Trivandrum Backwaters
The extensive backwaters of Trivandrum provide the picturesque view of a paradise. The intricate lagoons, lakes, canals and rivers are lined up along the dense tropical vegetation of Trivandrum. It is a breathtaking bout to experience a solitary and calm glide through this network of waterways. The backwaters form a specially attractive and economically valuable feature of Kerala. The biggest backwater is th
e Vembabad lake, some 200 sq kilometers in area, which opens out into the Arabian Sea at Cochin port.
The serene backwater stretch, en-route to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe rides. It is the meeting point of two rivers-Killi and Karamana. A temple dedicated to Parashurama, the legendary founder of Kerala, is located in Thiruvallam.
Few attractions of Trivandrum backwaters are:
Padmanabhaswamy temple - The most impressive landmark in the town, the temple's presiding deity is Vishnu reclining on serpent Anantha. It has a seven-story tower, umpteen number of pillars, intricate carvings and mural paintings.
Museum complex - Art and natural history museums, art gallery and zoological and botanical gardens are located in a plot in the heart of the city. The museum contains paintings and other collections of the royal family.
Kanakakkunnu Palace - Today it is a venue for cultural and other public functions.
Science & Technology museum - Located near Mascot hotel, it is a valuable site for students and researchers.
Sanghumugham beach - A favorite haunt of sunset watchers. A gigantic 35 m sculpture of a mermaid, called Matsya Kanyaka, is a major attraction here. There is facility for recreational activities. The place is near the airport and the Veli tourist village.
Veli tourist village - An ideal picnic spot where the lake joins the sea. Boating facility is available in the lake. A popular retreat, it has a children's park and other attractions.
Neyyar dam - It is a popular picnic spot and has a watchtower, crocodile farm, lion safari park and a deer park, Aruvikkara dam, a picturesque picnic spot on the banks of Karamana river.
