In Kerala, backwaters are a unique product which could not be found anywhere in this world. The Kerala backwaters consist of a network of lakes, canals, estuaries and deltas of forty-four rivers that drain into the Arabian Sea. The backwaters are self supporting eco-system teeming with aquatic life. The Vembanad Lake one of the Kerala Backwaters flows through three districts and opens out into the sea at the Kochi Port. The second largest lake is the Ashtamudi Lake which is considered as the gateway to the backwaters. The traditional houseboats are the most exciting thing on the backwaters of Kerala. In a land like Kerala where water bound the state it wouldn't be an unusual sight, but for a visitor to Kerala, a houseboat gliding along the vast green expanse of the backwaters is the most amazing spectacle in the world.

Located at PMG Junction, near the Mascot Hotel, the Science and Technology Museum is an interactive educational experience for students, youth, and others of inquisitive dispositions. There is a nominal entrance fee. Situated at Thycaud in the city, the Chacha Nehru Children's Museum (named after the first Indian Prime Minister, who had a well-known soft spot for children), displays dolls, masks, and paintings. The SMSM Institute is the handicrafts emporium of the Handicrafts Development Corporation of Kerala. Situated behind the Government Secretariat and near the British Library, it sells a wide variety of handicrafts, curios, and carvings. The Samadhi of the great social reformer Sri Narayana Guru is at Varkala 55 km from Thiruvananthapuram. It is also the site of the Janardanaswamy (Vishnu) Temple. Another attraction is the mineral springs believed to have healing effects. The ancient seat of the Travancore rulers Padmanabhapuram Palace with its elaborate woodwork is 55 km from Thiruvananthapuram in the neighboring state of TamilNadu, enroute to Kanyakumari. It contains historical relics, including ancient swords and pistols, original rosewood furnishings and murals. The floors are made from a mixture of eggshell, coconut shell, and charcoal. Beneath can be found hiding places and narrow escape tunnels used by ancient kings to flee from their enemies. The palace is open to visitors on all days except Mondays.