Trivandrum Museum And Zoo: A Haven For Art And Nature Lovers

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.

Table of Contents

Quick Details About Trivandrum Museum And Zoo

Trivandrum Museum And Zoo Address: Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695033
Trivandrum Museum And Zoo Ticket Price: ₹200 per person
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

Get to meet some endangered species while exploring Trivandrum Museum and Zoo, Kerala.

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.

Places To Visit Around Trivandrum Museum & Zoo

Here is a list of the best places to visit around Trivandrum Museum and Zoo for a fun and adventurous outing.

1. Napier Museum

A treasure trove of cultural heritage, Napier Museum is a must visit place in Kerala.

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

Natural History Museum is one of the best places to visit near Trivandrum Museum and Zoo.

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: Kerala History Museum, Kochi

3. Sree Chithra Art Gallery

Witness a brilliant collection of sculptures and paintings at 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

Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the best places to visit near Trivandrum Museum and Zoo.

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.

5. Kanakakunnu Palace

Marvel at the astonishing architecture of the Kanakakunnu Palace near the attraction.

Photo: Jkurkure / Wikipedia

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.

6. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

A picture of the entry gate of a temple in Kerala with sculptures of deities over it

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, located just a short distance from Trivandrum Museum and Zoo, is a revered spiritual destination that beautifully complements a day of cultural exploration. Known as the “Sabarimala of Women,” this temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy and is celebrated for its annual Attukal Pongala festival, which holds a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of women devotees. The temple’s intricate architecture and serene ambience make it a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle. For those visiting Trivandrum Museum and Zoo, a trip to Attukal Bhagavathy Temple offers a harmonious blend of spirituality and cultural heritage.

Distance From Trivandrum Zoo: 6 km

Suggested Read: Sabarimala Temple

7. Science And Technology Museum

A frontal view of a museum with white exterior walls and a garden area in front

Photo: Sanu N / Wikimedia Commons

The Kerala Science and Technology Museum, located near Trivandrum Museum and Zoo in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a hub of innovation and learning that captivates visitors of all ages. Established in 1984, this museum is dedicated to promoting scientific curiosity and education through its interactive exhibits and engaging displays. Highlights include galleries on electronics, power mechanics, and space science, as well as the renowned Priyadarsini Planetarium, which offers mesmerising shows about the cosmos. For those exploring the Trivandrum Museum and Zoo, a visit to the Science and Technology Museum adds an enriching and inspiring dimension to the day’s itinerary.

Distance From Trivandrum Zoo: 2 km

8. Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple

A frontal view of a Ganesha Temple in Trivandrum with devotees gathered in front

Photo: Jithindop / Wikimedia Commons

Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple, located near Trivandrum Museum and Zoo in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a revered spiritual site dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Known for its striking architecture and serene ambience, the temple features a unique idol of Lord Ganesha in a seated posture, breaking the conventional mould. Devotees flock here to seek blessings, often offering coconuts as part of their prayers. The temple’s proximity to the bustling East Fort area adds a vibrant cultural backdrop, making it a perfect addition to a day of exploration around Trivandrum Museum and Zoo. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace or cultural enrichment, this temple is a must-visit.

Distance From Trivandrum Zoo: 4 km

9. Kuthiramalika Palace

A picture of a traditional palace in Trivandrum with a large garden area in front of it

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons

Kuthiramalika Palace, or Puthenmalika Palace, located near Trivandrum Museum and Zoo, is a masterpiece of traditional Kerala architecture. Built in the 19th century by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma, the palace is renowned for its exquisite wood carvings and the 122 wooden horse sculptures that adorn its roof, earning it the name “Mansion of Horses.” Now a museum, it houses royal artefacts, including crystal thrones, musical instruments, and traditional paintings. The Navarathri Mandapam, within the palace complex, hosts classical music concerts. A visit to Kuthiramalika Palace offers an immersive glimpse into Kerala’s royal heritage and architectural elegance.

Distance From Trivandrum Zoo: 3 km

Where To Stay

Choose from budget to luxury hotels or resorts for a stay near Trivandrum Museum and Zoo.

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.

Where To Eat

Relish scrumptious cuisines to soothe your hunger pangs near the attraction.

Photo: Chan Walrus / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

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

Choose to explore Trivandrum Museum and Zoo when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

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.

Other Factors To Consider

Wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your excursion to this attraction in Kerala.

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.
Check the Trivandrum Museum and Zoo timings and entry fees for a hassle free experience.

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

Trivandrum Museum And Zoo: An Insight Into Kerala’s Rich History And Biodiversity

Quick Details About Trivandrum Museum And Zoo

About Trivandrum Museum And Zoo