Thiruvananthapuram located at the Southwestern tip of India. The wooded highlands on the Western Ghats in the Eastern and Northern Eastern borders give Thiruvananthapuram some of the most enchanting picnic spots. A long shoreline with internationally renowned beaches, historic monuments, backwaters, stretches and a rich cultural heritage make the district a much sought after tourist destination. Mahatma Gandhi has referred thiruvananthapuram as "Evergreen city of India".

The city is the state capital and houses many central and state government offices, organizations and companies. Apart from being the political nerve centre of Kerala, it is also a major academic hub and is home to several educational institutions including the University of Kerala, and too many science and technology institutions, namely Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Technopark and IIST.

The main shopping district in Thiruvananthapuram is MG Road, where there are a number of shopping complexes and shopping stores selling everything from local spices to handicrafts made out of wood, horn, metal, coir and handloom. Among the must buy souvenirs for shopaholics are rosewood and sandalwood carvings, brass and bell metal lamps, coir mats, spices, coffee, tea and cashewnuts. Other Kerala specialties include gold jewellery, traditional saris, Kathakali masks, bronzes and delightfully banana chips, which are so an integral part of Kerala''s cuisine.Food is usually inexpensive and prepared under reasonably hygienic conditions. While you are here you must try a ‘vegetarian thali’. Neatly arranged along the circumference in a large plate, little bowls of vegetables-dry and curried, ‘dal’, rice and payassam (the dessert) accompanied by crisp ‘papaddum’ and pickle make for a complete all-in-one package meal that’s a favourite with Indians anywhere. You might have to search a bit for Kerala cuisine because most restaurants serve Tamilian food. The Academy of Magical Sciences holds regular shows. A complete Kathakali show lasts hours but abridged performances may be on too. Kalaripayattu academies might oblige you with a demonstration if you are lucky. There are many movie theatres for this movie mad society but most films will be in a language other than English.One of the most popular festivals in Kerala is the Great Elephant Race in Trivandrum held in January every year. Besides Trivandrum this unique event also takes place in a few major cities of Kerala such as Thrichur and Alappuzha.