The city of Thiruvananthapuram derives its name from Anantha, or “the thousand headed mythological serpent” on which Lord Vishnu reposes. This charming and sprawling capital of Kerela, is a window to the traditional culture and heritage of the state. Spread over seven low coastal hills, Thiruvananthapuramis embellished with ancient buildings, ancestral homes, roads and avenues laced with greenery, long shorelines, colonial mansions, and acres of land beautified with verdant palms. All these make Thiruvananthapuram an exotic blend of tradition and modernity. The ancient temples that embroider Thiruvananthapuram, symbolize the city’s strong cultural base and its strife to hold on to its roots and customs. Ayurveda, an ancient healing system is also a flourishing industry in Thiruvananthapuram. The placid hinterland and tranquil backwaters of Thiruvananthapuram lure tourists from all over the world. They come enticed by the promise of a reposeful and laidback holiday in “God’s own Country”.

• Coir products.
• Doormats and rugs of various size, colour and variety
• Brass and metal products with engravings and carvings are also quite popular among the tourists.
• Decorative pieces made of coconut shells are also immensely popular among the tourists.
• Miniatures of Kathakali masks are the best and also the most sold item in Thiruvananthapuram.

The regular Kerela specials like

• dosas,
• Idlis,
• Idiappams,
• Meen pollichathu,
• Kappa and
• Meen curries are regularly available in all of the food joints in the city. A number of Indian Coffee House outlets
• Along with various multi cuisine restaurants are also scattered all over the place.
• Appam and Stew are some of the Kerela delicacies that should never be given a miss.