Places to Visit Near Trivandrum Within 100 km

1. Kovalam:

   

   Kovalam is Kerala's most famous beach destination, located just 16 km from Trivandrum. Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach are the three main beaches in Kovalam, which is known for its crescent-shaped shoreline, immaculate waters, and swaying palm trees.

   Distance from Trivandrum: 16 km

   Things to Do in Kovalam:

   • Visit the Vizhinjam Lighthouse for panoramic views.
   • Enjoy sunbathing, surfing, and Ayurvedic massages.
   • Explore local seafood shacks and coastal cuisine.
   • Take a catamaran cruise at sunset.

2. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary:

   

   This expansive sanctuary is home to exotic flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, and the rare lion-tailed macaque. It also has the Neyyar Dam, a serene reservoir perfect for boating.

   Distance from Trivandrum: 32 km

   Top Attractions:

   • Safari at the Lion and Deer Park.
   • Visit the Crocodile Rehabilitation Centre.
   • Yoga and meditation at Sivananda Ashram.
   • Trekking trails leading to Agasthyakoodam Peak.

3. Varkala:

   

   A picturesque beach town, Varkala is renowned for its unique cliff formations overlooking the Arabian Sea. Known for Papanasam Beach and the Janardanaswamy Temple, it is also a centre of spirituality.

   Distance from Trivandrum: 45 km

   Highlights:

   • Stunning sunset views from the cliff promenade.
   • Paragliding and water sports at Varkala Beach.
   • Natural springs are believed to have medicinal properties.
   • Shopping at the cliffside handicraft stalls.

4. Ponmudi:

   

   Nestled in the Western Ghats, Ponmudi is a cool escape from the coastal heat. At 1100 meters above sea level, this verdant hill resort is renowned for its tea gardens, foggy pathways, and biodiversity.

   Distance from Trivandrum: 55 km

   Must-Experience Attractions:

   • Trekking to Varayattumotta, the highest peak in the area.
   • Exploring Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary.
   • Picnicking at Meenmutty Falls and Kallar River.
   • Nature photography and birdwatching.

5. Poovar:

   

   Poovar is one of the places to visit near Trivandrum within 100 km, and is a hidden gem where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. Known for its golden sand beach, serene backwaters, and floating cottages, it offers a tranquil experience.

   Distance from Trivandrum: 28 km

   What to Do:

   • The boat cruises through the estuary and mangroves.
   • Relax at luxurious floating resorts.
   • Visit the Poovar Island Beach at low tide.
   • Enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine by the waterfront.

6. Kanyakumari:

   

   At exactly 100 km from Trivandrum, Kanyakumari is a cultural and geographic marvel. The town stands at the confluence of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean.

   Distance from Trivandrum: 100 km

   Highlights:

   • Visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
   • Watch the sunrise and sunset over three oceans.
   • Explore the Thiruvalluvar Statue and the Kanyakumari Temple.
   • Shop for conch shells and handicrafts.

7. Thenmala:

   

   Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Thenmala offers adventure, nature, and cultural tourism. It's famous for the Thenmala Dam, forest trails, and eco-parks.

   Distance from Trivandrum:  72 km

   Activities:

   • Walk across the Suspension Bridge.
   • Explore the Butterfly Safari and Musical Dancing Fountain.
   • Mountain biking and rock climbing.
   • Trek to Palaruvi Waterfalls, 15 km away.

8. Anchuthengu Fort and Beach:

   

   A lesser-known historic site, Anchuthengu Fort, built by the British East India Company in the 17th century, is a peaceful coastal retreat with rich colonial history.

   Distance from Trivandrum: 36 km

   Key Features:

   • Explore the well-preserved fort and watchtower.
   • Quiet strolls on Anchuthengu Beach.
   • Visit the St. Thomas Church nearby.
   • Sunset views and photography.

9. Aruvikkara Dam and Temple:

   

   On the banks of the Karamana River, Aruvikkara is a well-liked picnic location and is well-known for the Durga Temple and the dam.

   Distance from Trivandrum: 15 km

   Things to Do:

   • Relax by the dam waters.
   • Feed fish near the temple steps.
   • Enjoy a scenic drive through nearby rural villages.

10. Agasthyakoodam:

    

    Part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, this sacred peak is the second-highest in Kerala and a UNESCO-listed site for its biodiversity.

    Distance from Trivandrum: 70 km

    Experience Includes:

    • Seasonal trekking with the forest department permission.
    • Rich medicinal plant diversity.
    • Mythical significance as the abode of Sage Agastya.

Conclusion

Whether you're drawn to serene backwaters, mystical peaks, spiritual landmarks, or sandy shores, the best places to visit near Trivandrum within 100 km offer a perfect mix of nature, history, and culture. Plan a day trip or a weekend escape, these destinations are your ideal break from city life.