Thiruvananthapuram Tourism

Tourism in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) district in the Indian state of Kerala promotes the area's hill stations, back waters, beaches, lagoons, and wildlife sanctuaries. The area is a tourism destination and receives chartered flights for medical tourism, as there are more than hundred recognised Ayurveda centres 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.

History
Trivendrum, according to the legends, boasts of being associated with King Solomon whose ships landed at a port called Ophir. Traders have been coming to these parts as far back as 190 AD for spices, sandalwood, and ivory.
The city derives its name from the deity at the Sree Anantha Padmanabhaswami Temple, one of the major landmarks of the place. The name of the city is derived from the words Thiru-Anantha-Puram, meaning the town of Anantha. Although no records of the antiquity of the temple really exists, the temple nevertheless is believed to be several thousands years old.

Thiruvananthapuram shot into prominence in the 18th century when the capital was shifted here form Padmanabhapuram, a little down south. The erstwhile kings of the then Travancore State, taking on the title of Padmanabhadas (servant of Lord), had dedicated themselves completely to the service of the Lord residing in the temple here. By the terms of this dedication, the deity owns the kingdom while the king is the mere executor of the trust. After independence, Trivendrum was designated as the capital of Kerala. Things you just can’t miss
Thiruvananthapuram has some of the loveliest picnic spots, all thanks to the highlands of the Western Ghats on the eastern and northeastern borders. This arrangement of nature also provides the city with a terrific shoreline which can be enjoyed thoroughly from its beautiful beaches, Kovalam being one of the popular ones among tourists. The soft, white sand and the sparkling sea here are the perfect remedies to rid you of all worries and make you feel completely relaxed.
Also, visit the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple, one of the many landmarks, and leave completely charmed.

Knowing the Ways of the City
The cheapest way to travel through the city is the local bus service system. There are many buses which are operated by the government (KSRTC), as well as private ones. You may distinguish these by their color--the government buses are red with a yellow patch, and the private buses are blue. Route descriptions on the buses are primarily in Malayalam. Another alternative is the auto-rickshaw, which is useful for traveling in between destinations. You can find one easily at bus stands, railway stations or auto-rickshaw stands. The licensed city auto-rickshaws should contain fare meters. Make sure they’re turned on by drivers before you commence your journey.
Taxis are also a good alternative for short as well as long distances. You may also rent cars and drivers to get around. Scooters and motorcycles are also available for renting.