ANANTHAPADMANABHASWAMY TEMPLE
Dedicated To: Lord Vishnu
Renovated By: Raja Marthanda Varma
Renovated In: 1733 AD
Sree
Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, the temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is
an awe-inspiring structure that has a 100 feet high 'gopuram', built in
Dravidian style.
City's historical landmark, the structure of the main building is a blend
of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture.
The temple, known for the
Mural paintings
and stone carvings is one among the 108 temples dedicated to Vishnu in
India. A magnificent array of gods, goddesses, nymphs, sprites and demons
adorn the seven-storey 'gopuram' that forms the temple tower.
Lord Vishnu, the presiding deity, reclines in the posture of
'Ananthashayanam' on the coiled serpent 'Anantha'. The temple is a proud
specimen of South Indian and Dravidian architectural styles.
Renovated in 1733 AD by the then ruler of Travancore, Raja Marthanda
Varma, this holy shrine attracts thousands of Hindu devotees. There are
innumerable pillars, intricate carvings and
Mural paintings.
Outside the temple courtyard, there is a medley of shops that sell
souvenirs, handicrafts, woodcarvings and handiwork of sandal. One can
witness the craftsmen do their work right from carving the wood to
polishing.
In the October/November months of every year, there is held the
Navarathri Festival of musical concerts at the Navarathri Mandapam,
adjacent to the main building of the temple. Only Hindus are allowed
inside and dress regulations are strictly followed.



