Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Sreekanteswaram Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is more than 700 years old. The temple has the idol of Lord Shiva as its presiding deity. Though there is no idol of his consort Goddess Parvati, she is considered to be ever present in the temple premises. That is why, the deity is called Gauri Shankara ( Lord Shiva with Parvati). Several other deities are present in the temple sanctum like Ganesha, Hanuman, Karthikeya, Krishna and the serpent gods. Travancore Devaswom Board maintains the place.
Location
Photo: Prasanthajantha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Sreekanteswaram Temple is located in the Nalumukku area of the Pazhavangadi district. The temple is centrally situated in Thiruvananthapuram of Kerala state. Sreekanteswaram temple address is FWPV+X6C, Sreekanteswara Temple Road, Nalumukku, Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
How To Reach
Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
You can easily reach Sreekanteswaram Temple, Kerala, through air, road or rail:
By Air: The closest airport is the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport located at a distance of 5 km from the temple.
By Rail: The closest railway station is conveniently located around 3 km from the temple, namely Trivandrum Central railway station.
By Road: The temple is well connected due to its central location on MG road that is just 1 km away from KSRTC bus stand.
Places To Visit Near Sreekanteswaram Temple
There are several other places of interest that one can plan to visit near Sreekanteswaram Temple:
1. Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Photo: Alaison bennny / Wikimedia Commons
Considered to be one of the richest temples of the world, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams or sacred Lord Vishnu abodes. Built in a traditional Dravidian and Kerala style of architecture, the idol of this temple is said to be venerated by the Parasurama in Dwapara Yuga (around 5100 years ago). There is no exact origin date of the temple as there are no historical documents documenting the same. The temple is renowned for its strict religious procedures and witnesses thousands of devotees visiting the place everyday.
Timings: 3:30 AM – 7:15 PM
Location: West Nada Fort, East Fort, Pazhavangadi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
2. Shangumugham Beach
Photo: Thejas Panarkandy / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the western side of Thiruvananthapuram, Shankumugham beach is a vast white stretch of serenity and white sand. This beach is also considered the presiding deity of the city, namely ‘Arattukadavu’ of the Sri Ananthapadmanabham. On special occasions, thousands of Hindus perform ‘Bali Tharpanam’. The place is also a prime location during Vinayaka Chaturthi for Ganesh Visarjan.
Timings: Open 24*7
3. Vellayani Lake
Photo: Akhilan / Wikimedia Commons
The second largest saltwater lake of Kerala, Vellayani lake is a hidden eco haven located just 9 km away from Thiruvananthapuram. The place is best known for its beautiful lotus blooms as well as the annual Ayyankali boat race that is held in the remembrance of the popular social reformer, Ayyankali. One can also visit the College of Agriculture or Lalindloch Palace, as it is popularly known as, located on the western shore of the lake.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
4. Akkulam Lake
Photo: Anand Anil / Wikimedia Commons
With the popular Akkulam tourist village located on its bank, Akkulam Lake is a lovely backwater destination of Kerala that offers some of the most scenic picnic spots of the state. Located just 10 km away from the main Thiruvananthapuram city, one can enjoy numerous boating options in the lake. There is also a well maintained swimming pool, a paddle pool, a children’s park, cycling park as well as an air force museum with a simulator.
Timings: Open 24*7
Where To Stay
Photo: Enric / Wikimedia Commons / IImage For Representation Only
There are several hotel resorts and homestays located near the Sreekanteswaram temple. One can choose the ones that best suit their budget. Some of the popular ones include Nalinam Homestay, Meghna Residency, Hotel Highland, Chirag Inn and many more.
Where To Eat
Photo: Devika Varier / Wikimedia Commons
There are many multi cuisine restaurants as well as popular local eateries that one can easily go to for delicious food. Some of the most visited restaurants of the area include Sri Arulakam Restaurant, Sree Venkateshwara Family Restaurant, Aryaas Park veg Restaurant and Hotel Annapurna.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Vanilekshmi1 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit this temple is during the winter season that lasts from October to March. This is because during this time, the weather is comfortable and pleasant and the greenery around the temple as well as in the state in general is at its best.
Tips For Travellers:
- Remember to follow the dress code of dhoti/kurta for men and sarees or suits with dupatta for women.
- Respect the local customs and beliefs.
- It is not allowed to click Sreekanteswaram temple photos; hence, be mindful.
The Sreekanteswaram temple is an ancient 700 year old temple that has great religious as well as architectural significance. This temple provides a serene place, making people feel a sense of inner peace and mesmerising views. Hundreds of devotees visit this place every day. Include this temple in your tour itinerary with TripXL and make your trip to Kerala a truly memorable one.
Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
