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Trivandrum
Trivandrum
INTRODUCTION
Thiruvananthapuram, the southern most district of Kerala State is situated between
north latitudes 80 171 and 80 541 and east longitudes 760 41 and 770 171. The district stretches
78 kms along the shores of the Arabian sea on the west, Kollam district lies on the north,
Thirunelveli and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu on the east and the south respectively.
Agriculture is the primary occupation of the people of the district. More than 12% of
the total population depend on agriculture. Paddy, Coconut, Rubber, Tapioca etc. are the
major crops cultivated in the district.
comprises of the mountain of the western-ghats and the major cash crops Rubber, Pepper and
Other Spices are grown in this region. Paddy, Tapioca, Spices and Cashew produces mainly
in the mid-land region lying between the western ghats and the low lands, which is made up
of tiny hills and valleys. The low land is comparatively narrow, comprising of rivers, deltas
and seashore. This area in densely covered with coconut palms.
The district is blessed with rivers and lakes. Neyyar, Karamanayar, Mamom and
Vamanapuram rivers are flowing through this district.
This
publication
brings
out
clear
picture
of
basic
infrastructures
of
centre of intellectual and artistic activities in those days. The accession of Maharaja Swathi
Thirunal (1829-1847 A.D) ushered in an epoch of cultural progress and economic prosperity.
The beginning of English education was made in 1834 by opening an English School at
Thiruvananthapuram. In 1836, an observatory and a charity hospital were established at
Thiruvananthapuram. During the reign of Ayilyam Thirunal (1860-1880 A.D), a fully
equipped Arts College was started at Thiruvananthapuram besides several English,
Malayalam and Tamil schools for boys and girls all over the State. A large Civil Hospital and
a Lunatic Asylum were also established. In 1873, the present University College of
Thiruvananthapuram was opened. During the period of Sree Moolam Thirunal (1885-1924
A.D) a Sanskrit College, an Ayurveda College, a Law College and a Second Grade College
for Women were opened at Thiruvananthapuram. A department for the preservation and
publication of oriental manuscripts was also established. One of the significant measures
associated with his reign was the inauguration of the Legislative Council in 1888. In 1904, the
Sree Moolam Assembly came into being.
The activities of the Indian National Congress echoed in Thiruvananthapuram and
other parts of Kerala during the reign of Sree Moolam Thirunal. In 1938, a political
conference of the Congress was held in the city under the presidency of Dr. Pattabhi
Sitaramaiah.
The period, since the Maharaja Sree Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama Varma took the
reign of administration in 1931, witnessed multifaceted progress. The promulgation of the
Temple Entry Proclamation (1936) was worth mentioning. In 1937 a separate University for
Travancore was started. This was later re-designated as University of Kerala, following the
formation of Kerala State in 1956.
With the accession of Travancore to the Indian Union after independence, the policy
of the State Government underwent radical changes. The first popular Ministry headed by
Sree Pattom Thanu Pillai was installed in office on March 24, 1948. Consequent on the
recommendation of the State Reorganization Commission, the four Southern Taluks of
Thovala, Agastheeswaram, Kalkulam and Villavancode were merged with Tamil Nadu. The
Kerala State came into being on the 1st November, 1956.
called Sivagiri. High cliffs with mineral water springs rise majestically from the coastline. In
addition to the Papanasham Beach, the 2000 year old Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the
Nature Care Centre are the main attraction here.
St. Joseph Cathedral, Palayam
This famous Church is located in the heart of the City. This Church attracts visitors
and pilgrims as well. This Church was built in the Gothic architecture.
Places of historical and archaeological importance
Aruvipuram
Aruvipuram is situated about three kms. away from Neyyattinkara. There is a small
waterfall here. A small Siva Temple founded by Sree Narayana Guru attracts a large number
of worshippers during the Sivarathri Festival. It is a beautiful place for holiday seekers.
Neyyattinkara
Neyyattinkara is an ancient Town, situated about 20 kms. South-East of
Thiruvananthapuram. The Sree Krishnaswami Temple, founded by King Marthanda Varma of
former Travancore in 1757 is of historical importance. Within the premises of the Temple,
there is a historical jack tree, known as Ammachi Plavu in the hollow of which, Marthanda
Varma is believed to have hid himself and escaped from the hands of his enemies.
Anchuthengu
Situated 40 kms. North of Thiruvananthapuram along the sea-coast, Anchuthengu, a
narrow strip of land between the backwaters and the sea, is a place of historic importance. It
was here that, the first settlement of the English East India Company was established in 1864
A.D. According to the local folk, the limits of area where five coconut palms stood
(Anjuthengu Anjengo) was given on lease to the Company by the then ruling prince of
Travancore for trade purposes. The remains of the old English Fort which had withstood
many a siege can be seen there even now.
Kilimanoor
Kilimanoor (literally means land of parrots and deer) is situated 38 kms. North of
Thiruvananthapuram and 11 kms. North-East of Attingal on the main central road.
Kilimanoor was originally the territory of Kunnummal Rajah, but later on it was ceded to
Travancore. The Kilimanoor Royal House had close association with the Travancore Royal
House for a long period. The Kilimanoor Koil Thampurans belonged to Thattarikovilakam of
Parappanad in Malabar. In recognition of the heroic services of Kilimanoor Kerala Varma
Koil Thampuran in saving the lives of the Rani and the heir apparent to the throne of
Travancore, the Kilimanoor Royal House was given Edavakai rights (right over Government
owned land which are exempted from the payment of land revenue to the Government) in
Department of Economics & Statistics, Kerala
1728. This right continued till the 1st April, 1956 i.e., till the Edavakai Rights Acquisition Act
of 1955 came into force. Marthanda Varma Raja and Dharmaraja belonged to Kilimanoor
Kottaram. The other luminaries of this palaces were Vidwan Koil Thampuran, a literary figure
in the court of Swathi Thirunal and Raja Ravi Varma, the great Indian artist. Velu Thampi
took shelter in this place when he was wandering incognito to escape from the British. Out of
gratitude of this act of help, he entrusted his sword to the Kilimanoor chief. It was preserved
there till August, 1957 whence, it was formally presented to the President of India during one
of his visits to Thiruvananthapuram.
Koyikkal Palace
Located on the way to the Ponmudi Hill Station and the Courtallam Waterfalls, this
ancient palace dates back to the 15th Century, a double storeyed traditional Nalukettu building
with slanting gabled roofs, an inner courtyard and museum of folklore and numismatic set up
by the Department of Archaeology. The Folklore Museum set up in 1992 is a treasure house
of quaint musical instruments, occupational implements, household utensils, models of folk
arts etc., displayed in the Koyikkal palace focus attention on the cultural background of the
State. The Numismatic Museum houses rare and historically valuable coins denoting the trade
relations of the State.
(c) Places of tourist importance
Thumba
The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre on Velli Hills near Thumba, about 10 kms. NorthWest of Thiruvananthapuram, is a place of attraction. The Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO) has established numerous units in various fields of space research there.
Museum and Zoo
It is one of the first Zoological Park in India. It is located in a well placed botanical
garden. With huge trees like frangipani and jacaranda, dotting the sprawling lawns and wild
fowls swimming in the lake, it is like a small jungle in the heart of the City. A reptile house
with different species of snakes is also located in the premises. The Museum building itself is
an architectural splendor. The Napier Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Sri
Chitra Art Gallery are all within the Zoo Complex.
Kovalam
This beach, 12 kms. South of Thiruvananthapuram, is one of the finest beaches in
India. A high rocky promontory jutting into the sea has created a beautiful bay of calm waters
for sea bathing. This internationally renowned beach resort has been a favourite haunt of
tourists since the 1930s. The Southern most beach, known as the Lighthouse Beach is the
most popular. The beach complex includes the Ashoka Beach Resort, a hotel owned by ITDC,
a stringe of cottages, the haleyon castle, a shopping area, swimming Pools, yoga centre and
facilities for medical oil bath and massage. Hotel Samudra run by KTDC is also nearby.
Neyyar Dam
Lying amidst the Southern low hills of the Western Ghats, 29 kms. from the City, the
project area offers facilities for boating and mountaineering. A three hour climb over the hills
across the reservoir affords the thrill of hiking. There are two beautiful waterfalls on the way.
A Lion Safari Park and a Crocodile Rearing Centre have also been set up in the reservoir.
Agasthyakoodam
Part of the Sahyadri range of mountains, Agasthyakoodam is the second highest peak
in Kerala at a height of 1869 metres above the sea level. Teeming with wildlife, the forests of
Agasthyakoodam is abound with rare medicinal herbs and plants and brilliantly hued orchids.
A bird watchers paradise, this legendary mountains is accessible by foot from Kottoor, near
Neyyar Dam, as also from Bonacaud. Tradition says that, the Great Sage Agasthya had his
abode in this peak.
Aruvikkara
Sixteen kilometres North of Thiruvananthapuram this picturesque picnic spot is on the
banks of the Karamana River. Near the Durga Temple, here is a stream full of fish that
fearlessly come close to the shore to be fed by the visitors. Thiruvananthapuram gets its water
supply from Aruvikkara reservoir.
Kombaikani and Meenmutti Waterfalls
These are two magnificient waterfalls on the upper reaches of the Neyyar reservoir. A
trek of two kilometres through dense forests, one would reach Meenmutti Waterfalls and a
further two kilometres, the Kombaikani Waterfalls. The waterfalls and the forests around
them are worth seeing.
Poovar
Poovar, situated bout 29 kms. South of Thiruvananthapuram, was a trading centre in
the early days and was one of the ancient ports of the District. It is said that the legendary
Jesuit Missionary, St.Francis Xavier, visited the place in the 16th Century.
Vizhinjam
About two kms. South of Kovalam, Vizhinjam is believed to have been an ancient
port. The Portuguese and the Dutch had commercial establishments here. Vizhinjam is being
developed as a modern fishing harbour, with a light house.
Peppara
Peppara Wild Life Sanctuary spread over 53.5 sq.km. on the Western Ghats, is
accessible from Vithurai, which is on the way to Ponmudi. With its rich flora and fauna,
Peppara, dotted with hillocks, forests and eucalyptus plantation is emerging as a great
attraction for wild life enthusiasts and ornithology.
Ponmudi
An idyllic hill resort with narrow, winding pathways and cool, green, wooded
environs, Ponmudi is located 915 metres above the sea level. Along with a variety of beautiful
mountain flowers, exotic butterflies, small river lets, springs and a deer park nearby, this hill
station also has excellent trekking facilities. Ponmudi is only 60 kms. away from
Thiruvananthapuram. A hill tribe called Kanikkars live in the surrounding areas.
Veli Lagoon
On the outskirts of Keralas capital, by the side of the placid waters of Veli Lake, the
Boat Club attracts the city people and tourists. Veli, developed as a major tourist spot by
providing facilities for pedal-boating, row boating, swimming, get together, etc., is just the
right place for an exciting outing.
The Youth Hostel at Veli which is hardly three kms. from the airport, provides
inexpensive dormitory type accommodation. Veli with its palm fringed lake is easily
accessible by road.
District Tourism Promotion Council
The District Tourism Promotion Council, Thiruvananthapuram, started functioning in
1988 as Government sponsored autonomous body for the development of infrastructurel
facilities for the promotion of tourism at the District level. Its activities are oriented towards
identifying and developing several centres to attract tourist and maintaining the places of
tourist importance.
The Boat Club which started functioning in 1989, now operates speed, safari, pedal
and row boats from Akkulam to Veli Tourist Village. A traditional style Kettuvallom is also
available for overnight stay. The swimming pool at Akkulam is equipped with glider and
other playing facilities. The Childrens Park is a unique amusement spot. The Anthurium
Project and the Snack Bar are other attractions.
Shanghumugham Beach is very close to the International Airport and is easily
accessible from the Kovalam Beach, Kovalam Ashoka Beach Resort, Veli Tourist Village and
Akkulam Tourist Village. Shanghumugham Beach is noted for its cleanliness. The vast
stretch of white sand and the serene atmosphere, away from the crowd in the City provides all
ingredients for relaxation and for spending an ideal evening.
There is also a Star Fish Restaurant with eating kiosks and an open air theatre with
car parking facilities. Adjacent to this is the Chacha Nehru Childrens Park.
Snack bars maintained by the DTPC adjacent to the Museum Complex and the
Kanakakkunnu Palace grounds offer refreshment facilities for the visitors. In Neyyar Dam,
away from the City and in the midst of green hillocks, boating will be unique experience. At
Aruvikkara, the DTPC maintains a snack bar in the dam site. A picnic cum childrens park is
in the offing.
(d) Other important places
Kazhakkoottam
About 15 kms. North of Thiruvanan-thapuram, Kazhakkoottam is an important place
on the National Highway. An ancient Temple dedicated to Siva with exquisite wood carvings
is an important place of worship. The Technopark, Kariavattom University Centre and
Lakshmi Bai Physical Education Centre about a kilometre South of Kazhakkoottam Junction
are other important Institutions. The Sainik School is situated about three kms. North-East of
Kazhakkoottam. There is a spring towards the North-East of Kazhakkoottam at Kumili which
according to the District gazetteer discharge itself into a cistern about twelve feet square and
then descends through a sub terranean channel for about 45 feet into another basin so
contrived as to retain from five to six feet of water throughout the year. The excess water
flows out and is used for irrigating fields.
Kerala Legislature Complex
Located at Palayam, this is the new building where the Legislative Assembly of
Kerala meets. With its towering dome, exquisitely carved galleries, ornate teak paneling and
ceiling, combined with the most modern acoustic treatment and state of the art sound systems,
the hall is a beautiful blend of classical grandeur and modernity.
Balaramapuram
Department of Economics & Statistics, Kerala
This Town was founded in 1810 A.D. by Ummini Thampi Dalava by clearing the
jungle of Anthikkad lying between Neyyattinkara and Thiruvethapura. It is at about 13 kms.
South of Thiruvananthapuram. The locality was named Balaramapuram in honour of the
reigning Maharaja Bala Rama Varma with a flourishing weaving centre, Balaramapuram is
famous for its hand-spun cloths. The Trivandrum Spinning and Weaving Mill is located here.
Kattakkada
Located at about 13 kms. East of Neyyattinkara Town, it is a famous trading centre for
Pepper, Tapioca, Cashew, Plantain and Arecanut. The Sastha Temple here is very famous.
Aryanad
Aryanad, located at about 11 kms. East of Nedumangad on the Paruthippally road and
on the right bank of the Karamana River, was once governed by Aryanattu Pillai, a petty
chieftain. In 1748 A.D., Marthanda Varma annexed this area. In early times Aryanad was an
important trading centre.
Parassala
Parassala, located at about two kms. North of the Inter-State border of Kaliyikkavila
and 12 kms. South of Neyyattinkara on the National Highway, was founded by Dalawa
Mallan Chempakaraman Pillai in about 1740. It is an important commercial centre. It is also
important in the sense that it forms the Southern most boundary of Kerala State.
Attingal
Attingal, situated at about 32 kms. North of Thiruvananthapuram on the National
Highway and on the banks of the Attingal River, is a historical Town, besides being the
headquarter of Chirayinkeezhu Taluk. It rose to importance by the establishment of a royal
house in 1254-55, when two princesses of Kolathunad were adopted to the Travancore family.
The eldest female member took the title of Attingal Mootha Thampuran. It is also known as
Chittattinkara which means that the place is surrounded by rivers on all sides.
Chirayinkeezhu
Chirayinkeezhu situated at about seven kms. South-West of Attingal, is an important
Railway Station on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam railway line. The Taluk is named after
this place. In Sarkara Kara of the Sarkara-Chirayinkeezhu Village, there is a renowned
Temple dedicated to goddess Bhagavathi. The famous annual festival in this Temple,
celebrated in the Malayalam month of Meenam (on the Bharani asterism), attracts thousands
of devotees. The Kalioottu in the Temple before one month of the Bharani Utsavam is also
worth mentioning.
Nedumangad
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DISTRICT AT A GLANCE
General Features
Date of Formation
Ist July, 1949
District Head Quarters
Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram
Administrative set-up
1. Number.of Revenue Divisions
1
2. Number of Taluks
4
3. Number of Revenue Villages
115
4. Number of Corporations
1
5. Number of Corporation Wards
86
6. Number of Municipalities
4
7. Number of Municipality Wards
135
8. Number of Block Panchayat
12
8. Number of Block Panchayat Wards
160
9. Number of Grama Panchayat
78
10. Number of Grama Panchayat Wards
1332
11. Number of Assembly Constituencies
14
12. Number of Parliament constituencies
2
13. Number of District Panchayat Wards
28
State
21
63
1452
5
316
53
1756
152
2004
999
16139
140
20
339
Geographical particulars
1. Total Area (Sq.Km)
Wet Area (hect.)
Dry Area (hect.)
2. Forest Area (hect.)
3. Length of Coastal Line (in KMs.)
2192
21414
21303
49861
78
38863
462797
2273603
1081509
590
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