Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple
Updated: Oct 8, 2022
The Abode of Lord Vishnu
Origins
There is no credible information on the origins of Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple. However, its mention in the ancient Hindu text Srimad Bhagavatham offers a wide shot guess on the early days of the temple. Here's a link about the history that you may like.
Lord Padmanabha
Lord Padmanabha is the presiding deity at the temple. The 18-foot idol of the reclining deity (from where the temple gets its name) represents Lord Vishnu in Yoga Nidra or deep meditative sleep.
The idol lies perpendicular to East-West behind three doors with each door opening to a glimpse of the Lord, namely the face, the torso and finally the feet. The doors are rarely opened simultaneously reminiscent of the era when the widely accepted founder of the temple sage Vilwamangalam saw Lord Vishnu's aspect.
Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple architecture
The temple compound is spread over 7 acres of land bound by walls punctuated by majestic gates called Gopurams facing the prime directions. The gopurams made of brick and granite rise hundred feet above the ground. They are a sight to behold. Read more here
Equinox
The architectural marvel is best viewed on the days of the Equinox when one can the see setting sun pass through the windows of the gopurams.
Important festivals
Painkuni in March/April
Alpasi in October/November
Reaching Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple
The closest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport
The closest railway station is Trivandrum Central
References:
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