Kerala: God’s Own Country
We can’t deny that Kerala is one the biggest word in tourism with its natural landscape, serenity, and adventurous vibes. However, one thing usually overlooked is how deeply rooted this state is in culture and heritage. Here is a simple way to experience it: Temple Tour in Kerala.
If you’re planning a trip to India to explore Kerala’s cultural sites, this blog is just for you! Having visited most of the temples in Kerala, I can provide authentic and detailed information about them.
Read this blog thoroughly to plan a spiritual journey to Kerala that will be enriching and unforgettable.
Top 8 Must-Visit Temples in Kerala:
1. Guruvayur Temple
Our list of the top temples in Kerala begins with the Guruvayur Temple, which is believed to be about 5,000 years old. The shrine is located 29 km from Thrissur in Kerala and worships Guruvayurappan, a form of Lord Vishnu.
Lord Vishnu appears in the Guruvayoor form with four arms: one carrying the conch Panchajanya, one carrying the discus Sudarshana Chakra, another carrying the mace Kaumodaki and the last holding a lotus. So when you visit Kerala make sure to visit this temple here.
- Timing: 3 am–1:30 pm, 4:30–9:30 pm
- Address: East Nada, Guruvayur, Kerala 680101
2. Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is home to the prestigious Hindu temple Sri Anantha Padmanabhaswamy Temple. This temple honours Lord Anantha, an avatar of Vishnu. The name Thiruvananthapuram means “Land of Lord Anantha”.
The Padmanabhaswamy Temple’s architecture combines Kerala and Dravidian styles, and its entrance gate stands 100 feet high. On AdiShesha, the main shrine houses an 18-foot idol of Ananthasayanam.
Padmanabha Theertham has a special ritual performed at the temple pond that you should not miss. It was a mix of awe and serenity.
- Timing: 3:30–4:45 am, 6:30–7 am, 8:30–10 am, 10:30–11:15 am, 12–12:20 pm, 4:30–6:10 pm, 6:45–7:15 pm
- Address: West Nada, Fort, East Fort, Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram
3. Chottanikkara Temple
Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple dates back more than 1,500 years. According to legend, the temple was founded by Agastya, one of the seven rishis of Hinduism. There are many myths and legends surrounding its origin, adding to its mystique.
In Kerala, this is one of the most popular pilgrimage centers. It is believed that the deity has the power to cure mental illnesses.
The Goddess Rajarajeswari (Mother Goddess) is worshipped here three times each day – in the morning as Goddess Saraswathy, at noon as Goddess Lakshmi, and at night as Goddess Durga.
I attended the Guruthi Pooja here, a powerful ritual thought to cleanse negative energies at night. Throughout the temple, vibrant chants and lamps created a mystic atmosphere.
- Timing: 4 am–12:30 pm, 4–8:30 pm
- Address: Chottanikkara, Kochi, Kerala 682312
4. Sree Vadakkunnathan Temple
The temple is an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the city of Thrissur in Kerala, India. Located on an eminence, the temple commands a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Legend has it that the original Prathishta was created by Lord Parasurama, an incarnation of Vishnu at least four thousand years ago.
Aside from Lord Siva, there are idols of Sree Parvati, Ganesha, Sankaranarayana, and Sree Rama in the temple.
- Timing: 4–11 am, 5–7 pm
- Address: Swaraj Round N, Kuruppam, Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur
5. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple
Attukal Temple is located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city in Attukal and has Goddess Bhadrakali (Kannaki) as its principal deity. According to Hindu mythology, Bhadrakali is the Goddess of prosperity and salvation.
Pongala festival is celebrated here with great zeal, and women exclusively perform it. The festival holds the Guinness Book of World Records for bringing together the most women at one time. Visit this temple in Kerala to experience the festivity of this festival.
- Timing: 5 am–8:30 pm
- Address: P.O, Attukal – Chiramukku Rd, C Block, Attukal, Manacaud, Thiruvananthapuram
6. Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple
Thrissur’s Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple is one of the most important Devi temples in Kerala. It is located about two kilometres from Thrissur. It consists of two shrines: Paramekkavu and Melekkavu.
During the construction of this temple, Goddess Durga is incarnated as Vaishnavy, another incarnation of Goddess Durga. Additionally, the temple participates in every year’s Thrissur Pooram festival, which attracts thousands of devotees from Kerala and beyond.
I witnessed the fervour of the Thrissur Pooram, where decorated elephants walked gracefully. Kudamattam was memorable for its dazzling umbrella display and beating drums.
- Timing: 4–11:15 am, 4–8:15 pm
- Address: Paramekkavu Devaswom Building, Round East, Thrissur
7. Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple
While you may have visited many temples in the past, this temple dedicated to the Serpent God in Kerala is truly unique. A visit to this Kerala temple is essential if you seek something extraordinary.
One of the unique features of the temple is the thousands of snake images along its paths and on its surrounding trees. Many couples who have difficulty having children seek blessings at the temple. The temple is believed to bring results, and couples often make thanksgiving offerings by bringing new snake images.
- Timing: 5:30–11 am, 5:30–7:30 pm
- Address: Mannarasala P.O, Haripad, Kerala
8. Thrikkakara Vamana Moorthy Temple
The Thrikkakara Temple is one of the most famous shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s fifth avatar (incarnation).
There are 108 Vaishnava temples worldwide, of which 105 are in India. It is unknown when the temple was built, but historians estimate it to be almost 4,500 years old. This temple in Kerala is a must-see if you love historical sites.
- Timing: 4:30–11 am, 5–8 pm
- Address: Edappally – Pukkattupady Rd, Vidya Nagar Colony, Thrikkakara
Now that you know about Kerala’s temples and their deities. So, when are you planning your trip to Kerala? Explore these sacred sites and get closer to the culture. If you have any questions about any Kerala temple, you can consult the experts at Indian Holiday and even book your package with them. With Indian Holiday, your trip to Kerala will be memorable and enjoyable!
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