Aruvikkara Dam

Approximately 16 kilometers away from Trivandrum, Aruvikkara Dam is a popular picnic getaway for tourists and locals alike. Built on the banks of River Karamana, its scenic beauty has been untouched and un-spoilt by regular city chores.  The reservoir and the garden  along with it makes for a good tourist spot. The place is also famous for the ancient Bhagavathi temple dedicated to Durga, the divine embodiment of female power, which is built on a rock. The stream in front of the temple contains large fishes and it is very common to see them being  fed by the devotees visiting the shrine. The headquarters of the Wellington Water Distribution project is located in Aruvikkara and the small Aruvikkara Dam (mini dam) provides water to the state capital Thiruvananthapuram .

Aruvikkara is ideal for a weekend drive from Thiruvananthapuram. The serene Karamana River invites you and a fun filled jaunt is guaranteed on every trip here. Karamana river originating from the southern tip of western ghats is a must visit for boating. The fun part about the boating in Karamana river is that it takes one through the expansive green patches of tropical plants,  which is quite fascinating. Forgetting the binoculars, and cameras would be a sin as the river supports a range of plants and fish species. Over and above, the bewitching green surroundings are worth a capture too. If boating is sounding just too boring, and plain, then switch to kayaking, house boat cruises and canoe rides, which are provided by the clubs
 
Getting there
Nearest railway station:  Thiruvananthapuram, about 16 km
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 23 km  
Google map coordinates : H2FC+GC Aruvikkara, Kerala