Introduction

The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is one of the oldest and most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Ananthasayana (reclining) form. Its origin is believed to date back over 5000 years.

Scriptural References

The temple is mentioned in ancient texts like the Srimad Bhagavatha and Brahmanda Purana. The 9th-century saint Nammalwar also composed hymns praising Lord Padmanabha.

Temple Legend

According to legend, the temple was established by Divakara Muni or Vilvamangalathu Swamiyar, great devotees of Vishnu. Lord Vishnu appeared as a child and later revealed himself in the Ananthasayana form. Offering raw mango in a coconut shell remains a sacred tradition.

History & Renovation

The temple underwent major renovations between the 11th and 18th centuries. King Marthanda Varma played a key role in rebuilding the temple in its present form.

Idol & Architecture

The idol is made of Katusarkara Yogam and contains 12,008 Salagrams. The temple features a grand gopuram, gold-plated flagstaff, and the sacred Padmatheertham tank.

Religious Significance

The temple is a major Vaishnavite pilgrimage center and is revered as an ancient seat of Lord Maha Vishnu, attracting devotees from across the world.