Major Pilgrimage Tourism Sites in Kerala
Journey into the Heart of Holiness in Kerala
Kerala embraces a harmonious blend of religions, fostering peaceful coexistence among Christians, Hindus, and Muslims. Explore Kerala's renowned Hindu pilgrimage sites, including the majestic Sreepadmanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Sabarimala in Pathanamthitta, and Guruvayoor in Thrissur district. Delve into the spiritual ambience of Ananthapura Lake Temple in Kasaragod and the historic Rajarajeshwara Temple in Kannur. These landmarks attract pilgrims from across Kerala and beyond, with Padmanabhaswamy Temple standing out as the world's wealthiest temple, renowned for its exquisite Dravidian architecture. Additionally, there is Vadakkumnathan Temple in Thrissur, a designated National Monument of cultural significance under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act. If you are in Kerala during the Malayalam month of Karkidakam (July-August), do not miss the nalambala darshanam, (‘Nalu’ means four and ‘Ambalam’ means temple) or vising the four temples of Rama (Ramapuram Sree Ramaswamy Temple), Lakshmanan (Koodappulam Sree Lakshmanaswamy Temple), Bharathan (Amanakara Sree Bharathaswamy Temple), and Sathrughnan (Methiri Sree Shatrughna Swamy Temple). These temples in Ramapuram in the Kottayam district are dedicated to the 4 sons of King Dasaratha of Ramayana.
Beemapalli Durgah Shareef in Thiruvananthapuram, Malik Ibn Deenar Mosque in Kasaragod, Cheraman Juma Masjid Kodungallur, Thangalpara in Kottayam, and Thazhathangadi Juma Masjid are some of the popular Muslim pilgrim centres in Kerala. Cheraman Juma Masjid is considered to be the first-ever mosque in India. Similarly, Malik Ibn Deenar Mosque and Thangalpara have a lot of historical significance. Madayi Mosque in Pazhayangadi is considered to be one of the oldest mosques in Kerala set up by Malik Ibn Deenar, the propagator of Islam in Kerala.
Discover Kerala's iconic pilgrimage sites, including the Santa Cruz Basilica, St. George, and Malayattoor church in Kochi, the Arthunkal Church in Alappuzha, Pallikunnu Church in Wayanad, and Edathua Church in Alappuzha. Ascend the Malayattoor Hill to visit the renowned Malayattoor Church, famous for its vibrant perunaal (festival) celebrated on the first Sunday after Easter. The World's largest shrine of St. Sebastian can be found in Arthunkal St Andrews Basilica, Alappuzha. Beyond their religious significance, these churches are celebrated for their breathtaking architectural beauty.