Trivandrum Observatory

Trivandrum Observatory is an astronomical research facility located on a hilltop in the city. It houses an 11-inch telescope along with CCD cameras and computational equipment for celestial observations and scientific measurements.

The facility was founded in 1837 by the Maharaja of Travancore to establish systematic astronomical observations in the region. John Caldecott was appointed as the first royal astronomer to conduct this research work.

The Department of Physics at Kerala University manages this scientific institution, which contributes to astronomical education and research in southern India.

The site is open during daytime hours and sits on elevated ground with good views from the hilltop. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the path to reach the location involves some climbing.

The facility preserves historical records spanning the earliest decades of astronomy in South India. These documents show how researchers tracked celestial phenomena using the tools and methods available in that era.

Inception: 1836

GPS coordinates: 8.50850,76.95832

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:08