A land full of ancient legends and exciting myths, Kerala, India’s southern state, is home to magnificent Hindu temples. Here is a list of some of the most famous temples in the ‘God’s Own Country’!
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Located in the city of Thiruvananthapuram (or Trivandrum), Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a beautiful temple. Constructed in the early 8th century, it is known for its Dravidian style architecture. The beautifully crafted idol of Lord Vishnu (one of the principle deities in Hinduism) sheltered by serpents is the most popular attraction at the temple. The Alpashy festival and Panguni festival are the best times to visit the temple. Cultural events and activities are organised regularly here.
Chottanikkara Temple
Located in the tiny Chottanikkara town, Chottanikkara Temple is one of the famous temples in Kerala. Constructed by a group of tribal merchants, the temple is dedicated to Chottanikkara Devi (one of the most worshipped forms of Goddess Laxmi). The temple has some of the ancient idols of the deity along with statues of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The traditional ‘Guruthi Pooja’, held every evening, is a great spiritual experience for all.
Guruvayur Temple
Also referred to as ‘Bhuloka Vaikunta’, Guruvayur Temple is a well-known Krishna temple in Kerala. Situated in the tiny town of Guruvayur, it is particularly acclaimed for its beautiful architecture. The four-armed standing statue of Lord Krishna carrying the conch and the sudarshan chakra is the biggest attraction at the temple. During the celebrations of the Ulsavam and the Malyali New Year, the place comes alive with wonderful decorations and crowd of devotees.
Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple
Situated in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple is an ancient temple in the southern Indian province. Built by a group of merchants travelling to Kerala, the temple has a total of 32 different sculptures of Lord Ganesh. The main idol of Sri Mahaganapathy, in a seated posture, holds the attention of all visitors.
Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple
Located in the Pathanamthitta district, Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is one of the ‘Divya Desams’ in the state. Built in traditional Kerala-style architecture, the temple features beautiful idols and sculptures of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. Most paintings in the temple depict important events and incidents from the Mahabharata (one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India). The annual Snake Boat Race held annually at the nearby Pamba River is a popular attraction among tourists visiting the shrine.
Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple
Situated in the tiny district of Pathanamthitta, Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple is yet another famous temple and a halting place for the Sabarimala pilgrims. The tall idol of Shiva at the entrance gate is a popular attraction. Every year, hundreds of pilgrims visit the holy shrine during the Sabarimala pilgrimage and at the time of the Thiruvutsavam festival. The traditional rituals and daily prayers performed by the priests at the temple are enjoyed by both locals and tourists.
