CVN Kalari is a training centre for Kalarippayattu, the local martial art. It is located in East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram, a walkable distance from the central bus station.
The C V N Kalari Sangham in Thiruvananthapuram was established in 1956 following the lifelong dedicated efforts of C V Narayanan Nair, C V Balan Nair and Kottackal Karunakara Gurukkal, who popularised the art which was on the verge of dying, by staging demonstrations, collecting information and establishing Kalaries all over the State.
The C V N Kalari is built in an east-west direction about 4 feet below ground level, and is closed on all sides except for a small door on the eastern side. This cocoon-like traditional Kalari architecture is greatly suited for the tropical, humid climate of Kerala. There is not much light within the Kalari other than the light from the traditional wick lamps or nilavilakku.
ISMA is located in Vazhuthacaud, in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city.
The Indian School of Martial Arts (ISMA) was established in 1983 and is recognised by the Government of India and Sports Council as an ideal training centre for the 5000 year old martial art, Kalarippayattu. ISMA is also a place for healing and rejuvenation.
The Kalari Chikitsa, an exclusive branch of medicine, has taken shape from Siddhavaidyam - a parallel science to Ayurveda, Dhanurveda - the mother of Ayurveda and a large collection of Olagranthas - manuscripts on dry palm leaves. This branch of medicine was developed for the students and practitioners of Kalarippayattu. Kalarichiktsa as well as Kalarippayattu are based on the 108 marmas (nerve pressure points) in the human body. Certain marmas are so sensitive that attacking them may cause death or put the victim in a state of coma. Unlike in Ayurveda, modern medical parameters are not used in Kalarichikitsa. Instead intuitions developed from years of meditation help the healer to diagnose and treat the cause of the ailment.
ISMA is housed in a three storyed building. It has a traditional Kalari - the arena for practising the art, built ten feet below ground level. The 600 year old massage table here was carved out of a single tree and was handed down generations. There is also a meditation hall that exudes an air of tranquility and serenity.
The roof garden is a treasure house of herbs used for the preparation of medicines. ISMA also offers simple accomodation and food for guests and visitors. But what attracts students of history to this place are the ancient palm leaf manuscripts (Olagranthas).
The Napier Museum is an art and natural history museum situated in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. It was established in 1855 but in 1874, the old Museum Building was demolished and foundation for the new building was laid. The new building was named after Lord Napier who was the Governor of Madras from 1866-1872. The architectural masterpiece was designed by Robert Chisholm, the consulting Architect of the Madras Government and the construction was completed in 1880.
The Indo - saracenic structure boasts a ""natural"" air conditioning system and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. The use of plastic is banned in the museum premises.
The Sree Chitra Art Gallery here features a rare collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and Roerich among others, and fascinating works from the Mughal, Rajput and Tanjore schools of art. An oriental collection consisting of paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali offers a visual treat and are a tribute to the art and culture of these countries.
Location : Both Museum and Art Gallery are situated in the Napier Museum compound, right in the heart of the city, near the zoological park.
Visiting Hours : Open 1000 - 1645 hrs. Closed on Mondays, Wednesday forenoons, Jaunary 26th, August 15th, Thiruvonam and Mahanavami.
The location of this sanctuary is idyllic – the large drainage basin of the Neyyar River and its two tributaries, Mullayar and Kallar. Consequently, the river and its tributaries traverse the entire stretch of the reserve that stretches from the Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve of Tamil Nadu in the east to Neyyatinkara taluk in the south. Neyyar sanctuary is a haven for exotic flora and thriving fauna. Mean summer temperatures hover around 35 degrees celsius while the mercury dips to 16 degrees during peak winter. Annual rainfall averages 3,000 millimetres, peaking during the May-July period when the south west monsoon is vigorous. This settles down to a moderate rainfall during October-November when the monsoon arrives from the north east. September to March is the best time to visit.
The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife where animals like Elephants, Sloth Bears, Nilgiri Tahrs, Gaur, Sambars, Barking Deer, Indian Porcupines, Malabar Squirrels, Tigers, Lion-tailed Macaques, jungle cats, Wild Boars and Nilgiri Langurs can be seen. Reptiles like cobras, vipers, pythons, rat snakes, flying snakes and lizards can be frequently seen in the region. Exotic birds are sure to appeal you where you might come across species like king fishers, white-breasted water hen, little green heron, woodpeckers, Indian cuckoos, gray jungle fowl, common mynas, Indian hill mynas, darters, little cormorants, little egrets and brahminy kites at the Neyyar wildlife sanctuary.
Spread over an area of 128 square likometers, the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the India’s most prominent wildlife sanctuaries.
This is a beautiful, two storied, 80-room palace with open verandas, built in traditional Kerala style. Built by the versatile Maharaja Swathi Thirunal in 1844, the name Kuthira Malika, which means Horse Palace, was given to it on account of the many wooden horse figures carved along the entire length of the exterior lintel of the upper floors.
The palace has now been converted into a museum and only 20 rooms are functional.
The museum houses very interesting and rare artefacts and paintings belonging to the Travancore kings. The various rooms used by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal are also unique. The services of a guide, provided by the museum, is a must if one needs to understand the displays.
Kuthiramalika (Puthenmalika) palace is located near Padmanabhaswamy temple.
The palace is open all days except Mondays between 8:30 am – 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm.
Sivananda Yoga Vedanta centre in Thiruvananthapuram is a pioneer institution in the training of Yoga, an ancient Indian tradition of physical as well as mental exercise. The centre started functioning in 1987 under the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres. Apart from offering classes on this age-old tradition, Sivananda centre has also contributed much in popularizing the philosophy of Yoga.
In 1987 the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre in West Fort, Trivandrum was opened as part of the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres (ISYVC), a non-profit organization (this centre is now under re-construction). Swami Vishnudevananda synthesized the ancient wisdom of yoga into five basic principles that could easily be incorporated into one's daily lifestyle to provide the foundation for healthy living. The teachings at the centre are based around these 'Five Points of Yoga'.
The Five Points of Yoga include:
Proper Exercise - asana
Proper Breathing - pranayama
Proper Relaxation - savasana
Proper Diet - vegetarian
Positive Thinking and Meditation - Vedanta and Dhyana
Initial registration charge for all new students of Rs 30 for Indian residents and Rs 50 for Non Indian residents.
The International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center (ISVYC) is registered is a charitable trust. All donations are tax exempted under section 80-G of the Income Tax Act 1961 of Govt of India.
Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple is believed to be at least 2,000 years old. This temple, which rests in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram in the old walled Fort area, is a grand edifice that devotees believe has guarded the city from all ills. The temple has received continued emotional allegiance and royal patronage of the ruling houses through the ages.
Facing east, the temple structure is an amalgamation of the Dravidian, Chola and Pandya as well as the indigenous Kerala styles of architecture, which complement each other. The sanctum is different from other temples in that there are no steps leading down to the floor, but instead there is another mandapam - the famed single stone (ottakkal mandapam) in front, through which the doors to the sanctum are accessed.
The temple qualifies as a great temple (mahakshetram) in all the ten aspects which are required, namely antiquity, presence of records (palm leaves, inscriptions), historical importance, origin in a forest, nearness to an ocean, location at an elevation, royal connections, mention in ancient literature, magnificence of architecture and grandeur of festivals.
Located inside the East Fort, this temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. One among the 108 sacred Vishnu temples in India, the presiding deity here is Lord Vishnu reclining on Anantha, the Serpent. The idol, plated in gold and made out of a rare composition known as katu-sarkara-yogam, is acclaimed as a marvel. It is also noted for its mural paintings and stone carvings.
Renovated in 1733 AD by the then ruler of Travancore, Raja Marthanda Varma, this holy shrine attracts thousands of Hindu devotees.
The temple is open only to Hindus and dress regulations are strictly enforced.
This is one of the biggest festivals associated with this temple, secondary only to Laksha Deepam. This is held twice a year.
The word Aarat refers to the purificatory immersion of the deities of the temple in sea. This event takes place in the evening. The King of Travancore escorts the Aarat procession by foot. The idols of Sri Padmanabhaswamy, Krishna and Narasimha are given a ritual bathe in the sea, after the prescribed poojas. After this ceremony, the idols are taken back to the temple as a procession in the light of traditional torches, marking the conclusion of the festival.
Cultural performances, including Kathakali, are staged during the occasion.
The Pallivetta is held on the eve of Arattu.
Held twice a year: Oct-Nov and Mar-Apr"
Laksha Deepam is the biggest festival of this temple. "Laksha Deepam" means hundred thousand (or one lakh) lamps. This festival is unique and commences once in 6 years. Prior to this festival, chanting of prayers and recitation of three vedas is done for 56 days. On the festival time, hundred thousand oil lamps are lit in and around the temple premises. The next laksha deepam is slated on January 2014.
The courtyard of Kuthira Malika is the venue for Swathi Sangeethotsavam, a yearly music festival commemorating the legacy of Swathi Thirunal. This music festival is conducted from 6 to 12 January every year. It attracts many of the leading stalwarts of Carnatic and Hindustani classical music.
The Sangeetholsavam is held in tribute to Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, who ruled the state of Travancore from 1813- 1846 and was a patron of arts and a musician himself. His musical compositions including both Carnatic and Hindustani, are believed to number over four hundred. Swati Thirunal's court was also home to many great musicians and artistes of the period.
Eminent musicians like, Ustad Bismilla Khan Gangu Bai Hangal, Dr.M.Balamurali Krishna, D.K.Pattammal etc have performed in the festival.
The section that attracts all visitors alike is the one that is dedicated to Raja Ravi Varma. This famous painter has carved a separate niche for himself in the world of art. His paintings look so real that it seems as if they speak. Raja Ravi Varma was fondly called as "Prince among painters and painter among princes". Apart from his paintings, one can find the works of Rabindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy and K.K. Hebar.
Apart from the works of these famous painters, one can find the famous Tanjore paintings here. These dazzling works of art never fail to amuse and enthrall onlookers. The paintings are encrusted with minute semi precious stones that lend an extraordinary look to the painting. Apart from this, the gallery has a collection of painting miniatures belonging to the Rajput and Mughal eras.
It is placed towards the northern side of the Napier Museum. Sri Chitra Art Gallery in Trivandrum features a unique collection of traditional and contemporary Indian art. It is one of the few art galleries in India, which boasts the finest exhibits of both ancient and modern schools of Indian art.
This has one of the richest collections of crocodiles. The crocodile farm is about 2 Km from the Dam. The park has crocodiles in cages. Most of them are young ones. The entry fee is approx. 5/- per person.
The museum houses an extensive collection of bronze and stone sculptures and wooden carvings dating from the 11th to the 18th centuries. The wooden chariot, the Pushpaka Vimanam built in 1847 for the Padmanabha Swamy Temple, with its intricate carvings, depicting mythological figures are not to be missed. The artefacts collected from Indonesia, China, Sumatra, Java, Bali and Sri Lanka are very interesting and the Javanese shadow play leather figures, used to depict the Mahabharata and the Ramayana will make you linger. There are some very interesting musical instruments and a 400-year-old clock. The old ornaments used by women in Kerala, interesting lamps, life sized Kathakali figures complete with resplendent costumes, a model of the Guruvayur temple complex are some of the other interesting things here to look out for.
The first hall has ornate wood carvings on the ceiling and beams with huge chandeliers, Belgian glass mirrors and beautiful marble sculptures. Life sized Kathakali images, in all their finery, well-preserved palanquins of yore, the armoury of the kings and other artefacts vie for attention. There is a huge painting of a durbar held by Maharaja Marthanda Varma, which is extremely interesting not only for its artistic merit, but also for the key provided with it, which gives us a clear picture of the hierarchy and customs prevalent at that time.
The next room has a collection of portrait paintings of all the Maharajas who ruled Travancore. There are two beautiful thrones - the 140-year-old Bohemian crystal throne, which can be dismantled and was presented by a Czechoslovakian ruler, and the Ivory throne used by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, which has sandalwood inside and ivory outside.
Swathi Thirunal's study and reading room on the first floor, referred to as the Thamara Muri, (lotus room), has a round lotus shaped roof, which has been painted using natural vegetable dyes.
The rooms on the first floor hold a veritable treasure of articles gifted to the kings. The Glass Room is noteworthy, with many artefacts in Venetian (Morano) glass, Tanjore glass paintings using real gold and precious stones, and the musical instruments of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal. The music hall is the place where the Maharaja used to spend most of his time.
There is another room, referred to as the dancing hall, with seating facilities around the room and performance space in the centre, which was used by the Maharaja and his guests. Another room, used for discussions with dignitaries and fellow musicians, has a very ornate ceiling with carvings like those on a jewellery box. This room has rosewood pillars carved out of a single piece.
Beautiful porcelain artefacts, paintings, sundials, solar clocks and sculptures, throw light on the workmanship and artistry of bygone ages.
Sri.Padmanabhaswami Temple is one of the most famous Vaishnava temple in India and also the city's historical landmark. Located inside the East Fort, the temple is a large complex with an impressive seven - story gopuram (tower). A blend of the Kerala and Dravidian style of architecture, this is a best example of south Indian architecture. The Padma Theertham, the holy tank outside, an 80-foot golden flag staff, Kulashekara mandapam and Navaratri Mandapam offer an elegant look to this shrine. This richly sculptured structure of 260-year-old also famous for its murals and carvings. The temples is under the direct control of the erstwhile Travancore Royal Family.
There are two annual festivals here - one in the month of Pankuni (Pisces-Meenam) March 15-April 14, and the other in Aippasi (Tulaa-Libra) (Oct-Nov). Thousands of devotees witness this grand ceremony.
Devotees have to strictly follow the dress code. Men should remove clothes above waist and deposit in the locker room. No one is permitted to wear dress that displays both legs separately. This means no pants for men or churidhar, salwars, pants for women. However, dhotis can be borrowed at the locker room and can be worn over pants or churidhar.
Performances of Kalarippayattu are organised on request. Lecture demonstrations are presented to interested groups at the Kalari at Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode. The timings are usually 6:00 am to 9:00 am and 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Kalarippayattu is a priceless asset to Kerala's heritage. An intricate blend of physical prowess, mindset, martial techniques and indigenous medical system, this form of armed, close quarter, hand-to-hand combat is unique to this State.
The Kalari is a practice ring or training centre on the lines of a gymnasium and Payattu is a duel. Hence, Kalarippayattu means martial skills learnt in a ring or training centre.
Since Kalarippayattu is considered a sublime martial art, certain deities are placed in the Kalari and devotional rituals performed before every session to obtain their blessings. The main deity is Kalari Paradevata, or the Goddess of Kalari. Idols of Ganapathi, Naga (the serpent god), Bhadrakaali and others are also placed along with. The rites of worship are a part of the Kalari tradition.
Rigorous training and perseverance creates a Kalari fighter
The Kalari fighter depends only on his alertness and agility, and the use of various stances and swift movements for attack and self defence. Long years of systematic and rigorous training hones these reflexes even while cultivating mental abilities like concentration, confidence and courage.
The training usually starts at the age of seven for both boys and girls. For most Kalari exponents, the training becomes a way of life. Besides the physical aspects, the Kalari training includes meditation and Ayurvedic oil massages.
You can watch Kalarippayattu being taught in a traditional Kalari, the arena for practicing Kalarippayattu. You can also see how Kalari Chikitsa, an exclusive branch of sports medicine is practised. And see some ancient manuscripts that describe this treatment.
Every Sunday at 6 pm there is satsang. Satsang begins with half an hour of silent meditation followed by chanting and a talk on yoga. Satsang is finished with aarti and sharing of prasad. After evening satsang on Sunday, a simple vegetarian meal is offered.
Advanced class with longer holding and variations of the 12 basic postures. Students should be able to hold headstand and other basic postures with ease.
Class duration: 2 hours
Class donation:
Indian resident: Rs 30
Non Indian resident: Rs 100
A major annual festival related to Padmanabha temple is the Navaratri festival. The idols of Saraswathi, Durga, and Murukan are brought to the kuthira malika palace in front of Padmanabha temple as a procession. This festival lasts for 9 days. The famous Swathi music festival is held every year during this festival.
The procession ends at the Navaratri Mandapam, situated on the right side of the East Gopuram of the Padmanabha Swamy Temple. The famous Navarathri Sangeetotsavam by renowned Carnatic musicians is held every evening for nine days at Navaratri Mandapam (Chokita Mandapam), between 6 p.m. and 8.30 p.m. in praise of Saraswati. This festival is exclusively dedicated to compositions of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal and features the nine Navaratri krithis of the Maharaja as the main item of the concert on each of the nine days.
The Sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers with an amazing variety of species who have either made this their home or nest here during migration. The common myna, kingfisher, little green heron, woodpecker, Indian cuckoo, little cormorant, little egret, hoopoe and darter thrive in the riparian areas and the verdant hillsides.
Ayurvedic Herbal Oil Massage (Abhyanga) gives physical & mental relaxation and stress relief improves circulation, revitalises the body and keeps skin healthy removes toxins, reduces fat, tones muscles.
The following treatments are available:
Rejuvenating medicated oil massage
Udvartanam (Powder massage)
Podikzhi (hot bundle massage)
Pancha Karma
The massages are conducted by trained masseurs for men and women in AC/heated rooms.
A qualified ayurvedic physician is available for consultations by appointment, contact the centre for details. Specific ayurveda treatments are available by prescription.
Advanced booking is necessary. For massage appointment times, contact the centre.
Introduction to meditation. Learn the theory and practice of meditation. Understand the nature of the mind and how to develop concentration. The course includes:
How to establish a meditation practice
Use of mantras - tools for meditation
The course consists of 6 classes over a 3-week period with the class duration of 90 minutes. The textbook 'Meditation and Mantras' by Swami Vishndevananda is included in the course donation.
Kalari Chikitsa, or Kalari treatment is an integral part of the Kalari tradition. It is mainly used to treat sprains, fractures, wounds and other injuries. Performers of other traditional arts of Kerala also undergo the Kalari Chikitsa to improve the suppleness of the body. The masters of Kalarippayattu are extraordinary healers adept at curing physical ailments with the ancient Ayurvedic system of massages and herbs.
Massage and treatment are part of every Kalari system, as the training in kalari with weapons can cause accidental injuries. A Kalari Gurukkal is specialized in neurology and orthopedics to treat any such casualities. Apart from the Ayurvedic treatment, kalari has a specialized method of treatment called “Marma chikitsa”, treating the damages
on vital parts of the body. As alredy stated, out of the 107 vital spots of the body 64 of them are fatal if injured, and this system of treatment cures injuries to any such parts.
The Kalari uzhichil and massage are done using medicated oils (Thailams), pastes specially prepared by kalarimasters after studying the nature of sickness and the physic of the patient. Muscular injuries, broken bones,back ache, joint pains, spondilytis, arthritis and rheumatic diseases are treated with precision in kalari treatment. All ayurvedic medicines are
prepared from specially selected herbal extract, herbal oils, animal products and naturally occurring minerals.
The course covers theory and practice of shat kriyas, the six cleansing techniques. Learn the ancient yogic techniques for cleansing and purifying the body. Sharpen the mind. Stimulate the elimination of toxins and wastes from the respiratory and digestive systems.
Workshop duration: 90 minutes
Donation: Rs 30 includes neti pot and sutra
Start Dates: every second Saturday of the month.
Yoga can give a child a good foundation in life. Asanas, pranayama, chanting, meditation and story telling. Improved concentration, balance and co-ordination. Kids can enjoy a playful atmosphere and make new friends. For 7-14 year olds.
Class duration 1½ hours
Every Saturday and Sunday at 4 pm. Classes are held daily during the holiday times.
Open to all on a drop in basis. The open class covers the 12 basic postures with variations, pranayama (breathing exercises), relaxation and Surya Namaskar (sun salutations).
Class duration is 1½ hours
Course Donation:
Single class:
Indian resident: Rs 30
Non Indian resident: Rs 100
Monthly pass:
Indian resident: Rs 300
Non Indian resident: Rs 700
An introduction to the theory and practice of yoga for beginners with emphasis on proper exercise (asanas), proper breathing (pranayama), relaxation (savasana) the 12 basic postures and Surya Namaskar (sun salutations).
The course consists of 18 classes, 6 days a week on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday over 3 weeks. A further 6 open classes are offered at the end of the Yoga Beginners course.
Class duration is 1½ hours.
Beginners Course from 6:15 to 7:45 (Rs. 813 per month)
Course Donation:
Indian resident: Rs 800
Non Indian resident: Rs 1,500
