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Everything in Kerala is surrounded by ever-energetic culture and spiritual richness; therefore, one finds several temples with varied religious traditions, including Buddhism. Buddha temples in Kerala promise calmness for contemplation and spiritual exploration. These temples reflect the relation of Kerala with Buddhism in ancient times and simultaneously provide a quiet respite from the din and bustle of life. In this blog, we explore some famous Buddha temples in Kerala, from their importance and significance to the details one would like to know during a visit.
Top 10 Buddha Temples To Visit In Kerala
Here are some of the top 10 Buddha temples in Kerala that you should visit on your next vacation to this destination.
1. Karumadikuttan Buddha Temple
Photo: Sanandkarun / Wikimedia Commons
In the Karumadikuttan Buddha Temple lies a half-broken granite statue of Buddha, believed to date back to the 9th or 10th century. It is one of the most important Buddha temples in Kerala and stands as a symbol of the very presence of Buddhism in the region during ancient times. The statue is located in the village of Karumady, an essential place of spiritual importance that attracts many visitors, pilgrims, and history enthusiasts. Located right in the middle of lush greenery, it provides a tranquil atmosphere conducive to contemplation and meditation.
Location: Karumady, near Alappuzha
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Kottayam Buddha Temple / Sree Dharma Sastha Temple
Photo: Rajeshodayanchal / Wikimedia Commons
Kottayam Buddha Temple, or Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, is among the popular Buddha temples in Kerala. This ancient temple has immense historical significance for Kerala’s Buddhist heritage. The temple has been principally dedicated to Lord Buddha, along with a statue of Sree Dharma Sastha. It stands amidst its usually tranquil atmosphere and traditional architecture, befitting it for peaceful worship and meditation. Situated in the heart of Kottayam, the place is sacred, much in the way of being visited by locals and tourists alike for its serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Location: Kottayam, Kerala
Timings: 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Mavelikkara Buddha Statue
Photo: Jayaprakash R / Wikimedia Commons
Mavelikkara proudly boasts a Buddha statue, one of the holy Buddha temples in Kerala. The quiet destination has a sitting granite Buddha statue from the 9th century. Moreover, the tranquillity that this temple achieved sends the visitors backwards into historical times with evidence of the strong roots of Buddhism in Kerala. Surrounded by nature, the place finds its site very attractive for spiritual solace. The rich history of Mavelikkara itself has contributed to the importance of the temple as the centre of Buddhism within the state.
Location: Mavelikkara, near Alappuzha
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
4. Buddha Bhoomi
Photo: Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located in Melthonnakkal, Buddha Bhoomi is one of the important Buddha temples in Kerala, an enlightened spiritual and cultural hub. The place gives testimony to the ancient Buddhist heritage that thrived in Kerala, largely through the influence of Emperor Ashoka. People visit this place to seek meditation, spiritual learning, and integration with the Buddhist history in Kerala. This temple often conducts sessions containing basic information about the language, history, peaceful teachings, and ways of Lord Buddha. The temple appeals to many locals and tourists who might want to research more about the very roots of Buddhism in Southern India.
Location: Melthonnakkal, Kerala
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Old Buddha Cave Temple
Photo: Kirandeep Singh Walia / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Old Buddha Cave Temple is one of the ancient and holy temples of ‘Lord Buddha’, which holds much historical importance in Kerala. The cave standing amidst the greenery tells about the early arrival of Theravada Buddhism in Kerala. The temple’s architecture, merged with the serenity of nature, presents the best ambience for meditation to pilgrims and history lovers. The temple was famous in Kerala because it offers a glimpse of the early days when Buddhism played a significant role in shaping Kerala’s religious landscape.
Location: Pariyapuram, Kerala
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
6. Buddha Griha Thonnakkal
Photo: chuchu Markson / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
This popular Buddha temple in Kerala is a memorial dedicated to Thatthu Annan, a key figure in spreading Buddhist teachings in Thonnakkal. Buddha Griha and the attached Smrithimandapam host discussions and educational programs on Buddhist philosophy. The peaceful ambience makes it a perfect spot for meditation and reflection. Visitors can also learn about the role Buddhism played in shaping the region’s cultural and religious practices, making it an important Buddha temple in Kerala.
Location: Thonnakkal, Kerala
Timings: 7 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
7. Kapilavasthu Buddha Temple
Photo: Jimmy Liao / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Kapilavasthu Buddha Temple is a serene and holy Buddha temple in Kerala, named after the ancient city of Kapilavastu, where Buddha was born. Known for its peaceful surroundings, this temple provides a quiet retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in meditation and spiritual reflection. It is also a pilgrimage site for those exploring Kerala’s Buddhist history. With its tranquil ambience, the temple stands as a reminder of Buddhism’s influence in South India, making it a famous Buddha temple in Kerala.
Location: Ayranikudy, Kerala
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
8. Buddhist Temple
Photo: Patibutkan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This important Buddha temple in Kerala located in Kozhikode, is a key site reflecting the influence of Buddhism in the region. The temple offers regular meditation sessions and serves as a spiritual haven for the local Buddhist community. Visitors can explore the deep-rooted history of Buddhism in Kerala, especially its connection to trade routes and cultural exchange. The temple’s peaceful environment also attracts tourists and scholars interested in Kerala’s ancient Buddhist heritage, making it one of the most popular Buddha temples in Kerala.
Location: Kozhikode, Kerala
Timings: 7:30 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
9. Hedi Aluva Bodhiya
Photo: Julia Volk / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Hedi Aluva Bodhiya is an ancient Buddha temple in Kerala located in Aluva, known for its spiritual significance. The Bodhi tree here is believed to have a historical connection to the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. It is a peaceful location for devotees and tourists alike, who visit the temple to engage in meditation and reflection. The temple also serves as a reminder of Aluva’s historical role as a centre of Buddhist activity, making it one of the important Buddha temples in Kerala.
Location: Aluva, Kerala
Timings: 6:30 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
10. Bodhgaya Buddha Temple
Photo: Alexis / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Bodhgaya Buddha Temple in Veliyam West is one of the most popular Buddha temples in Kerala modelled after the famous Bodhgaya Temple in Bihar. Known for its architectural beauty, this temple attracts pilgrims and tourists interested in Kerala’s Buddhist past. The serene surroundings and peaceful ambience make it an ideal place for meditation and spiritual practice. The temple’s significance lies in its representation of North Indian Buddhist architecture and practices in South India.
Location: Veliyam West, Kerala
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Exploring Buddha Temples in Kerala allows visitors to connect with the state’s rich Buddhist heritage while finding peace in its serene spiritual settings. These temples, ranging from ancient to modern, offer tranquil spaces for meditation and reflection. Plan to visit these sacred sites and uncover Kerala’s unique connection to Buddhism. Plan a holiday here with TripXL to help organise your spiritual journey through Kerala!
Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
