The Attingal Palace had an important role in the history of Kerala. It played a significant role in the growth of the Tranvancore Dynasty. The Attingal Palace gained prominence in the 14th century when Udaya Marthanda Varma ascended the throne of Travancore. He adopted two princesses from the royal family of the Kolathiris of North Malabar. A palace for each one of them was built by the king at Attingal and Kunnummel. The palace witnessed the first ever united rebellion against the British. The first uprising took place on April 15, 1721. A British contingent comprising 140 men were killed. It triggered off a series of insurrections. The walls of the palace are adorned with murals. The main edifice of the palace is now under the control of the Devaswom Board.
Sarkara Devi Temple, Nakramcode Devi Temple, Varkala beach (17 km) and Anjengo Fort are major tourist attractions near Attingal. There is also a monument to the great poet of Kerala, Sri Kumaran Asan, who was born and brought up at Kaikkara (near Varkala). The monument is at Thonnakkal, just 5 km south of Attingal alongside National Highway 47, enroute to Trivandrum.
The historical fort of Anchuthengu is about 10 km from Attingal town and the famous Siva temple Avanavanchery Sri Indilayappan Temple is within the Attingal municipal area. The family goddess of the Travancore Maharaja is worshipped at Kollampuzha Thiruvarattu Kavu just 3 km away, with annual public celebrations held every year under the auspices of the Royal Family and the Travancore Devaswom Board. The Sree Durgambika Temple is located approx 4 km from Kacheri Junction in Keezhattingal.