Final Chapter: Exploring Trivandrum, Jatayu Earth Centre & Varkala

As our incredible journey through Kerala nears its end, we find ourselves in Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)—the state’s historic capital. This final leg of the adventure takes us through ancient temples, towering sculptures, stunning beaches, and cultural gems, leaving us with memories to cherish forever.

Best Time to Visit Trivandrum

Trivandrum enjoys a tropical climate, making October to March the best time to visit. During these months, the weather is pleasant, allowing for a comfortable exploration of the city’s historical sites, beaches, and cultural attractions. The monsoon season (June–September) brings heavy rains, while summers (April–May) can be quite humid.

How to Reach Trivandrum

By Air: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad.
By Train: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is one of Kerala’s busiest railway hubs.
By Road: Regular buses and taxis connect Trivandrum to other major cities in Kerala.

Exploring Trivandrum: Ancient Temples & Mystical Legends

1. Padmanabhaswamy Temple – A Treasure Trove of History

Our first stop was the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the richest temples in the world, shrouded in mystery. With its majestic Dravidian-style architecture, hidden chambers, and the iconic 16-ft deity, it was a surreal experience to step into its spiritual aura.

Temple Timings: 3:30 AM – 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 7:30 PMDress Code: Traditional attire is mandatory (Men: Dhoti, Women: Saree/Salwar Kameez).

2. Jatayu Earth Centre – India’s Largest Bird Sculpture

Next, we embarked on a scenic drive to Jatayu Earth Centre, home to the world’s largest bird sculpture—a tribute to the mythical Jatayu from the Ramayana. We took a cable car ride up the hill, capturing breathtaking drone shots of the sculpture and the lush landscape. The sudden change in weather, from sunny to misty, added an enchanting touch to our visit.

Best Experiences at Jatayu Earth Centre:

Cable Car Ride – Panoramic views of the valleys and forests.
Adventure Park – Rock climbing, zip-lining & trekking.
Jatayu Statue & Museum – Discover the legend behind Jatayu.

Entry Fee: ₹400 per person (for cable car access)Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Top Things to Do in Trivandrum

3. Visit the Iconic Napier Museum & Zoo

A treasure trove of Kerala’s rich heritage, the Napier Museum houses rare artifacts, ancient idols, and paintings. Right next to it is the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in India, perfect for nature lovers.

Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Mondays)Entry Fee: ₹30 per person (for the museum)

4. Explore Kovalam Beach – A Coastal Paradise

Just 15 km from Trivandrum, Kovalam Beach is famous for its crescent-shaped coastline, lighthouses, and water sports. A must-visit for those who love the sea!

Things to Do:

Surfing & Jet Skiing at Lighthouse Beach.
Relax at Samudra Beach for a peaceful escape.
Sunset at Hawa Beach – perfect for golden-hour photography.

5. Unique Experience: Ayurveda & Spa Retreats

Trivandrum is home to world-class Ayurveda wellness centers offering rejuvenation therapies. We tried an authentic Abhyanga massage at a local Ayurvedic retreat, and it was an absolute stress-buster.

Best Ayurveda Centers:

Kairali Ayurvedic Centre
Somatheeram Ayurveda Village

Scenic Drive to Varkala – The Final Stop

As we bid farewell to Trivandrum, our next destination was Varkala, a hidden coastal gem known for its cliffside beaches and yoga retreats. The drive along the coastline was nothing short of spectacular.

6. Varkala Beach – Where Cliffs Meet the Ocean

Unlike any other beach in Kerala, Varkala Beach offers a unique landscape with red cliffs, blue waters, and golden sands. It’s the perfect spot to relax, surf, or take in the stunning sunset views.

7. Must-Visit Cafés in Varkala

Darjeeling Café – Great seafood & beachfront seating.
The Coffee Temple – Best coffee & smoothie bowls.
God’s Own Country Kitchen – Authentic Kerala meals.

8. Yoga & Meditation by the Cliffs

Varkala is a haven for yoga lovers. We attended a sunset yoga session on the cliffs, which was a soulful and refreshing experience.

Final Reflections: The Kerala Journey in Retrospect

As we reached the end of our Kerala adventure, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible diversity we had witnessed—from the backwaters of Alleppey to the mountains of Munnar, cultural treasures of Trivandrum, and the serene beaches of Varkala. This journey was filled with history, adventure, food, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience.