About Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala's compact capital, is the perfect gateway to the state's cultural treasures and coastal wonders. The hotel scene here is varied, and our recommendations for the best places to stay include both a heritage property and more main stream, large chain options.

Often underrated and seen simply as a stopover en route to the golden sandy beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, this vibrant city is well worth exploring in its own right. Previously known as 'Trivandrum', the city abounds with museums, art galleries and heritage architecture, perfect for history aficionados. Conveniently set close to some of the best places to stay in Thiruvananthapuram, these cultural landmarks are the starting point for experiencing Kerala's fascinating past. Tour the Museum of Heritage and History or admire the stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture of the Robert Chisholm-designed Napier Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient ornaments, bronze sculptures and ivory carvings. Just a few kilometres from the city, the Kowdiar Palace is also well worth visiting. 

Day trips to Varkala Beach for surf lessons, leisurely South Indian coffees and long seaside strolls are wonderful. Kovalam is also known for its striking sands and for its rich Ayurvedic traditions. Rejuvenating wellness treatments or relaxing massages come highly recommended — whether in the city or by the beach. A few nights at one of the best places to stay in Thiruvananthapuram promise the perfect start or end to any trip to Kerala. 

The Best Places to Stay in Thiruvananthapuram

For Heritage Charm

  • Amritha Heritage is a century-old private residence with whitewashed walls and a traditional terracotta-tiled roof. Now transformed into a five-bedroom heritage hotel, this intimate spot promises authentic Keralan cuisine, tranquil guest rooms with polished wooden furnishings, and shaded terraces facing mature gardens. Lovely. 

For City Style

  • Vivanta Thiruvananthapuram is a stylish city choice, with swish rooms and suites, a rooftop pool and multiple eateries near the city centre. Business travellers will appreciate meeting rooms, in-room desks and the proximity to the business district. 
  • The Hilton Garden Inn also boasts smart guest rooms and suites with crisp linens, dark wood furniture and city views. Facilities include a buzzy sports bar, an all-day dining restaurant and a swimming pool, plus the rates are very reasonable. Vast event spaces make this a brilliant choice for a conference or celebration. 
  • Hyatt Regency Trivandrum is a sleek contemporary hotel in the city centre. The 132 luxurious rooms and suites — many with sleek marble bathrooms — offer family-friendly options. Three eateries and two bars will delight foodies and sociable travellers, whilst guests of all ages will love the refreshing pool. Meeting spaces are ideal for events. 

Prefer an apartment or private villa?

  • If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa, we'd recommend visiting our online partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Trivandrum International Airport, which is well-connected to cities across India and beyond. Hop aboard the train from Trivandrum's Central Railway Station, or take a taxi to your destination from there. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup in advance.
  • You won't need your own transport in the city, but if you're comfortable driving in India and would like to explore further afield, contact our online partner Rentalcars to hire a car.
  • Travel between October and February, when the weather is most likely to be warm yet dry. Consider avoiding the hottest months of April and May when exploring Kovalam or cycling along village lanes will feel very warm. The same goes for the rainy season, which runs from June to August.

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The best hotels in Thiruvananthapuram

Amritha Heritage

Thiruvananthapuram (India)

A five-bedroom hotel housed in a striking former private residence surrounded by mature gardens. Guest rooms feature polished wooden furniture, crisp white linens & red bedspreads. The Kohinoor Restaurant has an excellent reputation, and the shaded terraces invite guests to unwind in tranquility.

  • Value chic - Built as a home in the 1900s, this is a great value little hotel with heritage charm, a friendly team & a real sense of history
  • Families - Families will appreciate the spacious rooms and verdant gardens, as well as the relaxed vibe of the restaurant
  • Museums - The Napier Museum and the Sri Chittira Art Gallery are both brilliant for culture enthusiasts
  • Sights nearby - Admire the impressive Shri Padmanabhaswami Temple, built in 1733 & dedicated to Vishnu
from £40 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hilton Garden Inn, Trivandrum

Thiruvananthapuram (India)

A stylish city hotel with smart guest rooms & suites offering big beds topped with crisp linens, dark wood furniture & city views. The all-day restaurant & lively sports bar add to the appeal, as does the swimming pool. The real draw is the abundance of events spaces, including a Grand Ballroom.

  • City Style - A stylish city hotel, perfect for business or leisure with 8,500 sq.ft. of event space and contemporary interiors
  • Families - Families will appreciate the inter-connecting rooms, the varied cuisine and the refreshing swimming pool
  • Hotel Entertainment - Regular live music evenings are great fun, and there's a real buzz in V Bar when India are playing sport
  • Museums - The Napier Museum boasts an excellent collection — and the building itself is spectacular
from £48 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hyatt Regency Trivandrum

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala, India)

Sleek and contemporary, the Hyatt Regency offers slick city style in central Thiruvananthapuram. Rooms & suites feature crisp white linens, expansive marble bathrooms and all the mod-cons. Three eateries and two bars add to the appeal, plus there's a pool & conference spaces for events.

  • Local markets - Pick up textiles & crafts at the Connemera Market — also known as the Palayam Market — or fresh produce at Chalai Market
  • Business meetings - Smart guest rooms, meeting facilities and chic dining options make this a great business trip choice
  • Families - Families will appreciate the generous suites, multiple dining options and refreshing swimming pool
  • Theatre - The Kanakakunnu Palace hosts an excellent programme of cultural events, as does the Margi Theatre
from £60 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Vivanta Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala)

Providing all the facilities you would expect from a such a renowned global chain, relax knowing that you are in good hands. Located in the heart of the city with easy access to both tourist spots and the business district. Modern rooms enjoy an Indian twist as does the cuisine. A sensible choice.

  • Value chic - With double bedrooms at great rates, a rooftop pool & top-notch facilities this hotel offers excellent value for money.
  • Business meetings - As with all Vivanta properties, the hotel is set up with everything a business traveller could require.
  • Learning - The Napier Museum, a striking 19th-century building, houses an impressive collection of artefacts
  • Other Activities - Families and animal lovers will enjoy a day out at Thiruvananthapuram Zoo.
from £64 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees