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 the 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.