Tourism in Thiruvananthapuram

Kovalambeach,Thiruvananthapuram

Close view of the lighthouse in Vizhinjam, Trivandrum

Tourism inThiruvananthapuram(Trivandrum) district in the Indian state ofKeralapromotes the area'shill stations,backwaters,beaches, lagoons, and wildlife sanctuaries. The area is a tourism destination and receives chartered flights formedical tourism,as there are more than a hundred recognisedAyurvedacentres in and around the city. This is primarily due to Ayurveda's popularity in foreign countries. Medical tourism is further promoted by modern medicine hospitals in the city. Recuperation facilities are available at five-star beach resorts and hill stations nearby.

Agastyakoodam

Main article:Agastyakoodam

Situated on the eastern side of the districtat about 1,869 metres (6,132 ft) above sea level,Agasthyarkoodamis one of the highest peaks in theWestern Ghatsand is the second highest peak in Kerala afterAnamudiwhich is the highest peak in the Western Ghats. Tradition says that the great sageAgasthyalived on this peak. Noted for its abundantayurvedicherbs, the cone-shaped mountain is a centre of pilgrimage for Hindus because of Agastya, who was a confirmed bachelor. Hence, the aborigines dislike the presence of women on the hill and they are forbidden from ascending the peak..Agasthyavanam Biological Park offers trekking opportunities.

Vizhinjam

Vizhinjam Port site

About two km south ofKovalam,Vizhinjamis believed to have been an ancient port. Now, Vizhinjam is a fishing harbour, with a light house. ThePortugueseand theDutchhad commercial establishments here. The Portuguese have built a church inVizhinjamnear to the sea shore, which is still functional and is referred as theOld Vizhinjam Church.It is located in the vizhinjam fishing harbour area. This place is being developed into an international deep water containertransshipmentterminal because of its proximity to international shipping lanes and its natural depth.

External links

• Kerala Tourism Official site