Top 30 Most Famous Temples in Kerala

 Kerala is a southwest Indian state known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture, which includes temples. It is home to a wide range of religious beliefs and practices, as well as many temples, each with its own history, architecture, and rituals. These temples are not only important religious sites, but they also contribute to the state's cultural and historical identity. Temples in Kerala draw devotees and tourists from around the world, ranging from ancient structures to modern architectural marvels, so why not book your tickets through Kerala Tour Packages and sail on a divine and adventurous journey of exploring the temples. This article will explore the top 30 most famous temples in Kerala, each with its own distinctive features and cultural significance.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala's capital city. The temple is known for its exquisite architecture and is one of Lord Vishnu's 108 Divya Desams, or holy abodes. The temple's towering gopuram, intricate carvings, and gold-plated exteriors are well-known. The temple is also known for its massive treasure trove, which is thought to be one of the world's richest. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from all over the world who come to seek Lord Vishnu's blessings.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathy in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The temple is well-known for hosting the world's largest gathering of women, the annual Attukal Pongala festival. Every year in February/March, the festival involves the preparation of Pongala, a sweet rice pudding that is offered to the goddess. The temple is also known for its distinctive architecture, and devotees of the goddess Bhagavathy revere it. The temple is an important religious and cultural landmark in Thiruvananthapuram, attracting a large number of visitors throughout the year.

Tali Temple

Tali Temple is an ancient Hindu temple in Kozhikode, Kerala, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is well-known for its distinctive architecture, which combines traditional Kerala and Tamil styles. The temple is thought to have been built in the 14th century and is one of Kerala's most important Shiva temples. The massive stone wall, intricately carved wooden pillars, and exquisite paintings make this temple famous. Thiruvathira, the temple's annual festival, is held in December/January each year and draws devotees from all over the state. In Kozhikode, the Tali Temple is a significant religious and historical landmark.

Sabarimala Sastha Temple

Sabarimala Sastha Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa in the Kerala district of Pathanamthitta. The temple is located on a hilltop, surrounded by dense forest. Every year, millions of devotees flock to the temple for the annual Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku festivals, which are known for their unique traditions. The temple is only open for a few months each year and can only be reached by trekking through the forest. The temple is well-known for its strict dress code and other rules, which are strictly adhered to by all devotees who visit the temple. The Sabarimala Sastha Temple is a major pilgrimage site in Kerala.

Sivagiri Temple

Sivagiri Temple is a Hindu temple in Varkala, Kerala, dedicated to Sri Narayana Guru. The temple, which is located atop Sivagiri Hill, is an important spiritual and cultural center in Kerala. The temple is well-known for its tranquil surroundings and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The temple complex also houses Sri Narayana Guru's Samadhi, which is a sacred site for his followers. The temple is the site of the annual Sivagiri Pilgrimage, which draws thousands of devotees from all over India. The Sivagiri Temple is a significant landmark in Varkala and a must-see for those interested in spirituality and culture.

Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple

The Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in the Kerala town of Ambalapuzha. The temple is well-known for its distinctive architecture, exquisite wall murals, and association with the popular sweet dish Palpayasam. The temple, which is one of Kerala's oldest Krishna temples, is thought to have been built in the 8th century. The temple is also well-known for its annual festival, the Ambalapuzha Temple Festival, which takes place in March/April and draws a large crowd. Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple is an important pilgrimage site and cultural landmark in Kerala.

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Kerala district of Kottayam. The temple is famous for its one-of-a-kind architecture, particularly its exquisite wood carvings and mural paintings. The temple is thought to have been built in the 16th century and is one of Kerala's oldest Shiva temples. The temple's annual festival, Ettumanoor Festival, is held in February/March and draws a large number of devotees. The temple is also well-known for its 'Ezhara Ponnana' or seven-and-a-half golden elephants ritual, which is performed during the festival. Kottayam's Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a significant religious and cultural landmark.

Chottanikkara Temple

Chottanikkara Temple is a Hindu temple in Chottanikkara, Kerala, dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathy. The temple is well-known for its distinctive architecture, which incorporates elements of Kerala and Dravidian styles. The temple is well-known for its healing powers and draws a large number of devotees seeking relief from a variety of ailments. The temple celebrates two annual festivals, the Makam Thozhal, and the Meena Bharani, with great pomp and splendor. The Chottanikkara Temple is an important pilgrimage center and cultural landmark in Kerala, with a serene atmosphere and spiritual vibrations that make it a must-see for anyone interested in spirituality.

Guruvayoor Sri Krishna Temple

Guruvayoor Sri Krishna Temple is a Hindu temple in Guruvayoor, Kerala, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is famous for its ancient architecture, exquisite mural paintings, and association with the famous Punnathur Kotta elephant sanctuary. The temple, which is one of India's most revered Krishna temples, is thought to have been built in the 16th century. Several festivals are held at the temple throughout the year, including the well-known Guruvayur Ekadasi and the Chembai Sangeetholsavam. Every year, millions of devotees visit the Guruvayoor Srikrishna Temple, a significant pilgrimage center and cultural landmark in Kerala.

Lokanarkavu Temple

Lokanarkavu Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Durga in Kerala's Kozhikode district. The temple is famous for its distinctive architecture and is thought to have been built in the 5th century AD. The temple is historically and culturally significant because it was a center of the ancient martial art of Kerala, Kalaripayattu. The temple hosts the annual Lokanarkavu Utsavam, a March/April festival that draws a large number of devotees. The Lokanarkavu Temple is a significant religious and cultural landmark in Kozhikode, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in culture and history.

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is a Hindu temple in the town of Haripad in Kerala's Alleppey district. The temple is dedicated to the serpent god Nagaraja and is well-known for its association with snakes and serpent worship. The temple is unique in many ways and is regarded as one of Kerala's most sacred places of worship. According to legend, Lord Parasurama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, created Kerala by casting his axe into the sea. Parasurama is said to have installed 108 Shiva Lingas and 108 serpent gods across Kerala, the land that emerged from the sea. Nagaraja, one of the serpent gods installed by Parasurama, was given a place of worship in the dense forests of Mannarasala.

Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple

Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is a well-known Hindu temple in the Kannur district of Kerala's Parassinikadavu village. The temple is dedicated to Muthappan, a local deity who is thought to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and is located on the banks of the Valapattanam River. The temple complex has two main shrines, one for Muthappan and one for his consort, Thiruvappana. The temple draws devotees from all over Kerala and is known for its unique rituals and customs. The annual Theyyam festival, which is held here, is a major draw.

Vadakkunnathan Temple

Vadakkunnathan Temple is a well-known Hindu temple in Thrissur, Kerala. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of Kerala's oldest and largest. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style, with a large courtyard surrounded by tall walls. The temple's main sanctum houses a Shiva linga, which is regarded as one of the most powerful Lingas in the region. The temple is also known for its annual festival, Thrissur Pooram, which is a grand celebration in which several nearby temples participate and is a major tourist attraction. Rice, ghee, and payasam, a sweet dish made with rice, jaggery, and coconut milk, are among the prasad served at Thrissur's Vadakkunnathan Temple. It is regarded as a delicacy and is extremely popular among temple devotees.

Chottanikkara Temple

Chottanikkara Temple is a well-known Hindu temple in the town of Chottanikkara in Kerala's Ernakulam district. The temple honors Goddess Bhagavathy, who is worshipped in three forms: Saraswathy (Goddess of Learning), Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth), and Durga (Goddess of Power). The temple is well-known for its healing powers and is regarded as one of Kerala's most powerful shrines. The temple's main draw is the daily 'Makam Thozhal' ritual, in which devotees march in a grand procession carrying offerings to the deity. Several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Ganapathy, and Lord Ayyappa, are also housed within the temple complex.

Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple

Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple is a Hindu temple in Thiruvallam, Kerala, India, near Kovalam. The temple is dedicated to Lord Parasurama, Lord Vishnu's sixth avatar, and is said to have been built by the great sage Parasurama himself. The temple is located at the confluence of two rivers, the Karamana, and the Killi, and is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful and serene environment. Every year, a large number of devotees visit this popular pilgrimage site. The temple also has a holy pond called "Azhimala Ponds" where devotees can take a dip to wash away their sins.

Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple

Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple is a Hindu temple in Kerala, India, located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganapathy, the elephant-headed God, and is one of Kerala's most important temples. The temple is well-known for its stunning architecture, which combines traditional Kerala and Dravidian styles. The temple's main deity is Lord Ganapathy, and there are separate sanctums for Lord Subramanya and Goddess Durga. Every day, a large number of devotees visit the temple, and it is believed that praying to Lord Ganapathy at this temple will remove all obstacles and bring success and prosperity.

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple

Chengannur Mahadeva Temple is a well-known Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Chengannur, Kerala, India. The temple is one of Kerala's oldest and most revered Shiva temples, and it is thought to have been constructed during the reign of the Pandya kings. The temple complex is large and includes several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities such as Lord Ganapathy, Lord Subramanya, and Goddess Parvathi. The temple is also well-known for its annual festival, the Chengannur Mahadeva Temple Festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and splendor and draws devotees from all over Kerala.

Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple

Vaikom Sree Mahadeva Temple is a well-known Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the town of Vaikom in Kerala's Kottayam district. The temple is one of Kerala's oldest and most important Shiva temples, and it is thought to have been built over 2000 years ago. The temple is well-known for its distinctive architecture and is regarded as a masterpiece of Kerala-style temple architecture. The temple's main deity is Lord Shiva, and the temple complex also contains several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities such as Lord Ganapathy and Lord Subramanya. Every year, a large number of devotees visit the temple, which is especially well-known for its annual festival, the Vaikom Temple Festival.

Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple

Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the village of Kaviyoor in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district. The temple is thought to be one of Kerala's oldest and most sacred Shiva temples, dating back over a thousand years. The temple is famous for its exquisite architecture and beautiful surroundings, and it is a must-see pilgrimage site for Lord Shiva devotees. Lord Mahadeva is the temple's main deity, and the temple complex also contains several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities such as Lord Ganapathy and Goddess Parvathi.

Thirunelli Temple

Thirunelli Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Kerala's Wayanad district. The temple is located in a beautiful and serene setting amidst the Brahmagiri Hills and is considered one of Kerala's most ancient and significant Vishnu temples. The temple, which is thought to have been built over 1000 years ago, is known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings. The temple's main deity is Lord Vishnu, and the temple complex also contains several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities such as Lord Shiva and Lord Ganapathy. Every year, a large number of devotees visit the temple, which is a popular pilgrimage site.

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is a Hindu temple in the village of Aranmula in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here as Parthasarathy, Arjuna's charioteer in the Mahabharata. The temple is well-known for its exquisite architecture, and it is regarded as one of the best examples of Kerala temple architecture. The temple is also well-known for its annual festival, the Aranmula Boat Race, which takes place on the nearby Pamba River and is one of Kerala's most popular boat races. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site that draws a large number of devotees for darshan every year.

Pandalam Ayyappa Temple

Pandalam Ayyappa Temple is a well-known Hindu temple in Pandalam, Pathanamthitta district, Kerala, India. The temple honors Lord Ayyappa, a Hindu deity who is thought to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its unique architecture and tranquil surroundings and is located on the banks of the holy river Pamba. The Pandalam Ayyappa Temple Festival, which is celebrated with great pomp and splendor and attracts a large number of devotees from all over Kerala, is also well-known. The temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Lord Ayyappa devotees.

Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple

Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the village of Nilakkal in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district. The temple is located on the way to the famous Sabarimala temple and is an important pilgrimage site for Lord Ayyappa devotees. The temple, which is thought to have been built over 500 years ago, is known for its tranquil surroundings and beautiful architecture. Lord Mahadeva is the temple's main deity, and the temple complex also contains several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities such as Lord Ganapathy and Goddess Parvathi.  Every year, especially during the Sabarimala pilgrimage season, the temple attracts a large number of devotees.

Padiyanoor Devi Temple

Padiyanoor Devi Temple is a Hindu temple in the village of Padiyanoor in Kerala's Kollam district. The temple honors Goddess Bhadrakali, a fierce manifestation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular pilgrimage destination for devotees of Goddess Bhadrakali. The temple's main deity is Goddess Bhadrakali, and the temple complex includes several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities such as Lord Shiva and Lord Ganapathy. The temple attracts a large number of devotees each year, especially during the annual festival of Navratri, which is celebrated with great pomp and splendor.

Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple

Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathi Temple is a Hindu temple in the village of Kadampuzha in Kerala's Malappuram district. The temple honors Goddess Bhagavathi, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular pilgrimage destination for devotees of Goddess Bhagavathi. The temple's main deity is Goddess Bhagavathi, and the temple complex also houses smaller shrines dedicated to other deities such as Lord Shiva and Lord Ganapathy. During the annual festival of Navratri, which is celebrated with great pomp and splendor, the temple attracts a large number of devotees every year.

Shree Anantha Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Shree Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple is a well-known Hindu temple in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala's capital city. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Ananthapadmanabha, reclining on the divine serpent Anantha. The temple is known for its distinctive architecture, which is a fusion of Dravidian and Kerala styles, and is regarded as one of India's most beautiful temples. Several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Lord Ganesha and Lord Ayyappa, are also housed within the temple complex.

Ananthapura Lake Temple

Ananthapura Lake Temple is a Hindu temple on a small island in the middle of a lake in Kerala's Kasaragod district. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Anantha Padmanabha, reclining on the divine serpent Anantha. The temple is well-known for its distinctive architecture and tranquil surroundings, which are thought to have a calming effect on visitors. There are also several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva, within the temple complex. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site that draws a large number of devotees each year, especially during the annual Vishu festival. The temple is also famous for its crocodile, which is thought to be a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, recently the crocodile expired blessing all.