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Top 10 Famous Temples in Thiruvananthapuram to Visit
Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is a divine haven boasting a rich tapestry of temples that reflect the region's cultural and spiritual heritage. Nestled amidst verdant landscapes, serene backwaters, and towering gopurams gracing the urban landscape.
Thiruvananthapuram beckons devotees and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the sacred ambience of its revered temples.
List of Temples in Thiruvananthapuram
Following is the list of temples in Chandigarh that are easily accessible via the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station, Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, and the Thiruvananthapuram Central Bus Station:
10 Best Temples to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram
Explore the top 10 temples in Thiruvananthapuram:
1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple | East Fort
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. The temple's gopuram and intricate sculptures mesmerise visitors, offering a journey into ancient craftsmanship and spiritual devotion.
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
- Temple Timings: Open daily from 3:30 AM –4:45 AM, 6:30–7 AM, 8:30–10:00 AM, 10–11:15 AM, 12–12:20 PM, 4:30–6:10 PM and 6:45 PM to 7:15 PM.
- Nearby Places: Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, Napier Museum, Kanakakkunnu Palace.
2. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple | Attukal
Famed for the annual Attukal Pongala festival, this temple reveres Goddess Bhagavathy. Its vibrant festivities attract millions of devotees every year, creating an atmosphere of spiritual fervour and communal harmony.
- Best Time to Visit: February to March.
- Temple Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
- Nearby Places: Kerala Science and Technology Museum, Kanakakunnu Palace, Attukal Park.
3. Pazhavangadi Sree Maha Ganapathy Temple | Pazhavangadi
Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this temple is famous for its gold-plated idol of Ganapathy. Devotees seek blessings for success and prosperity here, immersed in the divine and spiritual aura of Shri Ganapathy Bappa’s presence.
- Best Time to Visit: August to September.
- Temple Timings: Open daily from 4:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
- Nearby Places: Sri Chitra Art Gallery, Napier Museum, Thiruvananthapuram Zoo.
4. Aruvippuram Mahadeva Temple | Aruvippuram
Aruvippuram Mahadeva Temple holds historical significance as the place where Sri Narayana Guru installed the idol of Lord Shiva in 1888. The serene surroundings and the cascading waters of the River Neyyar add to the spiritual ambience.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: Open daily from 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.
- Nearby Places: Neyyar Dam, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Meenmutty Waterfalls.
5. Sree Kanteswaram Mahadeva Temple | Thiruvananthapuram
Situated in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city, Sreekanteswaram Mahadeva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's architectural splendour and spiritual ambience attract devotees and tourists seeking solace amidst the urban hustle.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Temple Timings: Open daily from 4:30 AM to 12:15 PM, 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM.
- Nearby Places: Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, Kanakakkunnu Palace, Napier Museum.
6. Sri Parasurama Swamy Temple | Thiruvallam
Nestled on the banks of the serene Karamana River, Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple is steeped in mythological significance. Devotees flock here to seek blessings from Lord Parasurama and to witness the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding the temple.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February.
- Temple Timings: Open daily from 3:45 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Nearby Places: Kovalam Beach, Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium, Samudra Beach.
7. Karikkakom Sri Chamundi Temple | Karikkakom
Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Karikkakom, Sri Chamundi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundi, a fierce form of Goddess Durga. Devotees flock here, seeking blessings for courage, strength, and protection from evil forces.
- Best Time to Visit: October to November.
- Temple Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Nearby Places: Veli Tourist Village, Shankumugham Beach, Aruvikkara Dam.
8. Sree Hanuman Swamy Temple | Thirumala
Perched atop Thirumala Hill, the Sree Hanuman Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the epitome of devotion and strength. The temple's serene ambience and panoramic views of the city below make it a popular pilgrimage destination.
- Best Time to Visit: March to June.
- Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Nearby Places: Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, Kanakakunnu Palace, Thirumala Hill.
9. Sree Udiyanoor Devi Temple | Maruthumkuzhi
Located amidst serene surroundings in Maruthumkuzhi, Sree Udiyanoor Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. Devotees visit this temple to seek blessings for protection, prosperity, and overall well-being.
- Best Time to Visit: March to April.
- Temple Timings: 4:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:10 PM.
- Nearby Places: Ponmudi Hill Station, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Koyikkal Palace.
10. Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple | Sreekariyam
Surrounded by serene backwaters and lush greenery, Elamkulam Sree Mahadeva Temple exudes tranquillity and spiritual fervour. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is a haven for devotees seeking solace amidst nature's bounty.
- Best Time to Visit: November to December.
- Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Nearby Places: Kovalam Beach, Neyyar Dam, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave.
Thiruvananthapuram stands as a celestial abode where spirituality transcends boundaries. Its temples, each a sanctuary of faith and devotion, offer solace to the weary soul and inspiration to the seeking heart. As visitors traverse the hallowed grounds of these revered shrines, they not only witness architectural marvels but also immerse themselves in the timeless wisdom and divine grace that permeate the air of this sacred city.
FAQs about Temples to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram, India
What is the mystery of Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
The mystery of Padmanabhaswamy Temple centres on its hidden vaults, rumoured to contain vast treasures. Despite the opening of some vaults in 2011, one remains sealed, intensifying the temple's enigmatic allure.
Are there any offerings or rituals specific to this temple?
Yes, devotees often offer Modak, which is Lord Ganesha's favourite. Additionally, lighting lamps, offering flowers, and performing archanas are common rituals practiced by visitors.
What is the specialty of Attukal Pongala?
Attukal Pongala holds the Guinness World Record for the largest women's religious gathering. Millions converge to prepare a sweet rice porridge offering for Goddess Bhagavathy, fostering communal harmony.
Which God is in Thiruvananthapuram?
Padmanabhaswamy, a manifestation of Vishnu in the Anananthasayanam position (God Vishnu lying on Ananthan, the snake god), is the primary deity at Thiruvanthampuram.
Which place is known as temple city of Kerala?
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala's capital city, houses the crown jewel of South Indian temples.
What are the rules for temples in Thiruvananthapuram?
Women must wear sarees, Mundum Neriyathum, skirts with blouses, or half-sarees. Young girls under 12 can wear gowns. Men should wear mundu or dhoti without a shirt. Dhotis are available for rent at the entrance.
What is the Guinness record for Attukal Temple?
Over 2.5 million people participated in the ritual in 2009, making it into the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest religious assembly of women on a single day.
What is the old name of Thiruvananthapuram?
Thiruvananthapuram, formerly Trivandrum, is the capital city of Kerala. "Tiru","Anantha","puram" literally mean "the town of Lord Anantha."
Who built the present structure of Padmanabha Temple?
The current structure was created in the 18th century by the then-Travancore Maharaja Marthanda Varma. The temple was originally made of wood, but it was later rebuilt with granite.
What is the story of Sreekanteswaram Temple?
The Sreekanteswaram Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been established by Sage Parasurama.
What is the annual festival in Thiruvananthapuram?
The annual festival in Thiruvananthapuram is called "Thiruvathira Arattu," celebrated with grandeur and devotion at the Sreekanteswaram Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Are there any rituals in the Thiruvananthapuram temples?
Yes, Thiruvananthapuram temples observe daily rituals like poojas, abhishekams, and deeparadhana, along with elaborate ceremonies during festivals and special occasions.