The name "Land of Gods" is applied to Kerala. It is a fitting name for the state considering its renowned architectural landmarks, particularly its many distinctive temples. Kerala, the southernmost Indian state, is renowned for its voluminous traditionalism, folklore, and culture. Kerala's temples serve as visual reminders of its vibrant culture. A few of the temples located here are more than 2000 years old. These temples are mostly dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ayappa, making it the ideal location to travel to for spiritual and religious purposes.

Attukal Bhagavathy is one of Kerala's well-known temples and is situated adjacent to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The temple is devoted to Parvati's incarnation, Kannaki, who is also known as the Supreme Mother and the architect of all Earthly life. Every year, in February or March, this temple hosts the Attukal Pongala Festival, which is well-known. For the Goddess, millions of Indian women prepare Pongala, an original sweet delicacy composed of rice, coconut, and jaggery, over the festival's ten-day duration. As the largest assembly of women for a single religious occasion, the Attukal Pongala Festival is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, placing it among Kerala's top 10 most well-known temples.

Location: Thiruvananthapuram
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Another centre of worship in Thiruvananthapuram is Udiyanoor Devi Temple. For Hindus, it is one of Kerala's most well-known Shiva temples. The Udiyanoor Devi shrine features four hands carrying weapons in a Shiva and Vaishnava-joined gesture. Lord Ganesha, Nagaraja, Dharma Sastha, and Sri Madan Thampuran are among the other gods worshipped at this temple. This temple may be the only one in Kerala to face north. Urootu Mahotsav, Pongala Mahostsav, and Thrikkodiyettu are the three main festivals observed here. One of Kerala's oldest temples, it was constructed more than 1,300 years ago.

Location: Thiruvananthapuram
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4:30 AM TO 12:30 PM, 5:00 PM TO 8:15 PM

The 14th century saw the construction of Kaduthuruthi Mahadeva Thali Temple, also known as Tali Temple locally. One of the two Brahmanical royal temples constructed by Zamorin, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. One of the nicest temples in south India, it perfectly combines laterite, wood, and brass work. The brass sculptures and figures are very gorgeous. This temple is one of Kerala's oldest, and it can be found in the centre of Kozhikode town on a hilltop close to the Karamana River.

Location: Kozhikode
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 5:00 AM to 11:30 AM, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Sivagiri Temple, another popular Kerala temple, has Sree Narayana Guru's grave. The pilgrims wearing yellow attire frequent this eerie location all year round, but especially between December 30 and January 1. The samadhi is located atop a hillside, while the temple is built on a sizable expanse of ground. The same building where Guruji's personal effects are on exhibit also houses Sree Narayana Guru's dwelling. Every day in the late afternoon, Guru puja is done here, and all devotees are then given lunch for INR 50.

Location: Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM

Lord Krishna is revered as "Unni Krishna"—his infant form—in the Ambalapuzha Srikrishna temple. This temple was constructed in the 15th century and is well-known for the Aaraattu and Amabalapuzha Temple Festivals, which are held in March and April, respectively. The primary prasadam served here to all devotees is palpayasam. Rice, milk, and sugar are the main ingredients in this delicious sweet delicacy. In order to protect the temple from political upheaval, it is said that the Unni Krishna deity was moved from Guruvayoor during Tipu Sultan's rule.

Location: Ambalapuzha, Kerala
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 3:00 AM to 12 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

The most traditional temple in Kerala is Thiruvalla Temple. This temple is renowned for its opulent design, tranquil atmosphere, and exquisite sculpture of God. The temple is devoted to Purusha as Lord Sreevallabhan. This is also one of the Divya Desams that features exquisite stone and wooden sculptures and walls covered in the most exquisite mural paintings anybody has ever seen. Every day a Kathakali performance is held at the shrine. The shrine is regarded as having enhanced the state's educational and cultural features.

Location: Kizhakummuri Road, Thiruvalla
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Vadakkunnathan Temple, designated as a National Monument under the AMASR Act, is said to be the first temple constructed by Parasurama, the 16th avatar of Vishnu. Vadakkunnathan Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Rama, and Lord Vishnu, is known for its magnificent building, paintings, and ornate pillars. In the months of April and May, Thrissur Pooram is celebrated with tremendous fervour and vigour here. The temple grounds are decked for the festival with decorated elephants and colourful umbrellas, and the sounds of traditional drums and chanting create an atmosphere that is both holy and mesmerising.

Location: Thrissur&nbsp;
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:20 PM

In the Indian state of Kerala, Lokanarkavu Temple is a Hindu temple. It is a temple devoted to the goddess Durga and is said to have been constructed in the sixteenth century. The temple is well-known for its traditional architectural design and is a significant place of devotion for the local Hindu population, Due to its historical and cultural significance, it is also a well-liked tourist site in Kozhikode. The temple is frequently referred to as Thacholi Othenan, a famous warrior hero, in the songs of North Kerala.

Location: Kozhikode District
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Hindu temple Sree Rama Temple is situated at Thiruvangad, Kerala, India. One of the most revered shrines in the area, it is devoted to Lord Rama. The main shrine, a sanctum sanctorum, and a number of minor shrines honouring different Hindu deities are all part of the temple complex's collection of buildings. During significant Hindu festivals and ceremonies, it draws sizable people as a prominent pilgrimage site.

Location: Thiruvangad
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

This temple is notable in Kerala since it is a Divya Desam located in the southern part of the country. The focal point of this temple is Lord Krishna, who is revered here as Parthasarathy. In the Holy Epic of the Mahabharat, Krishna makes an appearance riding in a chariot beside Arjun. A procession departing from this temple heads to Sabarimala with the precious gems known as the Thiruvabharanam of Ayyappan. Ayyappan's golden garb is also shown on the temple walls.

Location: Mallapuzhassery
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, located in the town of Guruvayur in the Thrissur district of Kerala, is one of the most famous and sacred Hindu temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is considered to be one of the 108 Divya Desams, a sacred list of pilgrimage sites for Vaishnavites. The temple is known for its elaborate and traditional rituals and is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Kerala. Thousands of devotees visit the temple every day, and the temple also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year.

Location: Town of Guruvayur in Thrissur district of Kerala
Duration: 1-2 hours
Timings: 3 AM to 9:30 PM, From1:30 PM to 4:30 PM (temple remains closed for Darshan)

In the Indian state of Kerala's Kottayam district, Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple. It is one of Kerala's oldest and most revered Shiva temples and is devoted to Lord Shiva. The main shrine, a sanctum sanctorum, and a number of minor shrines honouring different Hindu deities are all part of the temple complex's collection of buildings. During significant Hindu festivals and ceremonies, it draws sizable people as a prominent pilgrimage site. The temple is renowned for its beautiful murals and sculptures that reflect several Hindu myths and legends.

Location: Kerala's Kottayam district
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

The Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kaviyoor, Kerala, India. It is known for its unique architectural style and is considered one of the most ancient temples in Kerala. The temple is believed to have been built in the 8th century AD and is considered an important centre for the worship of Lord Shiva in the state. The temple is also known for its annual festival, the Kaviyoor Utsavam, which is celebrated with great fervour and devotion by devotees of Lord Shiva.&nbsp;

Location: Kaviyoor, Kerala, India
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM

Thirunelli Temple, one of the historic temples that Kerala has been strewn with for millennia, is located in the Wayanad Valley. Many Hindu worshippers find comfort in this temple. The "Kashi of the South" is the term used to describe it. The Holy Puranas make reference to this temple, which is said to have been erected by Lord Brahma himself. This temple offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lush, green region in addition to having some amazing historical tales to tell. While visiting Kerala, you must undoubtedly visit this temple.

Location: North Wayanad&nbsp;
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM

In Irinjalakuda, Kerala, India, there is a Hindu temple called Sree Maha Ganapathy Temple. It is a significant place of devotion for the local Hindu population and is devoted to Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god regarded as the remover of obstacles. The temple is a well-liked travel destination for pilgrims and visitors due to its distinctive traditional architectural design and spiritual importance. The main shrine, a sanctum sanctorum, and a number of minor shrines honouring different Hindu deities are among the several buildings that make up the temple complex.

Location: Irinjalakuda
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM, 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM

In the Indian state of Kerala's Kannur district, Sree Parassinikadavu Muthappan Temple is a Hindu temple. It is a significant place of devotion for the local Hindu population and is dedicated to Lord Muthappan, a Hindu god venerated in the area. The temple is a well-liked travel destination for pilgrims and visitors due to its distinctive traditional architectural design and spiritual importance. A unique feature of the temple is Muthappan Theyyam which is a ritualistic dance form performed in the temple by the tribal communities of Kerala.&nbsp;

Location: Kerala's Kannur&nbsp;
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM. From 5:45 AM to 8 AM, every morning, Vellattam and Thiruvappana, are performed and also performed in the evening at 6:30 PM.

The Sree Dharmasastha Temple is a Hindu shrine to Lord Ayyappa that is situated in Kerala, India's Idukki district. One of the most well-known Ayyappa temples in the state, it is renowned for its picturesque settings and tranquil ambience. For prayers and sacrifices, devotees of Lord Ayyappa go to the temple, especially during the Sabarimala temple season. Given that it is surrounded by the magnificent hills of Idukki and is recognised for its tranquil and peaceful settings, it is well-known for its stunning surroundings and serene mood.

Location: Kerala, Idukki&nbsp;
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4 AM to 12.30 PM and from 5 PM to 8 PM.

The Guruvayoor Srikrishna Temple is a Hindu temple located in Guruvayoor, Kerala, India, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is considered one of the most important and sacred Krishna temples in India and is considered by many to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The temple attracts thousands of devotees from across India every year, who come to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Krishna. It is also famous for its marriage ceremonies, which are considered highly auspicious. The temple has a rich history and is an important centre for the propagation of Vaishnavism in South India.

Location: Guruvayoor, Kerala, India
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 3:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 9:15 PM.

In conclusion, beautiful religious structures have been erected by human communities across the globe as a means of praising their deities. These temples frequently include outstanding architectural elements, intricate patterns, and aesthetic flourishes that are meant to establish a link between the holy and the human. Despite lacking elements that are often seen in most South Indian temples, such as massive gopurams or masonry, the majority of the temples in Kerala have highly unique architecture. In addition, the Tantric rituals carried out in Kerala in connection with the deity of each temple are what make these buildings famous.

Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, located in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India. It is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions of devotees every year, especially during the annual pilgrimage season which lasts from November to January. The temple is located in the Periyar Tiger Reserve in the Western Ghats mountain range and is situated at an altitude of 468 m above sea level. The temple can only be reached by a steep climb of nearly 18 steps, and devotees are required to observe strict rules and rituals, including a 41-day vow of celibacy, fasting, and abstaining from alcohol and other vices.

Location: Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India
Duration: 2-3 hours
Timings: 4:30 AM to 12 PM, 2 PM to 10 PM

The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the 108 Divya Desams (holy abodes) of Lord Vishnu. The temple was built in the 16th century by King Marthanda Varma. The main deity of the temple is Padmanabhaswamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu who reclines on Anantha or Adi Sesha (the cosmic serpent).

Location: Thiruvananthapuram
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Timings: 3:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM every day. It is closed between 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM.

Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple is a famous temple of mother goddess Shakti devi or Rajarajeshwari known as Sree Chottanikkara Amma in the southern state of Kerala. The temple is located at Chottanikkara near Ernakulam. The deity here is revered in three different forms: as Mahasaraswati in the morning, draped in white; Mahalakshmi at noon, when she is draped in crimson; and as Mahakali in the evening, decked in blue. People suffering from mental illnesses often visit the temple seeking cures by offering prayers.

Location: Chottanikkara near Ernakulam
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM&nbsp;

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is a very ancient and internationally known centre of pilgrimage for the devotees of serpent gods (Nagaraja). This temple is situated in Mannarasala, 32km from Alappuzha town. It is surrounded by lush green forests and natural beauty. The main deity here is Lord Nagaraja, along with his consorts Sarpa Yakshi and Naga Yakshi. The temple is dedicated to the serpent gods and is an important pilgrimage site for devotees. It is believed to be over 5,000 years old and is a popular tourist destination.

Location: Mannarasala, 32km from Alappuzha town
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.&nbsp;

The Chettikulangara Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy and is an important pilgrimage destination for devotees. The temple is believed to have been established 1200 years ago. It is famous for its Kettukazhcha festival which is held annually in March. The deity at this temple is one of the five Ambalayams in Kerala and also one of the most important temples in South India.

Location: Alappuzha&nbsp;
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4:00 AM to 11 PM

The Sree Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple located in Kollam, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most popular temples in the district. It is one of the ancient temples in the city and is located near Thirumullavaram Beach. The main deities worshipped here are Lord Shiva and Goddess Anandavally. The temple is believed to have been built by Lord Parasurama himself.

Location: Kollam
Duration: 1 - 2 hours&nbsp;
Timings: 24 hours

The Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple located in Kottayam, Kerala, India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in the state, believed to have been in existence since the 12th century. It is located in the town of Vaikom, in Kerala, India. The temple is one of the few temples which has a murti (idol) of Lord Shiva as Vaikkathappan along with Parvathi and Ganesh. The temple is renowned for its annual festival of 'Vishu Mahotsavam' which is celebrated in the month of Medam (April-May).

Location: Kottayam, Kerala, India.
Duration: 1 - 2 hours
Timings: 4 AM to 12 PM, 5 PM to 8 PM

25 Famous Temples in Kerala for a Spiritual Break

India > Kerala

8 Apr 2026

Explore in Kerala

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