Trivandrum makes global travel list: Among Top 10 Destinations for 2025 — now more accessible from Malaysia
Recently named one of the Top 10 Most Popular Places to Visit in 2025 by UK-based platform Skyscanner, the capital of Kerala — often called 'God's own country' — is drawing attention for all the right reasons. Adding to its appeal is the increased number of direct flights now connecting Kuala Lumpur to Trivandrum, making it easier than ever for Malaysian travellers to plan their South Indian escape.
Wellness the Ayurvedic way
Kerala is widely regarded as the birthplace of Ayurveda, and Trivandrum is where this ancient healing tradition is deeply rooted.
Whether you're on a wellness journey or simply need to recharge, the city offers a range of authentic Ayurvedic experiences at hospitals, retreats and specialised centres.
Here's what to expect:
Panchakarma therapy — a full-body detox involving five stages of purification to cleanse the body and mind.
Abhyanga massage — a warm herbal oil massage that improves circulation, reduces stress, and promotes deep relaxation.
Shirodhara — a calming treatment where medicated oil is poured over the forehead to relieve tension, insomnia and anxiety.
Herbal remedies and diet plans — personalised according to your body type or dosha (Vata, Pitta or Kapha).
Yoga and meditation — often included as part of wellness packages to enhance both physical and mental clarity.
Whether it's a one-day rejuvenation or a week-long retreat, Trivandrum's Ayurvedic offerings combine medical tradition, spiritual balance and serene surroundings — all in one place.
Backwaters, beaches and scenic escapes
Trivandrum's natural landscape is as calming as its wellness offerings.
A cruise through the city's backwaters — quiet canals and lagoons lined with coconut palms — is best enjoyed aboard a traditional ketuvallam (houseboat). Once used for transporting spices and rice, these wooden boats now serve as floating cottages with bedrooms, bathrooms and onboard meals.
For ocean lovers, Kovalam Beach is a must-visit. Its curved shoreline, gentle waves and breezy charm make it ideal for sunbathing or a dip in the sea. Climb the nearby Vizhinjam Lighthouse for sweeping views of the Arabian Sea — especially stunning at sunset.
Temples and timeless charm
Also known as Thiruvananthapuram, the city is deeply rooted in Hindu culture and mythology.
The iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, said to be one of the world's richest temples, remains a major attraction with its towering gopuram and intricate design.
Just around the corner, Chalai Bazaar is the perfect spot to shop for spices, jewellery and handicrafts — and don't forget to grab a classic South Indian coffee at one of the 14 Indian Coffee House branches across town.
Getting there is easier than ever
Malaysia Airlines launched direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Trivandrum in 2023 and currently operates up to five times weekly, offering greater accessibility and convenience for travellers.
Passengers who book exclusively via malaysiaairlines.com or the mobile app can also enjoy greater flexibility, including free cancellations with refunds, unlimited complimentary rebooking, child discounts, and special offers on fares and add-on services.
Travellers on this route can look forward to Malaysia Airlines' signature Malaysian Hospitality, with thoughtful service offerings like Chef-on-Call menus and a complimentary baggage allowance of up to 35kg.
A full suite of end-to-end travel experiences is thoughtfully curated to make each journey more memorable and meaningful, reflecting the airline's focus on comfort, care, and the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality.
Looking for a getaway that blends wellness, culture and comfort? Trivandrum might just be your perfect 2025 escape.
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Malay Mail
24-07-2025
- Malay Mail
Trivandrum makes global travel list: Among Top 10 Destinations for 2025 — now more accessible from Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, July 24 — From golden beaches and ancient temples to rejuvenating oil massages, Trivandrum is quickly becoming one of Asia's top wellness and retreat destinations. Recently named one of the Top 10 Most Popular Places to Visit in 2025 by UK-based platform Skyscanner, the capital of Kerala — often called 'God's own country' — is drawing attention for all the right reasons. Adding to its appeal is the increased number of direct flights now connecting Kuala Lumpur to Trivandrum, making it easier than ever for Malaysian travellers to plan their South Indian escape. Wellness the Ayurvedic way Kerala is widely regarded as the birthplace of Ayurveda, and Trivandrum is where this ancient healing tradition is deeply rooted. Whether you're on a wellness journey or simply need to recharge, the city offers a range of authentic Ayurvedic experiences at hospitals, retreats and specialised centres. Here's what to expect: Panchakarma therapy — a full-body detox involving five stages of purification to cleanse the body and mind. Abhyanga massage — a warm herbal oil massage that improves circulation, reduces stress, and promotes deep relaxation. Shirodhara — a calming treatment where medicated oil is poured over the forehead to relieve tension, insomnia and anxiety. Herbal remedies and diet plans — personalised according to your body type or dosha (Vata, Pitta or Kapha). Yoga and meditation — often included as part of wellness packages to enhance both physical and mental clarity. Whether it's a one-day rejuvenation or a week-long retreat, Trivandrum's Ayurvedic offerings combine medical tradition, spiritual balance and serene surroundings — all in one place. Backwaters, beaches and scenic escapes Trivandrum's natural landscape is as calming as its wellness offerings. A cruise through the city's backwaters — quiet canals and lagoons lined with coconut palms — is best enjoyed aboard a traditional ketuvallam (houseboat). Once used for transporting spices and rice, these wooden boats now serve as floating cottages with bedrooms, bathrooms and onboard meals. For ocean lovers, Kovalam Beach is a must-visit. Its curved shoreline, gentle waves and breezy charm make it ideal for sunbathing or a dip in the sea. Climb the nearby Vizhinjam Lighthouse for sweeping views of the Arabian Sea — especially stunning at sunset. Temples and timeless charm Also known as Thiruvananthapuram, the city is deeply rooted in Hindu culture and mythology. The iconic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, said to be one of the world's richest temples, remains a major attraction with its towering gopuram and intricate design. Just around the corner, Chalai Bazaar is the perfect spot to shop for spices, jewellery and handicrafts — and don't forget to grab a classic South Indian coffee at one of the 14 Indian Coffee House branches across town. Getting there is easier than ever Malaysia Airlines launched direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Trivandrum in 2023 and currently operates up to five times weekly, offering greater accessibility and convenience for travellers. Passengers who book exclusively via or the mobile app can also enjoy greater flexibility, including free cancellations with refunds, unlimited complimentary rebooking, child discounts, and special offers on fares and add-on services. Travellers on this route can look forward to Malaysia Airlines' signature Malaysian Hospitality, with thoughtful service offerings like Chef-on-Call menus and a complimentary baggage allowance of up to 35kg. A full suite of end-to-end travel experiences is thoughtfully curated to make each journey more memorable and meaningful, reflecting the airline's focus on comfort, care, and the warmth of Malaysian Hospitality. Looking for a getaway that blends wellness, culture and comfort? Trivandrum might just be your perfect 2025 escape.
Borneo Post
24-06-2025
- Borneo Post
Sabah eyes wellness tourism as rural empowerment strategy
Joniston (eighth from right) with the SWWICE 2025 speakers. KOTA KINABALU (June 24): Sabah aims to be a model for integrating wellness into its tourism offerings — not merely as a trend, but as a sustainable development strategy that uplifts rural communities, said Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Joniston Bangkuai. Speaking after officiating the third edition of the Sustainable, Wholistic, Wellness, International Conference & Expo (SWWICE) 2025 here on Tuesday, Joniston said wellness tourism is gaining global traction and Sabah is uniquely positioned to tap into it through its rich rural landscapes and cultural heritage. 'Wellness tourism is not just a marketing opportunity — it's a development strategy,' he said. 'So let Sabah be a model in how wellness can be integrated into the economy, the environment, and everyday life, especially for rural communities.' Joniston, who is also chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board, highlighted the critical role of rural tourism in this transformation. He pointed out that natural resources found in Sabah's countryside — such as clean rivers, lush forests, traditional food and serene settings — already carry significant wellness value but remain largely untapped. 'I was just speaking to some experts earlier and was informed that wellness isn't just about spas and massages. It's the food we eat, the forest we walk in, the rivers we sleep beside,' he explained. 'This potential is mostly found in the rural areas. So what we need to do is educate communities about how valuable this is and how we can add value to it.' He said he had already discussed with Cleopatra Lajawai, the organising chairperson of SWWICE 2025, ways to support awareness efforts in rural areas. 'By educating rural communities, we can attract more visitors to rural tourism products. This, in turn, contributes to the state's economy by empowering rural communities economically,' Joniston said. 'When income increases, people can afford better living conditions — they can send their children to school. That's what I meant when I said we are improving the quality of life through economic empowerment.' Responding to concerns raised during the keynote session about whether villagers are receptive to tourism, Joniston acknowledged that awareness is still low, but initiatives are underway to close the gap. 'We need to educate them. The villagers are the real experts when it comes to wellness and healing — they live it every day. They just don't know yet how to monetise what they already have,' he said. To this end, Joniston said District Tourism Action Committees are being engaged to play a greater role. He also encouraged organisers of events like SWWICE to involve rural tour operators in talks and workshops. 'Get them involved. Help them understand how they can benefit and what support is available. These are the things we can do,' he said. 'Even simple things like sleeping by the river or listening to the sound of flowing water — that's healing, that's wellness. These are assets we already have.' He noted a global shift in tourism trends, with wellness seekers moving away from high-end resorts toward nature, simplicity, and emotional reconnection — an experience rural Sabah can offer. 'When we go overseas to promote Sabah, we're seeing a shift in preferences. It's no longer about luxury resorts — it's about going rural. In Japan, they have 'forest bathing' and 'lung cleansing.' This is the direction we're heading,' he said. Commenting on how SWWICE fits into this evolving landscape, Joniston said the annual event has strong potential to link urban wellness practitioners with rural tourism operators. 'This is only the third edition of SWWICE, but going forward, I believe rural operators should be involved,' he said. 'After hearing the professor's keynote address, I'm even more convinced. These rural folks have the knowledge — they just need guidance to turn it into products and services,' he added. He said the Sabah Tourism Board is already planning sessions to explore ways to integrate wellness into community-based tourism. The SWWICE2025 which officially opened on Tuesday at the Magellan Sutera Harbour Resort, brings together over 15 countries in a united call for sustainable and integrated wellness tourism. SWWICE2025 marks a significant step in positioning Sabah as a global model for wellness tourism rooted in sustainability, culture and community values. With the theme Sustainable Wholistic Wellness Tourism, SWWICE2025 aims to broaden the global definition of wellness beyond spas and resorts to include community empowerment, environmental stewardship, and multidimensional well-being across 10 key pillars: Soul, Mind/Emotions, Body, Frequencies, Air, Water, Food, People, Home/Workplace and Environment. Organising chairperson Cleopatra Lajawai welcomed delegates to what she described as not just a conference, but a movement. 'SWWICE2025 is a shared mission for deeper alignment with ourselves, one another, and the Earth,' she said. 'It's about transforming how we live, love, lead and heal.' From its beginnings in Sabah as IWWCE (International Wholistic Wellness Conference & Expo), the event has evolved and expanded globally, including a significant workplace edition in Germany, before returning to Sabah under the SWWICE brand. This rebranding reflects a bolder international vision anchored in sustainable, wholistic values. Over the next 10 days, SWWICE2025 will host a dynamic program of keynote forums, masterclasses, a wellness and lifestyle expo, cultural showcases, retreats, and interactive experiences — all designed to spark innovation, healing and global collaboration. Among the highlights is the soft launch of a new directory and booking platform to connect sustainable wellness destinations and practitioners worldwide. The event has garnered strong institutional support from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, Sabah Tourism Board, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), and many other partners across Asia and Europe. In closing, Joniston emphasized that wellness tourism must be more than an economic opportunity — it should be a development strategy. 'Let Sabah be known not only as a place to visit, but as a place to heal, connect and thrive,' he urged. As delegates embark on ten days of learning, connection, and transformation, SWWICE2025 invites the world to embrace a new model of tourism, one that is inclusive, wholistic, and deeply sustainable.
Free Malaysia Today
06-06-2025
- Free Malaysia Today
7 delectable doughnut varieties from all around the world
Medu vada, or vadai, is a savoury South Indian take on the doughnut. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle) PETALING JAYA : Celebrated annually the first Friday of June, World Doughnut Day can be traced by to the 1930s, when the Salvation Army would honour the ' Celebrated annually the first Friday of June, World Doughnut Day can be traced by to the 1930s, when the Salvation Army would honour the ' Doughnut Lassies ' who fried treats for soldiers during World War I. What started as a charitable tradition has since become a celebration of fried doughy treats around the globe. With countless regional varieties today, let's get to know some of the sweet (and savoury) doughnut specialties worldwide – and where you can get them in Malaysia! 1. South Indian medu vada (vadai) Most Malaysians would be familiar with medu vada, a savoury treat originating from South India. Popularly known as vadai, these fritters are made from black gram lentils. The batter is coarsely ground, seasoned with spices like cumin and ginger, shaped into rings, and deep-fried until golden. Traditionally served for breakfast or as a snack, vadai is best paired with sambar, coconut chutney, or even yoghurt – whereupon it is known as thayir vada. Bursting with flavour, it is often enjoyed with a glass of hot masala tea. Vadai is, of course, available at most Indian eateries nationwide. 2. Malaysian kuih keria Kuih keria can be found in many Malay eateries and stalls across the country, especially those that sell traditional kuih-muih. (Wikipedia pic) A Ramadan bazaar favourite, kuih keria is made from mashed sweet potato and flour. The batter is shaped into rings, then deep-fried and coated in sugar, which often ends up clinging to the doughnut in chunky crystals. A popular variation uses melted gula Melaka for a glossy glaze and rich caramel flavour. Kuih keria is believed to have originated from traditional Malay diets of yore, when sweet potatoes were a staple. 3. Greek loukoumades LooKoo in Subang Jaya offers a modern twist on classic Greek loukoumades. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle) Loukoumades are small, round balls of fried dough traditionally served soaked in honey and dusted with cinnamon. The result? A bite-sized pastry that's sweet, sticky, and totally delicious! Greeks have been enjoying loukoumades since ancient times. In the Klang Valley, one place you can find it is at LooKoo in Subang Jaya, where the traditional treat is given a modern twist with decadent toppings such as chocolate and matcha. 4. Canadian maple-glazed doughnut Canadians took their love for maple syrup and made this delicious doughnut. (Tim Hortons pic) Canada's doughnut culture is unmatched: the country boasts the highest number of doughnut shops per capita in the world. And true to its heritage, its maple-glazed doughnut is a beloved treat, made famous by coffee and doughnut chain Tim Hortons, which was founded in 1964. This fluffy doughnut is often topped with maple-flavoured icing, while variations like maple bacon and cream-filled doughnuts have also become popular. Plus, Malaysians are in luck – Tim Hortons outlets are now available throughout the Klang Valley! 5. Japanese/Hawaiian mochi doughnuts Mochi doughnuts owe their signature chewy texture to the rice-flour batter from which they are made. (Nareo Donut pic) A modern fusion treat, the mochi doughnut – also called poi mochi – combines American-style doughnuts with East Asian mochi (glutinous rice cake). Typically shaped as a ring of eight connected balls, mochi doughnuts have a unique texture – fluffy and moist with a satisfying chew – thanks to the rice-flour batter. The Japanese chain Mister Donut popularised this treat with its famous 'Pon de Ring' in the early 2000s. In the Klang Valley, you can find mochi doughnuts at locations such as the artisan Nareo Donut shop. 6. French/New Orleans beignets Grab these fluffy, pillow-like beignets at Halo Doughnuts in Petaling Jaya. (Halo Doughnuts pic) Another doughnut without a hole, these square pieces of deep-fried dough are generously dusted with powdered (confectioners) sugar. Soft and pillow-like, beignets are best enjoyed fresh and hot, often paired with a cup of strong chicory coffee – a true New Orleans classic. French beignets are typically made with pâte à choux, a light and airy pastry dough, while New Orleans beignets are made with a yeasted dough, resulting in a denser, puffier texture. You can find these treats at artisan spots like Halo Doughnut in Petaling Jaya, which serves a jam-filled version called 'pilloughs'. 7. Cronuts The modern croissant-doughnut hybrid was invented in New York in 2013. (Wikipedia pic) The cronut is a modern hybrid, walking the line between croissant and doughnut. Invented in 2013 by French-born pastry chef Dominique Ansel in New York City, the cronut features thin, buttery layers rolled, fried, and glazed like a doughnut. Each cronut would take days to perfect, and its unique puff-pastry texture quickly turned it into an international sensation. In the Klang Valley, you can find cronuts at selected pastry shops such as KLCG Confectionery & Bakery. Happy Doughnut Day!
