Temples In Kerala: Most Famous Kerala Temples for Pilgrims

Fabled to be created by Lord Parasurama, Kerala is aptly called God's Own Country. The paradisiacal landscapes, captivating beaches, the backwaters and the lush green forests and hills attract thous (Read More) ands of tourists every year to the state. The heritage and culture of the state displayed in its renowned temples is also a significant attraction for not only the devotees but also other tourists who come here to admire the architecture and the Mural paintings. Here, we take a look at the most famous temples in Kerala.

Here is the list of 24 Temples In Kerala: Most Famous Kerala Temples for Pilgrims

1. Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple

Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple

4.4 /5 View 21+ photos

Known For : Ayyappa Temple Makaravilakku Malikkappuram Devi Temple

Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple, nestled amidst the Western Ghats in Kerala, is a revered pilgrimage site attracting millions of devotees annually, especially during the Makaravilakku season. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and stands out for its unique tradition where devotees, irrespective of religion or caste, undertake a rigorous 41-day Vratham (penance) before the pilgrimage.

Location: Pathanamthitta District, Kerala.
Timings: 3:00 am–1:00 pm, 3:00–11:00 pm

Best Time: September to Apr

2. Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Padmanabhaswamy Temple

4.2 /5 View 15+ photos

Padmanabhaswamy Temple, situated in Thiruvananthapuram, is a magnificent architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This historic temple is renowned for its intricate sculptures, Dravidian style of architecture, and the mysterious vaults containing immense treasures. The deity, Lord Vishnu, is enshrined in the "Anantha Shayanam" posture, a yogic sleep posture on the serpent Adisheshan.

Location: West Fort, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Timings: Morning - 3:30 AM to 4:45 AM, 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM, 8:20 AM to 10:00 AM; Evening - 5:00 PM to 6:15 PM, 6:45 PM to 7:20 PM.

3. Vadakkunnathan Temple

Vadakkunnathan Temple

Vadakkunnathan Temple, located in Thrissur, Kerala, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Renowned for its classic Kerala architecture with monumental towers, intricate wooden carvings, and sprawling lawns, the temple is also the main venue for the famous Thrissur Pooram festival. The temple's interiors house murals depicting various episodes from the Mahabharata, and it is a classic example of the architectural style of Kerala.

Location: Swaraj Round N, Kuruppam, Thekkinkadu Maidan, Thrissur, Kerala.
Timings: Morning - 3:00 AM to 10:30 AM; Evening - 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

4. Ananthapura Lake Temple

Ananthapura Lake Temple

4.1 /5 View 5+ photos

Ananthapura Lake Temple, situated in Kasaragod, Kerala, is a unique and ancient Hindu temple built in the middle of a lake. Believed to be the original seat (moolasthanam) of Ananthapadmanabha Swami (Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram), the temple is also famous for its guardian crocodile named Babia. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple holds a fascinating legend associated with Lord Vishnu and his devotee Vilvamangalam Swamiyar.

Location: Ananthapura, Kumbla, Kasaragod, Kerala.
Timings: 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM; 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

Kerala Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

5 Days / 4 Nights

Kerala Munnar Tour Package with Thekkady

€234 per adult on twin sharing Get Offers > 6 Days / 5 Nights

Kerala Trip with Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

€245 per adult on twin sharing Get Offers > 4 Days / 3 Nights

Best 4 Days Trip in India: Houseboat Stay

€156 per adult on twin sharing Get Offers > 8 Days / 7 Nights

Exclusive Kerala Package Tour with Kanyakumari

€320 per adult on twin sharing Get Offers > 6 Days / 5 Nights

Kochi, Alleppey, Varkala Trivandrum Tour Package

€245 per adult on twin sharing Get Offers > 7 Days / 6 Nights

Best Kerala Tour Packages for Family

€273 per adult on twin sharing Get Offers > View All Packages For Kerala

5. Guruvayur Temple

Guruvayur Temple

4.5 /5 View 16+ photos

Known For : Guruvayur Temple Punnathurkotta Elephant Palace Mammiyoor Shiva Temple

Guruvayur Temple, located in the Thrissur district of Kerala, is one of the most famous and revered Krishna temples in India. Dedicated to Guruvayurappan, a form of Lord Krishna, the temple is often referred to as "Dwarka of the South" and attracts countless devotees each year. Apart from its religious significance, the temple is also renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Location: Guruvayur, Thrissur, Kerala.
Timings: 3:00 AM to 12:30 PM; 4:30 PM to 9:15 PM.

Best Time: October to February

6. Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple

Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple

4.1 /5 View 7+ photos

Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, situated in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, is renowned for its unique architectural style and the legendary Ambalapuzha Palpayasam - a sweet milk porridge offered to the deity. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and holds historical significance, with legends linking it to Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple. Celebrations during the annual temple festival and the classical art performance of Ottamthullal are major attractions for devotees and tourists alike.

Location: Ambalapuzha, Alappuzha, Kerala.
Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:30 PM; 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.