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Founded in 1857, the Trivandrum Museum and Zoo is among the oldest and largest zoos in India. Sprawling over an area of 55 acres, this unique blend of history, culture, and nature proves to be a delight for you. The museum and zoo of Trivandrum have their history from the 19th century. And since then, these attractions have evolved over the years to be one of the first spots of interest in the state for an awareness program about the diversified flora and fauna of the region and the cultural heritage of Kerala.
Quick Details About Trivandrum Museum And Zoo
Location: Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695033
How To Reach: By air, train, and road
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Trivandrum Central Railway Station
About Trivandrum Museum And Zoo
Photo: Signalarun / Wikimedia Commons
The Trivandrum Museum and Zoo was started in 1857 by the Maharaja of Travancore, Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma, as a horse breeding centre. The complex was redesigned by his brother, Uthram Thirunal Marthanda Varma, and the British Resident General Cullen.
The museum building, designed by Robert Chisholm with multicoloured walls, wooden corbels, and hand-painted teak wood panels, is a marvellous example of pure Gothic style, giving an insight into Kerala’s rich history and culture. It includes artefacts from the Indus Valley civilisation, ancient sculptures, and paintings dating back to the Mughal era. This museum has a unique coin and stamp collection, showcasing man’s evolution in currency and communication across many centuries. It also houses a portion that illustrates royal attire, jewellery, furniture, etc., narrating the history of the Travancore Royal Family.
The 30 acre Trivandrum Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the country. It offers you a unique opportunity so as to experience unparalleled picturesque and panoramic surroundings and a wide collection of animals. In addition to that, the zoo houses quite a number of endangered species, such as the Lion-tailed Macaque. The zoo also has a natural lake with a well-wooded landscape and houses 93 species of birds, many of which are migratory birds. So, whether you are a nature lover or a wildlife enthusiast, this place is for you.
Suggested Read: Theme Parks In Kerala
Places To Visit Around Trivandrum Museum & Zoo
1. Napier Museum
Photo: Ajeeshcphilip / Wikimedia Commons
Situated adjacent to the zoo, Napier Museum is a rich treasure house of Kerala’s cultural heritage. Dating back to 1857, it is one of the oldest museums in the country, housing a huge collection of artefacts, sculptures, and paintings that highlight the state’s rich history and artistic traditions. So, if you are history buff, you can stop over at the exquisite architecture of this museum and admire the mixture of Kerala’s traditional structure and European elements.
2. Natural History Museum
Photo: Antti Yrjönen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Established in 1964, the Natural History Museum houses among the largest collections of its type in the country. It showcases the vast wealth of Kerala’s flora and fauna and includes exhibits on the region’s geology and palaeontology. In a nutshell, this museum conveys to you an idea about the state’s rich biodiversity—from the very dense, green tropical forests to unique marine ecosystems.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Summer In Kerala
3. Sree Chithra Art Gallery
Photo: Julio Nery / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Established in 1935, Sree Chithra Art Gallery is now a busy tourist hub. It was started in memory of the well-known Kerala artist Sree Chithra Thirunal. There is an extremely brilliant collection of paintings, sculptures, and other skilful creativity reflecting sensibilities mapping the soul of Kerala’s art. Beginning with vibrant colours, intricate details, and profound themes that have indeed become hallmarks of the artist’s oeuvre. So, if you admire marvelling at traditional architecture, you can come here to take a close look at the cultural richness of Kerala.
4. Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most famous Hindu temples in India, Padmanabhaswamy Temple is just about 3 km from the museum and zoo—a single must-visit place for any seeker of richness and spirituality engineered by the state of Kerala. Its architectural details date back to the 8th century connected with the Travancore royal family, which makes it a significant cultural place for you to explore.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kerala With Family
5. Kanakakunnu Palace
Located about 2 km from the museum and zoo, Kanakakunnu Palace helps you explore its architectural and cultural heritage left behind by the Travancore dynasty. The place has big, Indo-Saracenic building forms that combine with ornate facades and elegant interiors so as to spell an epitome of architectural influences. Here, you can go around the halls and gardens of the palace, and also witness cultural programs to learn more about the richness of Kerala’s heritage.
Where To Stay
Photo: Andrew Neel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you are looking for a stay near the museum and zoo in Trivandrum, then worry not. Because, there is a wide range of budget to high-end hotels and resorts that offer you some exquisite amenities along with a comfortable stay. Some of the best accommodation options near the attraction are: Beach & Lake Ayurvedic Resort, Hotel Lake Palace, Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum, Maurya Rajadhani, and The South Park.
Suggested Read: Kerala Nightlife
Where To Eat
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Craving a hearty meal? Then, choose from some of the best restaurants and cafes near the museum and zoo in Trivandrum to soothe your hunger pangs. The list of the recommended eating outlets include: Zam Zam Restaurant, Huddles Cafe, Mothers Veg Plaza, Slice of Spice, and Sharma North Indian Restaurant.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Yogendra Singh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Trivandrum Museum & Zoo timings start from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, except on Mondays or national holidays. The ideal time to visit is during the winter season, between November and February when the weather is comfortable. So, you can choose this time to explore the museum and witness the diverse animal and plant life.
Suggested Read: Museums In Kerala
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Erik Mclean / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of Trip: The Trivandrum Museum and Zoo ticket price is around ₹20. Besides that, your accommodation, food, and other personal expenses may cost you between ₹4,000 and ₹7,000. So, the average cost of this trip can vary based on the kind of accommodation and restaurant you choose for yourself.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable shoes, and bring a hat or umbrella so as to protect your face and body from the sun.
- Take along a bottle of water and some light refreshments to keep yourself going.
- Avoid feeding animals or interacting with them for your safety.
- Always take regard for instructions from the zoo staff, and never break any rules imposed by the compound.
Trivandrum Museum and Zoo offers a unique experience for wildlife lovers through its diverse animal populations and vibrant bird habitats housing many endangered species, such as the Lion-tailed Macaque. On the other hand, the museum talks about the culture of Kerala and displays ancient pieces of history as well as the royal treasure itself. So, if you are nature lover or a history buff, plan your trip to Kerala with TripXL, now.
Cover Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
