Temples in Kerala

Kerala has a rich repertoire of historic and cultural monuments, which represent a unique amalgam of various styles of architecture. Nalukettu is the main architectural style though in regions like Fort Kochi, a curious mix of European, Chinese, Jewish and Arabic styles are evident in the architecture. Kashimath Temple The Sri Kashi Muth near Chemgam, West Hill, Calicut, was established in 1983 through the efforts of the community in Calicut. The Muth conducts many religious functions. Laxmi Venkatesh Temple Tours The Sri Laxmi Venkatesh Temple at Hosdurg in Kanhangad was built December 1989. Garuda Temple Tours The Sri Garuda Temple is actually located on the boundary of the Thirumala Devaswom Temple in Cochin. The idol of Sri Garuda is around six feet high. Udyaneswara Temple Tours The Shivalingom embedded and installed in this temple, it is believed, belonged to Trikanna Mathilakam, in Trichur District. Dissentions among the Uralers, Thekkedath and Vadakkedath Nairs led to the decline of the temple and later on the place went into the hands of the Dutch from Samoothiri. A unique feature of this temple is that on the 7th day of Mahotsava and Rathotsava Thirumala Devar is taken in grand procession to the Udyaneswara Temple, the assumption being that Lord Venkatesa goes to meet Lord Udyaneswara to invite him for Pallivetta i. e. hunting. This may also be considered a symbol of cordiality between Vaishnavites and Saivites. Sabarimala Temple Tours Sabarimala is a renowned pilgrim centre atop the rugged hills of the Western Ghats. This holy shrine is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The sanctum sanctoram nestles 914 m above sea level, amidst the virgin forest wilderness of the Western Ghats. Only young girls who have not attained womanhood and old women who have reached menopause are allowed to worship at this time. The men must vow to walk bare foot, not cut their nails and hair, sleep on the floor and practise absolute abstinence during the period of their penance. How to reach there Transportation is available upto Pamba, from where one has to travel a distance of 5 kms on foot. Devotees undertake rigorous penance, ritualistic vows and fasts before they visit the temple. Best Time to Visit There are two main pujas called the Mandal Puja and the Makara Sankranti Puja, which are celebrated from November to Middle of January in Kerala, during which time the devotees perform austerities and penance. Guruvayoor Temple Tours A temple, famous all over India as a pilgrim centre, dedicated to Lord Krishna popularly known as Guruvayoorappan. The Sreekrishna idol of this temple is believed to have been worshipped by Vasudevar and Devaki at Dwaraka. This shrine popularly known as 'Dakshina Dwaraka' (Dwaraka of south) is in the form of a rectangle. There are a lot of mural paintings around the 'Shrikovil' (Shrine). How to reach there Air : Nearest international airport is at Nedumbassery (87 km). Road: The place is well connected to neighbouring places by good motorable roads.