Temples governed by Travancore Devaswom Board

No.	Name of Temple	Location	Taluk	Concept (Kalpa)
1	Anchumoorthy Temple	Vilaykkad	Chirayinkeezhu	Combined
2	Anchumoorthy Temple	Airur	Chirayinkeezhu	Combined
3	Ardhanareeswara Temple	Koyikkal	Nedumangad	Siva
4	Baladurga Temple	Aniyur	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
5	Balasubramya Temple	Ullur	Thiruvananthapuram	Subramanya
6	Bhadrakali Temple	Thennur	Nedumangad	Durga
7	Bhadrakali Temple	keezhsherimadam	Neyyattinkara	Durga
8	Bhadrakali Temple	Vellayani	Neyyattinkara	Durga
9	Bhagavathy Temple	Koikkal	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
10	Bhagavathy Temple	Palliyarakkavu	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
11	Bhagavathy Temple	Chemmaruthy	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
12	Bhagavathy Temple	Karett	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
13	Bhagavathy Temple	Kappil	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
14	Bhagavathy Temple	Kallampotta	Nedumangad	Durga
15	Bhagavathy Temple	Aruvikkara	Nedumangad	Durga
16	Bhagavathy Temple	Alanthara	Nedumangad	Durga
17	Bhagavathy Temple	Parasuvakkal	Neyyattinkara	Durga
18	Bhagavathy Temple	Mekkolla	Neyyattinkara	Durga
19	Bhagavathy Temple	Alanthara	Neyyattinkara	Durga
20	Bhagavathy Temple	Koyikkal	Neyyattinkara	Durga
21	Bhagavathy Temple	Palliyara	Neyyattinkara	Durga
22	Bhagavathy Temple	Vizhinjam	Neyyattinkara	Durga
23	Bhagavathy Temple	Mannadi	Neyyattinkara	Durga
24	Bhagavathy Temple	Venganur	Neyyattinkara	Durga
25	Bhagavathy Temple	Thonnal	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
26	Devi Temple	Sarkara	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
27	Devi Temple	Thiruvarattukavu	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
28	Devi Temple	Manambur	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
29	Devi Temple	Cherunniyur	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
30	Devi Temple	Mudapuram	Nedumangad	Durga
31	Devi Temple	Perunthara	Nedumangad	Durga
32	Devi Temple	Murynkara	Neyyattinkara	Durga
33	Devi Temple	Vellarada	Neyyattinkara	Durga
34	Devi Temple	Cherupazhinjikkavu	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
35	Devi Temple	Chenthitta	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
36	Devi Temple	Aryasala	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
37	Devi Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
38	Devi Temple	Punnapuram	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
39	Devi Temple	Mudikkittan Nada	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
40	Devi Temple	Palkulangara	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
41	Devi Temple	Shanghumukham	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
42	Devi Temple	Kavinkulangara	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
43	Devi Temple	Kusamuttom	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
44	Durga Temple	Kunthallurkkavu	Chirayinkeezhu	Durga
45	Durga Temple	Kuttarakkal	Neyyattinkara	Durga
46	Durga Temple	Keezhattukavu	Thiruvananthapuram	Durga
47	Ganapathy Temple	Kuttichal	Nedumangad	Ganapathy
48	Ganapathy Temple	Thevalakkara	Nedumangad	Ganapathy
49	Ganapathy Temple	Idavur	Neyyattinkara	Ganapathy
50	Ganapathy Temple	Thirunarayanapuram	Neyyattinkara	Ganapathy
51	Ganapathy Temple	Sreevaraham	Thiruvananthapuram	Ganapathy
52	Ganapathy Temple	Arasumoodu	Thiruvananthapuram	Ganapathy
53	Ganapathy Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Ganapathy
54	Ganapathy Temple	Kammattom, Pattur	Thiruvananthapuram	Ganapathy
55	Ganapathy Temple	Palkulangara	Thiruvananthapuram	Ganapathy
56	Hanuman Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Others
57	Hanuman Temple	Palayam	Thiruvananthapuram	Others
58	Indalayappan (Siva) Temple	Thenkarathala	Nedumangad	Siva
59	Janardhana Swamy Temple	Varkala	Chirayinkeezhu	Vishnu
60	Madanthampuran Temple	Anad	Nedumangad	Siva

61	Madaswamy Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Others
62	Maha Ganapathy Temple	Pazhavangadi	Thiruvananthapuram	Ganapathy
63	Maha Vishnu Temple	Kelamangalam	Chirayinkeezhu	Vishnu
64	Maha Vishnu Temple	Arathi	Chirayinkeezhu	Vishnu
65	Maha Vishnu Temple	Kavalyur	Chirayinkeezhu	Vishnu
66	Maha Vishnu Temple	Perumkulathur	Nedumangad	Vishnu
67	Maha Vishnu Temple	Mukhavur	Nedumangad	Vishnu
68	Maha Vishnu Temple	Attipuzha	Nedumangad	Vishnu
69	Maha Vishnu Temple	Vamanapuram	Nedumangad	Vishnu
70	Maha Vishnu Temple	Thrikanapuram	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
71	Maha Vishnu Temple	Verachakram	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
72	Maha Vishnu Temple	Chandramangalam	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
73	Maha Vishnu Temple	Vellur	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
74	Maha Vishnu Temple	Aithiyur	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
75	Maha Vishnu Temple	Thrikulangara	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
76	Maha Vishnu Temple	Thrippaliyur	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
77	Maha Vishnu Temple	Nambyarmoola	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
78	Maha Vishnu Temple	Vevila	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
79	Maha Vishnu Temple	Kesavadichapuram	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
80	Maha Vishnu Temple	Thrivikramamangalam	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
81	Maha Vishnu Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
82	Maha Vishnu Temple	Mullassery	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
83	Maha Vishnu Temple	Kurakkod	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
84	Mahadev Temple	Valiya Udayeswaram	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
85	Mahadeva Temple	Kunthallur	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
86	Mahadeva Temple	Kappil	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
87	Mahadeva Temple	Parassala	Neyyattinkara	Siva
88	Mahadeva Temple	Arayur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
89	Mahadeva Temple	Arangil	Neyyattinkara	Siva
90	Mahadeva Temple	Rameswaran	Neyyattinkara	Siva
91	Mahadeva Temple	Koottappana	Neyyattinkara	Siva
92	Mahadeva Temple	Chezhunganur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
93	Mahadeva Temple	Ankode	Neyyattinkara	Siva
94	Mahadeva Temple	Ottasekharamangalam	Neyyattinkara	Siva
95	Mahadeva Temple	Hrishiswaram	Neyyattinkara	Siva
96	Mahadeva Temple	Thaliyadichapuram	Neyyattinkara	Siva
97	Mahadeva Temple	Neeramankara	Neyyattinkara	Siva
98	Mahadeva Temple	Thaliyil	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
99	Mahadeva Temple	Chengallur, Poojappura	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
100	Mahadeva Temple	Kusakkode	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
101	Mahadeva Temple	Valiyasala	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
102	Mahadeva Temple	Sreekanteswaram	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
103	Mahadeva Temple	Goureesapattom	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
104	Mahadeva Temple	Sasthamangalam	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
105	Mahadeva Temple	Kunnam	Thiruvananthapuram	siva
106	Mahadeva Temple	Kudappanakkunnu	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
107	Mahadeva Temple	Uliyazhthura	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
108	Mahadeva Temple	Kazhakoottam	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
109	Mahadeva Temple	Thrippapur	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
110	Mahadeva Temple	Kadinamkulam	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
111	Mahadeva Temple	Thirupuram	Neyyattinkara	Siva
112	Mahadeva Temple (Thekkedam)	Enikkara	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
113	Mahadeva Temple(Vadakedam)	Enikkara	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
114	Mahadeve Temple	Pozhiyur	Neyyattinkara	Siva

115	Mahavishnu Temple	Thrikanapuram	Nedumangad	Vishnu
116	Mahavishnu Temple	Kelamangalam	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
117	Mahavishnu Temple	Sreedharamangalam	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
118	Mithranandapuram Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Combined
119	Nagaraja Temple	Attingal	Chirayinkeezhu	Others
120	Parasurama Temple	Thiruvallom	Thiruvananthapuram	Others
121	Rajarajeswari Temple	Nanthancode	Thiruvananthapuram	Others
122	Ramaswamy Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
123	Sabhapathy Temple	Aryasala	Thiruvananthapuram	Others
124	Sankaranarayana Temple	Navayikulam	Chirayinkeezhu	Combined
125	Sankaranarayana Temple	Thathamala	Neyyattinkara	Combined
126	Sankaranarayana Temple	Kulasekharam	Thiruvananthapuram	Combined
127	Sapthamatha Temple	Kelamangalam	Thiruvananthapuram	Combined
128	Sastha Temple	Kakkott	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
129	Sastha Temple	Poorappayam	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
130	Sastha Temple	Palakunnu	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
131	Sastha Temple	Vilakkudy	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
132	Sastha Temple	Kulamuttom	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
133	Sastha Temple	Thettiman	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
134	Sastha Temple	Udayakunnam	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
135	Sastha Temple	Cherukunnam	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
136	Sastha Temple	Chenamkode	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
137	Sastha Temple	Varkala	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
138	Sastha Temple	Elakamon	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
139	Sastha Temple	Venkulam	Chirayinkeezhu	Sastha
140	Sastha Temple	Kattal	Nedumangad	Sastha
141	Sastha Temple	Ayanimoodu	Nedumangad	Sastha
142	Sastha Temple	Veeranakavu	Nedumangad	Sastha
143	Sastha Temple	Kuttichal	Nedumangad	Sastha
144	Sastha Temple	Kulappada	Nedumangad	Sastha
145	Sastha Temple	Punalal	Nedumangad	Sastha
146	Sastha Temple	Arasuparambu	Nedumangad	Sastha
147	Sastha Temple	Kurunchilakkode	Nedumangad	Sastha
148	Sastha Temple	Kuttiyani	Nedumangad	Sastha
149	Sastha Temple	Muramel	Nedumangad	Sastha
150	Sastha Temple	Pacha-Palode	Nedumangad	Sastha
151	Sastha Temple	Pankode	Nedumangad	Sastha
152	Sastha Temple	Thalayattumala	Nedumangad	Sastha
153	Sastha Temple	Mathanad	Nedumangad	Sastha
154	Sastha Temple	Kuttur	Nedumangad	Sastha
155	Sastha Temple	Inchivila	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
156	Sastha Temple	Mavelikantan	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
157	Sastha Temple	Ayyankuzhikaavu	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
158	Sastha Temple	Kurunthiyur	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
159	Sastha Temple	Kottamam	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
160	Sastha Temple	Uppazhinji	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
161	Sastha Temple	Venchankulangara	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
162	Sastha Temple	Chathottam	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
163	Sastha Temple	Papchayam	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
164	Sastha Temple	Ramapuram	Neyyattinkara	Sastha

165	Sastha Temple	Thonnamala	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
166	Sastha Temple	Pukilanthara	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
167	Sastha Temple	Vazhichal	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
168	Sastha Temple	Ozhukupara	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
169	Sastha Temple	Thachottukavu	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
170	Sastha Temple	Pottankavu	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
171	Sastha Temple	Manapuram	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
172	Sastha Temple	Anikulath	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
173	Sastha Temple	Karingal	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
174	Sastha Temple	Arangal	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
175	Sastha Temple	Vembannur	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
176	Sastha Temple	Manakkad	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
177	Sastha Temple	Kakkat	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
178	Sastha Temple	Manakkad	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
179	Sastha Temple	Thuruthipally	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
180	Sastha Temple	Choozhampala	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
181	Sastha Temple	Vazhayila	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
182	Sastha Temple	Kunnurkkal	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
183	Sastha Temple	Keezhkunnam	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
184	Sastha Temple	Nagamandalam	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
185	Sastha Temple	Kurattur	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
186	Sastha Temple	Irumbulingal	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
187	Sastha Temple	Theepatti	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
188	Sastha Temple	Kadinamkulam	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
189	Sastha Temple	Kozhimada	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
190	Sastha Temple	Mulakkod	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
191	Sastha Temple	Pangode	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
192	Satha Temple	Cheriyakavu	Neyyattinkara	Sastha
193	Siva (Udayamarthanda) Temple	Venganur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
194	Siva Temple	Keleswaram	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
195	Siva Temple	Attingal	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
196	Siva Temple	Koduman	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
197	Siva Temple	Puthukunnu	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
198	Siva Temple	Sankaramangalam	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
199	Siva Temple	Pulimath	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
200	Siva Temple	Anakunnam	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva

201	Siva Temple	Kulappuram	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
202	Siva Temple	Kurusikode	Chirayinkeezhu	siva
203	Siva Temple	Vayalkulam	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
204	Siva Temple	Nagarur	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
205	Siva Temple	Venkulam	Chirayinkeezhu	Siva
206	Siva Temple	Keezhvanda	Nedumangad	Siva
207	Siva Temple	Nedumon	Nedumangad	Siva
208	Siva Temple	Eliyavur	Nedumangad	Siva
209	Siva Temple	Kuryathi	Nedumangad	Siva
210	Siva Temple	Mundela	Nedumangad	Siva
211	Siva Temple	Edamon	Nedumangad	Siva
212	Siva Temple	Anad	Nedumangad	Siva
213	Siva Temple	Thiruchitur	Nedumangad	Siva
214	Siva Temple	Manikkal	Nedumangad	Siva
215	Siva Temple	Plakkeezhu	Nedumangad	Siva
216	Siva Temple	Manikkode	Nedumangad	Siva
217	Siva Temple	Nellanad	Nedumangad	Siva
218	Siva Temple	Kottakunnam	Nedumangad	Siva
219	Siva Temple	Aynkamam	Neyyattinkara	Siva
220	Siva Temple	Kavuvila	Neyyattinkara	Siva
221	Siva Temple	Pudukulam	Neyyattinkara	Siva
222	Siva Temple	Veyilakom	Neyyattinkara	Siva
223	Siva Temple	Neelakanteswaram	Neyyattinkara	Siva
224	Siva Temple	Thekkumkara	Neyyattinkara	Siva
225	Siva Temple	Vellaral	Neyyattinkara	Siva
226	Siva Temple	Aruvallur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
227	Siva Temple	Alatharakkal	Neyyattinkara	Siva
228	Siva Temple	Deveswaram	Neyyattinkara	Siva
229	Siva Temple	Vazhuhur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
230	Siva Temple	Thrippalavur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
231	Siva Temple	Kolur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
232	Siva Temple	Thrikkadambu	Neyyattinkara	Siva
233	Siva Temple	Thevarkala	Neyyattinkara	Siva
234	Siva Temple	Thrikanjirapuram	Neyyattinkara	siva
235	Siva Temple	Mankaramuttom	Neyyattinkara	Siva
236	Siva Temple	Kayanimangalam	Neyyattinkara	Siva
237	Siva Temple	Vilappil	Neyyattinkara	Siva
238	Siva Temple	Eruthavur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
239	Siva Temple	Keleswaram	Neyyattinkara	Siva
240	Siva Temple	Thaliyur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
241	Siva Temple	Vizhinjam	Neyyattinkara	Siva
242	Siva Temple	Cherubalamandam	Neyyattinkara	Siva
243	Siva Temple	Karakandeswaram	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
244	Siva Temple	Thirunarayanapuram	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
245	Siva Temple	Kamaleswaram	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
246	Siva Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
247	Siva Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
248	Siva Temple	Thaliyur	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
249	Siva Temple	Kapaleeswaram	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
250	Siva Temple	Anandeswaram	Nedumangad	Siva

251	Siva Temple	Pozhiyur	Neyyattinkara	Siva
252	Siva Tmple	Kottiyil	Neyyattinkara	Siva
253	Siva Tmple	Thirumanur	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
254	Siva Tmple	Karur	Thiruvananthapuram	Siva
255	Sri Krishna Temple	Neyyattinkara	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
256	Sri Krishna Temple	Attingal	Chirayinkeezhu	Vishnu
257	Sri Krishna Temple	Vilakkinimangalam	Chirayinkeezhu	Vishnu
258	Sri Krishna Temple	Melperoor	Chirayinkeezhu	Vishnu
259	Sri Krishna Temple	Ottur	Chirayinkeezhu	Vishnu
260	Sri Krishna Temple	Pirappancode	Nedumangad	Vishnu
261	Sri Krishna Temple	Parameswaram	Nedumangad	Vishnu
262	Sri Krishna Temple	Maninad	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
263	Sri Krishna Temple	Punnapuram	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
264	Sri Krishna Temple	Palkulangara	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
265	Sri Krishna Temple	Pothencode	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
266	Sri Krishna Temple	Perurkada	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
267	Sri Krishna Temple	Uliyanadu	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
268	Sri Krishna Temple	Eravipuram	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
269	Sri Krishna Temple	Kulangara	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
270	Sri Krishna Temple	Ramapuram	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
271	Sri Krishnaswamy Temple	Malayinkizhu	Neyyattinkara	Vishnu
272	Subramanya Temple	Keezhattingal	Chirayinkeezhu	Subramanya
273	Subramanya Temple	Kadakkavur	Chirayinkeezhu	Subramanya
274	Subramanya Temple	Vellanad	Nedumangad	Subramanya
275	Subramanya Temple	Thevakonam	Nedumangad	Subramanya
276	Subramanya Temple	Marthandeswaram	Neyyattinkara	Subramanya
277	Subramanya Temple	Puthenchanthai	Thiruvananthapuram	Subramanya
278	Subramanya Temple	Kavallurkonam	Thiruvananthapuram	Subramanya
279	Thampuran Temple	Pottakkal	Neyyattinkara	Others
280	VarahamoorthyTemple	Sreevaraham	Thiruvananthapuram	Vishnu
281	Vettakkorumakan Temple	Fort	Thiruvananthapuram	Sastha
282	Vinayaka Temple	Palayam	Thiruvananthapuram	Ganapathy
283	Yogeeswara Temple	Kunnumpuram	Neyyattinkara	Others

SREE PADMANABHA SWAMY TEMPLE

Location: Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple is located at the Fort, a place in heart of Thiruvananthapuram town.
Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram (1.5 km)
Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (5 km)
Legend/History: The legend concerning the origin of the temple is that Sage Divakara Muni, (another version is that it was Villwamangalath Swamiyar – both are ardent devotees of Lord Maha Vishnu) invited a charming boy who apeared before the Sage to stay with him. The boy accepted the invitation on condition that he would leave the sage on the very moment any displeasure is shown to him. The boy was very naughty. One day he put a salagram stone worshipped by the sage into his mouth. Unable to control his rage, the sage reacted and the boy left on the moment. Soon the sage heard an incorporeal voice that if he wanted to see the child he should come to the Anantha forest. At once the sage realised who the boy was. He set out to find out the Anantha forest and on the way while taking rest under a tree he heard mother from a pulaya (a community belonging to lower strata) hut uttering to her child that unless he stops screaming he would be thrown to the Anantha forest. The sage met the mother and found way to the forest. There he saw an Ilippa tree (Indian Butter tree) fell on the ground transformed into the shape of Anathasayana having a length of 18 miles – the head at Thiruvallam, body at Thiruvananthapuram and feet in Thrippadapuram. It was none but the Lord Maha Vishnu himself. Unable to see the full figure of the Lord, the sage prayed to shrink the size to be not bigger than three times the length of his staff. The Lord fulfilled the desire of his devotee. Later the temple was constructed by the Maharajah, the ruler of the country, on the very spot.
The antiquity of the temple is not known exactly but there were evidences to show that the temple existed prior to 3rd century B.C. Earlier, the idol of deity was made of Iluppa (Indian Butter tree) but it was scarred by fire in 1686 AD. The present idol of Sri Padmanabha was made in 1733 AD using salagramas by Sri Balaranyakonideva. The foundation stone of Gopura was laid during 1565 AD and completed the construction in 1753 AD. The temple is closely associated with the political history of Travancore. On 5th Makaram 925 (ME) (3rd January 1750 AD), Anizham Thirunal Maharaja Marthanda Varma dedicated his entire kingdom, his powers and privileges as a ruler to Sree Padmanabha and pledged that he and his successors would rule the state as an ambassador of the Lord and known as Padamanabhadasa (servant of the Lord Padmanabha). From 225 M.E. (1050 A.D.), the temple and its property were controlled by Thiruvananthapuram Sabha and later by Ettara Yogam with the assistance of Ettuveetil Pillamar. In the first half of the 18th century, in line with matrilineal customs, King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma suppressed the 700-year stranglehold of the Errara Yogam and Ettuveetil Pillamar and took over the control. Now the temple administration is done by a Trust headed by the royal family of Travancore.
Deity: The principal deity, Sree Padmanabha (Maha Vishnu) is seen in a reclining pose on the three-coiled, five-hooded holy snake Anantha and hence the deity is known as Ananthasayana Sree Padmanabha Swamy. The three doors to the shrine give darshan of the head, naval portion and the feet of the deity. Below the right hand in Chinmudra of the deity there is Sivalinga. A lotus can also be seen on the other hand. A lotus spouts out from the naval portion where Brahma is seated. These symbolise the presence of three powers – creation, preservation and destruction. The 18 ½ feet long idol is made up of 12008 salagrams (stones represent Maha Vishnu) brought on elephant tops from the banks of river Gandhaki of Nepal and plastered with a special mix known as Kadusarkarayogam ( a special mix of lime, granite and mustard in a particular proportion). In the sanctum sanctorum the idols of Sreedevi and Bhoodevi (the consorts of Mahavishnu), Sage Markandeya, Sage Divakara standing and sitting posture of Vishnu, Sage Agasthya under the feet of Sreepadmanabha can also be seen. No oblation is offered to the main deity but it is done to the sitting posture of Vishnu. The place where 12 salagramas are worshipped is equal to a Mahakshethra. In this temple the main deity contains 12008 salagrams and hence equal to 1000 Mahakshethras.
There are 8 Sub-shrines within temple complex dedicated to Lord Narasimha, Lord Sri Krishna, Lord Sastha, Lord Sri Rama, Lord Ganapathy, Lord Hanuman, Lord Garuda, and Kshethrapalan. Of these, the sub-shrine of Sri Krishna is an independent one constructed on the right side of the main temple. It is notable for its antiquity (datable to 11th century). The granite idol of Sri Krishna holding a whip on the right hand and placed the left hand on his thigh is said to be brought from Gujarat by the members of 72 families of Krishnavamsa Kshthriya of Vrishni Sect. The butter offered to Lord Hanuman does neither turn rancid nor melt.
Features of the temple: The temple complex is located in area of seven acres. The temple architecture is a mix of Chera, Chola and Pandya influences. Every part of the temple has its own elegance. The compound wall on the eastern side has 20 feet height whereas it is only 15 feet on the other three sides. The main entrance in the eastern side of the temple is through a multi-storied Gopuram, a replica of Tamil architecture, while others are of Kerala style. The northern entrance is famously known as Swargavathil (gateway to heaven). The seevelippura (corridor) of the temple has 365 stone pillars with beautiful carvings of Vyali-mukha and Deepa lakshmi and variant ornamentation. Each pillar denotes a day of a year. Eight feet long flagstaff is erected in front of the main temple. The Ottakal Mandapa (An open hall made with a single rock) is marvelous. On the northern side of the temple there is a sacred pond known as Padmatheertham.
Festivals: Alpasi Ulsava (celebrated in October-November) and Painguni Utsava (during April-May) are the main festivals. The festivals culminate with the Aarat (holy bath) procession to the Shankumugham Beach. Navaratri is another annual festival celebrated in the temple. The idols of Godess Saraswathi, Munutty Nangai and Lord Kumaraswami are brought to the temple for worship. This festival lasts for 9 days. The biggest festival in this temple is Lakshadeepa (lighting of one lakh lamps) and Murajapa (chanting of prayers and recitation of three Vedas for 56 days). This festival is unique and commences once in 6 years. The last Lakshadeepa was held in the year 2008.

NAVANEETHA KRISHNA SWAMI TEMPLE, NEYYATTINKARA

Location: Neyyattinkara is located 19 km south of Thiruvananthapuram. The temple is situated right on the heart of the Neyyattinkara Municipal town.
Municipality: Neyyattinkara
Village: Neyyattinkara
Nearest Railway Station: Neyyattinkara / Thiruvananthapuram (19 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (24 km)

Legend/History: The temple is associated with associated with the history of Travancore. Before AnizhamThirunal Marthandavarma became the King, the political situation of Venad (erstwhile Travancore) was so worst and a conspiracy to overthrow the monarch was going on. Legend says that Anizham Thirunal Marthandavarma, the crown prince, while fleeing for his life reached Neyyattinkara, was surrounded by his enemies. A boy, who had appeared before him, instructed to hide in a cavity of the nearby jack tree and disappeared. Thus the prince could save his life. The prince could overwhelm his enemies and became the King of Venad. In a dream the King saw the boy, who had saved his life asking whether the King had forgotten him and demanded that a temple be built in his honour. Having understood the boy was none other than the incarnation of Lord Sri Krishna; the King built a temple in honour of the Lord Krishna near the very same jack tree. The jack tree is known as “Ammachi Plavu” (Mother Jack tree). Due to old age the tree has been destroyed but its remnants are preserved. The temple was constructed in 1757 AD (932 ME). The present Gopura in front of the temple has been built by the Travancore Devaswom Board in 1972 AD.

Deity: The principal deity is Lord Krishna. The idol is made of “Pancha Loha” in the same posture, as he had appeared before the king in his dream. Lord Krishna of the temple is known as Navaneetha Krishna as he is holding butter in both his hands. Real butter is offered while pooja takes place. Once the pooja is over, the butter is distributed among devotees as “Prasadam”. The butter is believed to have divine and medicinal properties. Lord Ganapathy and Lord Naga are the minor deities.
Festivals: The ten-day long festival is celebrated in the month of Meenam (March-April). Ashtami Rohini, Vishu, Swrgawathil Ekadashy in the month of Dhanu (December-January) are the other important festivals.

PANAYIL GANAPATHY TEMPLE, ARYANKUZHI

Location: Aryankuzhi near Kamaleswram in Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation
Panchayat: Muttathara
Village: Thiruvananthapuram
Nearest Railway Station:Thiruvananthapuram Central (3.5 km)
Nearest Airport:Trivandrum International Airport (3 km)

Legend/History: The origin of the temple dates back to ancient times, when the affluent Panayil family had a small temple attached to their Home in their farm lands (Pana). Since the temple was located the farm land (Pana), the temple came to be known as Panayil Ganapathy Temple.At the outset, the deities of the temple were Goddess Devi (Mutharamma), Nagaraja, Madan Thampuran, Yekshiyamma, Yogeeswaran, Manthramoorthy, and Brahmarakshas.  About 150 years ago, Sri. Narayana Panickar, who was heading the Panayil family, had a divine intuition in which he was directed to consecrate Lord Ganapathy also in the temple. Based on this intuition, he travelled north and fetched the idol of Bala Ganapathy and consecrated as the principal deity.  Consequentially, the temple has become famous in the locale. Originally, the idol of Lord Ganapathy was consecrated on a mud platform. Later, a sanctum sanctorum for Lord Ganapathy was constructed and the idol consecrated there. The Temple was again renovated during 2014-15 to the present condition, and the Kumbhabhisheka was done on 26th January 2015.

Time of worship: Daily pooja in morning and evening
 
Presiding Deity: Lord Ganapathy (Concept: Bala Ganapathy)

Other Deities: Goddess Devi (Mutharamma), Nagaraja, Madan Thampuran, Yekshiyamma, Yogeeswaran, Manthramoorthy, Brahmarakshas

Important Offerings: Breaking coconuts, Paranirakkal and Udayasthamaya Pooja

Festivals: Vinayaka Chathurthi, Annual festival for 3 days is in Makaram (January–February).

SRI JANARDHANA SWAMY TEMPLE, VARKALA

Location: Varkala is located 50 km north of Thiruvananthapuram.
Municipality: Varkala
Village: Varkala
Nearest Railway Station: Varkala
Nearest Aiprort: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (55 km)

Legend/History: Once Narada, son of Lord Brahma and a sage who constantly travel the Heaven, Hell and Earth, visited Heaven. Lord Vishnu was also following him unknowingly. As Narada enters Brahma’s court, Brahma perceived Lord Vishnu and prostrated before the Lord. The nine Prajapathis (Progenitors) who were also present on the occasion did not get the vision of Lord Vishnu and they thought that Lord Brahma prostrated before his son Narada. They started ridiculing Brahma for falling at the feet of his son. When Brahma told the true fact they deeply expressed grief and begged for a solution. Brahma asked them to carryout penance at a place in Earth where Narada suggests. Narada threw his Valkalam (the upper garment made out of tree bark) to the earth and the place where the Valkalam fell is known as Varkala. Prajapathis consecrated an idol of Lord Vishnu and started penance there for the prescribed period. This is one of the legends about the origin of the temple. Another legend says that Lord Brhma and Lord Parasurama performed a great yaga at Varkala and this is the reason for the existence of mineral water and lignite terrain at Varkala. The temple is considered equal to Gaya. It is believed that this renowned Vaishnavite shrine was existed as early in 12th century A.D. as evidenced from the mentions in Syanandura Puranam, written in 1167 A.D. Unnuneeli Sandesha another literary work written in 14th century A.D. also mentioned about this temple. The present form of temple architecture also show that the temple dates back to 12th century A.D. Available records are also show that the temple was constructed in the year 1252 A.D. Umayamma Rani, who ruled Venad during 1677 to 1685 brought this temple directly under the control of her kingdom. Today its administration is with the Travancore Devaswom Board.

Deity: The principal deity is Lord Krishna otherwise known as Janardhanaswamy. The idol is made of black granite (Krishnasila) in a standing posture and four armed. Lord Siva and Sree Sastha (Lord Ayyappa) are the other deities.
Special feature: Varkala is considered as one of the sacred place for performing Bali rites like Kashi or Rameswaram. A large number of people gather here on the new moon day in the month of Karkadakom (July/August) for observing Bali rites. This ritual is performed on the nearby beach of Arabian Sea. Many performed this rite daily in the temple.
Festival: Only one festival is celebrated in the temple. It is in the month of Meenam (March/April) that last for ten days.

SIVA TEMPLE, ARUVIPPURAM

Location: Aruvippuram is located 03 km south-west to Neyyattinkara on the banks of River Neyyar.
Panchayat: Parumkadavila
Village: Parumkadavila
Nearest Railway Station: Neyyattinkara (03km) / Thiruvananthapuram (21 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (24 km)

History: Aruvippuram Shiva Temple is of great historical and social importance. At a time when Brahmins alone were permitted to consecrate deities, Sree Narayana Guru the great social reformer had installed a rock stating that he was consecrating the idol of Lord Siva. He had done this revolutionary act in 1888 A.D. (Malayalam year 1063) on a Sivarathri day. By installing a rock procured from the Neyyar River as Shivalinga at Aruvippuram he was breaking the centuries old Brahmin monopoly and starting a revolution in the history of Kerala which ultimately resulted in the spiritual and social awakening of the down trodden and oppressed class of society. Gradually, Aruvippuram became a pilgrim center. In the year 1889, Aruvippuram Kshetra Yogam had formed under the leadership of Sri.N.Kumaran Asan, famous poet and ardent disciple of Sree Narayana Guru to look after the administration of temple and to extend proper service to the visiting pilgrims. In 1903, a special meeting of Aruvippuram Kshetra Yogam had decided to form an organization for the progress and development of Ezhava community. Thus, on 1903, May 15, Aruvippuram Kshetra Yogam has been registered as Aruvippuram Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam in accordance with the Indian Companies Act. Sree Narayana Guru was the permanent chairman of Yogam. N. Kumaranasan was elected as the General Secretary. He held this post till 1919. The temple is owned by Sivagiri Mutt.

Deity: Lord Shiva is the main deity. Separate shrines for Lord Ganapathy and Sree Narayana Guru are also located in the temple complex.
Festival: The main festival of the temple is Shivrathri. Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi is also celebrated in a grand manner.

MAHADEVA TEMPLE, PARASSALA

Location: Parassala is located 30 km south of Thiruvananthapuram on the National Highway 47 adjoining to Tamil Nadu. This is an ancient major temple one located in the extreme south of Kerala.
Panchayat: Parassala
Village: Parassala
Nearest Railway Station: Parassala / Thiruvananthapuram (30 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (35 km)

Legend/History: Three is no authentic records to show the historical evidences about the origin and antiquity of the temple. Legend says that Parassal was once a dense forest. Once the sickle of Parayi (a lay of low caste) lady happened to struck on a rock and a divine light appeared while she was cutting bamboo reeds from the forest. The frightened lady screamed and her companion found a Silalinga there. Hearing the news, the local people decided to conduct a devaprasna (an astrological method to find out solution) and in accordance with the direction of the astrologers, they established a temple to consecrate the idol. The place where Parayi had seen the sila linga (rock image) was later known as Parayi Sila which was later transformed as Parassala. Another legend says that it was here where Lord Siva gave darshan (appear) to Parassini, an ardant devotee, and Lord Siva remained here in the form as appeared before Parassini. Whatever the legend says, the temple is famous for its rare rites and ceremonies and from time immemorial. Entry was allowed to all sects in the community irrespective of caste or creed especially Paraya community have the privilege of participation for the commencement of important rituals in the temple from ancient times onwards. The right to supply materials for flag hoisting ceremony in connection with the temple festival is vested with them. The temple is constructed in a unique architectural style. Among the temples of south Kerala, the temple stood next to Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple of Thiruvananthapuram for its architectural beauty and large number of rare and beautiful stone sculptures.

Deity: Lord Mahadeva (Lord Siva) is the principal deity. Goddess Parvathy, Lord Ganapathy, Lord Vishnu are the other deities. Poojas (rites related to worship) are performed five times daily.
Festival: Annual festival for 10 days in the month of Medam (April-May) and Sivarathri are the major festivals.

MAHADEVA TEMPLE, OTTASEKHARAMANGALAM

Location: Ottasekharamangalam is situated 30 km south-east of Thiruvananthapuram in the Kattakkara -Neyyar Dam route and 15 km north to Neyyattinkara.
Panchayat: Ottasekharamangalam
Village: Ottasekharamangalam
Nearest Railway Station: Neyyattinkara (15 km) / Thiruvananthapuram (30 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (35 km)

Legend/History: No historical records are there to indicate the origin of the temple. Legend says that Sage Khara fetched four sila-lingas from the River Gandaki (in Nepal) and he consecrated three of them at Vaikom, Ettumanur and Kaduthuruthi. The remaining one was consecrated on the banks of Chittar near Neyyattinkara. In Malayalam Otta means an isolated one and Sekhara means collection. Since Khara installed the Ottasekharan [idol (of Lord Siva in the form of sila-linga) that was isolated from others], the place came to be known as Ottasekharamangalam. Sage Khara installed the idol at the last moments of the auspicious hour; the deity appeared in Roudra Bhava (fierce nature) and hence two idols - one of Lord Siva in Soumya Bhava (calm posture) and the other of Lord Vishnu to reduce the fierce attitude of the former. Thus the temple has three principal deities with equal importance.

The construction of all the three sanctum sanctorum and overall renovation were done during the reign of Sri Mulam Thirunal Maharaja (1885–1924). In 1898 three flag masts were erected. This is the only temple in South Kerala having three flag masts. (The other two are Thiruvegappura and Chinakkathur temples in Palakkad District). In ancient period, the temple was owned and managed by the major Nair families of the region, but later it was transferred to the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Deities: Lord Siva (Mahadeva) in the form of Sivalinga is the principal deity. Shrine of Lord Siva in fierce posture is at the north end of the temple complex and Lord with calm posture at the south end. Lord Vishnu’s shirine is at the north of Siva shrines. Lord Sastha, Lord Ganapathy, Saptha Mathrukkal (Seven holy mothers – Brahmini, Maheswari, Kaumari, yshnavi, Varahi, Indrani, Chamunda) are the minor deities. Poojas (rites related to worship) are held three times a day.
Festivals: Annual festival of the temple is held in the month of Dhanu (December-January). Sivarathri, Ashtami Rohini, Vinayaka Chadurthi are also celebrated here apart from 41 days Mandala Pooja.

SREEKRISHNA TEMPLE, MALAYINKEEZHU

Location: Malayinkeezhu is located 15 km east of Thiruvananthapuram.
Panchyat: Malayinkeezhu
Village:Malayinkeezhu
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram (15 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (20 km)

Legend/History: The temple is one of the ancient Vaishnavite temples of the district. It is believed that Villwamangalath Swamiyar had consecrated the idol of the temple. The temple is inadvertently called SreeVallabha Temple. The deity of the Malayinkeezhu temple resembles in all its characteristics of the idol of Sree Vallabha Temple of Thiruvalla. It is also pertinent to note that the administrators of Thiruvalla temple (Mecheri, Vilakkinimangalam and Ilamon Namboodiries) were the administrators of this temple also. It is believed that Kannasa Madhava Panicker translated the Bhagavat Gita into Malayalam during the period between 1400 and 1500 A.D., while he stayed and worshipped in the temple. This was the first ever translation of Bhagavat Gita into any of the Indian languages. Historical evidences show that the temple was renovated in the year 1795 A.D. Till recently, women devotees were not allowed to enter into the temple.

Deity: Though the temple is known as Sri Krishna Temple, Lord Mahavishnu is the presiding deity. Lord Siva, Lord Ganapathy, Lord Sastha are the minor deities.

Festival: Annual festival is celebrated for 8 days in the month of Meenom (March-April). Astami Rohini, Vishu, Ekadashy are also celebrated.

BHAGAVATHY TEMPLE, VIZHINJAM

Location: Vizhinjam is located 16 km south of Thiruvananthapuram and near to the Kovalam beach, the internationally renowned tourist centre.

Panchayat: Vizhinjam
Village: Vizhinjam
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram (16 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (12 km)

Legend/History: Vizhinjam was the capital town and port of the Aye dynasty that ruled the region extended from Thiruvallom, near Thiruvananthapuram in the north and to Kanyakumari in the south. It is believed that the temple was constructed by the Aye dynasty. Some believed that the temple was constructed either by Cholas or by Pandyas as both these dynasty conquered and established their supremacy over Vizhinjam. It is doubtful whether the temple was constructed by Cholas or Pandyas. However, the architectural style shows that it was in vogue during 8th century A.D. Another temple dedicated to Lord Siva which has the same features is also near to the Bhagavathy temple. Since the temple has been constructed in a style other than that of Kerala, the Archeological Department declared the temple as a protected monument in 1966. The temple is under the administrative control of the Travancore Devaswom Board.

Deity: The temple has two shrines of equal importance. Goddess Bhagavathy faces north and Lord Siva faces west are the principal deities. Though the temple is known as Bhagavathy temple, it is dedicated to the Saptha Mathrukkal (Seven holy mothers – Brahmini, Maheswari, Kaumari, yshnavi, Varahi, Indrani, and Chamunda). A significant feature of the temple is that Rurujith system of worship is being followed in the temple, which is very rare in Kerala temples. Pooja is performed only once in a day.

Festival: Karthika festival during the month of Vrichika (November-December) is celebrated in the temple.

BHADRAKALI TEMPLE, VELLAYANI

Location: Vellayani is located 10 km south-east of Thiruvananthapuram on the eastern bank of Vellayani Lake.
Panchayat: Kalliyur
Village: Kalliyur
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram (10 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (15 km)

Legend/History: Legend says that one Kollan (blacksmith) named after Kelan Kulasekhara saw a frog with divine spirit of Goddess Bhagavathy near Vellayani Lake. He caught the divine frog with the help of his assistant who belong to a low caste. They informed the matter to the Nair chieftains of the locality and with their help Kelan Kulasekhara consecrated the Mudi (the idol) in which divine spirit is evoked. The right to perform Uchabali (a ritual connected with festival of the temple) is still hold by these Nair families. Priest of the temple is not belonging to Brahmin community but a selected person belonging to the Kollan (blacksmith) community. Kelan Kulasekhara is also worshipped as a minor deity of the temple. His shrine is known as Brahmasthanam. Poojas (worship rituals) to the principal deity would be started only after lights are litat Brahmasthanam. Earlier the temple was owned and managed by the Nair families of the locality. Now the temple is under the management of Travancore Devaswom Board.

Deity: Goddess Bhadrakali is presiding deity. The wooden idol of the Goddess is the largest one among the idols of Kerala temples. Though there are no idols worship is done for Lord Siva and Lord Ganapathy.

Time of worship: The temple opens only on Sunday, Tuesday and Friday. Time of worship is from 12.00 hrs to 14.00 hrs.

Festival: Among the Durga (Bhagavathy/Bhadrakali) temples, it was here the festival starts first and concludes last. Kaliyoot is the main festival that celebrated for long 41 days starts in the month of Meenom (March-April).

PARASURAMA TEMPLE, THIRUVALLAM

Location: Thiruvallam is located 7 km south of Thiruvananthapuram on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kovalam route. It is situated within the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation limit.

Village: Thiruvallam
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram (7 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (5 km)

Legend/History: This is the one and only temple where Lord Parasurama, the 6th incarnation of Lord Maha Vishnu is worshipped as principal deity. Lord Parasurama is worshipped at Thrikkariyur, Payyannur and Thrikkandiyur temples, but only as a minor deity. This the only temple in Kerala where all Trinities (Lord Brahma, Lord Maha Vishnu – in the form of 6th incarnation as Parasurama – and Lord Siva) are worshipped with equal importance.

According to legend, Kerala is the creation of Lord Parasurama and hence a temple dedicated to Him is quite appropriate. It is believed that Sage Sankaracharya, the great exponent of Hinduism, had consecrated the idols of the Trinities. The legend says that Sage Sankaracharya visited Thiruvallom to perform oblation rites of his mother. Lord Brahma, Lord Parasurama, and Lord Siva were present at the occasion. After performing the rites, Sage Sankaracharya consecrated the idols of all these Lords using clay of the nearby river (Karamana River). It is also said that Lords had given an assurance to the Sage that anybody for whom the oblation rites are done here, their souls would get salvation. Thiruvallam is thus famous for oblation rites. It is also believed that the Aye Kings who ruled South Kerala in ancient period had constructed the temple. According to Purananooru, a Sangha period literature, Aye kingdom spread from Thiruvallam in the north and Kanyakumari in the south. In ancient period scholars were awarded Bhatta title at the temple. This practice discontinued in 1936 A.D. Two rock edicts of 1224 AD and 1237 AD found in the temple complex narrate the procedure to be followed in respect of daily rituals, offerings, giving food to Brahmins and monthly rituals.

Deity: Lord Brahma, Lord Parasurama, Lord Siva are the principal deities. No pooja is offered to Lord Brahma. Lord Malsyamoorthy, Lord Ganapathy, Lord Subramonia, Lord Sri Krishna are the minor deities.

Festival: Annual festival of the temple is held in the month of Thulam. Karkidaka Vavu [new moon day of the Malayalam month Karkidakam (July-August)] is most important. Devotees perform bali ritual on that day at the temple premises after taking a dip in the holy water. Sivarathy, Parasurama Jayanthi are the other important festivals.

MAHADEVA TEMPLE, VALIYASALA

Location: Valiyasala is located within one km from Thiruvananthapuram railway station.
Municipality: Thiruvananthapuram Valiyasala
Village: Thycaud
Narest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (6 km)

Legend/History: In ancient period the temple is known as Kanthalloor Mahadeva temple. The temple has a history of supporting centres of learning. The Kanthalloor Sala was supported in its activities by the temple. Kanthalloor Sala which could be equated to the Nalanda and Takshasila attracted scholars and researchers from all over the country. According to official records of the Padmanabhaswamy temple, Kanthalloor Sala dates back to the 7th century AD. Chola inscriptions of 985 A.D. also refer to Kanthalloor. An inscription of Rajendra Chola says that the temple came into existence before 1045 AD. In Anathapuri varnanam written in 7th century A.D., there is mention about the temple and Kanthalloorsala. The earliest record about the Kanthalloor Sala is the Parthivapuram Pattayam (a historical record) issued during 866 A.D. From this, it can be seen that the temple existed prior to 7th century A.D. Large halls made of rock slabs and pillars of the temple complex were once used as class rooms. It is said that the Ettuveettil Pillamar used the temple as a centre of conspiracy against Marthanda Varma, the crown prince and to organize internal revolt in Venad. Maharaja Marthanda Varma renovated the temple in 1749 A.D. In ancient period, women devotees were not allowed to enter into the temple; but now such restriction exists. The temple administration is with the Travancore Devaswom Board.
Deity: The temple has three shrines.Main shrine is dedicated to Lord Siva. Lord Rudra Siva or Brahma Siva and Lord Maha Vishnu are the other two deities. Some believe that the Brahma Siva is Lord Brahma Himself. Lord Ganapathy, Lord Sastha, Lord Subramanya, Lord Sri Krishna, Goddess Durga are the minor deities.
Festival: Annual festival for 10 days is celebrated in the month of Kumbha (February-March).

THRIMOORTHY TEMPLE, MITHRANANDAPURAM

Location: The temple is located on the western side of Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple, Fort, Thiruvananthapuram.
Municipality: Thiruvananthapuram Corporation (Fort Ward)
Village: Vanchiyur
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram (1 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (5 km)

Legend/History: This is the only temple in Kerala where devotees can worship all the Trinities (Lord Brahma, Lord Maha Vishnu and Lord Siva). No authentic records are there to know the origin and antiquity of the temple. However, the temple is as old as Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Legend says that Villwamangalath Swamiyar consecrated the idols of the temple. Previously this was a subsidiary unit of Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The administrators of erstwhile Travancore kingdom used to worship in the temple before they took important decision. According to Syanandura Purana, the temple was constructed in the year 1168 A.D. Historical records show that the temple was renovated in the year 1196 A.D. and some land was submitted to the deities in 1344 AD. The temple was again renovated in the year 1748 by Maharaja Marthanda Varma. Earlier, the temple was under the control of Ettara Yogam. Now temple administration is vested with the Travancore Devaswom Board.

Deity: Lord Brahma, Lord Maha Vishnu and Lord Siva are the principal deities. Lord Ganapathy is the minor deity.

MAHADEVA TEMPLE, KAZHAKOOTTAM

Location: Kazhakoottam is located 18 km north of Thiruvananthapuram. N.H.47 passes through Kazhakoottam.
Panchayat: Kazhakoottam
Village: Kazhakoottam
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram (18 km)
Nearest Airpot: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (15 km)

Legend/History: Kazhakoottam was famous as the home land of Kazhakoottathu Pillai, a prominent among the Ettuveettil Pillamar of erstwhile Venad Kingdom. This ancient temple is one of the major temples and one of the 108 Siva Temples of Kerala. No historical evidences are there to trace the origin and antiquity of the temple. It is believed that the temple was established during 10th century A.D. Available records indicate that renovation of the temple was done in the year 1470 A.D. Obvisously, the temple does exist before 1470 A.D. Marthanda Varma Maharaja who ruled Travancore during 1729-58 had constructed the present thri-thala (three storied) sree kovil (sanctum sanctorum), shrines of minor deities, and gopura. There is another small shrine dedicated to Lord Siva. It is believed that Kazhakoottathu Pillai had constructed this temple. The administration of the temple was vested with Chitur Mutt and Mambally Mutt, two Namboodiri families. Later it was transferred to the Tharavad of Kazhakoottathu Pillai. Now the temple is governed by Travancore Devaswom Board. The temple complex covers an area of 4½ acres of land which is the second largest in Thiruvananthapuram district, the first being Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple complex.

Deity: Lord Siva in the form Sivalinga is the principal deity. The idol is a large one haing 8¼ feet height and 5 feet perimeter. One-third portion of the idol can be seen outside and two-third are below the ground level. Lord Ganapathy, Lord Maha Vishnu, Lord Sri Krishna are the other idols. An idol of Lord Sastha is also installed, but it is outside of Maryada (outer wall). Pooja (worship ritual) is done for five times daily.

Festival: Annual festival of the temple is celebrated for 10 days in the month of Medam (April-May).

SARKARA DEVI TEMPLE, CHIRAYINKEEZHU

Location: Chirayinkeezhu is located 40 km (by road) north-west of Thiruvananthapuram. The temple is located on the western side of the rail line.
Panchayat: Chirayainkeezhu
Village: Sarkara
Nearest Railway station: Chirayinkeezhu / Varkala (13 Km) /Thiruvananthapuram (28 km)

Legend/History: There is no historical record to trace the exact date of origin and antiquity of the temple. However, there are evidences to show that the temple existed centuries ago. Travancore Palace records say that the site for the construction of the temple was purchased in the year 1599 A.D. during the reign of Thrippappur Prince Vira Ravi Varma (1588-60 A.D.). In ancient days, the place was known as Charkaravattom. It is said that Maharaja Marthandavarma started his journey to conquer Kayamkulam after offering worship to Goddess of Sarkara and pledged that he would offer Kaliyoottu festival if he won the war. He won the war and assured he offered the ritual Kaliyoottu in a grand manner. This festival still continues. The temple is associated with Kodungallur Bhagavathy temple. Sarkara Kovilakom one of the royal family of Kodungallur is related with Sarkara Devi temple. The temple is owned and managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board.

Deity: Goddess Bhagavathy is the principal deity. Lord Veerabhadra, Lord Naga, Goddess Yakshi Amma are the minor deities.

Festival: Meena Bharani, the annual festival is celebrated for 10 days in the month of Meenom (March-April).

A unique offering known as Thookkam is held on the last day of the festival. Kaliyoot ritual is performed just before the commencement of annual festival.

SANKARANARAYANA TEMPLE, NAVAYIKULAM

Location: Navayikkulam is located 40 km north of Thiruvananthapuram on NH 47.
Panchayat: Navayikulam
Nearest Railway Station: Varkala (8 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airpot (45 km)

Legend/History: Sankaranarayana Temple is one of the famous temples of Kerala. In other temples dedicated to Sankaranarayana the deity is appeared in the form of Sivalinga. But here the idol is a joint image of Lord Siva and Lord Narayana (Lord Vishnu). Historical records say that this ancient temple, the exact date of origin is unknown, had been renovated by Udayamarthanda Varma who ruled Venad during 1383-1444. Legend says that the region was once belonged to Nagas and their chief named Pandu established the temple. Earlier the temple was owned by Moosads (Namboodiri) and taken over by king of Venad. Now the temple is under the control of Travancore Devaswom Board.

Deity: Lord Sanakaranarayana is the principal deity. Lord Gnapathy, Lord Sastha, Goddess Bhagavathy, Lord Hanuman are the minor deities.

Festival: Annual festival is celebrated for 10 days in the month of Medam (April-May).

MAHA VISHNU TEMPLE, VAMANAPURAM

Location: Vamanapuram is located 30 km north to Thiruvananthapuram between Thiruvananthapuram and Kottarakkara.
Panchayat: Vamanapuram
Village: Vamanapuram
Nearest Railway Station:Varkala (20 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport

Deity: Lord Maha Vishnu is the principal deity; but worshipped under the sankalpa (concept) of Vamana, the 5th incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Lord Siva and Lord Naga are the minor deities.

Festival: Annual festival is celebrated for 8 days in the month of Kumbha (February-March).

ATTUKAL DEVI TEMPLE, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Location: Attukal is located 4 km south-east of Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station.
Municipality: Thiruvananthapuram Corporation
Village: Manacaud
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananathapuram (04 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (08 km)

Legend: Legend says that Attukal Bhagavathy is the divinised form of Kannaki, the heroine of famous Chilapathikaram, a Tamil work written by Elenkovadikal. Kannaki is supposed to be the incarnation of Parvathy, the consort of Lord Siva. It is believed that after the destruction of Madurai, Kannaki left for Kodungalloor took a halt at Attukal. The legend continues that the Goddess Parvathy revealed herself as a young girl to an ardent devotee of Mulluveettil family who was performing his rituals in the river Killi. The young girl requested help to cross the river. Impressed by her charming conduct, the man helped to her cross the river and invited to his house nearby. After spending some time in his house young girl vanished mysteriously. That night the Goddess Bhagavathy appeared before the man in his dream and demanded that he should establish an abode in the near Kavu (sacred grove) and consecrate the Goddess. The next day man went to the Kavu and consecrated an idol of the Goddess. Later, local devotees renovated the Kavu and built a temple and installed idol of the Deity. The temple is governed by the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple Trust.
Deity: Goddess Bhagavathy (Bhadrakali) with four arms, bearing weapons of destruction in each, like spear, sword, skull, shield etc is the principal deity. Lord Ganapathy and Lord Shiva are the other deities.
Time of worship: From 04.30 to 12.30 and from 17.00 to 210.30 hrs daily.
Festival: The Pongala is the important festival of Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. The offering of Pongala is a special temple ritual prevailing in the southern part of Kerala.The festival lasts for ten days in the month of Kumbham (February–March). Ponkala ritual is offered on the ninth day of the festival. The ceremony is exclusively confined to women and found a place in the Guinness book of world records as the largest congregation of women in the world. It is estimated that more than 2.5 million women devotees participate in the ritual from different parts of Kerala and outside. Kuthiyottam by boys and Thalappoli by girls are two important rituals performed during the festival. Sivarathry, Karthika, Vinayaka Chadurthy are the other festivals.

MADAVOORPARA ROCK CUT TEMPLE

Location: Madavoorpara is locaoted 17 km north of Thiruvananthapuram.
Panchayat: Iroopara
Village: Iroopara
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram (17 km)
Nearest Airpot: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (20 km)

Legend/History: The antiquity and origin of the temple can be determined based on legends and hearsay. One of the legends about the origin of the cave temple says that the shrine was built by a Buddhist monk centuries ago. Some believe that the temple was built by Jains. Rock cut temples are one of the main styles of Kerala architecture during ancient period and it is believed that the temple was constructed during 7-9 century AD. This cave temple is found at the mid portion of the rock. To reach the shrine, one has to climb more than 200 steps. The images and idols are carved on the walls in relief style. There is an ancient vattezhuth inscription near the shrine. The Madavoorpara temple is managed by Sree Rama Dasa Mission, Thiruvananthapuram. The temple premise is declared as a protective area by the Archeology Department, Government of Kerala.
Deities: Lord Siva (in form of sivalinga) is the principal deity. Lord Ganapathy and Lord Subramanya are the other deities.

MAHA GANAPATHY TEMPLE, PAZHAVANGADI

Location: Pazhavangadi is located at East Fort in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram City hardly 1.5 Km from the Central Railway Station. The temple is situated very near to the famous Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple.

Municipality: Thiruvananthapuram Corporation (Fort)
Village: Vanchiyur
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram (1.5 km)
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (5 km)

History: Pazhavangadi Ganapati Temple is one of the main temples in Thiruvananthapuram. The idol of Maha Ganapathy was originally worshipped by a soldier of Nair Brigade (Travancore Military), garrisoned at Padmanabhapuram. This deity became a favourite deity to all military personnel. When the capital was shifted to Thiruvananthapuram from Padmanabhapuram in 1795, the garrison was also shifted and the idol consecrated at Pazhavangai adjacent to the Fort. When the Nair Brigade was integrated with Travancore Army first and then with the Indian Army, the administration of the temple was transferred to the Madras Regiment. The temple sculptures include 32 different forms of Lord Ganesha
Deity: Lord Ganapathy is the presiding deity. Deity is seated and worshipped here with right leg folded; Godess Durga, Lord Ayyappa and Nagaraja are the other deities.
Offering: The unique and main offering to the deity is breaking coconuts for fulfillment of any desire or for removal of obstacles.
Festivals: Vinayaka Chaturthi, Vijaya Dasami, Sivarathri, Vishu are the festivals