Introduction

An iconic landmark in Kerala’s capital city Trivandrum, the ancient Padmanabha Swamy Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu – the preserver according to Hindu mythology – is a fantastic blend of Kerala/Dravidian architecture and folklore. This legendary 17th century temple is located near the bus station at the East Fort in Trivandrum. From the railway station in East Fort, the site is at a walkable distance. An impressive amalgamation of Kerala and Dravidian styles, the temple stands out for its ornate seven-storey gopuram (tower) about 35-meter-high (117 feet) at the main entrance. Enter the courtyard, and you will see a flagstaff encased in gold, rich with murals and carvings. The main courtyard houses the Kulashekara mandapam dotted with around 400 columns and some intricate granite sculptures along the temple corridor. However, only Hindus are allowed inside the temple, and the temple staff can get a tad fussy about the rules and regulations. Men need to wrap themselves nicely in a white dhoti (loin cloth) and women in sari or the like – available for use at the entrance counter. You need to take off your shoes here, and deposit your camera and mobile phone (if it has camera functionality!) as well.

The Padmanabha Swamy Temple was held in great veneration by the rulers of Travancore. Look out for the fine murals that adorn the outer walls of the sanctum. You will also see shrines dedicated to Lord Narasimha, Hanuman and Krishna close to the sanctum. Walk into the main inner sanctum where the huge reclining idol of deity Padmanabha (Lord Vishnu) on the sacred serpent ‘Anantha’ holds your attention. The temple has been associated for years with dance and music. The royals of Travancore from the days of King Marthanda Varma served as ‘Padmanabha Dasas’ (meaning servants of the Lord). He dedicated the entire state to Padmanabha by placing his ‘udaval’ or sword at the feet of the deity in 1749. Till today the temple authority follows an elaborate worship protocol by allowing only Hindus in and adhering strictly to the dress code.

One of the 108 sacred shrines of Lord Vishnu, the origin of the Padmanabha Swamy Temple is unraveled through several fascinating legends and folklores. According to the largely believed one, Vilvamangalam Swami - an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna - reached ‘Ananthankadu’. On reaching the site, a huge illuppa tree crashed down at the location of the present Padmanabha Swamy temple and Lord Vishnu materialized about him in the same reclining posture on Ananta Shesha (multi-headed serpent). Soon news of the appearance of the Lord reached the ruler Naduvazhi, who in turn summoned the construction of a temple to Padmanabha Swamy in the same pose, on that spot. The daily rituals at the temple begin at 0300 hours and closes around 1300 hours, the temple reopens at 1600 hours for the evening rituals.

Special Attributes

This is a temple to a reclining Lord Vishnu (Padmanabha Swamy) on the sacred multi-headed serpent 'Anantha'.

Nuisance

Beggars, Hawkers, Guides

Dressing restrictions

Dress conservatively. Men need to wrap themselves nicely in a white dhoti (loin cloth) and women in sari or the like – available for use at the entrance counter.

Connectivity

From the railway station in East Fort, the site is at a walkable distance.

Enjoyed by

History and architecture enthusiasts, people who are religiously inclined

Exposure

You will be indoors.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

You are at the heart of Trivandrum and can accordingly plan your visit to several other sightseeing attractions. The wooden Puthenmalika Palace is adjacent to the temple.

Things Not Allowed

Camera, mobile phone

Tip

Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple. After sundown the soaring gopuram comes alive in a brilliant display of lights against the stark night sky.

Type of site

Place of worship/Hindu Temple