Top Pilgrimage sites in Kerala

Pilgrimages and spiritual tourism thrive in India. Each state in the country has its own popular centers of religious attractions. Kerala is no different when it comes to pilgrimage spots. The earliest visitors and settlers in Kerala include the Arabs, Greeks, and Romans to the Portuguese, Dutch, French, and British. With such a historical background, the state is embedded in a rich religious past. Let’s check out the top pilgrimage sites in Kerala.

Padmanabhaswamy temple, Thiruvananthapuram

Arguably the richest temple in India is Padmanabhaswamy temple located in the capital of Kerala. It is one of the top pilgrimage sites in Kerala. Does that evoke a sense of awe and curiosity to visit the historical temple that belongs to the Travancore Royal Family? The exact period of the foundation of the temple is unknown. Nonetheless, it is believed to have been in existence for over 5000 years. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu who is ardently followed by the members of the Travancore Royal Family. The striking features of the temple lie in a fusion of Dravidian and Kerala architectural styles and the 18-foot-long statue of Lord Vishnu in a reclining posture. Besides these detailed designs and carved works, several pillars, stone works, and sculptures are noteworthy too. The temple premises also houses shrines of Lord Ganesha, Lord Rama with Sita and Lakshmana, and Sree Krishnaswamy Temple.

Ayyappan Temple, Sabarimala

Dedicated to Lord Ayyappan, believed to be the child of Shiva and Mohini, an incarnation of Vishnu, the Ayyappan Temple is surrounded by seven hills. The Yogapatta posture of the statute in the temple is unique. The temple can be accessed by foot only as it is situated in a jungle nearly four kilometers away from the nearest vehicle access point. The eighteen golden steps leading to the temple are famous. The steps metaphorically represent eighteen hills in the soundings, eighteen gods, and eighteen thathams.

It is essential to abstain from worldly pleasures for 41 days prior to the pilgrimage to the temple. On the way, the devotees stop by Erumeli Palli before proceeding. There are mainly two seasons to visit: Mandalapooja from November to December, and Makaravilakku in mid-January. Indeed it is included as one of the top pilgrimage sites in Kerala.

Sree Krishna Temple, Guruvayoor

Even as you walk towards the Temple premises, the most popular Sree Krishna Temple in Kerala, you are enveloped by an uplifting aroma from all around. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Guruvayurappan in a child’s form, hence called, Unnikannan. The word Guruvayoor is coined from the rituals of Guru and Vayu. Notably, the presiding deity’s statue is made of a unique stone called, Pathalanjanam. The temple is a famous place in Kerala where believers feed their newborns with solid food for the first time. Similarly, it is an auspicious place for hosting marriages. Under the temple governing body, there is a large herd of elephants maintained which is a must-visit spot. Always to be included as one of the top pilgrimage sites in Kerala.

Photos and input by Binil and Sujith

St. Thomas Church in Malayatoor

situated on top of the Malayatoor hill, believed to have been visited by St. Thomas, the church is a famous international tourist destination. St. Thomas, one of the apostles of Jesus believed to have visited Kerala and during his stay is said to have retreated to the mountaintop to pray. The church built in his honor has been rebuilt after the original one had been attacked by elephants. A life-size statue of the apostle and his footprint are notable attractions here. Easter season is the time when the main feast of the church is celebrated. Usually, no one visits church on top other than the feast time owing to the lonely and treacherous trekking uphill. However, during the festive season, it is a whole different ambiance with thousands climbing up and down the hill.

Santa Cruz Basilica in Kochi

The Basilica holds a prime spot from the spiritual and historical point of view. The ancient church has a history that runs through different foreign settlers in Kerala. during the five centuries of its existence, different empires left their mark on the edifice. Beginning with the Portuguese who built the church in 1503, until it was proclaimed a Basilica in 1984 by Pope John Paul II, it has a rich past. It is one of the eight Basilicas in the country. The gothic style interior effuses artistic and architectural grandeur while the exterior has a couple of imposing spirals standing tall. Richly painted ceilings and beautiful glass windows are noteworthy.

St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi

Another glorious edifice that reflects the colonial era in Kerala is the St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi. Built in 1503, it is one of the first European churches in India. Centuries later, the structure continues to draw admirers from near and far. The church is declared a protected monument and is under the supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India. In the early days, it was dedicated to St. Bartholomew. Years later in the hands of the Anglicans, it was dedicated to St. Francis. The church is also famous for being the burial ground for Vasco da Gama who died in 1524.

Cheraman Juma Masjid, Thrissur

Notable as the oldest mosque in India, the Cheraman Juma Masjid is believed to have been built during the reign of Cheraman Perumal, the then King in AD 629. With an unlike Masjid and more traditional Kerala-style appearance, it is second only in the world after the famed Medina in Saudi Arabia. Although the original structure was destroyed by floods in 1341 AD, it was rebuilt and modified a few times later in the years. However, a few features like wooden steps, ceiling, and sacred interiors are left untouched. Even the Royal Lamps from the Chera palaces are still used for lighting inside the mosque. Many of the architectural styles resemble Hindu motifs and murals making it an even more unique mosque in the country.

Thazhathangady Juma Masjid, Kottayam

The mosque is another ancient center of prayer believed to be about 1000 years old. It is also known as the ‘Taj Juma Masjid’ for its similarity to the Taj in Agra. The Masjid is located by the side of River Meenachil. Traditional architectural works, wooden roofs, bathing areas, and olden-style windows make it a beautiful place of worship. The stone-paved well in the complex resembles the ones near temples.

Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Kochi

Although a minority, the Sikh community thrives in Kochi. And it is no surprise that they have a Gurudwara situated at Peumannor, in Kochi. Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha was built in 1955. The faithful frequent and worship Sri Guru Granth Sahib. However, the Gurudwara is open to visitors of all religious backgrounds.