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20 Well-known Temples In Kerala To Go to In 2024 – Iris Holidays


Some of the most famous temples in Kerala like Guruvayur, Sabarimala Sri Ayyappa, Sree Padmanabhaswamy, and Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple draw a large influx of tourists with their scenic splendor, mind-blowing architecture, and peaceful aura. Other than natural beauty, rich culture, and heritage, Kerala is known for having a large number of religious places that travelers visit year-round with boundless enthusiasm.

The Land of the Gods is full of ancient legends and prides in its possession of some of the oldest and most famous temples in India. The majority of the religious sites carry tales of ancient epics and forgotten mythological sagas from over a thousand years ago.

Locating a temple, church, or mosque is easy when it comes to Kerala. They are present in every nook and corner of the state.

Other than being a divine place, each temple in Kerala is an architectural wonder in itself. Some of its most popular temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva or the incarnations of Lord Vishnu like Guruvayur Temple, Sabarimala Sri Ayyappa Temple, and Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

What to wear inside famous temples in Kerala?

Entry to most of the famous temples in Kerala is usually restricted to people practicing the Hindu religion and entering the temple wearing proper attire. Persons only wearing items like checkered clothes, shirts, vests, pyjamas, lungis, and footwear are not permitted.

You should enter the Kerala temples with an absolute sense of devotion after bathing and wearing clean clothes.

ALSO SEE – Best Time To Visit Kerala: Summer, Winter, or Monsoon?

 

There is an approved list of dresses that men and women need to wear to be able to enter Kerala temples. Western wear and revealing clothes are generally not allowed.

  • Men must wear a traditional Mundu (Dhoti) of Kerala with or without a white piece of cloth known as Angavasthra over their shoulders.
  • Women can wear traditional Indian attire like sarees and salwar kameez.
  • They can also dhotis or ‘pavadas’ with a blouse or other coverings as appropriate to their age.
  • Young girls below the age of 12 may wear gowns.

List of famous temples in Kerala

We have compiled a list of the best Kerala temples for you to visit. Each of these revered holy shrines in Kerala has something unique to offer.

They are worth visiting if you are in search of peace and want to be swept off your feet by a magnificent blend of rich culture, intriguing rituals, soulful percussion music, and breathtaking architecture!

1. Guruvayur Temple, Thrissur

Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple is a pilgrimage site situated in Thrissur, the southwest Indian state of Kerala. It is one of the most famous temples in Kerala. It is a renowned Hindu temple devoted to the Hindu deity Lord Krishna, also known as Lord Guruvayurappan in Malayali.

This temple town of Guruvayur is a popular destination for worshippers in Kerala and all over India. The temple follows a series of customs and traditions that captivate lakhs of pilgrims every month.

The Father or Lord of Guruvayur is portrayed as a four-armed God showing his supreme powers and immense strength to carry out countless acts at a single time.

The central icon represents Lord Vishnu carrying the conch Panchajanya, the discus Sudarshana Chakra, the mace Kaumodaki, and a lotus with a Holy basil garland.

Guruvayur Temple in Thrissur, one of the most famous temples in Kerala

Also called the Dwarka of South India, this temple can be visited at any time of the year. The best time to visit Guruvayur is during the annual Guruvayur Festival which typically falls in February-March.

How to reach Guruvayur Temple

By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport which is 80 km from Guruvayur, followed by Calicut Airport 100 km away.

By Rail: Guruvayur is the nearest railway station, located east of the temple. It is linked to the Madras-Mangalore mainline in Thrissur.

By Road: Private and public bus and cab services are available from the station as well as the airport.

ALSO SEE – Guruvayoor Temple Timings, Darshan, Festivals & More

2. Sabarimala Sri Ayyappa Temple, Pathanamthitta

Sabarimala Sri Ayyappa Temple is the most well-known temple among all the Sastha temples in Kerala. It is one of the most famous temples in Kerala. Deity Ayyappa is believed to be the son of Shiva and Mohini (the feminine incarnation of Vishnu).

This shrine is situated on a hilltop surrounded by mountains and dense forests. It is approximately 4,000 feet above sea level in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala.

Sabarimala supports the values of equality, fraternity, and also permanence in human life. It has commonly been assumed that the Prince of the Pandalam dynasty, an epitome of Ayappan, meditated at Sabarimala temple.

The Pathinettu Thripadikal, or the 18 sacred steps leading up to the temple, is the primary stairway to the temple. The joy of pain and happiness (Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa) resonates as one in the voice of all worshippers, thereby signifying all individuals are equal before Lord Ayyappan regardless of class, creed, race, and gender.

Above 30 million devotees pay a visit to Sabarimala annually making it the largest pilgrim destination in India. The shrine is open on the first 5 days of each Malayalam month.

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The beautiful Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala

November to February as well as April to September is preferably the best time to visit the temple.

How to Reach Sabarimala Sri Ayyappa Temple

By Air: There are no direct flights to Sabarimala. However, Cochin is the nearest airport located 104 km away.

By Rail: Chengannur is the closest railway station about 90 km away.

By Road: Pilgrims arrive at Sabarimala by taking a KSRTC bus and making the rest of their journey barefoot.

3. Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Kaviyoor

Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is one of the most ancient and important Kerala temples located on the banks of the river Manimala. The main deity is Lord Shiva (also known as Thrikkaviyoorappan).

It has a unique architecture with its copper-covered roof, golden flag masts, and wide steps at the eastern entrance. The outer wall of the holy place is bedecked with wooden sculpture panels.

This Kerala famous temple is of great historical importance and has been preserved and protected as a monument by the Archaeological Department of India. The idols of Ganapathy, Maharshi, and Dwarapalakas are also worshiped within the temple premises.

Only Hindu pilgrims are allowed to enter the temple. Visitors are expected to follow a strict dress code to be allowed entry into the temple and photography is completely prohibited on the premises.

famous temples in Kerala
The steps leading up to Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple in Kerala
  • The temple hosts a 10-day yearly festival during December/January known as Thiruvutsavam which follows a unique ritual.
  • Shivaratri falls during February or March and is regarded as the best time to visit Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple in Kerala.
How to reach Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple

By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport.

By Rail: Thiruvalla Railway station is just 5 km away from Kaviyoor and is considered the nearest accessible railway station.

By Road: There are direct buses available from Kozhencherry, Kottangal, Pathanamthitta, Ranni, and Thottabhagom.

4. Mammiyur Sri Mahadeva Temple, Thrissur

Mammiyur Sri Mahadeva Temple, representing the deity Shiva, is known for its astonishing paintings on the walls and magnificent sculptures. Immediately after visiting the Guruvayur Temple, devotees like to pay a visit to the Mammiyoor Temple too.

The Mammiyoor temple is one of the famous temples in Kerala and also has the sanctums of Lord Ganapathi, Mahavishnu, Dharma Sastha, Muruga, Bhagavati, and Brahmmarakshas. The Idol of Bhagavathi depicting Parvathy has been erected behind the idol of Lord Shiva.

Mammiyoor temple is a part of 108 famous Shiva temples of Kerala.

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The vividly lit up Mammiyoor Temple in Kerala

Devotees can pay a visit during special days like Ekadasi, Shivaratri, and other auspicious festivals in Kerala.

How to reach Mammiyoor Temple

By Air: Cochin International airport is the nearest airport.

By Rail: Visitors can get connected with the Chennai-Mangaluru line at Thrissur Railway station.

By Road: A private bus stand is positioned to the east of the temple. Traveling by car is also a convenient mode of transportation.

ALSO SEE – Thrissur Pooram festival – Best Temple history & timings

5. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Trivandrum

The Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the most respected abodes of the Hindu deity Mahavishnu situated in Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. It is considered as the richest temple in the world.

Being a famous temple in Kerala, the architecture of the temple exhibits a mix of Keralan and Dravidian styles. The shrine has the idol of Lord Mahavishnu which is 18 feet high and is an awe-inspiring view for devotees who visit the temple.

The deity Padmanabhaswamy (Vishnu) is positioned in the “Anantha Shayana” posture on the serpent AdiShesha.

The temple is considered to be strict in its rituals. Visitors are expected to enter the premises of the temple barefoot. Electronic gadgets and capturing of pictures are strictly prohibited within the premises of the temple.

padmanabhswami-temple-trivandrum
The revered Padmanabhswami Temple of Lord Mahavishnu in Trivandrum, Kerala

Padmanabha Swamy Temple can be visited at any time of the year.

How to reach Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

By Air: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport 3 km away.

By Rail: Regular trains to Thiruvananthapuram and other major cities are available. Kazhakuttam, Veli are the nearest stations.

By Road: All public and private transportation is accessible from major cities to Trivandrum.

6. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Attukal

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is a religious shrine in Attukal, Kerala.

The main deity worshiped here is Goddess Bhadrakali, who is regarded as the goddess of prosperity and one that protects her devotees from harm. This famous temple shows the confluence of traditional Tamil and Kerala styles of architecture.

The temple is quite famous for the annual Attukal Pongala Festival. Millions of women participate during this Attukal Pongala, a festival that has entered into the Guinness Book of World Records.

Attukal Devi is frequently worshiped in 3 forms such as Maha Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge), Maha Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth), and Mahakali/Durga/Parvathy (Goddess of Power).

attukal-bhagavathy-temple-trivandrum-kerala
The intricately carved and colorful architecture of the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Kerala

The best time to visit the shrine is during the 10-day Attukal Pongala Festival celebrated in the Malayalam month of Kumbham.

How to reach Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

By Air: The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport about 7 km away from the shrine.

By Rail: Thampanoor station, which is 2 km from the shrine, is the closest railway station.

By Road: Both public and private transportation can be easily accessed to get to the shrine in Attukal. The main bus terminal is situated in Thampanoor, about 2 km from the shrine.

7. Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur

Vadakkunnathan Temple is one of the most ancient Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The shrine is situated in the city of Thrissur in Kerala. This popular temple in Kerala has mural paintings and the architectural style depicts the mythological tales from Mahabharata.

This is one of the oldest Kerala temples spread over a large area of 9 acres. It is regarded as the first temple built by Parasurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Lord Shiva is the presiding deity in the Vadakkunnathan Temple. During Shivarathri, the temple is lit up with lakhs of lamps.

famous-temples-in-kerala-vadakkunnathan-temple-thrissur
The Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur lit up with lamps during the auspicious festival of Shivratri

One must pay a visit to Vadakkunnathan Temple during April and May to witness the amazing festival of Thrissur Pooram here.

How to reach Vadakkunnathan Temple

By Air: Cochin Airport is the nearest airport to the pilgrim spot about 53 km away.

By Rail: Thrissur railway station is the closest railway station.

By Road: Thrissur is connected to all parts of Kerala. Both public and private transport can take you to the destination at nominal rates.

ALSO SEE – Festivals in Kerala You Should Visit on your Kerala Trip

8. Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha

Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, located at Ambalapuzha in Kerala, is one of the most renowned Kerala temples. This shrine is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the most famous holy shrines in Kerala.

An embodiment of Krishna as a child resides in the temple. The deity of this shrine was brought from Guruvayoor during the time of Tipu Sultan’s conquest.

Payasam, a sweet pudding prepared with rice and milk, is served in the temple after prayers and rituals. It is also reckoned that Lord Guruvayoorappan pays a visit to the temple daily to accept the offering.

sree-krishna-temple-ambalapuzha
The beautiful and humble Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple in Kerala

The best time to visit the temple is during the evening aarti. The entire shrine is lit up with tiny lamps during this time, making the temple look all the more beautiful.

How to reach Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple

By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to the shrine.

By Rail: There are regular trains available from major cities like Trivandrum and Kochi. Alappuzha railway station is the closest one.

By Road: Alappuzha is closely linked to other major cities through regular bus services and cabs on hire.

9. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, Kochi

Chottanikkara Devi Temple is a well-known temple worshiping the Goddess Bhagavathy (or Bhagawati).

The temple gains its popularity from the belief that it has healing powers! This temple is situated in the suburbs of Kochi and was built in a typical Kerala style of architecture primarily using wood.

It is believed that the Deity Bhagawati removes all mental illnesses and disorders, instilling peace and harmony in the lives of her devotees. A golden idol of the Goddess resides in the temple premises.

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The stunning architecture and striking blue walls of Chottanikara Devi Temple in Kerala

Makam Thozhal, a festival celebrated during the month of Kumbham, is the best time to visit this temple.

How to reach Chottanikara Devi temple

By Air: Cochin International Airport is the closest airport located about 22 km away from Ernakulam.

By Rail: The nearest station is at Ernakulam about 17 km away from Chottanikkara.

By Road: A KSRTC bus station is near the Ernakulam railway station.

ALSO SEE – 15 Tourist Places to Visit in Kochi Kerala (2024 Edition)

10. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, Vaikom

The Vaikom Mahadeva temple is a part of the Ettumanoor-Vaikom-Kaduthuruthy temple circuit and pilgrims normally like to cover all three of these in a day owing to their proximity to each other and tied history.

Dedicated to the Lord Shiva, the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is considered one of the oldest temples in Kerala. The Shiva Linga is believed to be from Treta Yuga. It is said that those who visit the temple get their desires fulfilled and their inner soul becomes pristine and pure.

Its beautiful architecture and meticulously designed murals also play a major role in capturing the attention of a large number of visitors.

vaikom-mahadeva-temple
Vaikom Temple has beautiful architecture and meticulously designed murals

The religious Vaikathashtami Festival and Arattu Festival make this stunning sanctum one of the most famous temples of Kerala. You must pay a visit to it during these auspicious occasions to see its true culture and heritage.

How to reach Vaikom Mahadeva Temple

By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport just 63 km away.

By Rail: Kottayam Railway station is only 25 km away.

By Road: Buses are available from the Kottayam bus stand.

11. Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Haripad

Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple is dedicated to the serpent god Nagaraja. It is situated in the middle of a lush green forest just like any other snake temple in India.

Headed by a priestess, Mannarsala Amma, this famous temple in Kerala is visited by devotees from far and wide to offer prayers to the serpent god, Nagaraja.

The temple has got more than 30,000 images of snakes on the trees which draws the attention of visitors from all over the world. The beliefs it holds and the rituals performed here are quite different from the other old and famous temples in Kerala.

mannarasala-nagaraja-temple-kerala
The unique Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple tucked deep in a lush forest in Kerala

Aayilyam is the predominant festival celebrated at Mannarasala Temple. During the festival, the idols of serpents are taken on a procession and a paste containing rice, milk, red turmeric, and lime is offered. It’s a great time to visit this revered shrine of Lord Nagaraj!

How to reach Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple

By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport 90 km away.

By Rail: Haripad Railway Station is the nearest railway station.

By Road: Public transport and private cabs are available from both the train station and airport.

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12. Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple, Kodungallur

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is located at Kodungallur, a place in the Thrissur district of Kerala, and is also popularly known as Mahadeva Temple in the South.

Known for the depiction of Lord Shiva in various forms, this is one of the most respected temples of Kerala built over 2,000 years ago by the legendary Chera King, Cheraman Perumal.

It’s one of the most famous temples in Kerala also because of its exquisite mural paintings on the walls that depict ancient principles and idols. The temple is open from 4 AM to 12 noon and then from 4 PM to 8:30 PM on all days.

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The ancient yet stunning structure of the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple in Thrissur district, Kerala

Millions of devotees visit Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple throughout the year.

How to reach Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

By Air: Cochin International Airport is just 27 km away.

By Rail: Chalakudy Railway Station is the nearest station to the shrine.

By Road: All modes of transport like KSRTC buses and cabs can be easily accessed to reach this pilgrim spot.

13. Lokanarkavu Temple, Memunda

Lokanarkavu Temple is situated at Memunda which is about 4 km from Vatakara in Kozhikode district, Kerala. This Hindu shrine in Kerala dedicated to the goddess Durga combines simplicity with its legendary aura.

The temple is regarded as the official family temple of 500 Aryan Nagariks who migrated to Kerala long ago. In addition to paying respects to Goddess Durga, visitors also get to watch the unique folk dance of Poorakkali, which is similar to the martial art form of Kalaripayattu.

Lokanarkavu Temple in Kerala
The unique architecture of the Lokanarkavu Temple in Kerala

Lokanarkavu Temple remains open from 5 AM to 11 AM and from 5 PM to 8 PM. It can be visited year-round

How to reach Lokanarkavu Temple

By Air: Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport.

By Rail: The closest station is Vadakara which is 5 km from the temple.

By Road: Private and public transport is easily available to reach the pilgrim spot.

14. Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple, Anthoor

Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is a beautiful temple with attractive architecture and is located on the banks of the river Valapattanam. The temple is dedicated to Lord Muthappan.

Visitors offer alcohol and liquor bottles to the deity Muthappan. People from all castes and religions can enter the temple. Dogs are one of the most common animals seen in the Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple.

sree-parassinikadavu-muthappan-temple
The alluring exteriors of the Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple in near Kunnar, one of the most famous Kerala temples

Devotees are allowed to enter the temple from 5 AM to 8 AM and from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. The temple can be visited at any time of the year.

How to reach Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

By Air: Kannur International Airport is the closest airport.

By Rail: Kannapuram railway station 13 km away is the nearest station.

By Road: Buses and taxis are easily available to reach the temple.

ALSO SEE – All That Makes Kerala God’s Own Country!

15. Sree Thirunelli Mahavishnu Temple, Wayanad

Sree Thirunelli Mahavishnu Temple is an ancient Vishnu temple. It is well known among Hindu devotees all over South India. The temple is believed to be the “Kashi of the South”. It’s the only temple in the world where devotees can perform all rituals related to one’s life.

This temple has also been mentioned in the Puranas and was built by Brahma himself. The shrine is frequented by both pilgrims and travelers drawn by its amazing architecture, and that is why it is one of the most famous temples in Kerala.

The ancient temple dedicated to Maha Vishnu sits snugly on the lush green hills of Wayanad. Its surrounding greenery makes it one of the most popular temples to visit in Kerala for nature lovers, history and architecture fans, as well as devotees of Lord Vishnu!

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The beautiful Thirunelli Temple surrounded by the lush green mountains of the Wayanad district in Kerala

The temple can be visited year-round since it’s located in the misty and cool hills of Kerala.

How to reach Thirunelli Temple

By Air: Calicut Airport is the nearest airport 125 km away.

By Rail: The nearest station is Kozhikode.

By Road: The nearest bus stand is at Wayanad. Taxis are also easily available from the airport and train station.

16. Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, Aranmula

Lord Krishna is the deity residing at the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple who is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

The ancient temple dedicated to Maha Vishnu sits on the side of Brahmagiri hills on the Kerala-Karnataka border. The temple has been classified as one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethrams of the Vaishnavate tradition.

Every year during the procession of Sabarimala, the sacred jewels called Thiruvabharanam of Ayyapan kept inside the temple are taken out and made a part of the procession!

Along with the famed and unique Aranmula Kannadi (Aranmula mirror), Aranmula is well known for the snake boat race, which is held every year during the festival of Onam.

aranmula-parthasarathy-temple
The mighty Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple in Aranmula town in Kerala

The temple remains open from 4 AM to 11 AM and from 5 PM to 8 PM. Aranmula Vadya Sadya in August is the best time to visit this temple.

How to reach Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple

By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is the closest airport.

By Rail: Chengannur Railway station is the nearest station.

By Road: Aranmula is 10 km away from Chengannur from where KSRTC buses and private taxis are available.

17. Sivagiri Siva Temple, Varkala

Sivagiri Temple is a sacred pilgrimage center and one of the most famous temples in Kerala with tremendous historical significance. Situated in Varkala, this religious sanctum is said to be the final resting place of the legendary leader, saint, and social reformer Sree Narayana Guru.

Worshippers dress in yellow attire and pay a visit to the temple in large numbers as it is believed to be a notable pilgrimage site for millions of devotees.

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The eye-catching structure of the Sivagiri Temple in Varkala, Kerala

Popular festivals like Gurudeva Jayanthi and Samadhi Day in Kerala are considered to be the best time to visit Sivagiri Temple.

How to reach Sivagiri Temple

By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is the Varkala station.

By Road: Public transport like buses as well as cabs are readily available both at the airport and train station.

18. Sabarimala Sastha Temple, Pathanamthitta

The famed Sabarimala Sastha Temple of Kerala is dedicated to Lord Ayyappan, son of Lord Shiva and Mohini and the incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

The beautiful temple sits atop a hill bounded by the thick jungles of Thekkady’s Periyar Tiger Reserve, offering visitors both peace and stunning panoramic views from this holy sanctum.

Only male devotees are allowed inside the temple. Girls below the age of 10 and women above the age of 50 are allowed to enter the temple. Women still visit the outer premises of the temple in large numbers owing to its iconic location amid Periyar’s lush green environs and the fun trek uphill to the temple.

Men are expected to dress in blue and black attires, smear their forehead with Chandan, and visit only if they’re clean-shaven.

Sabarimala Sastha Temple Pathanamthitta Kerala
The Sabarimala Sastha Temple in Pathanamthitta Kerala

The temple remains open for Darshan and Aarti from 3 AM to 11:40 PM and then from 1 PM to 3 PM. The temple can be visited year-round.

How to reach Sabarimala Sastha Temple

By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is the Chengannur railway station located 85 km away.

By Road: KSRTC-operated buses and local taxis are available at the railway station and airport.

ALSO SEE – Madurai Meenakshi Temple- Timings And How To Plan Your Visit?

19. Tali Temple, Kozhikode

It’s not possible to list the famous temples in Kerala and leave this enchanting holy abode behind! The Kaduthuruthi Mahadeva Thali Temple in Kozhikode, also called Tali Temple locally, was built way back in the 14th century and holds great spiritual and historical significance.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this holy shrine is said to be one of the two Brahmanical royal temples built by Zamorin. Kerala prides over this temple which is both a highly revered Hindu shrine as well as an architectural marvel.

The architecture of Kerala’s Tali Temple is the perfect blend of laterite, wood, brasswork, brass carvings, and intricately carved statues that instantly catch your attention!

The temple is easy to locate given that it’s tucked right in the heart of the town of Kozhikode atop a small hill near the Karamana River. It’s also one of the oldest temples in Kerala as well as India.

Tali Temple Kozhikode Kerala
The Tali Temple in Kozhikode, one of the most famous temples in Kerala

Devotees can visit the temple between 5 AM to 12 noon and between 4 PM to 9 PM. Though one can visit this temple year-round, it’s advisable to do so in the winter season between October and March.

How to reach Tali Temple

By Air: Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport 23 km away.

By Rail: Kozhikode Railway Station is the nearest railway station.

By Road: KSRTC-operated buses and local taxis are available at the railway station and airport.

20. Ananthapura Lake Temple, Ananthapura

The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Ananthapadmanabha, who is also the deity worshipped in Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum. The sanctum is said to be the “moolasthanam”, meaning “the original abode of the Lord”.

Ananthapura Lake Temple is one of the most famous temples in Kerala as it’s the only lake temple in Kerala.

Its magnificent architecture and location inside a beautiful lake with green-blue waters make it one of the most charming places to explore in Kerala with friends and family.

Located in the southernmost point of Kerala, this stunning temple enjoys a regular supply of fresh spring water.

Travelers and devotees from around the world visit this temple in considerable numbers to pay their respects to this enchanting shrine, lose themselves in their scenic splendor, and meet its most unusual guardian – Babia, the vegetarian crocodile that resides in the lake surrounding this holy shrine.

Ananthapura Lake Temple Ananthapura Kerala
Ananthapura Lake Temple surrounded by a lake in Ananthapura, Kerala

The temple remains open for darshan from 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and then from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Pooja is performed at 7:30 AM, then at 12:30 PM, and finally at 7:30 PM. The temple can be visited year-round.

How to reach Ananthapura Lake Temple

By Air: Mangalore Airport is the nearest airport 54 km away, followed by Kannur International Airport 123 km away.

By Rail: Kumbla Railway Station is the nearest railway station located just 5 km away.

By Road: KSRTC-operated buses and local taxis are available at both the railway station as well as the two airports.

Famous temples in Kerala – Do’s & Don’ts

  • Smoking and spitting inside the temple premises is strictly not allowed.
  • Usage of pan masala and other additives are not permitted inside the temple.
  • The offerings of the temple (prasadam and theertham) should be handled with respect
  • Entry to temple premises after the consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food is not allowed.

ALSO SEE – Best Places to visit in Kerala

 

Other than displaying marvelous architecture and pristine locations, each of these revered temples of Kerala offers visitors a deep sense of calm and oneness with God. Plan your trip to Kerala with Iris Holidays and check out these unique yet famous temples in Kerala, the epitomes of peace and spirituality in God’s Own Country!

Frequently Asked Questions About Famous Temples in Kerala

Which is the oldest Hindu temple in Kerala?

The Tali Temple in Kozhikode is the oldest in Kerala dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. This temple was built in the 14th century by Swami Thirumalpad. Another one is the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple located in Thiruvananthapuram which is believed to be the first-ever temple to have been built in Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is also one of the oldest Vishnu temples in the country.

Which God is famous in Kerala?

Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple is the most famous temple of Lord Krishna in India and one of the most important places of worship for Hindus in Kerala. Lord Krishna is worshipped widely in all parts of Kerala.

Why are Kerala temples different from others?

Temple architecture in Kerala is different from that of other regions in India. The amalgamation of different cultures and religious philosophies helped to evolve the architectural styles of famous temples in Kerala.

Which is the biggest temple in Kerala?

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum is the biggest temple in Kerala. Across the world, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is renowned for its beauty and grandeur. This temple is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. It is believed to be the world’s richest temple.

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