FAQ

Popular religious and pilgrimage sites in Kerala, including temples, churches and mosques

Kerala accommodates numerous revered religious and pilgrimage destinations, each reflecting the state’s rich spiritual heritage, architectural brilliance and cultural diversity. Here are some of the most notable ones:

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (Thiruvananthapuram)
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is famed for its architectural grandeur and the idol of Lord Padmanabha in a reclining posture.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple (Thiruvananthapuram)
Known as the “Sabarimala of Women,” this temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy. The Attukal Pongala festival, during which millions of women prepare a special offering, is a spectacular annual event.

Beemapally Dargah Shareef (Thiruvananthapuram)
Located between Valiyathura and Poonthura, this dargah is dedicated to Syedunnisa Beema Beevi and her son. Known for its Indo-Saracenic architectural style, the mosque welcomes visitors from all faiths. The annual Uroos festival is a major event associated with this pilgrim centre.

Sabarimala Temple (Pathanamthitta)
Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, Sabarimala is one of Kerala's most famous pilgrimage sites, attracting millions of devotees annually, especially during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season.

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple (Pathanamthitta)
Located on the banks of the Pamba River, this temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is famous for the annual Aranmula Boat Race, held as part of the Ashtami Rohini festival.

Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple (Alappuzha)
Devoted to the serpent deity Nagaraja, this unique temple is a significant site for serpent worship, and is visited by devotees seeking blessings for health and prosperity.

St Mary’s Forane Church, Athirampuzha (Kottayam)
This Christian pilgrimage site is famous for the Feast of St Sebastian, drawing pilgrims from across Kerala.

Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple (Ernakulam)
Dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy, this temple is famous for the ritual Makam Thozhal, which draws large crowds of devotees.

Malayattoor Church (Ernakulam)
Situated on Kurisumudi hill, this Christian pilgrimage site is dedicated to St Thomas. Pilgrims climb the hill during the Malayattoor Perunnal seeking blessings from the saint.

Guruvayur Temple (Thrissur)
This temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is renowned for its traditional Kerala-style architecture, and attracts devotees from all over the world.

Kodungallur Bhagavathy Temple (Thrissur)
Also known as Kurumba Bhagavathy Temple, this shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. The vibrant Bharani festival, featuring unique rituals and processions, is a highlight of this temple.

These sacred destinations showcase Kerala’s harmonious blend of spirituality, tradition, and architectural splendour, making them must-visit places for travellers and pilgrims alike.