10 Popular Temples to Visit in Kerala

Fri-Aug-2023

Introduction:

The southern state of Kerala is an outstanding source of traditional art and architecture, which is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and is also home to a number of temples, each of which has a significant religious, cultural, and historical value. It is fun to visit these temples, especially if you have time to worship the gods and take a leisurely stroll around the grounds.  If you don't mind the throngs of people, scheduling your vacation during a religious holiday is sure to offer more colour and excitement. At some of these temples, tradition and religious austerity may impose access restrictions or strict dress standards. Check out these prerequisites in advance to prevent disappointments.

 

1. Sabrimala Sastha Temple, Pathanamthitta:

Ayyappa’s Sabarimala Temple is located in a stunning, serene, yet challenging environment.  It is possible to worship the Lord during Chitra Vishu (the Malayalam new year in mid-April), even though the temple is open for the Mandala puja and Makara Sankranthi puja from mid-November to mid-January. It might be challenging for pilgrims to maintain strict self-control, fast for 41 days, and resist temptations both before and while travelling to the temple. There are several hiking routes that can be taken to go to the temple, and each one has its own set of challenges. However, when you see the Lord, all of your troubles simply melt away.

 

2. Attukal Bhagwathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram:

The Attukal Bhagwathy Temple, located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagwati, a form of the Hindu goddess Devi. The temple holds the Guinness World Record for the largest annual gathering of women, the Attukal Pongala festival, which attracts millions of devotees from various parts of Kerala. The temple complex includes smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, including Attukal Bhagwathy, who is believed to be the divine form of Kannagi, the Tamil epic's supreme mother and protector of women. The temple's architecture blends traditional Kerala and Dravidian styles, with intricate woodwork and beautiful sculptures.

 

3. Shri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram:

This temple, which is the richest in the entire globe, is a superb illustration of Dravidian design. Even though the Puranas and Epics reference this holy pilgrimage site, which dates back to the eighth century, there are no reliable records of its exact origins. It is a stunning sight to see the reigning deity, Lord Vishnu, resting on his five-hooded serpent, Anantha. 1 2008 Salagramas (holy pebbles) from Nepal's River Gandaki are found inside the deity's idol. The purity and magnificence of this god and the temple are further increased by the belief that each Salagrama represents the Lord. The vast complex also houses separate shrines for Shri Yoga Narasimha, Shri Dharma Sastha, Lord Hanuman, Seetha and Lakshman, and Lord Rama.

 

4. Ambalapuzha Shree Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha:

The Ambalapuzha Shree Krishna Temple in Kerala, India, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Its 15th-16th-century architecture features intricate carvings and woodwork. The main deity is Lord Krishna, known as "Parthasarathy." The temple is famous for its sweet milk porridge, Ambalapuzha Palpayasam, and hosts festivals like the Ambalapuzha Temple Festival, which includes cultural performances and religious rituals.

 

5. Attukal Bhagwathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram:

The Attukal Bhagwathy Temple, located in Thiruvananthapuram, Ker Words

ala is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Parvati. The temple is famous for hosting the Attukal Pongala festival, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of women for religious activity. Held in February or March, the festival attracts thousands of women from various parts of Kerala to prepare a sweet dish called Pongala. The temple's rich history and traditional Kerala-style architecture attract both locals and tourists. The serene atmosphere and spiritual significance of the temple attract both locals and tourists.

 

6. Guruvayoor Shrikrishna Temple, Guruvayoor:

The Guruvayoor Shri Krishna Temple, located in the Thrissur district of Kerala, is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site for Krishna devotees. The temple, believed to be centuries old, is dedicated to Lord Krishna and features a sacred four-armed idol. Devotees from around the world visit to seek blessings and offer prayers. The temple is known for its strict rituals, customs, and daily rituals, including the Nirmalya Darshan and Udayasthamana Pooja. The temple also hosts various festivals, including the important Guruvayoor Ekadasi. The temple complex includes the main temple, flagstaff, elephant sanctuary, and guest houses.

 

7. Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, Pathanamthitta:

The Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is a Hindu temple in Aranmula, Pathanamthitta district, Kerala himself. The temple's architectural splendour showcases ancient Kerala-style architecture, with intricate carvings and artwork. Nestled in the Wayanad Valley, it holds great significance for devotees and tourists alike. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is associated with the Vaishnavite sect. The temple hosts various festivals, including Srikrishna Jayanti, Vishu, Thiruvonam, and Navratri.

 

8. Sivagiri Temple, Varkala:

The Sivagiri Temple in Varkala, Kerala, is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Sree Narayana Guru, a social reformer and philosopher. Located atop Sivagiri hill, the temple complex attracts devotees from various parts of India, particularly the Ezhava community. The temple hosts annual festivals, including the Sivagiri Pilgrimage, and houses a revered samadhi. The serene environment offers meditation and introspection, while the beautiful beaches of Varkala offer spiritual solace. a India, dedicated to Lord Parthasarathy, a form of Lord Krishna. It is renowned for its association with the annual Aranmula Boat Race, held during the Onam festival season. The temple's architecture features intricate woodwork and carvings, and its open courtyard, Valiyambalam, attracts devotees and tourists alike.

 

9. Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Alappuzha:

The Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is a revered Hindu temple in Alappuzha, Kerala, India, dedicated to Lord Nagaraja, the serpent god. Over 2,000 years old, it has a unique mythology and is associated with snake worship, particularly cobras. Devotees offer milk, turmeric, and flowers to the serpent idols, and performing rituals and seeking blessings can cure fertility and childbirth ailments. The temple is a popular tourist attraction with a snake park and a rich history.

 

10. Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad Valley:

Thirunelli Temple, located in Kerala's Wayanad district, is a revered ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Built over 1,000 years ago, it is renowned for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. Located on the banks of the Papanasini River, it is believed that Lord Brahma installed the idol. The temple complex includes a main shrine, smaller shrines, and a pond with sacred waters from five sources.