Famous Temples in Kerala: A Spiritual Journey Through God’s Own Country
The famous temples in Kerala aren’t just some of the wealthiest temples in the world. They also hold a mystery that leaves thousands of spiritual travellers in wonder. Pilgrims from all around the world come to admire the unique, ancient architecture of these temples and to know its hidden mysteries.
If you are also eager to explore these famous temples in Kerala, much like thousands of others, this blog is for you. From spiritual seekers and cultural travellers to curious tourists and history buffs, we’re calling everyone!
Why Visit Temples in Kerala?
The most famous temples in Kerala hold massive historical importance. From the distinctive architectural style to diverse deities, each temple is known for its unique features.
1. Blend of Spirituality, Tradition, And Architecture
From small to prominent temples in Kerala, each reveals spiritual practices and architectural styles that are famous worldwide. Some temples are also home to eerie practices that will leave you thinking about it. The Chottanikkara temple, which practices exorcism, is a fine example of this.
2. Unique Customs And Temple Festivals
The famous temples of Kerala host some of the state’s grandest festivals. Attukal Pongala (an annual, all-women festival where Goddess Attukal Devi is offered rice) is a prime example. Various other festivals, such as Arattupuzha Pooram (one of Kerala’s oldest festivals, featuring a massive elephant procession with over 200 artists) and Onam (Kerala’s harvest festival, where people enjoy a traditional Sadya meal together), are unmissable.
3. Tranquil Settings Amidst Nature
Some of the famous temples in Kerala are masterpieces, situated amid nature’s beauty. The Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple is one such example. Nestled on a hilltop, surrounded by lush forest greenery, is a nature lover’s paradise. The Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple is another impressive temple that houses nearly 30,000 snakes in the forest region where this temple is located.
4. Dravidian And Indigenous Temple Architecture
Most famous temples in Kerala feature a blend of Dravidian architecture and Kerala-style designs, making them unique. The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, and Vadakkumnathan Temple are the finest specimens of this.
Top Famous Temples in Kerala
Every famous temple in Kerala has a rich history, culture and a distinctive story that makes it one of the most visited temples in the world. Let us learn about each of them in detail as we read.
1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
This is one of the most famous temples in Kerala, featuring Dravidian and Kerala-style architecture, with a gold-plated gopuram and a corridor lined with 365 pillars. The temple is said to be the richest among many other temples in the world, with a secret vault housing precious jewels, gold and ancient artefacts.
Dress Code: Dhoti/ kurta is for men, and saree/salwar is for women.
Entry Rules: Please leave your shoes, bags, belts, and phones outside the temple in a designated safe locker.
Darshan timings: 3:30 AM–4:45 AM and 6:30 AM–12:00 PM
Special Rituals: Abhishekam, where the domes over the sanctum sanctorum are bathed.
Nearby attractions: Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, Shri Chitra Art Gallery and Thiruvananthapuram Zoo.
2. Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple, Thrissur
According to the stories, Lord Krishna himself worshipped the idols in this temple. It is also said that the temple is almost 5,000 years old.
Elephant sanctuary nearby – Punnathoor Kotta
Best time to visit: Ekadasi and Janmashtami
Dress code – Dhoti/ kurta is for men, and saree/salwar is for women.
Entry rules – Non-Hindus are not allowed inside
Darshan timings- 3:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 9:15 PM
Special rituals – Usha Pooja, which is also known as morning worship, and Deeparadhana, which is an evening lamp ritual
Nearby attractions – Parthasarathy Temple and Chavakkad Beach
3. Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, Pathanamthitta
One of the world’s largest annual pilgrimage sites, this temple hosts a 41-day vratham (austerity) practice before the pilgrimage. This temple has a strong connection with Lord Ayyappa, God’s avatar, who meditated here after defeating the monster, Maharashi.
Dress code – Simple indian attire for both men and women
Entry rules: Only males can participate in this pilgrimage, which is why it has been a subject of historical controversy for the longest time.
Darshan timings – 3:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Special rituals – Neyyabhishekam (ghee anointment) and Padi Pooja (step worship)
Nearby attractions – Konni Elephant Training Centre and Maniyar Hills
4. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, Ernakulam
This renowned Kerala temple is said to heal mental illnesses through divine rituals. It is renowned for worshipping Devi Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Durga, and for unique rituals as well. The story of this temple revolves around Kannappan, a tribal man and a fierce devotee of Goddess Kali, and the daughter he sacrificed to the deity.
Early morning darshan significance – Less crowd, more serenity
Dress code – Dhoti/ kurta is for men, and saree/salwar is for women.
Entry rules – Only Hindus allowed inside
Nearby attractions – Hill Palace Museum, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Mattancherry Palace
5. Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur
This temple is a UNESCO-recognised cultural site that is home to the ever-famous Thrissur Pooram festival. It is one of the oldest Shiva temples in Kerala, featuring ancient murals that attract visitors from around the world.
Early morning darshan significance – Less crowd, more peace
Dress code – Dhoti/ kurta is for men, and saree/salwar is for women.
Entry Rules – Non-Hindus are not allowed inside, but can explore the exterior and surroundings
Nearby attractions – Thekkinkadu Maidan, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, Thrissur Zoo and State Museum
6. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam
The famous temple, believed to house seven-and-a-half golden elephants in a secret vault. The dance of Shiva is one of the oldest paintings in this collection. History buffs will definitely love this place.
Early morning darshan significance – High spiritual energy
Dress code – Women can only wear a saree, whereas men can only wear a dhoti and a kurta
Nearby attractions – Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Kottathavalam Waterfalls
7. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
An all-women’s temple that hosts the famous Attukal Pongala each year. The temple is also renowned as the ‘Sabarimala of Women’.
Early morning darshan significance – Less crowd, more peace
Dress code – Only traditional attire
Entry Rules – Attire should cover the shoulders.
Nearby Attractions – Kovalam Beach and Veli Tourist Village
8. Tali Temple, Kozhikode
One of the most famous Shiva temples in Kerala, it offers Kerala-style architecture with intricate woodwork that’s timeless. Travellers can easily visit this temple, as it is situated right in the heart of the city.
Early morning darshan significance – Better view of the beautiful mandir and peaceful
Dress code – Dhoti/ kurta is for men, and saree/salwar is for women.
Entry Rules – Clean clothes and must maintain pin-drop silence
Nearby attractions – Mananchira Square, Kozhikode Beach and Mishkal Mosque
9. Lokanarkavu Temple, Vadakara
A temple famous for martial arts? Yes, that’s the Lokanarkavu temple for you. This one is famous for local folk performances, stunning art and mythological stories that will keep you interested. Pooram is the best time to visit this temple to witness the traditional dance, Poorakkali.
Early morning darshan significance – Spiritual and peaceful experience
Dress code – Dhoti/ kurta is for men, and saree/salwar is for women.
Entry Rules – Revealing clothes are a strict NO
Nearby attractions – Vadakara Sand Banks Beach and Pisharikavu Temple
10. Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple, Haripad
The famous serpent temple has unique rituals and is home to thousands of serpent idols. The Mannarasala Ayilyam festival held between October to November is a must-visit.
Early morning darshan significance – Starts from 7:00 AM and is very tranquil
Dress code – Men in white dhoti and women in sarees
Entry Rules – Everyone should follow the dress code
Nearby attractions – Krishnapuram Palace and Alappuzha Lighthouse
Cultural Tips & Etiquette For Visiting Kerala Temples
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Most temples have strict dress codes for both men and women. Entry is denied to those who don’t follow the strict dress code for each temple.
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It is mandatory to remove footwear before stepping into any temple in Kerala. Not doing so is considered disrespectful in this context.
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Most temples do not allow photography inside. Thus, it is crucial to keep your phones and cameras outside in a safe locker. It is advisable not to carry it at all for safety purposes.
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Most of these famous temples in Kerala respect their rituals very much. They also request devotees to maintain pin-drop silence for peaceful worship.
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Donations can be made online by visiting the official website.
Best Time to Visit Temples in Kerala
1. October to March
This is the ideal time to visit the famous temples in Kerala, as the weather is slightly cool and comfortable, making darshan convenient.
2. Temple Festival Calendar Highlights
The monsoon season, which spans from June to September, is renowned for its spiritual retreats. Since there are fewer crowds due to heavy rainfall, people don’t have to wait in long queues for darshan.
Curated Temple Tour Packages in Kerala
Enjoy an effortless spiritual experience in Kerala with customised itineraries designed by TravelTriangle experts. Whether you are a traveller who longs for a peaceful retreat or a cultural immersion, their tour packages have everyone covered.
5-Day Spiritual Escape: Central Kerala Temple Trail
Destinations Covered: Guruvayur – Thrissur – Ettumanoor – Chottanikkara
Highlights:
- Do VIP darshan at Guruvayur Temple
- Attend evening puja at Vadakkunnathan Temple
- Witness the stunning cultural performances in Thrissur
- Stay at a traditional Kerala-style homestay
Best For: Families, elder travellers, and cultural seekers
Average Price: ₹25,000 – ₹32,000 per person
Inclusions: Accommodation, breakfast and dinner, transfers, temple entry assistance, and local guide services.
Exclusions: Airfare or train fare, lunch, personal expenses, and special pooja offerings.
7-Day Pilgrimage And Backwater Bliss
Destinations Covered: Thiruvananthapuram – Sabarimala – Alleppey – Mannarasala
Highlights:
- Experience a guided pilgrimage to Sabarimala
- Enjoy the backwater houseboat in Alleppey
- Visit to the serpent temple at Mannarasala
- Relax and unwind with an ayurvedic massage of your choice
Best For: Pilgrims, wellness travellers, spiritual solo travellers
Average Price: ₹38,000 – ₹46,000 per person
Inclusions: Accommodation, all vegetarian meals, guided transfers, pilgrimage support, houseboat stay, and ayurvedic massage.
Exclusions: Flights, personal rituals, additional spa sessions, and travel insurance.
3-Day Weekend Temple Getaway
Destinations Covered: Kochi – Chottanikkara – Vaikom – Ettumanoor
Highlights:
- Take a weekend trip with the help of a local guide
- Some temples also provide comfortable stays with good food
- Enjoy the unique and timeless Kathakali performances in the evening
Best For: Working professionals, short-stay visitors
Average Price: ₹12,000 – ₹15,000 per person
Inclusions: Accommodation, breakfast and dinner, transfers, local guide, and admission to the cultural show.
Exclusions: Travel to Kochi, lunch, pooja charges, and personal expenses.
10-Day Grand Kerala Temple Circuit
Destinations Covered: Thiruvananthapuram – Guruvayur – Sabarimala – Kottayam – Kozhikode – Vadakara
Highlights:
- Deep cultural immersion and temple rituals
- Experience the grand festival.
- Enjoy the delicious vegetarian traditional meals
- Fully guided tour with temple experts
Best For: International tourists, spiritual seekers, religious scholars
Average Price: ₹55,000 – ₹68,000 per person
Inclusions: Accommodation, all meals, private vehicle, expert temple guide, and festival participation where applicable.
Exclusions: Flights or visa costs, personal rituals, pooja offerings, and shopping expenses.
How to Plan Your Temple Tour in Kerala
1. Suggested Temple Circuits
If you are in South Kerala, kickstart your journey to the most famous temples in Kerala at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. From there, you can visit Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, and then move towards Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple near Pathanamthitta.
Those in Central Kerala can start by visiting Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple. You can also visit Thripunithura Poornathrayeesa Temple (Ernakulam) and then move towards the Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple.
Anyone who is in North Kerala can start from the Tali Shiva Temple (Kozhikode). Then, they can visit the famous Thirunelli Temple (Wayanad) and Ananthapura Lake Temple (Kasaragod) to complete their tour.
2. Temple Visits With Nearby Attractions
Most of the famous temples in Kerala can be combined with nearby tourist attractions, such as beaches, beautiful hills, museums, and more. For example, when visiting the Guruvayur Temple, be sure to also see the Chavakkad Beach and the Guruvayur Elephant Camp. Similarly, when you visit the Sabarimala temple, be sure to take some time to unwind and recharge at the Kumarakom Backwaters.
3. The Best Stay Near Temples
You can find a variety of beautiful stays near these famous temples in Kerala. From the Olavipe Homestay, a traditional homestay near Ernakulam, to Brunton Boatyard, a heritage hotel in Kochi, there are numerous budget-friendly accommodations available. Spiritual travellers can also stay at the Amritapuri Ashram in Kollam, known for its wellness retreat.
4. Transport Tip
If you are planning to cover the temple circuits, you can easily book a private cab or take a bus. For travels that are too close, you can take a jeep or an auto rickshaw as well. If you are planning a long-distance trip, it’s best to use Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) trains or buses. These are pretty affordable as well.
What Makes Kerala Temples Unique?
1. Kerala’s Distinctive Architectural Styles
The famous temples in Kerala are designed in Dravidian architecture with Kerala-style elements, creating a unique combination. That is what makes most of Kerala’s temples so distinctive in appearance.
2. Unique Deities And Temple Legends
Almost every temple in Kerala worships a unique deity with a mesmerising backstory. The Manorasala Nagaraja Temple, which worships snakes, and the Ananthapura Lake Temple, home to Babiya (a vegetarian Crocodile), are some of the best examples here.
3. Strong Connection With Ayurveda
Many of Kerala’s temples, such as Nelluvaya Sree Dhanwanthari Temple and Thottuva Dhanwanthari Temple, have a strong connection to Ayurveda. Lord Dhanwanthari, who is the God of Ayurveda, is also widely worshipped here.
4. Presence of Female-Led Temples
Kerala also features many female-led temples, such as the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple and Chakkulathukavu Temple, which hold Naari Puja every year.
FAQs About Temples In Kerala
Are non-Hindus allowed in Kerala temples?
The most famous temples in Kerala are exclusively for Hindus. However, the Sabarimala temple does allow non-Hindus inside.
What is the dress code for Kerala temples?
Each temple has its own strict dress code. However, there are some standard rules to follow in each of these temples. For example, both men and women should wear Indian attire, take off their footwear before entering the temples, and no revealing clothes are allowed.
Are Kerala temples open to tourists throughout the year?
Most of them are open to tourists year-round. However, we highly recommend visiting during the post-monsoon or monsoon seasons for fewer crowds and greater peace.
What are the most significant temple festivals in Kerala?
Thrissur Pooram, Sabarimala Makaravilakku, and Arattupuzha Pooram are among the most famous temple festivals in this region.
Can I take part in temple rituals?
Yes. Many temples do allow participation, but you must be a Hindu.
What are the famous temples in Kerala?
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Vadakkunnathan Temple, and Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple are among the most famous temples in Kerala.
Which is the 3000-year-old temple in Kerala?
The Neerputhoor Mahadeva Temple is 30000 years old and is located in Puthoor village. It is one of the most famous temples in Kerala.
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