Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
Sri Padmanabhaswamy is one of the most popular temples in Kerala which is known worldwide for its architectural superiority. This temple is situated in Thiruvananthapuram and is dedicated to God Vishnu. It is constructed in Dravidian style in the 8th century.
Besides the splendid structure of the temple, it is the two major festivals celebrated in the temple that draws a large number of tourists from all across the world. These two annual festivals are celebrated with much enthusiasm. The best time to visit this temple is October/November during the Alpashy festival and March/April during Panguni festival.
Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha
A 17th-century old temple called Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna temple, located at Ambalapuzha in Kerala is one of the popular temples of the state. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and an idol of Krishna as a child resides in the temple. It is believed that Guru Vayoorappan visits the temple at the time of prayers or serving Palpayasam. The deity of this temple has been brought from Guruvayoor at the time of Tipu Sultan’s administration.
The temple remains thronged by the tourists visiting Alappuzha to experience the serene backwaters, which is only 8 miles away. The best time to visit Amabalapuzha Temple is during its Festival (Amabalapuzha Temple Festival) in the month of July and the Aaraattu festival celebrated in March-April.
Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple
One of the most popular temples of Kerala is Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa, located on a hilltop of the Western Ghats, in the Pathanamthitta district, near Periyar Tiger Reserve is a notable pilgrim temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, which is surrounded by mountains and thick forest. The temple location is rich and rocky that enthrals the visitors.
The temple opens during the two major festivals- the Mandal Puja and Makara Sankranthi Puja celebrated during the month of November till mid-January. The temple also remains open on the first six days of every Malayalam month. The pilgrims visiting this temple wear black or blue dresses with Chandan (Sandal) smeared on their forehead. During the whole journey, the pilgrims remain unshaven.
Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple, Guruvayoor
Guruvayoor Sri Krishna is one of the most religious temples, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The idol has been carved out with Patalanjana stone is definitely known for its medicinal values. The temple is popular for witnessing several rice feeding ceremonies (which is the tradition of new born’s first meal and marriages conducted in the outer area of the temple.
The temple always remains thronged by the visitors and for the senior citizens, individual entry lines have been arranged.
Chottanikara Devi Temple, Ernakulam
Chottanikara Devi is a popular temple dedicated to Goddess Bhagawati. It is about 4 to 5 ft. tall and is famous for its curing powers. It is considered that the goddess removes all the mental disorders and illnesses, providing peace to the devotees. The temple is located atop a hill amidst natural beauty with the golden idol of the Goddess. It is only 17 km from Ernakulam, having all the stuff to keep travellers mesmerized.
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple located 2km away from Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is another popular place of worship in the South Indian state of Kerala. The shrine is dedicated to the incarnation of Goddess Parvati or Goddess Kannaki. She is considered to be the Supreme Mother, who created all the living beings.
Attukal Bhagavathy Temple has entered the Guinness Book of World Record for holding the largest gathering of women for performing religious activities. It is a must to visit the temple for those coming to Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, in Thiruvananthapuram. The best time to visit this temple is during the time of Attukal Pongal (February/March).