Kerala Tourism: 10 Best Kollam Temples For A Spiritual Experience

Lord Shiva temples in Kollam

Blessed with the natural beauty of Kerala, Kollam boasts several temples which mark the place’s historical and cultural significance. Every temple in Kollam represents or narrates something about the earlier traditions, splendid architecture, and divine rituals; thus, it gives tourists a chance for time and spiritual travel. From Sree Mahaganapathi Temple to the dark mystique feel of Oachira Temple, these religious landmarks set this coastal city’s spirituality, architectural marvels, and cultural aspects. Enter the temples in Kollam, and they will lead you to a world where myth and magic are timeless.

10 Best Temples In Kollam

Explore Kollam’s spiritual tapestry through its ten most incredible temples in Kollam, each offering a distinct combination of history, architecture, and cultural importance, adding to the city’s lively religious legacy.

1. Thirumullavaram Mahavishnu Temple

One of the most ancient Kollam temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu

Photo: Arunsunilkollam / Wikimedia Commons

Thirumullavaram Mahavishnu Temple, located in Kollam, Kerala, is an ancient temple devoted to Lord Vishnu. The temple is famous for its peaceful settings, architectural grandeur, and mythical and historical importance. Lord Mahavishnu, the presiding deity, is worshipped here in a serene setting that encourages spiritual reflection. The temple’s annual Utsavam draws followers with its lively celebrations and religious rites, emphasising the region’s cultural diversity. Thirumullavaram Mahavishnu Temple is a tribute to faith and tradition, providing tourists with insight into Kollam’s spiritual past via holy ceremonies and ageless architecture.

How To Reach: Accessible by road; located near Thirumullavaram Beach.
Timings: Open daily from 4:30 AM – 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Address: Thirumullavaram Mahavishnu Temple, Kollam, Kerala.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kollam

2. Oachira Temple

The veranda of a temple

Photo: Fotokannan / Wikimedia Commons

The Oachira Temple near Kollam in Kerala has no building to speak of or idols for worship. Committed to international education (Para Brahma), it stands out with its architecture, which features a large courtyard for ritual over Tanaka, which consists of old trees. This makes the temple prominent based on a philosophical system and history-dated philosophy that pulls in visitors during the pilgrimage. Oachira Temple is famous for the Oachira Kali festival, during which people stage fights and cultural programs depicting the martial arts of Kerala are performed. It symbolises religious diversity, sharp-mindedness, and spiritual tourism.

How To Reach: Connected by road; the nearest railway station is Oachira.
Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM; special rituals during festivals.
Address: Oachira Temple, Oachira, Kollam, Kerala.

3. Puttingal Devi Temple

One of the most famous Kollam Temples

Photo: Bhadra 782 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Puttingal Devi Temple, near Kollam, Kerala, is known for its lively festivals and spiritual importance. The temple, dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, is well-known for its annual Meena Bharani festival, where devotees participate in rites and processions. The temple complex features temples for Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman, which adds to its religious value. It attracts devotees and tourists to witness its rituals, customs, and architectural grandeur rooted in local legend.

How To Reach: Accessible by road; the nearest railway station is Kollam Junction.
Timings: Open daily from 4:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Address: Puttingal Devi Temple, Paravur, Kollam, Kerala.

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4. Kottarakkara Sree Mahaganapathy Temple

A Ganesha idol in a temple

Photo: Günther Jontes / Wikimedia Commons / Image Only For Representation

The Kottarakkara Sree Maha Ganapathy is a famous temple in Kollam, known for its spiritual ambience and architectural magnificence. The temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is known for its beautiful wood carvings and Dravidian architecture, which underline its historical significance. The temple is famous for the Kottarakkara Kathakali festival, a cultural event that combines classical dance performances and religious rites. Throughout the year, devotees seek blessings and participate in different festivities, including the customary burning of lights (vilakku kettu) and elephant procession during festivals.

How To Reach: Accessible by road; the nearest railway station is Kottarakara.
Timings: Open daily from 4:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Address: Kottarakkara Sree Mahaganapathy Temple, Kottarakkara, Kerala.

5. Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple

Beautiful pilgrimage spot in Kollam

Photo: Shareef Taliparamba / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple, located in the tranquil woodlands of Aryankavu in Kollam, Kerala, is devoted to Lord Ayyappa. This old temple is a pilgrimage spot where believers walk through beautiful foliage to seek blessings. The temple is notable for its annual Aryankavu Pooram festival, which features traditional music, dancing, and ceremonies and attracts pilgrims from all around. Its peaceful surroundings and spiritual mood give it great regard and cultural value. Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple provides a quiet sanctuary for spiritual searchers amidst Kerala’s natural beauty.

How To Reach: Connected by road; the nearest railway station is Aryankavu.
Timings: Open daily from 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM; special rituals during festivals.
Address: Aryankavu Ayyappa Temple, Aryankavu, Kollam, Kerala

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Kollam

6. Achankovil Sastha Temple

One of the holiest Kollam Temples

Photo: Vkt2020 / Wikimedia Commons

The Achankovil Sastha Temple, located near Kollam in Kerala, is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa (Sastha). It is regarded as one of Kerala’s five most holy temples in Kollam devoted to Lord Ayyappa in the beautiful Western Ghats region. The temple is well-known for its tranquil environment and the Pongala festival, which brings together hundreds of women to offer prayers and boiled rice in earthen pots. The journey to Achankovil Sastha Temple is spiritually edifying, particularly during the Mandala and Makaravilakku seasons. It is a prominent religious monument, attracting pilgrims seeking blessings and solitude in the heart of Kerala’s natural splendour.

How To Reach: Accessible by road; the nearest railway station is Achankovil.
Timings: Open daily from 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Address: Achankovil Sastha Temple, Achankovil, Kollam, Kerala.

7. Sri Krishna Swamy Temple, Chirakkara

 A frontal view of Shri Krishna Temple

Photo: Pranav Mohan / Wikimedia Commons

Sri Krishna Swamy Temple at Chirakkara, near Kollam, Kerala, is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple, known for its serene settings and architectural grandeur, attracts devotees seeking blessings and spiritual tranquillity. The principal god, Lord Krishna, is worshipped with elaborate ceremonies and offerings, particularly during festivals like Janmashtami. Sri Krishna Swamy Temple at Chirakkara is a site where devotees can immerse themselves in devotion and feel the spiritual essence of Lord Krishna’s glorious presence.

How To Reach: Easily accessible by road; located near Chirakkara.
Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM-12:00 PM and 5:00 PM-8:00 PM.
Address: Sri Krishna Swamy Temple, Chirakkara, Kollam, Kerala.

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8. Sri Mahadeva Temple, Kulathupuzha

Lord Shiva temples in Kollam

Photo: RajeshUnuppally / Wikimedia Commons / Image Only For Representation

Sri Mahadeva Temple in Kulathupuzha is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple offers a serene atmosphere for spiritual seekers. It is surrounded by lush greenery and situated along the banks of the Kulathupuzha River. It is known for its annual festival, Sivarathri Mahotsavam, where devotees gather to worship Lord Shiva fervently and participate in religious rituals. The temple’s architecture reflects the traditional Kerala style, with intricate carvings and a peaceful ambience that enhances the spiritual experience.

How To Reach: Well-connected by road; the nearest railway station is Kulathupuzha.
Timings: Open daily from 4:30 AM-12:00 PM and 5:00 PM-8:00 PM.
Address: Sri Mahadeva Temple, Kulathupuzha, Kollam, Kerala.

9. Kottakkal Devi Temple

One of the most visited Kollam Temples

Photo: Rajib Kumar Ghosh / Wikimedia Commons / Image Only For Reference

Kottakkal Devi Temple is a popular temple in Kollam well-known for its spiritual importance and architectural grandeur. This ancient shrine, dedicated to the Goddess Bhadrakali, attracts pilgrims seeking favours and consolation. The temple’s distinguishing feature is its traditional Kerala-style construction, with elaborate wood carvings and paintings illustrating mythical stories. Its tranquil ambience and rhythmic chanting during ceremonies create a serene mood suited to prayer and meditation. The annual Kottarakkara Thalappoli festival is celebrated with zeal, with spectacular processions and cultural acts that attract tourists from all over.

How To Reach: Accessible by road; the nearest railway station is Kottarakara.
Timings: Open daily from 4:30 AM -12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Address: Kottakkal Devi Temple, Kottarakkara, Kerala.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kollam

10. Pattazhi Devi Temple

One of the most historic Kollam Temples

Photo: Thapa.lakshman / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Pattazhi Devi Temple, located in the picturesque town of Pattazhi near Kollam, Kerala, is a famous sanctuary devoted to Goddess Bhadrakali. This historic temple bears profound spiritual importance for followers seeking blessings and consolation. The temple’s construction is classic Kerala style, with beautiful wood carvings and bright murals illustrating mythical stories. The temple annually conducts lively celebrations and ceremonies that attract devotees, boosting its cultural relevance. Pattazhi Devi Temple exudes serenity, providing tourists with a peaceful refuge amidst Kerala’s natural beauty while encouraging spiritual devotion and preservation of cultural heritage.

How To Reach: Accessible by road; located in Pattazhi village near Kollam, Kerala.
Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Address: Pattazhi Devi Temple, Pattazhi, Kollam, Kerala.

In conclusion, temples in Kollam are eternal monuments of religion and culture, each providing a unique view into Kerala’s spiritual legacy. From the serene atmosphere of Oachira Temple to the grandeur of Kottarakkara Sree Mahaganapathi Temple, these hallowed locations exude devotion and architectural splendour. Plan a trip to these venerated places with TripXL for an unforgettable immersion in Kerala’s spiritual traditions.

Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Temples in Kollam are important cultural and religious sites, acting as places of spiritual devotion and holding traditional festivals celebrating Kerala's rich legacy.
Kollam temples celebrate various festivals, including Vishu, Onam, and Thiruvathira, and yearly temple-specific festivities like Poorams and Utsavams, which bring devotees from all over the region.
Many Kollam temples welcome non-Hindu visitors. However, entry to particular parts of the temples may be prohibited. Visitors are encouraged to follow temple rituals and norms.
Devotees can participate in temple rites such as praying, conducting archana, lighting lamps, and giving offerings. Specific ceremonies and times can be checked with temple officials.
Temples in Kollam maintain Kerala's cultural legacy via rituals, festivals, architecture, and devotion, expressing traditions that are important to Kerala's identity.

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