Asian Geographic

Top 5 places to visit in

Thiruvanan­thapuram

- Text Shreya Gopi

1 Agasthyako­odam Biosphere Reserve

This reserve of immense importance for its rich biodiversi­ty and rare medicinal plants thrives on Kerala’s second-highest peak, Agasthyako­odam. Thiruvanan­thapuram serves as the gateway to this reserve, which is also home to the Kanikkaran tribe. Advance booking is required to trek to the summit.

2 Ponmudi Hill Station

An enchanting hill resort at an altitude of 1,100 metres, Ponmudi, with its spice and tea estates and mist-covered valleys, is a sight to behold. Among its many other attraction­s are a deer park, captivatin­g mountain flowers and the Ponmudi Waterfalls.

3 Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave

The rock-cut sculptures in this granite cave temple in Vizhinjam date back to the 18th century. The outer wall of the cave depicts relics of the Hindu god Shiva with Goddess Parvathi, while the one-celled shrine encloses a sculpture of a deity as well.

4 Magic Planet

Located within the KINFRA Film and Video Park, Magic Planet, the world’s first entirely magic-themed park, is an infotainme­nt centre designed for children to explore science, technology, art and literature. Enchantmen­t abounds with stellar performanc­es and spellbindi­ng acts, including an area exclusivel­y dedicated to In dian street magicians.

5 Kovalam Beach

A favourite destinatio­n for water sports, Kovalam Beach attracts parasailin­g enthusiast­s in particular. Best experience­d between October and March, parasailin­g at Kovalam offers a spectacula­r aerial view of the region. ag

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Image Shuttersto­ck
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Image Shuttersto­ck BOTTOM Morning on the beach in Kerala,India
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Image Shuttersto­ck LEFT Ponmudi Hill Station

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