Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu is situated in Thiruvananthapuram. This temple, dating back to the 8th century, is one of the ancient temples in Kerala. In earlier times, Marthanda Varma, the renowned king of Travancore, undertook a significant renovation that resulted in the modern-day appearance of the temple.

Perched on a stone slab, this Temple features an 18 ft. long main idol that can be viewed through three distinct doors. Through the first door, one sees the head and chest; through the second door, the hands; and through the third door, the feet. The presiding deity here is Lord Vishnu reclining on Anantha, the Serpent—symbolizing meditation. The unique composition of this idol includes 12008 saligrams brought from Nepal's Gandhaki River banks.

Within the temple are notable structural features like Bali Peeda Mandapam & Mukha Mandapam—halls adorned with intricate sculptures of various Hindu deities. Another highlight is the Navagraha Mandapa with its ceiling portraying Navagrahas (the Nine Planets). Beneath the main eastern entrance is Nataka Sala, where Kathakali performances are held during annual ten-day festivals in Malayalam months Meenam and Thulam.

The assets and treasures of Sree Padmanabhaswamy belong to Lord Padmanabhaswamy himself but are administered by a trust led by the Royal family. Six vaults (Kallaras) containing ancient valuables remain largely unopened over many years. These treasures likely include contributions from Travancore Maharajahs via tax collection, gifts & conquered wealth—all preserved within for safekeeping.

Best time to visit: Consider visiting during Kerala's winter season from late November until February when weather conditions are cool and pleasant with minimal rainfall.

Darshan Timings:

The Temple operates from - Morning: 3:30 AM to 12 PM. Evening: 5 PM to 6:15 PM and 6:45 PM to 7:20 PM.

NB: Only Hindu devotees are permitted to have darshan at Padmanabhaswamy Temple.

Dress Code:

Traditional attire is highly recommended when visiting the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Men are required to wear a Mundu (similar to a dhoti or veshti), with or without an Angavastram. Women are permitted to wear sarees or half sarees. Modern clothing such as jeans, shorts, or short skirts is strictly prohibited within the temple premises.

Pathways:

By Air: Trivandrum Airport is merely 5 km away.

By Rail: Thampanoor Central Railway Station sits just 1 km from this site.

By Bus: Thampanoor Bus Stand lies only at a distance of 1 km.

Nearby Attractions:

Kovalam Beach: Located approximately 9.8 km from Padmanabhaswamy Temple; it offers swimming & sunbathing activities.

Shangumugham Beach: Known for its massive "Jalakanyaka" sculpture alongside Children's Traffic Training Park.

Kuthira Malika Palace Museum: Also called Puthen Malika Palace Museum—nearby Padmanabha Swamy Temple contains sculptures made out of white marble among other artefacts.

Napier Museum: One of India's oldest historical museums established under Sir John Napier’s tenure as Governor General showcasing wood carvings; and antique collections that include Raja Ravi Varma paintings etc., for visitors’ viewing pleasure.

FAQs:

What is the history behind Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, dating back to the 8th century, is renowned for its association with Marthanda Verma, the king of Travancore, who renovated it extensively. The temple's main deity is Lord Vishnu reclining on Anantha, the Serpent, symbolizing meditation.

What are the unique features of the main idol at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

The main idol, measuring 18 ft long, is viewed through three doors: one showing the head and chest, another the hands, and the third the feet. It is composed of 12008 salagramams brought from Nepal's Gandhaki River banks.

Which festivals are celebrated at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

The temple hosts bi-annual festivals like Navratri and the unique Laksha Deepam, occurring every six years, where 100 thousand oil lamps are lit after 56 days of prayer recitation.

What is the significance of the unopened vaults (Kallaras) at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

The temple houses six vaults containing ancient treasures and valuables, believed to include contributions from Travancore Maharajahs via taxes, gifts, and conquered wealth. These vaults remain largely unopened, adding to the temple's mystique.

How can I reach Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

By Air: Trivandrum International Airport is just 5 km away.

By Rail: Thampanoor Central Railway Station is located 1 km from the temple.

By Bus: Thampanoor Bus Stand is also approximately 1 km away, making it easily accessible by road.