Travancore is a region rich in both historical significance and natural beauty, spanning the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Once an ancient kingdom of India, it is renowned for its temples, palaces, waterfalls, and natural marvels. With its deep-rooted political and historical legacy, Travancore has become a treasure trove for travelers seeking a blend of culture and nature.

I embarked on this journey with a travel group called Wandering Bees Travel Partner, led by our coordinator, Sama. Our adventure was aptly named the Royal Travancore Trip, and we were a lively group of women from Thiruvananthapuram, coming together as strangers, yet bound by our shared curiosity. We set out early in the morning from Palayam, on a tourist bus, filled with anticipation and excitement. Our itinerary included stops at Chittar Dam, Thripparappu Waterfalls, Mathoor Aqueduct, Padmanabhapuram Palace, and Chitharal Jain Temple – each famous for its scenic beauty, historical resonance, architectural wonders, and natural serenity.

The Journey Begins

We departed at 6 a.m., the sky still carrying the first light of dawn, and by 8 a.m., we had crossed the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. Our first stop was a small, charming teashop where we enjoyed a hearty Kerala breakfast. There was something truly satisfying about sipping hot tea and savoring local delicacies with new friends, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead.

Chittar Dam – A Tranquil Haven Amidst Mountains

Our next stop was the Chittar Dam, located in Pechiparai Village in Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari district. Nestled between rolling hills and flowing rivers, this scenic spot has two dams: Chittar Dam 1 and Chittar Dam 2. Built-in 1906, these dams are an engineering marvel and have gained popularity in recent years, especially after being featured in the film Rithu, which captured the dam’s breathtaking landscapes.

As we arrived at the viewpoint overlooking the reservoirs, we were greeted by an expanse of water shimmering under the sunlight, framed by the mountains in the distance. The air was cool and carried a light breeze, adding to the tranquil atmosphere. We spent time simply soaking in the view, feeling a profound sense of calm as we admired the beauty around us. It was a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and let nature work its magic.

Thripparappu Waterfalls – A Refreshing Oasis of Nature

After our tranquil stop at Chittar Dam, we continued to Thripparappu Waterfalls, an enchanting spot renowned for its beauty, especially during the monsoon season when the falls are at their most spectacular. Set amid lush greenery, the falls offered a mesmerizing view as the water cascaded down in powerful, foamy streams.

We opted to dip our legs in the cool, refreshing water, letting the gentle flow of the stream provide a soothing break. It was a simple yet rejuvenating experience, feeling the rush of water against our feet while surrounded by nature’s soundtrack of flowing water and rustling leaves.

Above the waterfalls, there’s an option for visitors to go boating, allowing for a unique perspective of the falls and a chance to admire the scenery from the water. A picturesque bridge connects two villages above the waterfall, adding charm to the landscape and providing yet another viewpoint to capture this scenic wonder.

The road leading to Thripparappu is dotted with small tea shops and vibrant local stalls. Here, we indulged in local snacks and explored shops selling handcrafted art, jewelry, and souvenirs. Each stop offered a taste of the local culture, with flavors and craftsmanship that added depth to our journey.

Mathoor Aqueduct – A Bridge in the Sky

Our next stop was the Mathoor Aqueduct, an architectural marvel that spans two hills with an impressive bridge structure. Built to transport water for irrigation, this aqueduct is one of the longest and highest in South Asia, making it an extraordinary sight. As we walked across, we were greeted with a panoramic view of the valley below, where mountains stretched up to meet the sky. Standing on the bridge, with nature’s grandeur unfolding around us, was exhilarating and peaceful in equal measure—a moment of awe at the beauty and ingenuity around us.

After visiting the bridge, our group gathered for a special homemade lunch prepared by our coordinator, Sama. Wrapped in traditional banana leaves, the meal was filled with soulful Naadan curries that brought the authentic flavors of Kerala to life. Unwrapping the banana leaves revealed a delicious array of dishes, from fragrant rice to spicy curries, each one carrying the warmth and love of home-cooked food. Enjoying this traditional feast with newfound friends, surrounded by nature’s beauty, made this meal truly memorable—a perfect blend of culture, community, and cuisine.

Padmanabhapuram Palace – A Journey into Royal Grandeur

Nestled right in the heart of the Padmanabhapuram Fort with the Veli Hills standing tall to the east, the Padmanabhapuram Palace is a historical marvel over 400 years old, considered the largest wooden palace in Asia. Its strategic location was chosen carefully, ensuring natural protection from the hills and access to fertile farmland and abundant water resources.

Stepping inside, we were immediately captivated by the intricate wood carvings and beautifully preserved murals that adorn this teakwood palace. The architectural detail in every room is extraordinary, reflecting the skill and artistry of a bygone era. Walking through the royal halls and rooms, including the coronation hall and the queen’s chambers, felt like entering a different world, where history whispered through each artifact and decorative element.

Adding to its cultural significance, the palace is also a famous film location; the classic Malayalam movie Manichitrathazhu was shot here, lending a touch of cinematic charm to our experience. Wandering through the palace, it was easy to understand why filmmakers chose this location—it’s a place where beauty, history, and stories from the past come alive in a timeless way.

Chitharal Jain Temple – A Sacred Place Carved in Stone

Our final stop was the Chitharal Jain Temple, an ancient and awe-inspiring site nestled in the village of Chitharal in the Kanniyakumari district. To reach the temple, we took a short hike up a hill, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature, as we ascended toward this remarkable historical site.

Dating back to the 9th century, the Chitharal Jain Temple is an incredible monument dedicated to Jainism. The temple itself is carved out of a natural cave and features a pillared mandapa (hall) and three sanctums, showcasing impressive rock-cut architecture. Within the temple grounds are two significant structures: the Jain temple, adorned with outer wall reliefs, and a Hindu goddess temple dedicated to Bhagavathy, adding layers of cultural and religious significance to the site. It’s said that Jain saints once came here to meditate in the caves, making this a place of spiritual importance for followers of Jainism.

As we explored, we marveled at the intricate carvings on the stone beds and the inscriptions detailing centuries-old stories and teachings. The evening light cast a golden glow over the temple, adding to the mystical atmosphere that seemed to envelop the whole site. Standing there, with views stretching across the landscape and the quiet energy of the ancient stone carvings, we felt deeply connected to the centuries of history and spirituality held within this hidden gem.

A Taste of Kerala to End the Day

As we began our journey back, we stopped at a cozy roadside tea shop to savor some authentic Kerala snacks with a refreshing cup of tea. The shop, buzzing with locals, offered us a chance to sit back, relax, and soak up the last bits of the day’s warmth. Crisp banana chips, and spicy, savory bhajis filled our plates—a true taste of Kerala’s culinary charm. It was the perfect end to our journey, giving us time to reflect on the beauty we’d seen and the stories we’d shared.

Conclusion – A Journey Through Travancore’s Heart

As the day drew to a close and we boarded the bus for our return, we carried with our memories and a deepened appreciation for Travancore’s heritage, beauty, and cultural richness. The Royal Travancore Trip had been more than just a sightseeing tour; it felt like stepping back in time, where history, architecture, and natural beauty seamlessly intertwined.

With new friendships forged, unforgettable sights experienced, and the spirit of Travancore in our hearts, we returned home, grateful for the adventure that turned strangers into friends and left us with a lasting connection to the wonders of this incredible region.

Chittar Dam, Thripparappu Waterfalls, Mathoor Aqueduct, Padamanabhapuram Palace, Chitharal Jain Temple