Lovingly referred to as the “God’s own country”, Kerala is not just a gentle backwater, lush greenery or Ayurveda. The nation is also a spiritual core nation that permeates old myths, temple architecture and living traditions. For travelers, especially those looking for peace, culture and divine connections, studying famous temples in Kerala offers more than a cultural experience. It’s a journey to the soul of the region.
This blog by Solis Nature is the ultimate tour guide for Kerala Temples and offers insight into the best temples to plan your pilgrimage, your stories, rituals and practical tips. Whether you are a spiritual view finder or simply interested in old miracles, these temple goals leave a lasting impression.
List of 16 Most Famous Temples in Kerala
- Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
- Guruvayur Temple, Thrissur
- Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, Pathanamthitta
- Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, Ernakulam
- Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam
- Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur
- Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Alappuzha
- Tali Temple, Kozhikode
- Lokanarkavu Temple, Vadakara
- Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad
- Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Alappuzha
- Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple, Kannur
- Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Pathanamthitta
- Dharmasastha Temple, Sasthamkotta
- Thriprayar Sree Ramaswamy Temple, Thrissur
- Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Sanctuary is considered one of the wealthiest sanctuaries within the world and is committed to Master Vishnu on a lying cultivation. With a breathtaking blend of Dravidian and Kerala engineering, the sanctuary draws in thousands of adherents each year.
Key Features:
- Only Hindus are allowed inside the sanctum.
- The traditional dress code is mandatory.
- Explore its mysterious underground vaults, believed to house immense treasures.
2. Guruvayur Temple, Thrissur
Guruvayur Sanctuary is regularly alluded to as the Dwarka of the South, is one of Kerala’s most popular sanctuaries pulling in millions of devotees. The sanctuary is committed to Ruler Krishna and is known for his every day ceremonies, the elephant prepare and social celebrations.
Don’t Miss:
- See the Gajapooja (elephant worship ceremony).
- Visit the elephant sanctuary nearby, home to temple elephants.
3. Sabarimala Shri Ayyappa Swamy Temple, Pathanamthitta
Sabarimala sits in a dense forest in the Western Ghats and is one of the world’s largest annual pilgrimage centres. The sanctuary could be an image of commitment, teaching and solidarity with past religion. It can be considered amongst one of the most famous temples in Kerala
Travel Tip:
- Only men and women above 10 and below 50 years are allowed to visit.
- Follow the 41-day Vratham (penance) before the pilgrimage.
4. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, Ernakulam
Chottanikkara Temple is the Goddess Bhagavathy and is a highly spiritual place. It is considered to have recuperating powers, particularly for individuals enduring mental side effects.
Why Visit:
- Witness rituals performed for spiritual healing.
- Visit during the Makam Thozhal festival in March.
5. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam
This sanctuary committed to God Shiva, is renowned worldwide for its wall paintings and brilliant elephant caparison. A fine case of Kerala’s imaginative brilliance, it’s among the finest sanctuaries in Kerala for social lavishness.
Insider Tip:
- Don’t miss the grand annual Arattu festival.
- Look up to see the fresco of Nataraja painted on the ceiling.
6. Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur
An UNESCO-recognized legacy location, Vadakkunnathan Sanctuary is a structural wonder and one of the foremost old journey locales in Kerala. Committed to Master Shiva, it is profoundly entwined with Kerala’s classical craftsmanship shapes.
Highlights:
- Hosts the iconic Thrissur Pooram festival.
- The temple’s mural paintings are worth observing.
7. Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, Alappuzha
Celebrated for its day by day serving of Palpayasam (sweet drain pudding) and wealthy legends, this sanctuary committed to Master Krishna could be a charming spot mixing dedication and delightful convention.
Pro Tip:
- Visit during the Ambalapuzha Arattu festival in July.
- Try the prasadam—the sweet payasam is legendary!
8. Tali Temple, Kozhikode
Built within the 14th century, the Tali Shiva Sanctuary grandstands wonderful wooden engineering and complicated stone figures. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and craftsmanship partners alike.
Highlights:
- Attend the Revathi Pattathanam, an annual scholarly ritual.
- Admire the blend of Laterite and wood construction.
9. Lokanarkavu Temple, Vadakara
A vital location for Kalaripayattu specialists, this sanctuary is devoted to Goddess Durga. The sanctuary too finds a place within the amazing ballads of North Malabar.
Unique Aspects:
- The temple combines Aryan and Dravidian cultures.
- Visit during the Pooram festival to see folk arts performed.
10. Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad
Settled within the Brahmagiri Slopes, this sanctuary committed to Master Vishnu is accepted to be over a thousand a long time ancient. Its riverside area and otherworldly vibe make it a serene withdrawal.
Good to Know:
- Pilgrims perform ancestral rites on the banks of Papanasini stream.
- Combine this with a visit to Wayanad’s scenic spots.
11. Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Alappuzha
This serpent sanctuary, covered up in a woodland, is committed to the Wind God and is kept up by a priestess. It’s a special expansion to any Kerala sanctuary visit direct.
What Makes It Special:
- Thousands of serpent idols line the forest path.
- Devotees seeking fertility frequent the shrine.
12. Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple, Kannur
Usually one of the uncommon Temples in Kerala where Theyyam, the custom craftsmanship shape, could be a portion of day by day revere. Devoted to Muthappan, a nearby god, the sanctuary celebrates inclusivity and legends.
Don’t Miss:
- Enjoy the Theyyam performances.
- The temple is open to all castes and religions.
13. Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Pathanamthitta
Known for its rock-cut engineering and vicinity to the sacred Pamba Waterway, this antiquated hallowed place is one of the most seasoned sanctuaries in Kerala. It includes chronicled profundity to your sanctuary circuit.
Highlights:
- The temple is believed to be built in the 10th century.
- Carvings and wooden sculptures enrich its aesthetic appeal.
14. Dharmasastha Temple, Sasthamkotta
This Kerala temple dedicated to God Ayyappa is found close to the biggest freshwater lake in Kerala. Its peaceful setting and sacrosanct air make it a best choice for peace searchers.
Travel Tip:
- Combine a visit with a peaceful boat ride on the lake.
- The temple is popular during Mandala Kalam.
15. Thriprayar Sree Ramaswamy Temple, Thrissur
Committed to Lord Rama, this sanctuary is part of the Nalambala Darshanam journey. It is known for its quiet climate and chronic centrality.
Good to Know:
- Participate in the Nalambala Yatra in July-August.
- The sanctum houses a unique idol with four arms.
16. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
Known as the “Sabarimala of Women” this Kerala temple holds the Guinness World Record for the biggest gathering of ladies amid its Pongala celebration.
Why It Stands Out:
- Women cook Pongala rice in earthen pots in devotion.
- A vibrant example of feminine devotion in South India.
Embark on a Sacred Sojourn
Kerala temples are more than engineering feats, they are living otherworldly centers where confidence, culture, and community merge. From rich Vishnu hallowed places to forest-hidden Devi sanctuaries, each location describes stories of dedication, mythology, and legacy. Here you’re mapping out a journey, or you’re essentially a travel
Whether looking to investigate otherworldly places in Kerala, these ageless sanctuaries offer an unmatched encounter. And with Solis Nature, you don’t travel, you interface.
Plan your divine getaway with Solis Nature, your companion in curating soulful, sustainable, and serene travel experiences.
Explore. Reflect. Reconnect. The Solis Way.
