The famous temples in Kerala are renowned for their architectural splendor, historical significance, and spiritual sanctity, drawing millions of devotees and tourists from around the world.

Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” boasts a rich tapestry of religious heritage, with temples that stand as epitomes of devotion and cultural vibrancy. These temples are not only places of worship but also treasure troves of mythology, tradition, and artistic excellence.

Each temple narrates its own unique story, reflecting the diverse spiritual landscape and the deep-rooted cultural ethos of the region. This collection of 20 famous temples in Kerala offers a glimpse into the divine architecture, profound rituals, and enduring legacy that define the spiritual heart of the state.

As a Keralite myself, I have traveled across the state and visited some of these temples. I have compiled this list of 20 most famous temples in Kerala from what I know of the history and significance of these temples.

20 Famous Temples in Kerala

	20 Famous Temples in Kerala	Location
1	Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple	Thiruvananthapuram
2	Guruvayur Temple	Thrissur
3	Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple	Pathanamthitta
4	Attukal Bhagavathy Temple	Thiruvananthapuram
5	Vaikom Mahadeva Temple	Kottayam
6	Chottanikkara Temple	Ernakulam
7	Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple	Alappuzha
8	Thirunelli Temple	Wayanad
9	Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple	Alappuzha
10	Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple	Kannur
11	Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple	Kottayam
12	Vadakkunnathan Temple	Thrissur
13	Sree Vallabha Temple	Thiruvalla
14	Tali Temple	Kozhikode
15	Ananthapura Lake Temple	Kasargod
16	Varkala Janardanaswamy Temple	Varkala
17	Pazhavangady Ganapathy Temple	Thiruvanantharam
18	Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple	Pathanamthitta
19	Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple	Pathanamthitta
20	Sivagiri Temple	Varkala

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, located in Thiruvananthapuram, is one of the most popular temple in Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the deity is depicted in a unique reclining posture on the serpent Anantha, also known as the Anantha Shayana posture.

The temple’s Dravidian style of architecture is a feast for the eyes, with its towering, golden gopuram. The intricate carvings and architectural features place the temple in the 16^th century.

The temple is also a part of the 108 Divya Desams, which are the holy abodes of Vishnu according to Vaishnava tradition.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Timings

The temple is open between 3:30 am to 7:30 pm for darshan.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Dress Code

Dress code in Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is very strict. As of 2024, men are required to wear dhoti and only a shawl or vesti on their upper body. You are required to remove your shirt and pants and leave them at the cloakrooms outside the temple. Men are not allowed to wear pants under the dhotis.

Women who wish to enter Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple should wear saree or half saree. Churidar or even frock among young girls is not allowed. If you are not dressed according to the dress code, buy a mundu from the stalls outside the temple and wrap it around your waist on top of your dress. This will comply you with the dress code of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple for women.

Read Famous Temples in Trivandrum

Guruvayur Temple, Thrissur

Guruvayur Temple in Guruvayur, Thrissur, is the most significant and revered Krishna temple in Kerala. The temple’s main deity is Lord Krishna, worshipped here as Guruvayurappan. Guruvayur Temple is another of the 108 Divya Desams.

The architecture of Guruvayur Temple is traditional Kerala style, with a majestic gopuram and exquisite carvings. One of the most notable features of this temple is its strict adherence to traditional rituals and customs.

Additionally, Guruvayur Temple is renowned for its annual festivals, especially the Ekadasi festival, which attracts a massive influx of pilgrims. Guruvayur is also famous for its elephant sanctuary, Punnathurkotta, where the temple’s elephants are cared for. This sanctuary adds to the temple’s charm, making it a unique religious and cultural landmark in Kerala.

Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple Timings

The temple is open from 3 am–1:30 pm in the morning and then again from 4:30–9:30 pm in the evening.

Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple Dress Code

Dress code in Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple is more lenient compared to Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Men can wear shirt and mundu (dhoti). Women can wear saree, skirts, or churidar. Avoid Western attire, jeans, t-shirts etc.

Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple, Pathanamthitta

Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple in Pathanamthitta is one of the largest annual pilgrimage destinations in the world. Nestled in the dense forests of the Western Ghats district, Sabarimala Temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, the son of Shiva and Mohini (the female form of Vishnu).

The pilgrimage to Sabarimala is considered highly rigorous, requiring devotees to observe a 41-day penance involving strict celibacy, vegetarianism, and other austerities. The trek to the temple involves traversing through challenging forest paths, symbolizing the spiritual journey and hardships faced by devotees in their quest for enlightenment and divine blessings.

The temple’s main festival, Makaravilakku, witnesses millions of pilgrims from across the globe, marking it as one of the most significant religious events. The sight of the Makara Jyothi, a celestial light that appears on the Makaravilakku day, is considered highly auspicious.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, located in Thiruvananthapuram, is one of the most significant temples dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, an incarnation of Parvati. Often referred to as the “Sabarimala of Women,” this temple holds a special place in the hearts of women devotees.

The temple is renowned for the Attukal Pongala festival, a unique event where millions of women gather to cook a sweet offering called ‘pongala’ on makeshift stoves along the streets leading to the temple. This festival has earned a place in the Guinness World Records for the largest gathering of women for a single religious activity.

The temple’s architecture is a blend of traditional Kerala style with intricate carvings and a majestic sanctum. The deity is believed to be a form of Kannaki, the heroine of the Tamil epic ‘Silappathikaram,’ symbolizing female power and justice.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, located in Kottayam district, is one of the oldest and most revered Shiva temples in Kerala. The temple is famed for its historical significance and connection to the Vaikom Satyagraha, a significant social reform movement against untouchability led by prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi.

The temple’s main deity is Lord Shiva, worshipped here in the form of Vaikathappan. The temple complex is expansive, with a large pond, lush greenery, and numerous sub-shrines dedicated to various deities. The architecture of Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a splendid example of traditional Kerala style, featuring a grand gopuram and intricately carved wooden pillars.

One of the temple’s major festivals is Vaikathashtami, celebrated with great pomp and splendor, attracting thousands of devotees. The temple is also known for its unique offering, the “Vilakku,” a traditional lamp lit with devotion by the devotees.

Chottanikkara Temple, Ernakulam

Chottanikkara Temple, situated near Ernakulam, is one of Kerala’s most famous temples dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeshwari, an incarnation of Parvati.

The temple is renowned for its healing powers, especially for mental illnesses and psychological problems. Devotees believe that the goddess here has miraculous powers to cure ailments and grant blessings.

The temple’s main deity is worshipped in three different forms throughout the day: as Saraswati in the morning, Lakshmi at noon, and Durga in the evening. This unique aspect of the temple adds to its spiritual significance and attracts a large number of devotees.

The temple’s architecture is a beautiful blend of Kerala and Dravidian styles, with a prominent sanctum and exquisite wood carvings. The Makam Thozhal festival is one of the temple’s major events, drawing devotees from all over the state. The rituals performed here, including the famous “Guruthi Pooja,” are believed to ward off evil spirits and negative energies.

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Alappuzha

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, located in Alappuzha district, is a unique and significant temple in Kerala, dedicated to the serpent god Nagaraja. Nestled amidst dense forests, the temple is a major center for serpent worship, believed to grant fertility, prosperity, and protection from snake bites.

The temple is managed by a Brahmin priestess, known as the “Valiyamma,” which is a rare tradition in Indian temples. Devotees visit Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple to seek blessings for childbearing, and special rituals like ‘Uruli Kamazhthal’ are performed for this purpose.

The temple celebrates the annual “Ayilyam” festival with great fervor, marked by various rituals, including the procession of serpent idols and special poojas. The temple’s architecture is traditional Kerala style, with a sprawling courtyard and intricately designed sanctum.

Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad

Thirunelli Temple, situated in the picturesque Brahmagiri hills of Wayanad, is one of Kerala’s most ancient and revered temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Known as the “Kashi of the South,” the temple’s history is steeped in legend, believed to have been built by Lord Brahma himself. The deity here is worshipped as Thirunelli Perumal, and the temple is renowned for its serene and tranquil setting amidst dense forests and rolling hills.

The temple’s architecture is simple yet elegant, reflecting the traditional Kerala style with its wooden carvings and tiled roof. One of the unique aspects of Thirunelli Temple is its association with rituals for the departed souls.

The nearby Papanasini stream, which flows down from the Brahmagiri hills, is believed to have the power to wash away sins. Devotees perform various rites and rituals in the stream, making it a significant pilgrimage site for those seeking moksha (liberation).

Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Alappuzha

Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, located in the heart of Alappuzha district, is one of Kerala’s most famous temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. The deity, worshipped as Unnikannan (baby Krishna), is depicted in a playful form, symbolizing the divine child’s mischief and charm.

The temple is renowned for its exquisite Kerala-style architecture, featuring a majestic sanctum, beautifully carved wooden panels, and a tranquil temple pond. One of the temple’s most distinctive features is the Ambalappuzha Palpayasam, a sweet rice pudding offered to the deity daily, which has become famous for its divine taste.

According to legend, the recipe for this delicacy was given by Lord Krishna himself. The temple’s annual festival, Ambalappuzha Arattu, is celebrated with great fervor and includes a ceremonial procession, cultural performances, and various religious rituals. The temple also has a strong connection with the famous poet-saint Thunchaththu Ezhuthachan, who is said to have visited the temple frequently.

Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple, Kannur

Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple, located on the banks of the Valapattanam river is one of Kerala’s most unique and vibrant temples. This temple in Kannur district is dedicated to Sree Muthappan, a folk deity worshipped in the form of a hunter.

Unlike typical Hindu temples, the rituals and worship at Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple are deeply rooted in the local Theyyam traditions. The temple is open to people of all castes and religions, reflecting the inclusive and egalitarian ethos of Muthappan worship.

One of the temple’s most distinctive features is the Theyyam performances, where the deity is believed to manifest through the performers, blessing and interacting with the devotees.

The temple is also known for its unconventional offerings, such as fish and toddy, which are considered auspicious. The annual festival, Muthappan Thiruvappana, is a grand event marked by elaborate Theyyam rituals, processions, and community feasts.

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, located in Kottayam, is an ancient Shiva temple in Kerala. This temple is renowned for its magnificent Dravidian architecture and stunning mural paintings, particularly the mural of Nataraja, which is considered a masterpiece of Indian art.

The temple is believed to have been established in the 16th century, and its history is steeped in legend and devotion. One of the temple’s most significant festivals is the annual Ezharaponnana festival, during which seven and a half golden elephants, a major temple treasure, are displayed to the public.

This festival attracts thousands of devotees and tourists, making it a grand event filled with rituals, processions, and cultural performances. The sanctum sanctorum, or Sreekovil, of the temple is a splendid example of traditional Kerala architecture, with its copper-plated roof and beautifully carved wooden pillars.

Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur

Vadakkunnathan Temple, in Thrissur city, is one of Kerala’s oldest and most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is not only a major religious center but also a cultural and historical landmark.

The temple’s architecture is a brilliant example of the Kerala style, with its towering gopurams (gateway towers), intricate woodwork, and beautiful murals that depict scenes from Hindu mythology.

Vadakkunnathan Temple is believed to have been built by Parashurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and it holds immense significance in Kerala’s spiritual landscape. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding cultural value and architectural beauty. One of the temple’s most notable features is the Koothambalam, a traditional theater hall where classical art forms like Kutiyattam and Chakyar Koothu are performed.

The temple is also the focal point of the famous Thrissur Pooram festival, considered the mother of all Poorams in Kerala, which showcases an awe-inspiring display of decorated elephants, traditional music, and fireworks. This grand festival draws tens of thousands of people from around the world, highlighting the temple’s importance in Kerala’s cultural heritage.

Sree Vallabha Temple, Thiruvalla

Sree Vallabha Temple, located in Thiruvalla in the Pathanamthitta district, is a renowned temple in Kerala dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This ancient temple is steeped in history and is an important center of worship and pilgrimage in Kerala.

The temple is known for its beautiful and unique architecture, which includes a majestic entrance tower, intricately carved pillars, and an expansive courtyard. One of the unique features of the Sree Vallabha Temple is its long-standing tradition of Kathakali performances, which are an integral part of the temple’s cultural activities. These performances are not just a form of entertainment but are considered offerings to the deity.

The temple’s main sanctum houses the idol of Lord Vishnu, known here as Sree Vallabha, in a standing posture, flanked by other deities in adjacent shrines. The annual Utsavam festival is a significant event at the temple, drawing devotees from all over the state for its grand rituals, processions, and cultural programs. Sree Vallabha Temple is also famous for its traditional offerings, including the special “nivedyams” or food offerings prepared with great devotion.

Tali Temple, Kozhikode

Tali Temple, located in the heart of Kozhikode city, is one of Kerala’s most historically significant and architecturally stunning temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This ancient temple is believed to have been constructed in the 14th century by Swamy Thirumulapad, the Zamorin of Kozhikode.

The Tali Temple is renowned for its exquisite architecture, which features a blend of Dravidian and Kerala styles. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum, or Sreekovil, is adorned with intricate wooden carvings and murals that depict scenes from Hindu mythology. One of the most remarkable aspects of the Tali Temple is the Revathi Pattathanam, an annual cultural and scholarly event held in the temple premises.

This event, which dates back centuries, includes a series of scholarly debates and discussions, and is a major attraction for scholars and devotees alike. The temple complex also houses several other deities, including Lord Vishnu, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Ganesha, making it a significant center for worship.

Ananthapura Lake Temple, Kasaragod

Ananthapura Lake Temple, in Kasaragod district, is unique for being the only lake temple in Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is believed to be the original seat (moolasthanam) of the deity worshipped at the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram.

The temple is situated in the middle of a beautiful lake, adding to its serene and mystical atmosphere. Devotees have to cross a small bridge to reach the temple, enhancing its charm and allure.

The temple is renowned for its tranquil surroundings and the legend of the resident crocodile named Babia, which is considered the guardian of the temple. This vegetarian crocodile is believed to be over 70 years old and is fed by the temple priests.

Ananthapura Lake Temple is also known for its exquisite murals that adorn the walls of the sanctum, depicting various scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple’s annual festivals, including the Laksha Deepam, where thousands of lamps are lit around the lake, attract devotees and tourists from far and wide. The unique setting and rich spiritual heritage make Ananthapura Lake Temple a must-visit temple in Kerala.

Varkala Janardanaswamy Temple, Varkala

Varkala Janardanaswamy Temple in Varkala is a prominent Kerala temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Janardanaswamy. This ancient temple is often referred to as the “Dakshin Kashi” (Benaras of the South) due to its immense spiritual significance.

The temple is believed to be over 2,000 years old and has been a major pilgrimage site for centuries. One of the unique aspects of the Varkala Janardanaswamy Temple is its stunning location, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. The temple complex is beautifully designed, with a striking entrance tower, intricately carved pillars, and a serene temple pond.

The annual Arattu festival, celebrated with great fervor, includes a grand procession of the deity to the Papanasam beach, where rituals are performed to cleanse the sins of devotees. The temple is also associated with the Vavu Bali ritual, where devotees pay homage to their ancestors by performing rites on the beach.

Pazhavangady Ganapathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram

Pazhavangady Ganapathy Temple, located in the bustling city of Thiruvananthapuram, is one of the most famous Ganapathy temples in Kerala. This temple is unique for its iconic idol of Lord Ganesha, who is depicted in a seated posture with his right leg folded under his body.

The temple is situated near the East Fort, making it easily accessible to devotees and tourists alike. Pazhavangady Ganapathy Temple is particularly known for the ritual of breaking coconuts, a practice believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees. It is common to see hundreds of coconuts being broken by devotees daily as an offering to Lord Ganesha.

The temple is also associated with the Travancore Devaswom Board and has a strong connection with the military, as it was originally established by the Travancore Army. The annual Vinayaka Chaturthi festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, featuring special poojas, processions, and cultural programs.

Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Pathanamthitta

Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple in Kaviyoor, Pathanamthitta, is a renowned temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, believed to be built in the early 8th century, is one of the oldest and architecturally significant temples in Kerala.

The temple stands out for its stunning rock-cut architecture, which includes a cave temple that adds to its historical and spiritual aura. The main deity, Lord Shiva, is worshipped here in the form of a Shivalinga, and the temple also houses a separate shrine for Goddess Parvati. The temple’s intricate carvings and exquisite wooden sculptures reflect the traditional Kerala style and are a testament to the artistic excellence of that era.

Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is also known for its annual festival, Thiruvutsavam, which draws thousands of devotees. The festival is marked by elaborate rituals, cultural performances, and a grand procession.

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, Pathanamthitta

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, located on the banks of the Pamba River in the Pathanamthitta district, is one of Kerala’s most famous temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, worshipped here as Parthasarathy (the charioteer of Arjuna). This temple is an important pilgrimage site and is renowned for its historical significance and architectural splendor.

The temple’s legend is intertwined with the Mahabharata, as it is believed that the idol of Parthasarathy was installed by Arjuna himself. The temple’s architecture is a fine example of traditional Kerala style, featuring a beautiful gopuram (gateway tower), intricately carved wooden pillars, and exquisite murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

One of the temple’s most famous events is the annual Aranmula Boat Race, held during the Onam festival, where elaborately decorated snake boats (palliyodams) race on the Pamba River, attracting thousands of spectators and devotees. The temple is also known for its unique offering of “Valla Sadya,” a grand feast provided to the oarsmen of the snake boats.

Sivagiri Temple, Varkala

Sivagiri Temple in Varkala is a significant pilgrimage site associated with the social reformer and spiritual leader Sree Narayana Guru. The temple, also known as the Sivagiri Mutt, is dedicated to the teachings and philosophy of Sree Narayana Guru, who advocated for social equality and spiritual enlightenment.

Established in 1904, the temple stands as a symbol of Guru’s efforts to uplift the downtrodden and promote universal brotherhood. The Sivagiri Mutt is situated atop a hill, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting for meditation and reflection.

The annual Sivagiri Pilgrimage, held from December 30 to January 1, attracts thousands of devotees from all over India, who come to pay homage to Guru and participate in various spiritual and cultural activities.

The pilgrimage emphasizes the Guru’s core principles of “one caste, one religion, one god for mankind.” The temple complex also includes Guru’s final resting place, known as the Mahasamadhi, which is a focal point for devotees seeking inspiration and guidance.

Wrapping Up: Famous Temples in Kerala

Exploring the famous temples of Kerala is a journey through the state’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, where each temple stands as a testament to the region’s devotion and artistic brilliance.

The temples not only serve as places of worship but also as custodians of timeless rituals and festivals that continue to thrive, offering solace and inspiration to countless devotees. The profound spiritual experiences, coupled with the architectural marvels, make visiting these temples a deeply enriching and enlightening experience.