Aruvikkara
(16 km) |
A
pilgrim centre and a place of tourist interest, Aruvikkara is situated
on the banks of the Karamana river. There is an ancient temple here
dedicated to Bhagavathi, built on a rock on the right bank of the
river. There is an Inspection Bungalow here and the reservation
authority is the assistant executive engineer, Kerala Water Authority. |
Padmanabhapuram
Palace (54 km) |
A
'teak edifice' of yesteryears from where Maharaja Marthanda Varma
ruled Travancore state. Set in scenic surroundings along the Thiruvananthapuram
Kanyakumari route, the palace is well maintained. It was in use
from 1550-1790, and has beautiful carvings, and 17th and 18th century
murals. There is a good restaurant on the premises which serves
Indian food. Accommodation in the area is not aplenty. |
Sucheendram
Temple (74 km) |
A
Shiva/Brahma/Vishnu temple, the stone carvings are intricate and
worth spending some time on. There is a huge Hanuman statue and
a musical pillar. |
Varkala
(51 km) |
It
is known for its Vishnu shrine dedicated to Lord Janardhana. This
temple is believed to be 2,000 years old. The Sivagiri Mutt situated
at an elevation 3 km east of the Janardhana Temple, is held sacred
by Hindu pilgrims. Varkala is a seaside resort with mineral water
springs. There is a Government Guest House and a few mid-range hotels.
Taj Garden Retreat, Varkala, is the latest addition. |
TOURIST
INFORMATION CENTRES |
Government
of Kerala Tourist Information Centre, Park View, opposite Museum.
Tel: 321132, Fax: 0471-62279.
Government
of India Tourist Information Counter, Thiruvananthapuram Airport
Tel: 451498.
Government
of Kerala Tourist Information Counter, Central Bus Station, Thampanoor
, Tel: 3272144; and at Railway Station.
Kerala
Tourism Development Corporation Reception Centre, near Central Bus
Station, Thampanoor Tel: 330031.
Foreigners'
Registration Office, Office of the Police Commissioner, Thycaud
Tel: 321399.
Government
of Kerala Tourist Information Centre, Kovalam Tel: 480085. |