Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a revered Hindu temple located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. It is one of the 108 sacred Vishnu temples or Divya Desams in India, and it is considered to be the wealthiest temple in the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and it is renowned for its Dravidian-style architecture, intricate carvings, and rich cultural heritage. It is also a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, attracting thousands of devotees from all over the country.
History
The history of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple dates back to the 8th century AD. The temple was built by the kings of the erstwhile Travancore kingdom, who were ardent devotees of Lord Vishnu. The temple was renovated and expanded by various kings over the centuries, and it reached its present form in the 18th century during the reign of King Marthanda Varma. The temple underwent major renovations in the 2010s, which led to the discovery of an enormous treasure trove of gold, jewels, and artifacts worth billions of dollars, making it the wealthiest temple in the world.
Architecture
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is renowned for its exquisite Dravidian-style architecture, which is characterized by intricate carvings, delicate motifs, and vibrant colors. The temple has a majestic gopuram (entrance tower) that stands at a height of 100 feet and is adorned with elaborate carvings of various deities and mythological scenes. The temple also has several mandapams (halls) and sanctums, each with its own unique features and offerings. The main sanctum is home to the idol of Lord Padmanabhaswamy, which is 18 feet long and is made of a rare combination of metals.
Poojas and Festivals
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is renowned for its elaborate rituals, poojas, and festivals. The temple follows strict Vedic practices, and it is considered to be one of the most sacred temples in the country. The daily poojas and rituals start as early as 3:30 AM and continue until late at night. The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Navaratri festival, which is celebrated for nine days in September-October, and the Alpasi festival, which is celebrated in October-November.
Visiting the Temple
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is open to devotees and visitors from 3:30 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM every day. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple, and visitors are required to follow strict dress codes and other guidelines. The temple is easily accessible from Thiruvananthapuram city, and there are several transportation options available, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. There are also several accommodation options available in and around the temple, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
Conclusion || Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Thiruvananthapuram or Kerala. It is not only a place of great cultural and historical significance but also a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and design. Whether you are a devout Hindu or simply an admirer of architecture and art, this temple is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
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