The Thiruvananthapuram Observatory stands on a hill, about 60 feet high, and 200 feet above the level of sea. It commands an extensive and beautiful view of an undulating and finely variegated country towards north, the east, and the south-and of the sea horizon to the west. The eastern view is terminated by the Ghat Mountains.The geographical situation of the Observatory is 8 degree 30 min northern latitude and 76 degree 59 min eastern longitude. The Observatory which functions today as part of the Department of Physics, University of Kerala, commenced its operations in 1837 and is one of the oldest of its kind in modern India. It owes its origin to the initiative and vision of Sri Swati Tirunal, the versatile Maharaja of Travancore who himself, a keen student of Astronomy.

Contact Details :
The Director, Astronomical Observatory
Observatory Hills, Opp. Kanakakunnu Palace
Vikas Bhavan P O, Thiruvananthapuram 695 533. Ph: 2303732

The Prof & Head, Department of Physics
University of Kerala, Karyavattom Campus
Thiruvananthapuram 695 581. Ph: 0471-2308920