Padmanabhapuram Palace is a 16th century wood palace of the Travancore kingdom famous for its exquisite woodwork and elaborate mural paintings. The palace complex is located about 50km from Trivandrum city near the national highway 66 leading to Kanyakumari. Padmanabhapuram palace complex contains multiple palace buildings and an archeological museum operated by Kerala government.

Varayattumotta is a beautiful mountain ridge near Ponmudi in Trivandrum famous for its small population of Nilgiri Tahrs. It is also an excellent full day trekking location.

Valiathura pier is one of the best spots for watching sunset in Trivandrum. It also offers a way to enjoy sea breeze and to get a view of the traditional catamaran launch. However avoid walking on the damaged pier during monsoon or when the waves are strong. Don’t take children on the pier as the pier walls are damaged and are missing in many places.

Veli tourist village is an ideal picnic location for families with children. It is also a place where you can spend your day just walking around and having fun.