Kerala, India has a rich cultural and religious history. It’s capital city Thiruvananthapuram is home to many renowned and historical temples. So, let’s see some of the must visit Thiruvananthapuram temples:
1. Sree Padmanaswamy Temple
The main temple of Thiruvananthapuram, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located close to east fort and has four entrance gates in four directions. This 5,000-year-old temple is believed to be the protector of Thiruvananthapuram, even the name of this capital city Thiruv-anantha-puram means city of Lord Anantha (Lord Vishnu), the main god of this temple. It is also one of the 108 main temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Anantha Padmanabha swamy temple is world’s richest temple hiding treasures worth trillions. There’s very strict dress code of Padmanabhaswamy temple only cultural dress is allowed here. And yes, do not forget to have tasty prasadam after your prayers.
2. Kanthalur Mahadev Temple
Located near east fort and Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple, Kanthalur Mahadev temple is one of the oldest temples in Kerala. It is also known as Valiyasala mahadeva temple. This second largest temple of Trivandrum is built is 7th century was an educational hub. Valiyasala used to be an important ancient educational institute which is famously known as Nalanda of South India.
3. Cave Temple
Vizhinjam rock cut cave temple is located near the coastal town of Vizhinjam, Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. It is around 17 Km from Trivandrum and is easily accessible via local bus, taxi or rikshaw. This cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and have a Dakshinamurthy sculpture of Lord Shiva representing him as a supreme teacher seated in a yogic posture, surrounded by his disciples. It also houses other sculptures include depictions of Hindu deities such as Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesh. It is a small yet renowned temple cave for its inscriptions, sculptures showcasing rich culture and tradition of the region.
4. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple
Situated on the banks of Killi river, Attukal Bhagavathy temple is around 2 Km away from Padmanabhaswamy temple. It is famously known as Sabrimala of women because men are not allowed to enter the temple during the ten-day Pongala festival. Attukal devi temple also has a world record for largest female gathering in the world. It is also the second most famous temple in Trivandrum that you should visit.
5. Azhimala Shiva Temple
You must have seen this statue of Lord Shiva either on social media or somewhere else it is here at Azhimala Shiva temple. Sitting at edge of scenic Azhimala beach this tall shiva statue looks incredibly beautiful especially during morning and evening. It is located around 19 Km from Thiruvananthpuram. You should definitely visit here the serene landscape and peaceful energy is unmatchable to any other place in Thiruvananthpuram. You can also spend a beautiful time on the nearby beach participating on various activities.
6. Sri Parasurama Swamy Temple
It is believed that Kerala was formed by Lord Parasuram, when he wanted to meditate, he asked God of ocean for a land and then threw his axe inside the sea to cut a slice of land from sea ground which formed as Kerala and that is why Kerala is also known as Parasurama kshetram. Still, this is the only temple dedicated to Bhagwan Parasuram in Kerala. This Parasurama temple is located on the banks of the river Karamana in Thiruvallam around 3 Km from Thiruvananthpuram city.
These are some of the most famous temples in Trivandrum that you should definitely visit during your Kerala trip. These temples will show you rich culture, tradition, history and architect marvel of Kerala.
Watch this Kerala Temple Challenge Video on my YouTube channel.
Until next time, keep travelling and take care of Nature.
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