Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Trivandrum

About Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Trivandrum

The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, is one of the most revered and architecturally magnificent temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the deity is enshrined in a reclining posture (Anantha Shayanam), lying on the sacred serpent Adi Sesha. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites and part of the Malai Nadu Divya Desam circuit.

The temple’s sanctum sanctorum (Sreekovil) houses the colossal idol of Lord Vishnu, made from Salagrama stones, herbs, and gold. Devotees can view the deity through three doors — the face and chest, hands with the lotus, and feet, symbolizing cosmic completeness.

The temple’s architectural grandeur is a blend of Dravidian and Kerala styles, featuring a 100-foot golden gopuram, intricate stone carvings, and mural paintings that depict scenes from Hindu epics.

History of Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple Kerala

The temple has a long and divine legacy, believed to date back to the 6th century AD. Legends say that Lord Vishnu appeared before sage Divakara Muni as a small child and later manifested as a huge idol reclining on Adishesha. The sage, realizing the Lord’s divinity, prayed for His presence at this spot forever — thus, the temple was built.

The royal family of Travancore has historically managed the temple, considering themselves “Padmanabha Dasas” (servants of the Lord). In 2011, the temple gained international fame when hidden treasure chambers were discovered beneath its premises, making it one of the richest temples in the world.

Padmanabha Swamy Temple Timings

• Morning: 3:30 AM – 12:00 PM
• Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
• (Timings may vary during festival days.)

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Dress Code

• The temple strictly follows traditional Hindu attire:
• Men: Must wear a mundu (dhoti). Shirts and t-shirts are not allowed inside the sanctum.
• Women: Must wear a sari, set mundu, or long skirt with blouse. Pants, jeans, and western dresses are not permitted.
• Devotees can rent or purchase traditional wear outside the temple.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Darshan Online Booking

• Devotees can book Darshan tickets online via the official website of the temple or through the Travancore Devaswom Board portal. The online service allows booking for:
• General Darshan
• Abhishekam
• Archanas and Offerings
• Special Poojas during festivals
• Ensure to carry a print or digital copy of your booking confirmation along with valid ID proof during your visit.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Railway Station : Thiruvananthapuram Central (1 km)
• Nearest Airport : Trivandrum International Airport (6 km)
• Nearest Bus Station : East Fort Bus Stand (0.5 km)
• Local auto-rickshaws and cabs are available for easy access to the temple.

Travel Tip

• Early morning or evening darshan timings are ideal to avoid crowds.
• Photography and mobile phones are strictly prohibited inside the temple.
• Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Kuthira Malika Palace, Napier Museum, and Kovalam Beach for a complete experience.