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      The word ' Thiru Ananthapuram' means the city of Anantha or the abode of the sacred thousand headed serpent Anantha, who forms the couch on which reclines Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu trinity. Built on seven hills, it was the capital of the Venad chieftains. The city has grown as a tourist and commercial centre, with the International airport becoming the main gateway into Kerala. Being the state capital, it also throbs with political activity. Veli Tourist Village(11km) and Akkulam Lakeside Boat Club are other popular recreational centres for the locals. For shopping, try the SMSM Institute, the handicrafts emporium of the Handicrafts Development Corporation of Kerala. Kovalam, the world renowned beach, is about 16km away. There are several hotels and restaurants including the five-star Kovalam Ashok Beach resort. Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple Dedicated to Padmanabha or Lord Vishnu, it is according to legend, was built in stages , to house an idol discovered in the forest by a devotee. Akkulam is a place of great scenic beauty with a picturesque lake. There is a boat club with over dozens of boats, available for joy riders. The city area is about 74 sqkm.