A symbol of Indian architecture and spirituality, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. From the magnificent paintings covering its walls to the regular holy ceremonies, the temple draws visitors from all over the world.
Apart from its religious importance, the temple provides a window into the rich culture of Kerala and its creative expression. With this list of things to do in Padmanabhaswamy Temple, you can plan your visit to a place where faith, art, and history blend into an unforgettable journey. Book a comfortable car rental in Kochi and travel to Trivandrum to offer prayers to Lord Padmanabhaswamy at this renowned temple.
Table of Contents
- About Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Darshan Timings at Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Things to Do Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Dresscode
- Poojas and Sevas at Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Entry Fees and Pooja Charges
- Festivals Celebrated at Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Other Places to Visit Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Places to Eat Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- How to Plan a Trip to Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
- Hotels and Resorts Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Nearby Road Trips from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- Useful Links
About Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the most regarded Hindu temples in India. It is the centerpiece of Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala, and is well-known for its Dravidian architecture and spiritual importance.
Trivandrum, derived from “Thiru Anantha Puram” or “The city of the Holy Anantha,” is named after the cosmic serpent upon which Lord Vishnu rests. Offering tourists a mix of historical links and modern amenities, the city functions as both the district headquarters and state capital.
Deity of Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Source: Medium
The temple’s presiding deity is Lord Vishnu, depicted in the Ananta Shayanam posture. The deity lies atop the cosmic serpent Anantha, often known as Adi Sesha. Turned inward, the serpent’s five hoods represent deep contemplation.
A Shiva lingam sits on Lord Vishnu’s right hand, symbolizing the unity between Vaishnavism and Shaivism. The consorts flanking him include Bhudevi, goddess of Earth, and Sridevi-Lakshmi, goddess of wealth. From Vishnu’s navel emerges a lotus bearing Lord Brahma, depicting the cosmic creation.
History of Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The history of Padmanabhaswamy Temple is closely linked to Trivandrum’s past. Early settlements in the Trivandrum region flourished on trade, with nearby Poovar considered an ancient port connected to Greece and Rome. The temple itself was the spiritual and political hub of Travancore, with rulers governing in the name of its presiding deity.
This distinctive relationship significantly influenced the city’s development, as evidenced by the numerous monuments and palaces constructed. Beyond spirituality, the temple’s impact is seen in the cultural and economic development of the neighborhood.
Best Time to Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The best time to visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple is the months between October and February, when the temperatures are pleasant and you can visit the temple premises in the cooler, drier weather. Kerala’s vibrant vegetation, brought on by the post-monsoon season, also provides an appealing backdrop for your religious visit.
However, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple invites tourists year-round. Remember to check the temple’s festival schedule since certain months may coincide with lively festivals, enriching your cultural experience.
Lesser–known Facts About Padmanabhaswamy Temple
- The nearby Thiruvallam Parasurama Temple marks the spot where Parasurama, Vishnu’s sixth incarnation, determined Kerala’s southern boundary.
- The central deity of Vishnu is composed of 12,008 saligrams, which are fossilized shells from the Gandaki River in Nepal.
- The deity is preserved using a unique Ayurvedic mixture called “Katusarkara yogam.”
- Under the temple lay the Temple Treasury Vaults, designated A through F. Five vaults have been unlocked, exposing great riches. However, Vault B is still closed due to a curse.
Darshan Timings at Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Those who want to seek blessings at the Padmanabhaswamy Temple must first understand its darshan time. The temple reserves certain times for visitors to worship and see Lord Vishnu in his magnificent form.
Here’s a breakdown of the darshan timings at Padmanabhaswamy Temple:
| Darshan Type | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
| First Darshan | 3:30 AM–4:45 AM | 04:30 PM–5 PM |
| General Darshan | 06:30 AM–07:00 AM | 5:30 PM–6:10 PM |
| General Darshan | 08:30 AM–10:00 AM | 6:45 PM–7:00 PM |
Things to Do Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Although the temple itself is the major draw, here is a list of things to do near Padmanabhaswamy Temple to make the most of your time:
- Visit Heritage Sites: Explore Trivandrum’s heritage with visits to Kanakakunnu Palace and Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple. The palace hosts cultural events, while the 600-year-old temple honors three incarnations of Goddess Chamundi. These historical sites offer insights into local religious traditions.
- Go Museum Hopping: Delve into Trivandrum’s rich history and art by visiting the Napier Museum and Sunil’s Wax Museum.
- Shop Your Heart Out: Experience the vibrant Chalai Market, a bustling shopping hub in Trivandrum. Open 24 hours, it offers a wide range of products, from fresh produce to traditional crafts. Its lively atmosphere and diverse stalls make it a must-visit for shoppers, cultural enthusiasts, and photographers.
- Go for a Nature Drives: Enjoy a peaceful nature drive to Neyyar Dam, 30 kilometers from Trivandrum. Nestled in the Western Ghats foothills, it offers stunning views and opportunities for boating, picnicking, and fishing. The welcoming locals and scenic beauty make it a perfect getaway from city life.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Dresscode
Maintaining a modest and uniform dress code helps the Padmanabhaswamy Temple preserve its religious sanctity and traditional customs. Visitors entering the temple grounds must follow this dressing etiquette:
- Women: Women are urged to wear traditional clothing like pavadas with blouses and traditional skirts in place of sarees. The temple administrators have relaxed their policies to allow salwar kameez and churidars too. Leggings, three-fourths trousers, and sleeveless shirts are still banned. Girls under twelve years of age have the choice to dress in gowns.
- Men: Men are expected to dress more traditionally. The typical clothing is a dhoti (mundu), which is usually worn with or without an angavastram (upper cloth). Shirts and pants are among the modern clothing items forbidden on temple grounds.
Additional Guidelines
Women wearing churidars or salwar kameez have to cover their legs with a dhoti to maintain humility. Dhotis are rented at the temple door for guests without traditional clothing.
One should be aware that the temple only lets Hindus inside. Photography and carrying of electronic gadgets are prohibited inside the temple complex.
Poojas and Sevas at Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Offering pooja or obeisance at the Padmanabhaswamy Temple comes with a deep spiritual encounter. The temple provides its visitors with several ceremonies and pooja services to show their devotion:
| Pooja/Seva Name | Significance |
| Abhishekam | A sacred ritual, where the deity is bathed with holy water, milk, and other auspicious substances. |
| Archana | Devotees recite the 108 names of Lord Padmanabha—fostering a deeper connection with the deity. |
| Udayasthamana Pooja | A comprehensive full-day ritual involving multiple offerings and prayers to the Lord. |
| Palpayasam Nivedyam | An offering of a sweet milk-based dessert to Lord Padmanabha—symbolizing devotion and gratitude. |
Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Entry Fees and Pooja Charges
Visiting the Padmanabhaswamy Temple requires specific admission fees and levies for certain poojas and ceremonies. Here’s a breakdown of the entry fees and pooja charges at this revered shrine:
Entry Fees
- Entry Fee: Free for all
- Special Darshan: INR 150
- Special Darshan with Prasad: INR 180
Pooja Charges
- Nirmalyam to Uchapooja: A series of rituals and offerings performed from the morning Nirmalyam costs nearly INR 12,000.
- Nirmalyam To Deeparadhana: Rituals from the Nirmalyam (removal of flowers and garlands offered the previous day) until the Deeparadhana (lighting of lamps) cost about INR 3,000.
- Nirmalyam to Pantheeradi Pooja: Rituals from the Nirmalyam until the Pantheeradi Pooja, which is one of the main daily rituals at the temple, cost approximately INR 5,000.
- Udayastamana Pooja: A special and elaborate pooja to seek the blessings of the presiding deities costs approximately INR 25,000.
Festivals Celebrated at Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Source: Times of India
Thousands of pilgrims attend the festivals celebrated at Padmanabhaswamy Temple, including:
- Painkuni Festival: This ten-day festival starts with the kodiyettu (flag hoisting) ceremony and runs with special rituals every day. On the ninth day, the head of the Travancore Royal Family conducts the palli vetta (royal hunt) ceremony. The aarattu procession to Shanghumugham Beach for the idol immersion marks the festival’s end.
- Alpasi Thiruvonam: This celebration honors Lord Padmanabhaswamy’s arrival before the wise Divakara Muni. It is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Alpasi and is the main annual festival of the temple.
- Karthika Deepam: Hosted in November and December, this celebration involves burning lamps surrounding the temple. It is a very important festival for certain sections of Hindu Tamils and Keralites and falls with a full moon in the Kartika constellation.
- Panguni Uthiram: Celebrated in March–April, this event commemorates Lord Padmanabhaswamy’s wedding anniversary with his consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi. Special decorations and complex ceremonies bring the temple alive. Devotees pray for marital harmony, domestic bliss, and wealth.
- Aadi Pooram: Celebrated in July–August, this festival honors the birthday of the temple’s main deity, Lord Padmanabhaswamy. Grand pujas, bhajans, and especially abhishekams, define this happy event. Lights and flowers cover the temple as visitors swarm to worship and ask divine favors.
Other Places to Visit Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Beyond the temple, nearby tourist attractions in Trivandrum allow guests to discover the city’s rich cultural legacy and natural beauty. Here are some notable places to visit near Padmanabhaswamy Temple:
Napier Museum
The museum is home to an impressive collection of archaeological relics, including bronze idols, old jewelry, and delicate ivory sculptures. It also features unique relics spanning millennia, Javanese shadow-play puppets, and temple chariot designs.
- Entry Fee: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children
- Timings: 10:00 AM–4:45 PM
- Open Days: Closed on Monday and Wednesday
Indian Coffee House
This is a historic café with fourteen outlets around Trivandrum. It is known for its nostalgic red-bricked interiors and ethnic-uniformed servers. A perfect spot for social gatherings.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Timings: 7:00 AM–9:30 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
Neyyar Dam
Located 30 kilometers from town in the Western Ghats foothills, it offers amazing views, boating, and fishing sports. The warm hospitality of the locals enhances its charm.
- Entry Fee: INR 250 for adults
- Timings: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
Chalai Market
A bustling market ideal for shopping enthusiasts, Chalai Market offers a wide range of products and a lively atmosphere. With its gorgeous street food, exploring the market is one of the best things to do in Trivandrum at night.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Open Days: Everyday (some shops closed on Sunday)
Sunil’s Wax Museum
Opened in 2005, this museum features wax statues of famous personalities like Rajnikanth, Sachin Tendulkar, and Mahatma Gandhi. It is a popular spot for photo ops with celebrity likenesses.
- Entry Fee: INR 200 for adults, free for children
- Timings: 9:00 AM–9:30 PM
- Open Days: Everyday
Trivandrum Zoo
One of India’s oldest and best-maintained zoos, Trivandrum Zoo is set amidst protected lush forested lands. It is home to a variety of exotic and native species, including lions, tigers, elephants, and reptiles.
- Entry Fee: INR 20 per person (Age above 12), INR 5 per person (Age below 12), INR 150 for car parking
- Timings: 9:00 AM–5:15 PM
- Open Days: 6 days a week, except Monday
Kanakakunnu Palace
Kanakakunnu Palace is a grand palace built during the reign of Travancore King Sree Moolam Thirunal. Its architecture blends colonial and traditional Kerala structural elements. It is now a cultural hub, hosting various events and exhibitions.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Timings: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Open Days: 6 days a week, except Monday
The Observatory
Simply known as “The Observatory,” it is situated 60 meters above sea level and offers panoramic views of Trivandrum. Established in 1837, it is now part of the University of Kerala’s Physics Department and is equipped with modern amenities like an 11-inch telescope and CCD camera.
- Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for children
- Timings: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Open Days: 6 days a week, except Sunday
Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple
Karikkakom Chamundi Devi Temple is a 600-year-old temple dedicated to all three incarnations of Goddess Chamundi: Maha Chamundi, Rakhta Chamundi, and Bala Chamundi. Located in lush, sacred grasslands, it offers a glimpse into the region’s spiritual traditions, architectural styles, and natural beauty.
- Entry Fee: No entry fee
- Timings: 5:00 AM–12:00 PM; 4:30 PM–8:00 PM
- Open Days: 7 days a week
Places to Eat Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Exploring the local culinary scene in Trivandrum may be rather fun. From classic South Indian food to upscale international cuisine, Trivandrum has various places to eat near Padmanabhaswamy Temple:
- Ananda Bhavan: There are many of these well-known restaurant chains in Trivandrum, including ones in Palayam and Statue Junction. Ananda Bhavan is renowned for its South Indian food and fast service.
- Hotel Annapoorna: Hotel Annapoorna is a prominent brand in Trivandrum’s eating scene, with multiple locations throughout the city. It is renowned for its varied South Indian cuisine, including many vegetarian and vegan choices, which suit various dietary tastes.
- Ariya Nivaas: Along with accommodation choices, this vegetarian hotel and restaurant provide a comfortable dining environment. Ariya Nivaas serves an extensive selection of South Indian vegetarian and vegan dishes in both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned dining areas.
- Villa Maya: Villa Maya offers a unique mix of history and cuisine for a more elegant dining experience. This restaurant highlights food inspired by Kerala’s spice trade out of a refurbished 18th-century royal home. Villa Maya offers a refined setting with indoor and patio seats, perfect for guests wishing to indulge in a memorable lunch.
How to Plan a Trip to Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
Planning a visit to Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum requires careful preparation. Start by booking your accommodation in advance, choosing from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Coordinate your temple visit with nearby attractions like Trivandrum Zoo and Kanakakunnu Palace.
When packing, consider the temple’s entrance policies and dress code. Plan your transportation, whether by public transit or local cab. Savor Kerala’s cuisine at nearby restaurants like Ananda Bhavan or Villa Maya. Immerse yourself in local culture by attending a Kathakali performance or a temple festival. Finally, set aside time to explore nearby markets for souvenirs and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
How to Reach Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
Options on how to reach Padmanabhaswamy Temple are easy, given the many modes of transportation at hand. Here’s how one may reach the famous temple:
By Train
The most easy choice for those taking a train is the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station. Just 600 meters away from the temple, the destination can be reached easily in 8 minutes. On the other hand, guests can also take a train to Kochuveli Railway Station, 7 kilometers away from the temple, and cover the distance by a 17-minute drive. You can book a local hourly car rental in Trivandrum with Savaari and travel to the temple and other prominent places in the city in chauffeur-driven cabs.
By Road
The closest bus stop to the temple is the Vizhinjam Bus Station. About 14 kilometers away, the trip to the temple takes about 30 minutes. For this travel, local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are easily accessible. You can hire chauffeur-driven cabs like Savaari Car Rentals and travel comfortably to Padmanabhaswamy Temple and other prominent places of worship nearby.
By Flight
The closest airport to the temple is Trivandrum (TRV) Airport, which is 3 kilometers away. It has direct flights to and from major cities. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a cab to reach the temple. You can also book an airport taxi from Trivandrum and enjoy a comfortable ride to the temple.
Other nearby airports include Kochi (COK), which is 195.6 kilometers away, and Madurai (IXM), located at a distance of 196.4 kilometers from the temple. You can hire an airport taxi in Kochi with Savaari and travel to Trivandrum conveniently.
Hotels and Resorts Near Padmanabhaswamy Temple
A pleasant stay depends on selecting appropriate accommodation while visiting the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum.
From low-cost guesthouses, opulent resorts, historic hotels, to modern corporate lodging—guests may choose the ideal spot to relax after seeing the temple and surroundings.
Some of the noteworthy hotels and resorts near the Padmanabhaswamy Temple include:
| Hotel Name | Address | Phone Number |
| Hotel Rajadhani | Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram | 9446088520 |
| Lalit Mahal Hotel | FWMR+QGH, Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram | Not available |
| Premier House | Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram | 04712461121 |
| Hotel Highland | Santhi Nagar, Thampanoor, Thiruvananthapuram | 04712333200 |
Nearby Road Trips from Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Here are some of the most popular and highest-rated road trips you can embark on from the Padmanabhaswamy Temple:
| Destination | Distance by Road (Approx.) | Price |
| Trivandrum to Kollam | 67 Km | ₹2661 |
| Trivandrum to Nagercoil | 68 Km | ₹3391 |
| Trivandrum to Tirunelveli | 158 Km | ₹4567 |
| Trivandrum to Thoothukudi | 206 Km | ₹3689 |
With this list of things to do in Padmanabhaswamy Temple, experience the spiritual grandeur of the temple and the stunning beauty of Trivandrum in peace and comfort. Plan your trip by downloading the Savaari app and ensure a flawless and unforgettable journey to this holy site and beyond.
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Last Updated on August 10, 2024 by V Subhadra
