Temples in Trivandrum, Kerala

Trivandrum or Thiruvananthapuram is home to some of the most popular Hindu temples in India. Thiruvananthapuram itself means ‘City of Lord Anantha.’ Some of the most important Trivandrum temples are listed below.

Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple: This Dravidian style temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The idol is in the Anananthasayanam posture. The lord is in reclining position over Adi Shesha or Anantha.

The temple is located in the heart of the city in East Fort. Only Hindus are allowed in the temple. Men should be in ‘mundu’ (dhoti) and should not wear anything on the upper part. Women should be in ‘sari.’ Even Churidhar is not allowed in. (It might sound strange but things are like this at this temple. Hope it changes for the good) Young girls are allowed in with Pavadai. No mobile phones or cameras are allowed inside.

There is small counter in the temple premise which provides dhoti and pavadi to visitors at a fee. It also keeps your foot wears. STRICTLY AVOID IT. 

That counter is just to harass devotees. In fact, that cluttered room destroys the sanctity of the entire temple. Try to keep your belongings safely in your room or vehicle.

Ganapathy Temple at East Fort: Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, this small temple is located in the heart of the city. Breaking of coconut is the main offering here.

Attukal Devi Temple: This Trivandrum temple is famous as the Sabarimala of Women. The Attukal Pongala (a unique offering by women) entered the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest gathering of women. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy - Supreme Mother. The temple is about 2 km from East Fort, the city center.

Apart from this, the city of Trivandrum is home to numerous other temples dedicated to various gods of Hindu pantheon.