Padmanabham Temple

Dedicated to Sree Padmanabhaswamy, a form of Lord Vishnu, Padmanabham Temple is among the wealthiest and most popular Hindu temples. The main attraction of the temple is the huge idol of Lord Padmanabhaswamy in the reclined pose over Anantha, the gigantic five-hood serpent. The idol also features a Shiva Lingam, Lord Brahma in Lotus and goddesses Sridevi and Bhudevi. It is believed that more than 12,000 shaligrams (aniconic form of Vishnu) were used to make the idol. The idol is so large that it can be viewed from three doors. The temple complex also accommodates shrines dedicated to other deities like Ramaswamy with Seeta and Lakshman; Narasimha Swamy, Vishwaksenan, Krishna Swamy, Ganapathi, Hanuman and Garuda. Flaunting superlative architecture, the temple boasts of exquisitely carved pillars, nine entrances, a seven-storey and 35 m. high Gopuram, an 80 ft. high golden flagstaff, a corridor with 365 and a one quarter monolithic pillars, magnificent murals, huge number of bells and a temple tank. Many popular festivals are celebrated at the temple. Only Hindus are allowed entry to the temple. The visitors must strictly follow the dress code (dhoti for men and sari for women).

November-July