Trigyani

Tripgyani is your ultimate destination for authentic travel content.

Explore the Divine Secrets of Padmanabhaswamy Temple with TripGyani

Giving You The Best Services Experiences

The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is located within the East Fort in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, India. This temple features a unique blend of Dravidian and Keralan architecture. It is believed to be the wealthiest temple in the world. Among the 108 temples in India dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, which dates back to the eighth century, is one of the most respected. Here, Lord Vishnu is depicted resting on the hooded serpent Anantha.

The temple is famous for its rich history, spiritual significance, and magnificent architecture. It attracts both tourists and devotees, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s deep religious and cultural heritage.

Discovering the Ancient Secrets of Padmanabhaswamy Temple

The original idol of Padmanabhaswamy Temple was replaced with a new figure made from 12,008 shaligram stones and various plants, and the temple’s sanctum sanctorum was rebuilt. By 1739, this new statue was complete. The king also constructed the flagstaff, gate, and stone passageway, and in 1750, he dedicated his empire to the deity in a ritual called Thrippadidanam.

Though the temple was first mentioned in the ninth century, the exact date of its construction remains unknown. Palm leaf records indicate that the sanctum sanctorum’s ceiling was renovated around the fifteenth century, roughly the same time as the Ottakkal Mandapam was built. Major renovations were made by King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma in the mid-17th century.

In 1758, King Karthika Thirunal Rama Varma built the Karthika Mandapam, an open hall supported by pillars. By 1820, under Queen Gowri Parvathi Bayi, a massive mural of Anantha Shyana was created.
In 1936, during Chithira Thirunal Rama Varma’s reign, the Temple Entry Proclamation (Kshethra Praveshan Vilambram) was introduced, allowing visitors of all Hindu castes and creeds to enter the temple.

Aarti Timings:

  • Morning: 3:30–4:45 AM (Nirmalya Darshanam)
  • Early morning: 6:30–7 AM
  • Early to mid-morning: 8:30–10 AM
  • Mid-morning to mid-11:15 AM: 10:30–11:15 AM
  • After noon: 15–20 minutes
  • Evening: 4:30–6:10 PM
  • Late evening: 6:45–7:20 PM

 

Dress Code Guidelines:

Visitors to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple are requested to dress modestly as a mark of respect for the sacred environment. Men should wear traditional Indian attire like dhotis or long pants with shirts, while women should opt for sarees, salwar kameez, or modest dresses. Western attire such as shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops is generally discouraged.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple Trivandrum Entry Fee

  • 150 per person for Special Darshan
  • 180 per person for Special Darshan with Prashad

Where to Stay Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

There are several accommodation options near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Here are a few suggestions by Tripgyani

  • Aquarock Business Class Hotel
  • Mascot Hote
  • Viswasangeetham
  • The Residency Tower
  • Hycinth by Sparsa
  • Saj Lucia

 

How to Get to Padmanabhaswamy Temple:

  • By Road: You can easily reach Trivandrum by bus from cities like Coimbatore, Kochi, Madurai, Bangalore, and Chennai. The bus stand is just 2 km from the temple. Taxis are also available from nearby places such as Kovalam and Kanyakumari.
  • By Train: Trivandrum Central Station is about 2 km from the temple and has trains connecting to various cities in India.
  • By Air: Trivandrum International Airport, located 4 km from the temple, has flights from major Indian cities and international locations like Singapore and the Maldives.

 

Best Time to Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple

The ideal time to visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple is during the winter months from October to February. This period offers pleasant temperatures, making it comfortable to explore the temple complex. The summer and monsoon seasons can be quite humid, which may affect your visit.

Additionally, many significant festivals take place during the winter months, allowing you to experience the vibrant and grand celebrations.

For the best darshan experience, try to visit early during Nirmalya Darshanam. Arriving around 3 AM allows you to join the queue and witness the special rituals with fewer crowds, enhancing your spiritual experience during the pooja.

 

Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Padmanabhaswamy Temple:

  • Only visitors who follow the Hindu faith are permitted inside the temple.
  • Arrive early to adhere to strict darshan timings.
  • Join the queue before darshan starts; even VIP lines can become lengthy later in the day.
  • Keep an eye on children to prevent them from getting lost in the crowd.
  • Bring a water bottle with you.
  • Leave your shoes on the rack next to the main entrance.
  • Follow the temple’s dress code: white or off-white dhoti and angavastram only.
  • Photography is not allowed within the temple premises.
  • Handbags are permitted, but store your mobile phone, camera, and other valuables in the locker room.

 

Nearby Attractions of Padmanabhaswamy Temple

 

1. Kuthiramalika Palace Museum

  • Distance: 500 meters from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
  • Description: Also known as the Horse Palace, this 19th-century museum showcases the grandeur of the Travancore royal family. The palace is famous for its intricate wooden carvings, stunning murals, and historical artifacts, offering a glimpse into royal life during the Travancore era. The building’s architecture, with its ornate wooden ceilings and carvings, reflects the artistic prowess of that time.

 

2. Napier Museum

  • Distance: 2 kilometers from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
  • Description: Designed in Indo-Saracenic style, the Napier Museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, including ancient bronze sculptures, intricate wood carvings, and traditional Kerala masks. The museum’s unique architecture and well-curated exhibits provide a deep dive into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.

 

3. Zoological Park

  • Distance: 3 kilometers from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
  • Description: This expansive zoo features a wide variety of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, elephants, and deer. It is known for its lush green surroundings and well-maintained animal habitats. The park also has a dedicated section for endangered species and offers educational programs about wildlife conservation.

 

4. Shanghumugham Beach

  • Distance: 8 kilometers from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Timings: Open 24 hours
  • Description: Shanghumugham Beach is renowned for its serene beauty and spectacular sunsets. The beach features a large sculpture of a mermaid and offers a tranquil setting for relaxation and picnics. The gentle waves and wide sandy stretches make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

 

5. Vellayani Lake

  • Distance: 10 kilometers from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Description: A picturesque freshwater lake, Vellayani is ideal for boating and strolls. Surrounded by verdant greenery and quietude, it provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The lake is also a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

 

6. Padmanabhapuram Palace

  • Distance: 50 kilometers from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
  • Description: Located near the town of Padmanabhapuram, this historic palace is a testament to traditional Kerala architecture. Built in the 16th century, it features elaborate wooden carvings, beautiful murals, and intricate design elements. The palace was once the seat of the Travancore dynasty and offers a fascinating glimpse into Kerala’s royal past.]

 

7. Sri Chitra Art Gallery

  • Distance: 2 kilometers from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
  • Description: Situated near the Napier Museum, this gallery boasts an impressive collection of Indian art, including traditional and contemporary works. It features paintings by renowned artists and showcases various art forms from across India, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

 

8. Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple

  • Distance: 1.5 kilometers from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Timings: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Description: Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this vibrant temple is known for its beautifully crafted idols and the lively atmosphere during festivals. The temple’s serene ambiance and its significance in the local community make it a popular spot for both worshippers and visitors interested in local religious practices.

 

9. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple

  • Distance: 5 kilometers from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
  • Timings: 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Description: Renowned for its annual Pongala festival, Attukal Bhagavathy Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy. The temple is famous for its vibrant celebrations and large gatherings during the festival, which attracts devotees from all over the region. The temple’s architecture and its festive atmosphere provide a rich cultural experience.