Hello dear friends! If you are looking for Most Powerful Temples in Kerala, you are at the right place. In this article, we have brought you complete details of the 5000 years old Temple in Kerala. From Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram and Guruvayoor Srikrishna Temple, Guruvayoor to Sivagiri Temple, Varkala and Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad Valley and Lokanarkavu Temple, Villiappally, we’ve got all the details you need. Also, we will share information about Tali Temple, Kozhikode and more exciting Most Powerful Temples in Kerala. So, let’s get to know about these amazing destinations!
Kerala, a vibrant state in southern India, is known for its rich cultural and religious diversity, and it’s home to a multitude of temples that hold great significance for devotees and tourists alike. These temples are not only places of worship but also showcase stunning architecture and deep-rooted traditions.
One of the most famous temples in Kerala is the Guruvayur Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It’s renowned for its grandeur and the daily rituals involving elephants. Another iconic temple is the Sabarimala Temple, attracting millions of pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage season. Lord Ayyappa is the presiding deity here.
The Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is another architectural marvel, known for its intricate stone carvings. It’s dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has a fascinating history. The Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple is famous for its delectable prasad, called “palpayasam” or sweet rice pudding.
List of Most Powerful Temples in Kerala
| Tample Name | City Name |
| Attukal Bhagavathy Temple | Thiruvananthapuram |
| Chottanikkara Temple | Chottanikkara |
| Sabarimala Sastha Temple | Pathanamthitta |
| Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple | Thiruvananthapuram |
| Guruvayoor Srikrishna Temple | Guruvayoor |
| Tali Temple | Kozhikode |
| Vadakkunnathan Temple | Thrissur |
| Sivagiri Temple | Varkala |
| Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple | Ambalapuzha |
| Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple | Kottayam |
| Thirunelli Temple | Wayanad Valley |
| Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple | Kaviyoor |
| Vaikom Mahadeva Temple | Vaikom |
| Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple | Mallapuzhassery |
| Vadakkunnathan Temple | Thrissur |
| Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple | Haripad |
| Lokanarkavu Temple | Villiappally |
| Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple | Kodungalloor |
| Pandalam Ayyappa Temple | Pandalam |
| Malayalappuzha Temple | Malayalapuzha |
| Thiruvalla Temple | Thiruvalla |
1. Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, located in Kerala, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagavathy, also known as Attukal Amma. This temple is particularly famous for hosting the annual Attukal Pongala festival, which holds a Guinness World Record as the largest gathering of women for a religious purpose.
During the Pongala festival, thousands of women from various parts of Kerala and beyond come together to prepare a special offering known as “Pongala.” They cook this offering, which is a sweet rice pudding, in the temple premises as an offering to the goddess. The festival celebrates the divine feminine energy and is a significant cultural event in Kerala.
Best Time to Visit:- Attukal Pongal (Feb/March)
2. Chottanikkara Temple, Chottanikkara
The Chottanikkara Temple, located in Kerala, is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagawati. This temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Kerala and holds immense religious significance.
What sets Chottanikkara Temple apart is its belief in healing mental illnesses and other afflictions through divine intervention. The goddess here is worshipped in three different forms throughout the day – as Saraswati in the morning, as Lakshmi at noon, and as Durga in the evening. Devotees flock to this temple seeking solace and healing for various physical and psychological ailments.
Best Time to Visit:- Navrathri Aghosham (October), The Vrishchicka Mandala mahotsavam, The annual festival of the temple.
3. Sabarimala Sastha Temple, Pathanamthitta
The Sabarimala Sastha Temple, located in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, is one of the most famous pilgrimage destinations in South India. This ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, also known as Sastha or Dharma Sastha, who is revered as the presiding deity.
What sets Sabarimala apart is its unique tradition of welcoming devotees from all backgrounds and walks of life. The temple is open to people of all castes and religions, and pilgrims undertake a challenging trek to reach the shrine, which is situated atop a hill in the Western Ghats.
Note:- The temple permits only men to enter, and women who are in the age group when they have their periods are not allowed to enter.
4. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a renowned and ancient Hindu temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It is dedicated to Lord Padmanabhaswamy, a form of Lord Vishnu, and is known for its majestic architecture and spiritual significance. The temple is a place of worship and pilgrimage for devotees and tourists alike.
One of its unique features is the deity’s reclining posture, with Lord Vishnu seen lying on the sacred serpent Anantha. The temple is not only a symbol of faith but also a treasure trove of historical and cultural heritage. It stands as a testament to the rich religious and architectural heritage of Kerala.
Best Time to Visit:- The Alpashi festival (October/November), Panguni festival (March/April)
5. Guruvayoor Srikrishna Temple, Guruvayoor
The Guruvayoor Srikrishna Temple, located in Guruvayoor, Kerala, is one of the most famous and revered Hindu temples in South India. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The presiding deity, Lord Krishna, is beautifully adorned with ornaments and flowers, and devotees from all over the world come here to seek his blessings.
One unique feature of this temple is its strict dress code – men are required to wear dhotis, and women are expected to wear traditional sarees or long skirts. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple premises.
The Guruvayoor Srikrishna Temple is not just a place of worship; it’s a symbol of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage in Kerala. The temple is known for its daily rituals, including the famous ‘Krishnanattam’ performance, a traditional dance-drama depicting the life of Lord Krishna.
Best Time to Visit:- Ulsavam (Feb/March), The Malyali New Year (Mid-April), Kuchela’s Day (Dec/Jan)
6. Tali Temple, Kozhikode
The Tali Temple, located in Kozhikode, Kerala, is an ancient and historically significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is renowned for its architectural beauty and cultural importance in the region. The main deity worshipped here is Lord Shiva in the form of ‘Tali Mahadeva.’
The temple’s architecture reflects the traditional Kerala style, with wooden carvings and intricate artwork. One of the striking features is the grand brass-covered roof, which adds to the temple’s charm. Inside the temple complex, you can also find shrines dedicated to other deities, including Lord Krishna.
Best Time to Visit:- Revathi Pattathanam (Oct/Nov)
7. Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur
The Vadakkunnathan Temple, located in Thrissur, Kerala, is one of the most renowned and ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in South India. This temple is a prime example of traditional Kerala temple architecture and holds immense religious and historical significance.
The main deity worshipped at Vadakkunnathan Temple is Lord Shiva, and the temple is a revered pilgrimage site for devotees of the Hindu faith. One of the unique features of this temple is that it is not adorned with intricate carvings or decorations, unlike many other temples. Instead, its architectural beauty lies in its simplicity and grandeur.
The temple complex is a spacious area with traditional Kerala-style roofs and vast courtyards. It is also home to several other shrines dedicated to different deities. The annual festival, Thrissur Pooram, held at Vadakkunnathan Temple, is one of the most famous temple festivals in Kerala, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Best Time to Visit:- Maha Shivratri (Feb/March, Aug), Aanayoottu (July), Thrissur Pooram (April/May)
8. Sivagiri Temple, Varkala
The Sivagiri Temple, situated in Varkala, Kerala, is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the renowned sage and social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru. This temple holds a significant place in the hearts of devotees and followers of Sree Narayana Guru’s teachings.
The temple is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery and the tranquil Varkala beach nearby. It serves as a place of worship and reflection for those seeking spiritual solace and enlightenment.
The teachings and philosophies of Sree Narayana Guru, emphasizing social equality and religious harmony, continue to inspire people from various walks of life. The Sivagiri Temple is a symbol of these ideals and a place where devotees come to pay their respects to the great sage.
One of the most notable events at the temple is the annual Sivagiri Pilgrimage, attracting thousands of devotees and visitors. During this pilgrimage, the temple and its surroundings come alive with vibrant colors, cultural programs, and prayers, creating a spiritually enriching experience for all who participate.
Best Time to Visit:- Sri Narayana Jayanthi (Aug/Sep), Samadhi day (Aug/Sep)
9. Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha
The Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, located in Ambalapuzha, Kerala, is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This temple is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and religious significance.
One of the main attractions of the temple is its unique prasadam, known as “Ambalapuzha Palpayasam.” It is a sweet rice pudding offered as a divine offering to Lord Krishna. The prasadam is prepared in immense quantities during special occasions and festivals and is distributed to devotees. It is believed to have the power to grant blessings and prosperity to those who partake in it.
The temple’s architecture and intricate artwork are a testament to Kerala’s traditional architectural style, and it features beautiful murals and wooden carvings that depict various stories from Hindu mythology.
Devotees and visitors come to Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple to seek the blessings of Lord Krishna, especially during festivals like the Ambalapuzha Arattu Festival. This annual event is celebrated with grand processions, music, dance, and cultural performances, making it a vibrant and spiritually enriching experience.
Best Time to Visit:- The Ambalapuzha Temple Festival (July), The Arattu festival (March-April)
10. Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple, located in Kottayam, Kerala, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. This ancient temple is of immense religious and cultural importance in the region.
One of the distinctive features of the Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is its remarkable architecture, characterized by a stunning wooden roof with intricate carvings and exquisite murals that depict various mythological stories and themes from Hindu epics. The temple’s construction showcases the traditional Kerala architectural style, making it a visual delight for visitors.
Devotees and tourists visit this temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and to admire the artistic and cultural heritage on display. The temple is especially popular during the annual festival called “Ezharaponnana,” which translates to “the seven-and-a-half elephants.” This festival features a grand procession of caparisoned elephants and traditional music and dance performances, creating a festive and spiritual atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit:- Arattu Festival (Feb/March)
11. Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad Valley
Located within the scenic Wayanad Valley in Kerala, Thirunelli Temple is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site renowned for its timeless charm and spiritual aura. Surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing presence of Papanasini River, this ancient temple offers a serene retreat for devotees and travelers alike.
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is believed that a dip in the holy waters of Papanasini can cleanse one’s sins. The temple’s architecture, reflecting Kerala’s traditional style, adds to its cultural significance. Visitors can soak in the tranquility, explore the nearby forests, and seek solace in the spiritual ambiance of Thirunelli Temple.
12. Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Kaviyoor
Located in the picturesque village of Kaviyoor in Kerala, the Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple stands as a timeless testament to India’s rich cultural heritage. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the divine embodiment of destruction and transformation in Hinduism. With its intricate architecture and serene surroundings, it offers a glimpse into the spiritual essence of Kerala.
The temple’s walls are adorned with fascinating carvings and sculptures that narrate stories from Hindu mythology. Pilgrims and history enthusiasts are drawn to this sacred site, which also serves as a hub for religious festivals and cultural celebrations. Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple welcomes visitors to explore its historical significance and experience the profound spirituality that permeates the air.
Best Time to Visit:- The Temple Festival (Dec/Jan), Hanuman Jayanti
13. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, Vaikom
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Vaikom, a town in the beautiful state of Kerala, India. This historical temple is devoted to Lord Shiva, who is among the central deities in Hinduism.
The temple is known for its historical significance and unique architecture. It has a traditional Kerala style of construction with beautiful wooden carvings and a striking gopuram (temple tower) that welcomes devotees and visitors.
One of the remarkable features of this temple is its association with a movement for social justice known as the Vaikom Satyagraha. During the early 20th century, people from different backgrounds came together to protest against caste-based discrimination and gain equal access to the temple. This movement played a crucial role in the fight for social equality in India.
Best Time to Visit:- Vaikom Ashthami (Nov/Dec)
14. Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, Mallapuzhassery
Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is a revered Hindu temple located in Mallapuzhassery, Kerala, India. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Parthasarathy, a form of Lord Krishna.
The temple is known for its rich cultural heritage and unique traditions. One of its notable customs is the annual Aranmula Boat Race, which is held during the Onam festival. This traditional snake boat race is a significant event, attracting thousands of spectators from all over the world.
The architecture of the temple is a fine example of Kerala style, with intricate wood carvings and a distinctive pagoda-like structure. Devotees come here to seek blessings and experience the spiritual ambiance of the temple.
Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is not only a place of worship but also a cultural center, celebrating the traditions and art forms of Kerala. It stands as a symbol of religious devotion and the vibrant heritage of the region.
Best Time to Visit:- Arnamula Uttarattathi Boat Race
15. Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur
Vadakkunnathan Temple, located in Thrissur, Kerala, is an ancient and revered Hindu temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, a prominent deity in Hinduism.
The temple is well-known for its stunning architecture and deep historical importance. It boasts a classic Kerala architectural style with stunning wooden carvings and a magnificent gopuram (temple tower) that welcomes devotees and visitors.
One unique aspect of Vadakkunnathan Temple is its annual Thrissur Pooram festival, which is one of the grandest temple festivals in Kerala. This vibrant celebration features a spectacular display of elephants, percussion music, and fireworks, drawing crowds from far and wide.
Best Time to Visit:- Maha Shivratri (Feb/March, Aug), Aanayoottu (July), Thrissur Pooram (April/May)
16. Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple, Haripad
Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple, situated in Haripad, Kerala, is a unique and revered Hindu temple. This ancient temple is dedicated to Nagaraja, the serpent god, and is famous for its serpent worship.
The temple’s distinctive feature is its serene and sacred grove, which is home to countless snakes. Devotees believe that these serpents are the protectors of the temple and its surroundings. As a result, the temple is a center for rituals and offerings associated with snakes.
One of the most important festivals here is the Mannarasala Ayilyam, celebrated with great enthusiasm. It attracts pilgrims and devotees who come to seek the blessings of the serpent deities for fertility and well-being.
Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple is not only a place of worship but also a unique representation of the rich cultural diversity and religious practices found in Kerala. It provides a fascinating insight into the deep-rooted traditions of serpent worship in the region.
Best Time to Visit:- Mannarsala Aayilyam (Oct/Nov)
17. Lokanarkavu Temple, Villiappally
Lokanarkavu Temple, located in Villiappally, Kerala, is a revered Hindu temple steeped in history and culture. This ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.
The temple is renowned for its historical significance and traditional Kerala architecture. It features intricate wood carvings, a striking entrance, and a serene ambiance that attracts devotees and visitors alike.
Lokanarkavu Temple plays a pivotal role in the Theyyam ritual, a vibrant and colorful folk art form of northern Kerala. Theyyam performances are an integral part of the temple’s cultural heritage and provide an enchanting experience for those who witness them.
Best Time to Visit:- Pooram Festival (April)
18. Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple, Kodungalloor
Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple, located in Kodungalloor, Kerala, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.
This ancient temple is known for its historical significance and unique architecture. It features intricate wood carvings and a distinctive pagoda-style structure, reflecting the traditional Kerala architectural style.
Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is a place of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage. It hosts various rituals and festivals throughout the year, attracting devotees and visitors from far and wide.
Best Time to Visit:- Thiruvanchikulam Festival (Feb/Mar), Shivratri (Feb/Mar)
19. Pandalam Ayyappa Temple, Pandalam
Pandalam Ayyappa Temple, situated in Pandalam, Kerala, is a highly revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, a beloved deity in South India.
This ancient temple holds great spiritual significance and is closely associated with the legends and traditions surrounding Lord Ayyappa. It is a place where devotees come to offer prayers, seeking the blessings of Lord Ayyappa for prosperity and well-being.
One of the remarkable features of the temple is its connection to the Pandalam royal family, who are believed to be the custodians of the temple. The temple complex includes the Pandalam Palace, adding to its historical charm.
Pandalam Ayyappa Temple hosts various religious ceremonies and festivals, with the Makaravilakku festival being the most prominent. This festival attracts a large number of pilgrims and devotees from different parts of India.
Best Time to Visit:- Makaravilakku festival and Thiruvabharanam procession.
20. Malayalappuzha Temple, Malayalapuzha
Malayalappuzha Temple, located in Malayalapuzha, Kerala, is a revered Hindu temple known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere.
This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, a beloved deity in South India. Devotees flock to this temple to seek the blessings of Lord Ayyappa for various aspects of their lives, including prosperity, health, and well-being.
The temple’s picturesque surroundings, with lush greenery and a serene river nearby, add to its charm and tranquility. It provides a peaceful setting for devotees to offer their prayers and find spiritual solace.
Malayalappuzha Temple also hosts various religious rituals and festivals, attracting devotees from different parts of Kerala and beyond. These festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm, and they showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Visiting Malayalappuzha Temple not only offers a spiritual experience but also allows one to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural traditions of Kerala. It stands as a symbol of devotion and cultural richness in the heart of the state.
21. Thiruvalla Temple, Thiruvalla
Thiruvalla Temple, located in Thiruvalla, Kerala, is a renowned Hindu temple known for its historical significance and spiritual importance.
This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, a prominent deity in Hinduism. Devotees visit Thiruvalla Temple to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu for happiness, prosperity, and spiritual well-being.
The temple’s architecture is a fine example of Kerala’s traditional style, featuring intricate wood carvings and a distinctive structure that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Thiruvalla Temple hosts various religious rituals and festivals throughout the year, drawing devotees and visitors from near and far. These festivals are vibrant and offer a glimpse into the cultural traditions of Kerala.
Best Time to Visit:- Thiru Utsavam (Feb/March), Uthira Sreebali (March/April)