Shopping in Trivandrum

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 20:00:50 +0000

Apart from its famous backwaters, cultural insights and great food, Kerala also represents a unique and colourful part of the country, which is depicted in many of the trinkets and fabrics from the state. If you are looking to buy some souvenirs or just to treat yourself then make sure you go shopping in Trivandrum, the capital city. There is a great selection of goods to fill your bags with!

Here are our five favourite places to go shopping in Trivandrum.

1. D.C Books
You always need books for company while travelling. The Kerala bred book store brand D.C Books has a decent stock of western and Indian English literature. The brand also focuses on Malayalam (local) literature. Saunter in and spend time browsing through the easy ambience and choose books at your own pace. You will find it in Statue Road.Visit their website for more details.

2. Sanker’s Coffee and Tea Shop

Hot beverages like tea and coffee are deep rooted in Kerala culture. With many varieties produced in the state some tea or coffee makes a great souvenir to take home. A good place to head is the one stop Sanker’s Coffee and Tea Shop for both tea and coffee from the Nilgiris region of Western Ghats. Since there are many varieties, a little advice on what to choose will not hurt. The folks at Sanker’s can help you out, keeping in mind your budget. You will find it in MG Road, open 9am – 9pm Mon – Sat.

3. SMSM Institute
Coir, bamboo and coconut based handicrafts are very popular in Kerala. You can get a reasonably priced selection of curious from this government owned emporium in YMCA Road. It has plenty of choice to browse though and some unusual selections you won’t find elsewhere.

4. Kasuva Kada for Saris

Known for its traditional hand woven saris, Kasavu Kada is your best bet for some sari shopping. The owners belong to a small weaving village called Balaramapuram, which has now emerged as an important weaving centre in the state. The creations in this shop are going to be quite unique and not run of the mill like some other south Indian sari shops.

5. Connemara Market

This may not be a predictable shopping haunt for travellers, but certainly a great one for those looking for photo-opportunities. The market in MG Road is abuzz with clothes, spices, vegetables, fruits and enthusiastic ladies. Stroll around the market to get a taste of a local experience.

Beaches of India: Kovalam Beach

Mahindra Homestays — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 03:00:09 +0000

Kovalam beach is located in the southern state of Kerala and is popular for the diverse attractions it offers. The 4-km beach is just six kilometers from state’s capital, Thiruvananthapuram. Here are some reasons why it is aptly called the ‘Paradise of South India’.

Abundance of Natural Beauty
Kovalam’s three curved beaches are lined by towering coconut trees, which are especially dense in the southernmost beach which is also called Lighthouse. Its three main parts are the lighthouse (southernmost area), Hawah (the middle region) and the northernmost area called Samudra beach. Lighthouse is named after its lighthouse and is the most popular of the three. The lighthouse, which was made by the British, offers panoramic views of region.

Sunset Views
The sunsets of Kovalam can surprise you every single time. Photography fans can be there for hours if not days capturing the infinite combinations of colours created at dusk every day. The calming beauty of the sight is a big attraction for lovers. If the sight itself was not enough, the beach comes alive at the time with music and dance, impromptu joy which overcomes visitors. This is also the time when photographers can capture fishermen using ancient methods of fishing.

Fire Rings and Bonfires
Sitting by a bonfire is one of the most popular activities amongst people who visit Kovalam. The fire rings and bonfire pits are available for free but are snapped up quickly as they are occupied on first come first serve basis.

Unique Amalgam of Cultures
A curious mix of shops can be found here. Artistic Kashmiri and Tibetan vendors share Kovalam with ayurveda-based salons, bikini sellers, bars, restaurants and more. It’s great for people who want to laze around, sunbathe, swim and just unwind.

Where to stay
Just off the highway Kollam to Trivandrum just a short ride away from Kovalam beach, is The Lakewoods Retreat, in a captivating setting on the banks of the placid waters of Karamana River.

If you would like to include Palolem beach on your India itinerary contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans.

Mahindra Homestays » Trivandrum

Shopping in Trivandrum

Beaches of India: Kovalam Beach