Padmanabhaswamy Temple - Kerala

Renowned as one of the richest Hindu temples in the world, Padmanabhaswamy Temple houses the divine idol of Lord Maha Vishnu in the rare and captivating "Ananta Shayanam" posture on the serpent Adisheshan, covered in gold. Fondly referred to as Padmanabha Swamy, the main deity is a symbol of reverence.

The temple showcases a fusion of Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles with grand seven-tiered gopuram adorned with intricate designs. While some traditions consider the Ananthapura temple in Kumbla as the original spiritual seat of the deity, architecturally, the temple bears resemblance to the Adikesava Perumal temple in Thiruvattar, Kanyakumari district, Tamil Nadu.

Stepping into the sacred precincts reveals a mesmerizing display of divine artistry. The stone carvings and mural paintings, depicting tales of gods and goddesses, create an awe-inspiring ambiance. Noteworthy paintings include Lord Vishnu, Gaja Laxmi, Lord Ganapati, and Narasimha Swamy.

Entry/Darshan Time

3:30 AM to 12 PM

5 PM to 6:15 PM and 6:45 PM to 7:20 PM.

Specialty

Padmanabhaswamy Temple is said to be the richest temple in the world, with its treasure estimated to be worth billions of dollars.

What sets this temple apart is its 18-foot-tall Lord Vishnu idol, positioned in the "Ananta Shayanam" pose on the serpent Adisheshan. The unique aspect is that the idol is visible through three different doors, with each door revealing specific parts of the deity.

The idol of Lord Vishnu is crafted from 12,000 saligrams or fossilized shells, adding a distinctive and sacred significance to it.

With a rich history of royal patronage, Padmanabhaswamy Temple has strong ties to the Travancore Royal Family. The Maharajas of Travancore considered themselves the devoted "Padmanabha Dasa" (servants) of Lord Padmanabhaswamy. Additionally, the temple houses the preserved royal crown of Travancore.

The temple's towering seven-storeyed gopuram showcases the distinctive Tamil style of architecture.

Dress Code

Devotees are encouraged to don traditional attire while visiting Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Women should wear either a Saree or Salwar Kameez (Churidar), and men should opt for either a Dhoti or trousers with or without an Angavastram. Modern dresses like jeans, shorts, short skirts, etc. are strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.

Festivals

Alpasi Utsavam
Painkuni Festival
Vaikunta Ekadashi
Thiruvonam
Laksha Deepam

Best Time to Visit

Throughout the year

How to reach

By Air : Trivandrum International Airport is the nearest airport, just 4 to 5 Km away from Padmanabhaswamy Temple. From the airport, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the temple.

By Train :The nearest railway station is Thampanoor Central Railway Station, just 1.4 Km away from Padmanabhaswamy Temple. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.

By Road :Padmanabhaswamy Temple is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.

FAQ

1.What is Padmanabhaswamy Temple famous for?

Padmanabhaswamy Temple is renowned for being the wealthiest temple in the world, with its treasure estimated to be worth billions of dollars. Additionally, it is famous for its 18-foot-tall Lord Vishnu idol in the "Ananta Shayanam" position on the serpent Adisheshan, visible through three different doors.

2.Is photography allowed inside Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

No, Photography is strictly prohibited inside Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

3.Can non-Hindus visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

No, only Hindu devotees can have darshan inside the Padmanabhaswamy Temple.