Top 26 Famous Temples in Kerala

Kerala is known for its abundance of natural beauty and its rich cultural heritage. The state is home to many temples that are of great religious, cultural and historical significance. These temples not only serve as places of worship but also as excellent examples of traditional art and architecture. Visiting these temples can be a very enjoyable experience, as it allows one to take in the beauty of the temple, worship the deities and learn about the temple's history and significance.
It is also important to note that visiting the temples during religious festivals can add an extra layer of excitement to the trip, but it's important to be prepared for the crowds. Some temples may have restrictions on entry or dress codes, so it is important to check and understand these requirements before the visit. Overall, visiting the temples in Kerala is an enriching experience that can deepen one's understanding and appreciation of the state's rich cultural heritage.

1. Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple at Thiruvananthapuram:

Tourism PackagesThe Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is considered one of the wealthiest temples in the world and is an excellent example of Dravidian architecture. The temple dates to the 8th century and is mentioned in ancient Hindu texts like the Puranas and Epics. However, there are no clear records of its origins. The main deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu, who is depicted reclining on his five- hooded serpent, Anantha. The temple's idol contains 12,008 Salagramas, which are sacred pebbles from the River Gandaki in Nepal. Each Salagrama is believed to represent Lord Vishnu, adding to the sanctity of the temple.
The temple also has separate shrines for Lord Rama, Seetha and Lakshman, Lord Hanuman, Shri Yoga Narasimha and Shri Dharma Sastha. The temple complex is large and beautiful, making it an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Vishnu.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between October and November: Alpashy Festival
  • Between March and April: Panguni Festival
2. Vadakkunnathan Temple at Thrissur:

Tourism PackagesThe Vadakkunnathan Temple in Thrissur is a temple believed to have been built by Parasuram, the 6th incarnation of Lord Vishnu, for Lord Shiva. It is an architectural monument with historical significance. The temple is enclosed within a stone wall spanning nearly 9 acres of land and has three main shrines dedicated to the deities Shiva as Vadakkunanathan, Rama, and Shankaranarayana, among several others. The temple walls contain a number of rare murals that are nearly 350 years old, as well as murals depicting scenes from the Mahabharatha. The temple complex also includes a museum of wall paintings and vintage artifacts. The structure has been declared a National Monument of India.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between February and March (Magha Month): Maha Shivaratri
  • May (when Pooram Star rises): Thrissur Pooram
  • July (first day of Karkidakom Month): Aanayoottu
3. Sabarimala Sastha Temple at Pathanamthitta:

Tourism PackagesThe Sabarimala Sastha Temple at Pathanamthitta is a temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The temple is located amidst a scenic and serene yet challenging landscape. The temple is currently open only to men, children and elderly women. The temple is open from November to mid-January for the Mandala puja and Makara Sankranti puja, but it's also possible to worship the lord during Chitra Vishu (Malayalam new year in mid-April). Pilgrims visiting the temple usually follow strict personal discipline, fasting for 41 days, and abstaining from all forms of temptations before and during their journey which typically is quite challenging. There are several trekking routes to reach the temple, each of them has their unique challenges, but a darshan of the lord simply melts away all troubles.

Best Time to Visit:

  • November (mid) to January (mid): Sabrimala Pilgrimage
4. Chottanikkara Temple at Chottanikkara, Ernakulam:

Tourism PackagesThe Chottanikkara Temple at Chottanikkara, Ernakulam is dedicated to the powerful goddess Chottanikkara Bhagavathy, who is believed to have curative powers and the ability to heal all forms of mental ailments including the impact of evil spirits. The temple is located in a scenic setting and the impressive temple housing the idol in golden hue, bedecked with colorful floral garlands offers peace and solace to devotees. The goddess is worshipped as Saraswathy in the mornings, Lakshmi at noon and Durga in the evenings. The temple's deity is also commonly known as Ammenarayana and shares the same pedestal with Lord Vishnu. The temple also has idols of Brahma, Ganesh, Subramanya and Sastha on the same pedestal.
A special puja is performed to invoke Devi Bhadrakali at the Kizhukkavu temple within the complex, especially on Fridays. It is believed that this puja can permanently rid women of mental abnormalities. The temple is an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of the goddess and offers a chance to experience the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the state of Kerala.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between February and March (Kumbham Month): Chottanikkara Makam Thozhal
5. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple at Kottayam

Tourism PackagesThe Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam is one of the oldest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the state. It is known for its beautiful murals and frescoes of Lord Shiva, particularly one in a dance posture called Pradosha Nruthyam, which is considered to be one of the best wall paintings in the country. In addition to the main deity's idol, there are shrines for Lord Shastha and Lord Ganesh inside the temple premises. The temple is an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Shiva and offers a chance to experience the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the state.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between February and March: Thiruvathira Day
6. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple at Kottayam:

Tourism PackagesThe Vaikom Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Kerala. Along with the temple for Shiva at Ettumanoor and another at Kaduthuruthy, these three temples are considered to be among the most important temples for Shiva in Kerala. The Lingams in these temples are believed to have been installed by a demon named Khara. It is said that worshipping Lord Shiva at all three temples on the same day, before the mid-day pooja, can fulfill one's wishes. The Western door of the sprawling courtyard (8 acres) remains closed to this day, due to the god's wrath on a chieftain who disrupted pooja. The temple walls are adorned with beautiful murals, and the temple structure is unique. These temples are an interesting mix of beliefs, architecture, legends, and history, making them a popular destination for many visitors to the area.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Betweeen November and December (day of Krishnapaksha in Vrishchikam Month): Vaikkath Asthamil
7. Guruvayoor Srikrishna Temple at Guruvayoor:

Tourism PackagesThe Guruvayoor Srikrishna Temple in Guruvayoor is one of the most important temples in Kerala, dedicated to Guruvayoorappan, who is worshipped as a four-armed form of Vishnu. The idol, crafted from a rare amalgam known as Paadalaanjanam, is believed to be over 5000 years old. The temple architecture and structure is a beautiful sight to behold. Visitors to the temple are required to abide by strict dress codes and religious customs. It is customary to take a dip in the temple tank Rudratheertham before entering the temple. A visit to the temple's elephant yard, which houses over 50 elephants, is also a unique and memorable experience.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between February and March: Guruvayur Festival (10 Days)
  • November: Guruvayur Ekadasi
  • April: Vishu
8. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple at Thiruvananthapuram:

Tourism PackagesThe Attukal Bhagavathy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakali, who is worshipped as Attukalamma. The temple is known for the large number of women devotees who gather annually to celebrate the Pongala festivities, making it into the Guinness Book of World Records for this reason. The temple is located near the Padmanabhaswamy temple and is a popular destination for temple tours in the city.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between February and March (Malayalam month of Makaram-Kumbham): Pongala
9. Pazhavangadi Maha Ganapathy Temple:

Tourism PackagesThe Pazhavangadi Maha Ganapathy Temple is located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram and is dedicated to Lord Ganesh. The temple houses 32 different forms of Ganapathy. This temple was an important place of worship for soldiers serving in the Travancore Army and is a significant religious site for the Hindu community.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between August and September (Fourth Day of Hindu Luni-Solar Calendar): Ganesh Chaturthi
10. Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple at Mallapuzhassery:

Tourism PackagesThe Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple in Mallapuzhassery is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Parthasarathy, who is also known as Arjun's charioteer in the Hindu epic Mahabharatha. The temple is based on the typical local architectural style and is associated with the Pandavas, who are said to have visited Kerala on a pilgrimage and installed idols of Vishnu at different locations including Thrichittat (Yuddhishtra), Tiruppuliyoor(Bheema), Thiruvaranmula (Arjuna), Tiruvanvandoor (Nakula) and Thrikkodithanam(Sahadeva) and worshipped them.
The temple is also a safehouse where the golden attire (anki/ kavach) of Lord Ayyappa is stored, and then transported to Sabarimala during the annual jewel procession. Aranmula is a delight to visit, especially during the famous Snake boat races held each year. It is a place that offers a perfect blend of religious and cultural significance, architectural beauty, and sporting events.

Best Time to Visit:

  • January: Brahmotsavam
  • November: Kalapam Festival
11. Ambalapuzha Srikrishna Temple at Ambalapuzha:

Tourism PackagesThe Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is located in the scenic town of Ambalappuzha in the Alleppey district of Kerala. The temple was built between the 15th and 17th centuries by Chembakasserry Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran and is dedicated to Lord Parthasarathi. The idol of the main deity holds a whip and a sacred conch in his right and left hand. One of the legends associated with this temple is that Lord Krishna defeated the ruler of Ambalappuzha in a game of chess, the king was asked to pay the debt over time, and thus the temple still serves free ‘paal-payasam’ (a local rice delicacy) to the pilgrims as an offering to the lord. The temple is an important religious site for Hindu devotees and attracts a large number of visitors every year. The temple's architectural beauty and rich cultural and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the region.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between June and July (Moolam Day of Mithunam Month): Amabalapuzha Temple Festival
12. Tali Temple at Kozhikode:

Tourism PackagesThe Tali Temple in Kozhikode, also known as the Tali Shiva Temple, is a 14th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the oldest temples in Kerala and is considered an important Hindu pilgrimage site. The temple was previously owned by the Namboothri family and was located in a small village. The temple's sanctity and devotion has been known for around 1,500 years and has become a popular place for worship. The main sanctum of Lord Shiva in this temple is believed to have divine power. The temple was destroyed during the invasion of Malabar by Tipu Sultan and was later rebuilt in 1964. The temple's rich history and spiritual significance make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between October and November (Thulam Month): Revathi Pattathanam
13. Thirunelli Temple at Wayanad Valley:

Tourism PackagesThe Thirunelli Temple is located in the Wayanad Valley and is situated near the Kerala- Karnataka state border. The temple is situated at an elevation of 900m and is considered a holy temple, it has been mentioned in the Puranas and many other Hindu texts. According to the legend, Lord Brahma discovered a picturesque spot while orbiting the universe which later got the name ‘Brhamagiri Hill’. Upon arriving at the spot, he found an idol of Lord Vishnu and installed it in a temple. Lord Vishnu then declared that the water bodies around the temple would wash away the sins of all the devoted visiting this temple. The legend also states that Lord Brahma visits this holy place every day and worships the main deity. The temple's location in the midst of the natural beauty of Wayanad and its rich legends and folklore make it a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike.

Best Time to Visit:

  • September: Puthari Festival & Krishna Janmashtami
14. Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple at Kaviyoor:

Tourism PackagesThe Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, also known as the Thrikkaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, is a prominent Lord Shiva temple located in the state of Kerala. The temple's main deity is Lord Shiva along with Goddess Parvati in the form of Lord Mahadeva. Devotees believe that the main idol in the temple was installed by Lord Rama after completion of his exile period, accompanied by Sita, Hanuman, Sugreeva and Vibheeshana. According to mythological tales, Lord Hanuman took shelter in this temple after he failed to remove the earthen Shivalingam while following the command of Lord Rama. Maharaja Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma built a sanctum for Lord Hanuman within the main temple complex in 1934 AD. The temple's religious significance and rich mythology make it a popular destination for devotees.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between December and January: Thiruvuthsavam
  • July: Panthrantukalabham in Chingam Kanni
  • September: Ayilyam
15. Sivagiri Temple at Varkala:

Tourism PackagesThe Sivagiri Temple is in Varkala, Kerala and is a sacred monument built by Sree Narayana Guru. It is built in an octagonal shape and serves as the headquarters of the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham and an important pilgrimage center for Hindu devotees. This temple is unique in that it encourages devotees to pray in their own way and follows the principle of "One Caste, One Religion, One God." The temple is open to devotees of all castes and encourages diversity in worship. The temple's location in the scenic town of Varkala and its inclusive philosophy make it a popular destination for devotees and tourists.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between August and September: Guru Deva Jayanti
  • January: Sivagiri Pilgrimage
16. Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple at Haripad:

Tourism PackagesThe Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple is in Haripad, Kerala and is dedicated to the serpent god, Nagaraja. According to legend, the temple was built by the Brahmins to worship Nagaraja so that he would convert the uninhabitable lands of Kerala into habitable by spreading his flaming poisons into the soil. The rishis later built a pilgrimage center in the lush jungles and performed penance to appease the snake god, and thus the Mannarasala Temple came into existence. Lord Parashurama, the creator of Kerala, is said to have installed the idol of Nagaraja at this site. The temple is an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of Nagaraja and is known for its rich history and sacred significance.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between September and October (day of Aayilyam): Mannarsala Aayilyam
17. Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple at Parassinikadavu:

Tourism PackagesThe Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple, located in Parassinikadavu, is a unique temple in Kerala where dogs are considered pious and are often found in large numbers. According to legend, the temple's main deity, Lord Muthappan, was always accompanied by a canine throughout his journey across Kerala, which is why dogs are considered holy at the temple. The temple also has a legend that states that Lord Muthappan, during his boyhood, had a tribal friend named Chantan who denied him 'toddy'. Furious by this, the lord cursed his friend and turned him into a stone. Chantan's wife later performed 'Oottu, Tiruvappana and Amruthakalasam' to get her husband back, and started calling the boy as 'Muthappan'. This temple is an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of Lord Muthappan and is known for its unique customs and legends.

Best Time to Visit:

  • December (1st or 2nd / 16th day of Vrishikam month): Puthari Thiruvappana
18. Lokanarkavu Temple at Villiappally:

Tourism PackagesThe Lokanarkavu Temple is a sacred place located in the North Malabar region of Kerala, India. It is dedicated to the goddess Durga and is believed to be over 1,500 years old. The temple is known for its association with Thacholi Othenan, a devotee of Durga, and for hosting a unique folk-dance resembling Kalarippayattu during festivals. The temple is a popular pilgrimage destination and draws many Kalarippayattu performers who come to seek blessings from the main deity.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between November and December (Vrischikam Month): Mandala Utsavam
19. Thiruvalla Temple at Thiruvalla:

Tourism PackagesThe Sreevallabha Temple, also known as Thiruvalla Temple, is a sacred Hindu temple located in Thiruvalla, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Purusha, who is worshipped in the form of Lord Sreevallabhan. The temple is one of the oldest and most orthodox Hindu establishments in the country. The temple is known for its unique architecture, customs, and rituals. According to legends, two Hindu sages, Durvasa and Saptarshi, visit the temple every night to offer prayers and pooja to Lord Purusha. The temple is also known for its association with the Kathakali dance form, which is considered as one of the main offerings to the god. The walls of the temple are said to have been built in one night by the servants of the Lord around 57 BC.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between February and March (Kumbham Month): Thiru Uthsavam
  • Between March and April (Meenam Month): Uthra Sreebali
20. Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple, Kodungalloor.

Tourism PackagesThe Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple, also known as the Mahadeva Temple, is a sacred Hindu temple located in Kodungalloor, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi and is believed to date back to the 8th century. The temple is known for being the only Thevaram Paadal Petra Shiva sthalam in Kerala and for its high religious importance. It is also considered a masterpiece of Kerala architecture, featuring captivating mural paintings. The temple has been declared a protected religious monument by the Archaeological Survey of India. According to legend, it is the oldest temple where Lord Shiva resides with his entire family.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between May and June (Vaisaki Month): Brahmotsavam
21. Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple at Kottarakkara:

Tourism PackagesThe Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Kottarakkara, in the Indian state of Kerala. It is considered to be the highest order Maha Ganapati temple in the state and is known for being the home of the family of Lord Shiva. The temple has Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ayyappan, Lord Murugan, and Lord Nagaraja as its main deities, with Lord Ganesha holding more prominence than Lord Shiva. The temple is particularly known for the 'nivedhyam' (offering) which is always made in front of Lord Ganesha. It is around 25km from Kollam.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between August and September (Chingam Month): Vinayaka Chathurthy
22. Pandalam Ayyappa Temple at Pandalam:

Tourism PackagesThe Pandalam Ayyappa Temple is a Hindu temple located in Pandalam, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, who is believed to have taken birth as the son of King Pandalam, according to legends. The temple is situated near the Pandalam Palace and serves as an important pilgrimage center for devotees of Lord Ayyappa. Every year, on the eve of the Sabarimala pilgrimage, devotees visit the temple to worship the main deity. Three days prior to the pilgrimage, the priests of the temple take out the sacred ornaments of Lord Ayyappa and lead a procession from Pandalam to Sabarimala, marking the beginning of the Sabarimala pilgrimage.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Januray (Makar Sankranti): Makara Vilakku
  • Between August and September (Chingam Month): Onam
  • Between April and May: Vishu (Malayalam New Year)
23. Chengannur Mahadeva Temple at Chengannur:

Tourism PackagesThe Chengannur Mahadeva Temple, also known as the Bhagavathy Temple, is a Hindu temple located in Chengannur, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered as a prominent worshiping ground of the deity. The temple's main deity is Bhagavathy. The temple closes for three consecutive days during the eve of the 'Thripputhu' festival, which marks the beginning of mensuration period of the presiding deity. According to legend, Goddess Parvathi visited this place and had to wait here for 28 days during her mensuration cycle, thus the temple celebrates the 'Thripputhu' festival.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between December and January: Thripputhu Festival
  • March: Thiruppooth Aratt Festival
24. Malayalappuzha Temple at Malayalapuzha:

Tourism PackagesThe Malayalappuzha Temple, also known as the Malayalapuzha Devi Temple, is a sacred Hindu temple located in Malayalapuzha, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Bhadrakali, a form of the Hindu goddess Kali. The temple is believed to date back to over 1,000 years and is considered to be of highest importance in terms of religious significance. The idol of the presiding deity in the temple measures 5.5ft and is made of "katu sarkara yogam." The temple also has two other idols of the main deity, one is used for abhisheka and the other for sreebali. According to legend, the temple is the residence of the fierce form of Bhadrakali, which she took to kill demon king Darika. The temple features pictorial stone carvings and wall paintings, and also displays a statue of Goddess Parvati feeding Lord Ganesha.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between February and March: Malayalapuzha Temple Utsavam
  • Between August and September (Chingam Month): Vinayaka Chathurthy
25. Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple at Perunad:

Tourism PackagesThe Nilakkal Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple located in Perunad, Pathanamthitta district, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered the oldest temple in the district. The temple is located near the Sabarimala Temple, and serves as a halting ground for Sabarimala pilgrims. According to legends, Lord Shiva protects and blesses his son, Lord Ayyappa, from this holy shrine. It is believed that Lord Shiva has two different avatars, Ugramoorthy (fierce) and Mangala Pradayakan (auspicious), to bless Lord Ayyappa and help him fight and defeat evil spirits.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between February and March (Magha Month): Maha Shivaratri
  • Between August and September (Chingam Month): Vinayaka Chathurthy
  • Between September and October: Mahanavami
26. Ettumanoor-Vaikom-Kaduthuruthy Temple at Kaduthuruthy:

Tourism PackagesThe Ettumanoor-Vaikom-Kaduthuruthy Temple is a Hindu temple located in Kaduthuruthy, Kerala, India. According to mythological tales, a demon named Kharasura did severe penance and meditation to attain 'mokshya', liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. Appeased by his devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before him with three Shiva Lingas, and granted all the boons of Kharasura. The Shiva Linga in his right hand is now worshiped at Vaikom, the one on the left hand is worshiped at Ettumanoor, and the one he was carrying across his neck is now worshipped at Kaduthuruthy. All these three temples together make a Hindu pilgrimage circuit in Kerala.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Between February and March (Magha Month): Maha Shivaratri

    Yes, Kerala is home to many temples and each one of them has its own unique history, legends, and architectural styles. Each temple reflects the rich culture and tradition of the state. It's not easy to rank these temples as they all have their own significance and importance. Each temple holds a special place in the hearts of the devotees and followers. It is advisable to plan a trip to Kerala and take the time to visit as many temples as possible, to experience the different settings, appreciate the legends and history associated with these monuments, and offer worship to the Gods who preside over them. This will give a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich temple culture of the state.

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