourist getaways. All for good reason. Kovalam, has a wild array of experiences to offer starting from India’s first artificial coral reef, to a novice friendly surf club and exquisite sea food. One of the best places to visit near Trivandrum.

Just 49 kilometers away, Varkala is a perfect getaway from Trivandrum. The beach town, in the northern reaches of the Trivandrum district, is famous for its beautifully sandy beaches, and the relatively calm waves which allow for swimming. Enjoy some laid back time sitting in the cafes of North cliff and looking out at the great expanse of the Arabian sea.

Enjoy the green foggy silence of Western Ghats at Ponmudi. Drive 56 kilometers East from Trivandrum to reach this quiet hill station at 1,000 meters height, hidden in the folds of the ancient mountain ranges. While away the time trekking or strolling through plantations and tea estates here.