Popular Temple
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
One of the world's wealthiest temples, deeply linked to the former royal house of Travancore
At a glance
- Location
- Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
- Presiding deity
- Lord Padmanabhaswamy (Vishnu, reclining on Sheshnag)
- Temple type
- Popular Temple
- Tradition
- Vaishnava
- Nearest railway station
- Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station (~1-2 km)
- Nearest airport
- Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (~8 km)
- Best time to visit
- November to February; the Alpashy and Panguni festivals (March-April) are especially grand.
History
Padmanabhaswamy temple's origins are believed to be ancient, while the present grand Dravidian-style structure was largely developed in the 18th century by Maharaja Marthanda Varma of Travancore, who symbolically dedicated his entire kingdom to Lord Padmanabha. In 2011, the discovery of vast treasure in the temple's vaults, valued at billions of rupees, brought it worldwide attention.
Spiritual significance
Temple management remains linked to the Travancore royal family, and entry requires strict adherence to traditional dress codes and conduct.
Plan your visit
Darshan timings
3:30 AM to 7:20 PM, across multiple sessions; traditional dress code is mandatory.
Timings change on festivals and special occasions. Confirm with the temple's official source before you travel.
Thiruvananthapuram Central connects to all major South Indian cities; both auto and walking options are available from the station to the temple.
Continue your Vishnu bhakti
Devotional texts for this deity, already on the site.