Kovalam Beach, Poovar Island, Aazhimala Shiva & Sabari Mala Temple
If you are planning a peaceful South India trip, Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram), Kerala is a perfect destination. Beautiful beaches, backwaters, spiritual temples and lush greenery — this city has everything.
We explored Trivandrum in 2 days and here is our complete travel experience.
How to Reach Trivandrum from Gujarat
✈️ By Flight (Best Option)
Direct & connecting flights available from Ahmedabad / Vadodara / Surat
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)
Travel time: 3.5 to 5 hours (with layover)
🚆 By Train
Direct trains available from Ahmedabad or Vadodara to Trivandrum
Travel time: Approx 33–40 hours
🚗 Local Travel
Cab & auto easily available
We used local city bus and sometimes we use cab and local Riksha.
Day 1 – Explore Trivandrum City
After reaching Trivandrum, we checked into our hotel/homestay and started exploring.
🌊 2. Poovar Island – Backwater Beauty
Poovar Island is a must-visit place in Trivandrum.
we paid 2500 rs for 2hour boat ride. it’s worth the price.
✔ Beautiful scenic backwater views
✔ Boat ride experience
✔ Floating restaurant lunch
✔ Peaceful island vibes
We spent almost 2 hours here and it was one of the most relaxing parts of our trip.
4. Chenkal Maheswaram Sri Sivaparvathi Temple
(World’s Tallest Shiva Lingam – 111 Feet)
Chenkal Maheswaram Sri Sivaparvathi Temple, located in Chenkal village near Neyyattinkara, Thiruvananthapuram, is famous for housing the world’s tallest Shiva Lingam.
The Shiva Lingam stands at an impressive height of 111.2 feet, making it one of the most unique spiritual landmarks in India.
Why This Temple is Special
✔ 111 ft tall Shiva Lingam
✔ Cave-style meditation hall inside the Lingam
✔ Mount Kailash replica
✔ Hanuman statue beside the Lingam
✔ Peaceful spiritual atmosphere
Visitors can actually go inside the Shiva Lingam structure. It has multiple floors symbolizing spiritual levels, and meditation spaces are built inside, creating a divine experience.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and it attracts devotees from all over India.
📍 Location
Chenkal, Near Neyyattinkara
Approx 25 km from Trivandrum city
Entry
Minimal entry ticket (around ₹50 – ₹100 approx)
Spiritual Experience
Standing in front of this massive Shiva Lingam feels powerful and peaceful at the same time. The architecture, symbolism and scale make it a must-visit place when you are in Trivandrum.
If you are planning a spiritual trip in Kerala, Chenkal Maheswaram Sri Sivaparvathi Temple should definitely be on your list.
Day 2 – Spiritual & Nature Experience
6. Sabari Mala Temple (Sabarimala)
One of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India.
Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, Sabari Mala is located inside forest hills.
Important things:
41 days vratam tradition
Trekking route to temple
Mandala season is most crowded
It is a deeply spiritual and powerful experience.
7. Local Shopping & City Exploration
Before returning, we explored:
Local Kerala markets
Temple streets
Bought traditional souvenirs
Food to Try in Trivandrum
Kerala Sadya
Appam & Stew
Banana chips
Filter coffee
Budget Overview (Approx for 2 Days)
- Flights (Return): ₹6,000–12,000
- Hotel (2 Nights): ₹3,000–6,000
- Cab & Local travel: ₹400-1000
- Food & Entry tickets: ₹1000
Total Approx Budget: ₹5000–10,000 per person without flight, and 15,00 to 20,000 with flight
Best Time to Visit
October to February is best
Avoid heavy monsoon season
Final Thoughts
Trivandrum is a perfect mix of:
✔ Beach
✔ Backwaters
✔ Spiritual temples
✔ Peaceful environmentIf you are planning South India trip from Gujarat, Trivandrum should definitely be on your list.