Hidden Places in Trivandrum: Trivandrum’s Lesser-Known Marvels
Hidden places in Trivandrum: Welcome to Trivandrum, the city that is full of surprises! In this blog, we’ll try to discover some cool places that most people aren’t aware of. We’ll call them hidden places in Trivandrum. We’ll be saying the same thing a few times more to ensure you don’t forget!
Trivandrum is much more than busy streets and cool vibes. There are some hidden gems in the middle that we’ll explore together. Imagine cozy cafes that have interesting stories or tranquil parks that are like tiny natural pieces hidden in the urban sprawl. That’s what we’ll be talking about.
Today, Trivandrum has a mix of old traditions and modern atmospheres, and in between there are these hidden places. These spots might not be on the typical lists; however, they do add something unique to Trivandrum. If you’re a local looking to re-discover your home or a tourist looking for something unique, we’ve provided you with everything.
So, prepare to explore the outskirts of Trivandrum with us. We’ll shed light on places that are often overlooked but are worth taking the time to check out. The hidden places in Trivandrum may be quiet, but they’re full of amazing stories to tell. Let’s look around!
Table of Contents
WATERFALLS
There are many waterfalls in Trivandrum. They are all located in the hills to the north-east.
Nature can be a surprisingly harsh place, and you’ll need special equipment and clothes to help you deal with all the challenges it can bring.
General Checklist
- Always carry repellents for leeches in case you encounter them out in the wilderness.
- Boots for hiking: The most notable advantage of these boots (and not just your regular sandals or sneakers) is that their bottoms have a grip. This will allow you to easily navigate difficult terrain that is slippery or steep.
- Daypack: These are great for storing the essentials for short-term hiking. Many are outfitted with bladders to allow hands-free hydration, while others have pockets on the sides to keep water bottles conveniently close to hand. The ones I prefer tend to have pockets that can be used to store things such as maps, guidebooks, flashlights, tick-removal tools, journals, and even food items for the trail. Some have hip belts that allow for the transfer of some weight to the hips, though they’re not as efficient as frames.
- Handheld GPS: These are great for logging trips, but they can be useful when paired with a Topo map for cross-country hikes or to confirm that you’re following the correct route or not.
- Hat: This may seem obvious, but the hidden risk of skin cancer resulting from excessive exposure to sunlight shouldn’t be undervalued. The larger the brim, the greater the coverage that could extend to the neck.
- Light wool socks: Not only are they great insulation for cold weather, but even if you sweat your feet, their moisture-wicking properties lower the chances that you’ll develop blisters.
- Compact flashlight: You can never undervalue the possibility that your excursion took longer than you anticipated, even if the day turns into night and you are unable to see anything. This is where headlamps can come in handy to provide a sense of where you’re headed. If you’re looking to travel without hands, then a headlamp may be the best way to go.
- Water bottle: This is obvious, but if you want to be environmentally conscious, using a water bottle that is reusable is the best option.
- Medical Kit: There’s no way to know if you’ll be afflicted with a cut, an ankle that is twisted, a truly painful tick bite, or things such as a swollen or bloody nose, to mention some of them.
- Sunscreen: If you aren’t able to wear a robe and shield yourself from the sun in the traditional method, you can apply SPF 30+ to guarantee protection from harmful UV rays from the sun. Be aware that there are adverse effects associated with certain of the most popular brands, while the more natural ones don’t last as long.
- Sunglasses: Cataracts are something that creeps into your eyes as you age. It is possible to lower the chance of having this problem by investing in a quality pair of glasses. Some even come with polarization, which can reduce some of the reflection and make your vision more contrasting than only your eyes.
- Hand Sanitizer: These can be handy in situations where you have no fresh water in which you can wash your hands (you particularly need to look out for the presence of bacteria in streams and rivers). They can assist in the removal of dirt and remnants of nature calls, residues of sunscreen or insect repellent, and other items you would not want to put in your mouth or nose.
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1. Meenmutty Waterfalls
Trivandrum is home to its own Meenmutty waterfalls (not to be confused with its name in Wayanad). The waterfall is located about 50 km away from Trivandrum city, near the Neyyar reservoir area.
If you are looking to hike for a few kilometers through the woods, Meenumutty (also Meenmutti) is the first in line to take in.
The large boulders that are scattered throughout the Kallar river bed are part of the natural splendor of the forest. Meenmutty is an impressive, multi-tiered cascade that is stunning and tranquil.
Distances: Trivandrum – 46 km Vithura – 9 km
It is located on the trekking path that leads to Agastyakoodam, and the waterfall offers an unforgettable experience.
Checklist
- Visit the ecotourism office in Kallar (between Vithura and Ponmudi) to obtain the pass.
- You may require a guide as the waterfall is part of the forest.
- Although beautiful during rain, the waterfall pools are unsafe to swim in.
- The highly anticipated swimming pool is not to be missed because there is an ideal swimming spot (Bathing Ghat) at the beginning of the trekking trail.
- The medium-sized falls require a lot of hiking for about 3-4 kilometers away from the main road because no transport is available to take you to the base of the waterfall.
2. Vazhuvanthol Waterfalls
Vazhvanthol waterfall is an ideal location for an excursion (trek or picnic). The trail to the waterfall is just 2.2 km, but you can reach the cascade in about an hour. You will be shocked at how little this amazing place is known. Outside of avid nature enthusiasts, there aren’t many visitors visiting this area.
Vazhvanthol waterfall is just past Vithura in the northern-eastern portion of Thiruvananthapuram district. Shortly following Vithura is the Viyode junction. Make a detour towards Bonacaud. You will travel for 12 km before you arrive at the checkpoint, where you must obtain the entry permit. Vehicles travel a few kilometers from the checkpoint.
Distances: Trivandrum – 53 km Vithura – 16 km
Checklist
- There are boulders to be fought over and undulating terrain to climb through.
- Expect to feel exhausted. The waterfall is such a refreshing experience that, in a blink, you will feel refreshed.
- There is no need to put yourself in danger in the slippery areas since there are many other excellent pools in which you can relax and enjoy the crisp mountain air.
- Make sure you bring snacks with you. There’s no reason to be surprised if you’re extremely hungry after a strenuous journey. It’s no surprise if you find yourself spending a lot of time here.
3. Bona Falls
It is one of the least frequented waterfalls in Trivandrum. It is situated deep within the Agasthyarkoodam Biosphere Reserve, and it is an experience for the eyes.
Distances: Trivandrum – 59 km Vithura – 24 km
Checklist
- You must have authorization from the Forest Department to travel to this waterfall. The Forest Department will arrange a guide for your waterfall hike.
- The contact is with the Wild Life Warden Forest Department, PTP Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Tel: +91 471 2360762
- The Forest Department operates an information center and a checkpoint located in Bonacaud. The guide will accompany you from the checkpoint for another 4 kilometers of hard-core hiking through the forest.
4. Kalakkayam Waterfall
Kalakkayam waterfall, which is also referred to as Idinjar waterfall, is near Palode and has several waterfalls. Because the waterfall is situated on the Mankayam River and is located near Palode, it has a different name: Mankayam waterfall.
Distances: Trivandrum – 44 km Palode – 9 km
Checklist
- The waterfall is accessible, so it is a popular picnic place. Expect crowds on weekends and public holidays.
- You may be tempted to walk on the rocks to get to the small pools that are located at the base of the waterfall. The rock formations are slippery and can fall in an instant, particularly during monsoons.
- Rainfalls in forests in remote regions can result in flash flooding. This is why restrictions on entry into pools are in place during monsoons.
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BACKWATERS
With the rivers and lakes located just outside the city, Trivandrum backwater tours can be easily integrated with city trips and beach excursions.
1. Veli Lake and Tourist Village
A great place to spend an evening out, Veli has an 18-acre waterfront park as well as boating facilities. The strip of sand that divides Veli Lake from the Arabian Sea is being developed into a tourist village.
Veli Tourist Village is one of the major tourist attractions around Trivandrum. It is ideal for family holiday picnics, backwater cruises, picnics, and water sports for adventure.
Checklist
- Boating in Veli Lagoon is the most popular thing to do in the area.
- There are some amusements, such as a children’s play area as well as horseback riding.
- There are sculptures as well as a floating restaurant and a floating bridge. The floating bridge will take you to the beach.
- Veli is approximately 8 km away from Trivandrum city and is located near Shanghumugham Beach. Veli Tourist Village is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.
2. Kappil Backwaters
One of the most beautiful backwater spots is Kappil, which is located about 57 km to the south of Trivandrum. Kappil is the meeting place of the ocean and the lake. The scenery is breathtaking. There is an undeveloped beach, too.
Checklist
- If you are thinking that is too far away, there is some good news. Kappil is located just 7 km from Varkala Beach, which you may be planning to visit.
3. Poovar Backwaters
Poovar Backwaters is one of the most beautiful backwaters in Trivandrum. A trip of just one day to Poovar can be refreshing on weekends. The boating trip also includes a trip to Poovar Golden Beach, which is a great beach to relax on in the evenings or early in the mornings.
Checklist
- If you are seeking boating services in Trivandrum City, Poovar is one of the most suitable choices. The cost of boating varies between Rs. 1000 and Rs. 2000, depending on the length of the service provided.
Conclusion
When we’ve completed our tour of the most secret places in Trivandrum, it is clear that the city is full of hidden treasures. The journey we took through these hidden places in Trivandrum was like finding treasures during an adventure hunt, which made our visit to the city much more exciting.
From small, cozy cafes with quiet lanes to serene parks that offer a break from the bustling city, hidden places in Trivandrum add an extra dimension to the town. The vibrant street art, the hidden viewpoints, and the less-known cultural places are just a few of the distinctive elements that make Trivandrum special.
If you are a fan of finding authentic and unique places, be sure to add Hidden Places in Trivandrum to your itinerary. Explore the streets that wind, take in the wonderful scents of the local food, and discover the undiscovered treasures that make the city incredible.