Touring Thiruvananthapuram rewards travelers with rich cultural and natural experiences at every turn. The most worthwhile excursions include the half-day Jatayu Nature Park trip, where you’ll get stunning aerial views from cable cars and try your hand at traditional archery. For beach lovers, the 3-day Kovalam tour proves essential, offering prime swimming spots and authentic coastal life. The evening street food crawl stands out for its authentic taste of local life – you’ll sample Kerala’s best street snacks while rubbing shoulders with locals.
We particularly love the guided spiritual walk for its intimate look at centuries-old temples and the fascinating stories behind them. The tuk-tuk photography tour earns our recommendation for capturing the city’s character from unique angles.
Let’s explore the top-rated tours in Thiruvananthapuram.
Key Points
- Jatayu Nature Park & Varkala Beach private day tour offers a diverse experience with cable car rides, nature walks, and relaxation at the scenic Varkala Beach.
- Guided sightseeing tours in Thiruvananthapuram provide comprehensive city introductions, covering top attractions like Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram Raj Bhavan, and Napier Museum.
- Spiritual Walk Tour and Heritage & Cultural Walk offer in-depth explorations of the city’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
- Trivandrum Street Food Crawl allows visitors to enjoy the local food culture by sampling authentic Thiruvananthapuram delicacies.
- Extended tours like the Kovalam Beaches Tour and Gods Own Place-Kerala Tour provide opportunities to experience the scenic coastal regions and traditional Kerala customs.
Private Day Tour to Jatayu Nature Park and Varkala Beach
Travelers can embark on a private day tour that takes them to the captivating Jatayu Nature Park and the serene Varkala Beach in Thiruvananthapuram.
This 8-hour tour, priced at $57.82 per person, offers a comprehensive experience with hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking chauffeur, and air-conditioned transport.
The journey begins at the Trivandrum International Airport or Kollam, leading to the Jatayu Earth Center, India’s first BOT tourism project spanning 65 acres. Visitors can explore the iconic Jatayu sculpture, take a cable car ride, and engage in optional adventure activities like nature walks, shooting, and archery.
After the Jatayu experience, the tour heads to the picturesque Varkala Beach, known for its mineral springs and tranquil atmosphere. Travelers can enjoy the sun, sea, and sand at this serene escape.
The tour is subject to change due to government holidays, natural disasters, or local issues, and certain restrictions apply for pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those over 95 years old.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour to Jatayu Nature Park and Varkala Beach Review
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Spiritual Walk Tour Trivandrum (Guided Walking Experience)
Amid the captivating sights of Thiruvananthapuram, the Spiritual Walk Tour offers visitors a guided exploration of the city’s inner life and spiritual heritage. Priced from Kč 302 per person, the 2-hour tour is available in English and Hindi. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later.
The tour begins at East Fort, including a 30-minute guided visit to the Ananthankadu Sree Nagaraja Temple Trust. Participants then explore the Kuthira Maliga Palace Museum, Methan Mani, and the renowned Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, each with a 30-minute guided experience.
The tour concludes at West Fort, Pazhavangadi. Offering an “infotainment” style, the tour combines spirituality, religion, and science, with insightful discussions and storytelling to enhance understanding of Hindu practices and local culture.
Participants receive insider tips for exploring the city and saving money. With an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 11 reviews, the Spiritual Walk Tour is recommended for those seeking to connect with India’s spiritual side.
Read our full review: Spiritual Walk Tour Trivandrum (Guided Walking Experience) Review
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Kovalam Beaches Tour (02 Nights / 03 Days)
This 3-day Kovalam Beaches Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the coastal charm of Kerala. Priced at $404.53 per person, this private group tour covers the highlights of the Kovalam region, including a visit to the iconic Lighthouse Beach.
Over the course of the 3-day experience, travelers will explore the pristine beaches, enjoy a seafood lunch, and learn about the local culture and heritage. The tour is rated as a new activity on GetYourGuide, reflecting its recent addition to the platform.
Kovalam is known for its beautiful crescent-shaped beaches and is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.
The 3-day tour provides an opportunity to fully experience the laid-back coastal vibe and scenic beauty of this picturesque region. Travelers can expect a well-organized itinerary that caters to their interests and preferences, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable trip.
Read our full review: Kovalam Beaches Tour (02 Nights / 03 Days) Review
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Trivandrum Street Food Crawl Guided Food Tasting Tour
For those seeking a more immersive culinary experience, the Trivandrum Street Food Crawl Guided Food Tasting Tour provides an opportunity to explore the vibrant local food scene.
This 2-hour tour starts at the Sreevaraham Temple Pond and ends at the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, allowing participants to sample over six authentic Trivandrum delicacies.
Guests can expect to taste local Kerala snacks like idiyappam, nuller puttu, and Kerala halwa, along with Trivandrumi sweets and various mouth fresheners and chaat.
The tour also includes sipping chai tea in a clay pot with views of Trivandrum.
Guided by a knowledgeable storyteller, the tour offers an in-depth understanding of local food culture and the influences on cuisine development.
Priced at Kč 578 per person, this tour is likely to sell out, but free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
With no hotel pickup/drop-off included, the focus remains on the immersive culinary experience.
Read our full review: Trivandrum Street Food Crawl Guided Food Tasting Tour Review
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Full Day Varkala Beach Tour – Including Lunch
A full-day Varkala Beach Tour allows visitors to enjoy the picturesque coastal town’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Priced at €35.48 per person, the 10-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a guided visit to the Sri Janardanaswamy Temple, exploration of Papanasam Beach, and a scenic drive along the Black Sand Beach.
The highlight is the extended time at Varkala Beach, where travelers can indulge in shopping, sightseeing, and witnessing the breathtaking sunset over the Arabian Sea. The tour also includes a 1.5-hour lunch break, featuring fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour is wheelchair-accessible and can be tailored for private groups. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
With its cultural and culinary experiences, the Varkala Beach Tour is an excellent way to discover the charming coastal town.
Read our full review: Full Day Varkala Beach Tour – Including Lunch Review
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Best of Trivandrum (Guided Full Day Sightseeing Tour by Car)
Enjoy the rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions of Thiruvananthapuram with the Best of Trivandrum guided full-day sightseeing tour by car.
This 4-hour tour offers a rundown of the city’s top sights, rated 4.9 out of 5 by previous customers.
You’ll visit the historic Padmanabhaswamy Temple, one of the world’s richest temples, and admire the grandeur of the Thiruvananthapuram Raj Bhavan, the official residence of Kerala’s governor.
Explore the tranquil Napier Museum and the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, home to an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures.
Discover the bustling Chalai Market, a vibrant hub of local life.
Finish your tour with a drive through the scenic Kovalam Beach, known for its picturesque lighthouse.
This private tour is ideal for first-time visitors or those seeking a well-rounded introduction to Thiruvananthapuram’s highlights.
With round-trip transportation from your hotel included, you can sit back, relax, and learn about the city’s captivating history and culture.
Read our full review: Best of Trivandrum (Guided Full Day Sightseeing Tour by Car) Review
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Highlights of Trivandrum (Guided Half Day City Tour by Car)
Although the Highlights of Trivandrum guided half-day city tour by car offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s top attractions, it’s more than just a sightseeing experience.
Over the course of 4 hours, travelers will explore 5-6 key destinations, including the world-renowned Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the historic Napier Museum, and the scenic Veli Lake Tourist Village. Along the way, a personal guide fluent in English and Hindi will provide insights into the rich cultural history, ancient architecture, and local trivia.
The tour includes air-conditioned car transport and highlights such as beautiful lakes, royal palaces, and vibrant markets.
Travelers will appreciate the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences, as evidenced by the tour’s overall 4.9/5 rating based on 7 reviews. Pickup and drop-off are included, and while entrance fees to historical sites are not, the tour provides excellent value at just Kč 1,885 per group of up to 3 participants, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Highlights of Trivandrum (Guided Half Day City Tour by Car) Review
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Heritage Trivandrum Photography Walk Tour With Tuk Tuk Ride
The Heritage Trivandrum Photography Walk Tour With Tuk Tuk Ride offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and capture its vibrant essence through the lens. Priced at $23.99 per person, this 2-hour guided tour is available in English and Hindi.
Travelers can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.
The tour takes participants through key landmarks like the East Fort, Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Palace, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and more. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into the local culture, customs, and traditions, while allowing ample time for photography.
The experience is further enhanced by the use of tuk tuk transportation, providing a unique and immersive way to explore the city. With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 5 reviews, this tour is praised for its educational value and engaging guides, who bring Trivandrum’s heritage to life.
Read our full review: Heritage Trivandrum Photography Walk Tour With Tuk Tuk Ride Review
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Heritage & Cultural Walk of Trivandrum Guided Walking Tour
With a 4.8/5 rating based on 4 reviews, the Heritage & Cultural Walk of Trivandrum Guided Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Priced from €12.00 per person and lasting 2 hours, the tour takes visitors on a journey through Trivandrum’s landmarks, including the Napier Museum, Keralam Museum, Rama Rao Lamp, and Connemara Market.
Led by knowledgeable guides fluent in English and Hindi, the tour provides an infotainment-style experience filled with anecdotes and historical insights.
Participants can expect to discover hidden lanes, access lesser-known areas, and receive local tips for further exploration.
While museum closures have been noted by some visitors, the overall feedback highlights the tour’s engaging storytelling and the guide’s ability to enhance the experience.
With complimentary water, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour is a convenient and enriching way to explore Trivandrum’s heritage and culture.
Read our full review: Heritage & Cultural Walk of Trivandrum Guided Walking Tour Review
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Gods Own Place-Kerala Tour
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Kerala’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture, the “Gods Own Place-Kerala Tour” immerses travelers in the serene beauty and spiritual essence of this southern Indian state.
This 10-day tour, priced at $4,799 per person, provides a well-rounded experience, including a stay in a traditional houseboat and all meals. Visitors can expect to discover the captivating hill station of Munnar, the wildlife haven of Thekkady, and the iconic backwaters of Alleppey, culminating in the coastal charm of Kovalam.
Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the local heritage and customs, creating lasting memories.
This extended Kerala tour offers a comprehensive and enriching exploration of the region’s natural wonders, cultural treasures, and spiritual traditions, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a holistic and unforgettable journey through “God’s Own Country.”
Read our full review: Gods Own Place-Kerala Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Thiruvananthapuram offers a diverse range of tours that cater to different interests. From exploring the natural beauty of Jatayu Nature Park and Varkala Beach to experiencing the city’s rich heritage and culture, there’s something for all. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual journey, a culinary adventure, or a sightseeing excursion, these tours provide an opportunity to discover the best of Thiruvananthapuram.