Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Standing as a testament to grandeur and rich heritage, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is an awe-inspiring architectural marvel. Renowned as the world's wealthiest temple, it features an idol carved from 12,000 Shaligram stones, sourced from the River Gandaki in Nepal. The temple's magnificent 100-foot tall gopuram welcomes visitors into a realm of splendor, where an 18-foot idol of Lord Anantha Padmanabhaswamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, resides. Elaborately carved pillars adorned with sculptures and murals of Hindu deities guide the way, leading to the sanctum where the lord is depicted in the Ananthasayanam posture, reclining on the divine serpent Adishesha. The temple's Dravidian architecture seamlessly blends with Kerala's distinctive style, reflecting a history dating back 5,000 years as depicted in ancient legends inscribed on palm leaves. Beyond its opulence, the temple safeguards a treasure trove of coins, ornaments, statues, and artifacts from around the world, safeguarded in a series of vaults. 

Devotees can view different aspects of the deity through three doors, including Lord Brahma emerging from the navel, and witness the presence of other deities such as Shiva, Lakshmi, and Bhu Devi. With shrines dedicated to revered figures like Narasimha, Lord Krishna, Ganesh, and Lord Ram with Sita, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple holds profound religious and architectural significance, making it a must-visit destination for those in Kerala.

Location : Kollam
Distance from the hotel : 72.5 km
Distance from the airport : 4 km 
Driving time : 2 hours