Kerala, India

Napier Museum - Kerala's story unfolds!

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India

8/10

Best time: October-March

3 hours

Discover the Napier Museum, a historic gem in Thiruvananthapuram! See incredible art, fascinating artifacts, and learn about Kerala's past. A must-see for every traveler!

Architecture

Art

History

Natural-History

Interactive Map

View location

Key Activities

Must do things

Additional Places

In Jaipur

Reviews

Traveller's Ratings and Reviews

Map View

Top Activities in Napier Museum

1
Admire The Indo-Saracenic Architecture
2
Discover Natural History Exhibits
3
Explore Historical Artifacts
4
Visit The Sri Chitra Art Gallery

Detailed Information

Best Time to Visit

October-March

When to visit place on the day

Morning

Approximate expense

₹500 per person

History

The Napier Museum was established in the mid-19th century, named after Lord Napier, the then-Governor of Madras. It was designed by Robert Chisholm, incorporating a blend of Kerala, Mughal, and Chinese architectural styles. The museum building itself is a piece of history, reflecting the colonial influence on the region. Over the years, the museum's collection has grown significantly, encompassing artifacts from various periods and cultures. The Sri Chitra Art Gallery was added later, further enriching the museum's artistic heritage.

Other Places to Explore in Thiruvananthapuram

7.5/10

Aazhimala Siva Temple

Aazhimala Siva Temple, located near the Kovalam beach in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's unique location atop a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea offers breathtaking views, making it a popular spot for both devotees and tourists. The temple's serene atmosphere, coupled with the rhythmic crashing of waves against the rocks below, creates a truly spiritual experience. Visitors can witness traditional rituals and ceremonies performed at the temple, and explore the surrounding area, known for its natural beauty and tranquility.

1 hour

Morning

₹500

Enjoy the scenic coastal views

Explore the nearby Kovalam beach

8.5/10

Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve

The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Western Ghats, known for its rich biodiversity. It's home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many endemic and endangered species. The landscape is dominated by rolling hills, tropical rainforests, and grasslands, offering breathtaking views. Trekking is a popular activity, but requires permits and adherence to strict conservation guidelines. The reserve plays a vital role in watershed protection and is a crucial habitat for numerous medicinal plants and animals.

24 hours

All-Day

₹5,000

Birdwatching in the forests

Capture scenic landscapes

8.5/10

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kannaki (Parvati), located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. It is famous for the Attukal Pongala festival, a massive annual gathering of women devotees who prepare a sweet dish called 'pongala' as an offering to the goddess. This festival, held in February/March, attracts millions of women, making it the largest single gathering of women in the world. The temple complex is vast and houses several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities. The temple architecture is typical of Kerala style with intricate carvings and vibrant colors. The serene atmosphere and spiritual significance make it a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike.

2 hours

Morning

₹500

Admire the temple architecture

Explore the temple complex

7/10

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple

The Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple is a unique monolithic rock-cut shrine dedicated to Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi (Shiva as the supreme teacher). Located near Kovalam beach in Thiruvananthapuram, this 8th-century marvel showcases intricate carvings and a partially unfinished sculpture, adding to its mystique. The cave temple offers a serene atmosphere with the constant sound of crashing waves nearby. Visitors can admire the impressive rock-cut architecture and the detailed sculptures within the sanctum. The temple's proximity to the beach makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the Kovalam area.

1 hour

Morning

₹200

Admire the intricate carvings

Explore the rock-cut cave temple

7.5/10

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, also known as Trivandrum Zoo or Napier Museum Gardens, is one of the oldest zoos in India. Spread across 55 acres of lush greenery, it houses a diverse collection of animals, including indigenous species like the Indian rhinoceros, Asiatic lion, and Royal Bengal tiger, as well as exotic animals from around the world. The zoo also features a natural history museum and an art gallery within its premises. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through shaded pathways, observing animals in near-naturalistic enclosures. The zoo offers a combination of educational and recreational experiences, making it a popular destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

3 hours

Morning

₹200

Enjoy a family picnic

Explore diverse animal exhibits