Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is Kerala’s popular Lord Vishnu’s temple. This temple is a recognition of architectural grandiose and timeless spirituality. There is a traditional shrine that reflects the deep roots of religious traditions and rich cultural heritage. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is established inside the East Fort of the city. The temple’s history dates back to the 8th century, which is more like a mix of Dravidian and architectural styles.
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Darshan Timings
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple follows a fixed schedule for darshan. Devotees are advised to plan their visit according to the timings below.
Morning:
- 3:15 am to 4:15 am (Nirmalya Darshanam)
- 6:30 am to 7:00 am
- 8.30 am to 10:00 am
- 10:30 am to 11:10 am
- 11:45 am to 12:00 pm
Evening:
- 5:00 pm to 6:15 pm
- 6:45 pm to 7:20 pm
Amazing Facts about Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The Idol Composition
- Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple was originally built of wood, and then it was constructed with granite.
- There are 365 pillars, which means one pillar equals one day.
- The Lord Vishnu is in a sleeping position, depicting the trinity (Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva), which is a composition of resin, sand and herbs.
- The presiding idol of the deity has almost 12008 salagramams bought from Nepal. There is a belief associated with it that it has been taken from the banks of the River Gandhaki.
Three Doors for Darshan
- The most astounding feature of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is that it has idols in different positions, such as sitting, reclining and standing postures.
- In Sanctum Sanctorum, there is a main idol which is 18 feet long and in the reclining position.
- There are three doors, the first door reflecting the Lord’s face and the Siva Linga underneath his hand, while the second door reflects Brahma sitting on the lotus flowing from the Lord’s navel, along with the “Utsava moorthi”. While the idol can be seen from the central door in a standing position, Lakshmi devi (goddess of wealth), Lord MahaVishnu and Bhoomi devi. Lastly, the third door is from the Lord’s feet. Utsava Murthi, which is an idol taken out just for the festival processions, is in a sitting posture.
Usage of Gold
The Sree Padmanabha Swamy idol is fully covered in Gold by a “Thanka Anki”. The Ottakkal Mandapam is covered in gold, which is in front of the Sreekovil. There is a flag mast of the idol also in gold. The Navaratna Payasam for the pooja is provided in the Gold vessels. Moreover, the entire body of Lord Padmanabha’s idol is in gold except the chest and face.
The Mysterious Vaults
There are 6 vaults, such as Kallaras, classified from A-F. Also, according to the Supreme Court instructions, Chamber A opened on 2 July 20211. In the chamber, there are medallions, gold coins, gold jewellery, model necklaces, precious stones, headsets, golden armlets, studded ornaments, diamonds, silver biscuits, golden lotuses, pearl jewels and various other decorative items for the pooja items, Garudavahana and the other festival equipment. The majority of the treasure was discovered in Chamber A. On the other hand, Vault B is the final one and has not been opened.
The Sacred Padmatheertham
The Padmatheertham is referred to as the oldest water body in Thiruvananthapuram, which is known as the temple's pond. There is a reference to these ponds in various Hindu scriptures. It has also been said by Srimad Bhagavatha that Balarama once visited the temple, took a bath in Padmatheertham and made different offerings.
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Architectural Brilliance
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple’s interiors are beautifully decorated with unique murals and paintings. The maximum number of them are depictions of Lord Ganapati, Gaja Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu (In a reclining position) and Narasimha Swamy (half-man incarnation of Lord Vishnu, half-lion). The dhwaja stamba is above 80ft high and covered with gold-plated copper. The Mukha Mandapam and Bali Peeda Mandapam have the halls embellished with different Hindu deity sculptures. Another striking feature of Navagraha Mandapa is its ability to capture visitors’ attention. Also, the ceiling represents navagrahas (i.e. the nine planets).
There are the broad corridors that have an extension from the eastern side into the sanctum sanctorum, giving a sight of the complete area, while the one-quarter granite stone pillars are sculpted with beautiful carvings. Just below the main entrance, and on the eastern side, lies a nataka sala, i.e. a drama hall. During the Malayalam months of Thulam and Meenam, the nataka sala becomes lively with Kathakali performance.
What is the Famous Prasadam in Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
At Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, devotees are given Paal Payasam, Aravana Payasam, Sweet Fried Rice, Unnivappam and the Jaggery Balls.
What is the Dress Code for Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
Bifurcated garments or shorts for either sex are not allowed. Men can rent a mundu to wear over the pants, but sarees are not available for rent for women. Also, half-sleeve shirts, half pants and tee shirts are not allowed. Even denim clothes and Bermuda shorts are not allowed.
Which door is not open in Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
This one is the mysterious sealed door in the modern world. Like other vaults that have been opened, this is the one that has never been opened under the court supervision, and Door B is still untouched due to religious beliefs. It is also believed that there are ceremonial repositories, sacred objects, or even treasures that were never displayed.
What is the Curse of Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
There is a committee of five members that is responsible for the administration. Vinod Rai once audited the assets, temple properties and accounts. In July 2011, the general public came to know that the vault’s hidden treasures are worth Rs. 100000 crore after the submission of the first report by Vinod Rai. The treasure was five feet beneath the ground. There are sayings that Vault B has not opened ever. But, as per the reports by Rai, the vault was opened twice, i.e., in 1990 and five times in 2002.
Best Time to Visit Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Peak Season (October to February)
- Pleasant weather with a moderate temperature between 18°C and 32°C
- Enjoy the early morning darshan and Alphasi Utsav
Moderate Season (March to May)
- Humid and hot temperatures between 24°C and 35°C
- Enjoy the Panguni Festival
How to Reach
By Air
Thiruvanathapuram is 4 km away.
By Train
The Thiruvanathapuram railway station is 1 km away.
By Road
KSRTC, Thiruvanathapuram is 1 km away.
What’s more, you can explore!
Once your visit is over, you can plan to visit the Thiruvanathapuram Zoo, which has wildlife encounters. Talking about the history, you get to enjoy the grandeur of the artefacts at Kuthiramalika Palace Museum or the Kerala Legislature Complex. At a short distance, there is Shankumugham Beach, which showcases vibrant sunsets and golden sands for perfect rejuvenation. The Napier Museum displays a mix of history and art. A visit to Padmanabhaswamy Temple will give you a captivating experience.
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