15 Must-Visit Temples in South India

The temples in South India stand out for their magnificent architecture, predominantly in the Vijayanagara and Dravidian styles. These structures are not just places of worship but also stunning works of art that attract devotees from around the world. Each temple, regardless of its location, is a testament to fine craftsmanship, with intricate artwork adorning its towering Gopurams.

For example, the Sabarimala Sastha Temple in Sabarimala is renowned for its exquisite decorations, while the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai is revered for its colorful facade. These temples are not just architectural marvels; they are also spiritual hubs where devotees gather to seek blessings and offer prayers.

From witnessing unique rituals like hair offerings at the Lord Venkateswara Temple to participating in ritualistic dances at various temples, the spiritual experiences in South Indian temples are unparalleled. With such a rich blend of architecture, spirituality, and devotion, a visit to these temples is sure to rejuvenate your soul.

Here is a list of 15 must-visit temples in South India that will enhance your pilgrimage travel experience in this region.

Vadakkunnathan Temple: A Timeless Shrine of Lord Shiva with Ancient Artworks in Thrissur:

The Vadakkunnathan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a timeless marvel of Kerala's classical architecture. This ancient temple, with its four majestic gopurams or towers, has stood for centuries as a symbol of devotion and artistry. Located at the heart of Thrissur town, surrounded by lush gardens, the temple offers a serene escape and a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

The temple complex is not just a place of worship but also a treasure trove of art, housing exquisite mural paintings depicting stories from the puranas. Alongside the main deity, Lord Shiva, the temple also enshrines idols of Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Lord Shankaranarayana, and Lord Rama. The outer area of the temple features shrines dedicated to Lord Krishna, Nandikeshwara, Parasurama, Simhodara, Ayyappa (Sastha), and Sankaracharya, showcasing the diverse pantheon of Hindu deities.

One of the most significant events at the Vadakkunnathan Temple is the Thrissur Pooram Festival, celebrated with great pomp and splendor. During this festival, which usually falls in April or May, the temple comes alive with a grand procession of decorated elephants, accompanied by the mesmerizing beats of traditional percussion instruments. The festival culminates in a breathtaking display of fireworks, making it a spectacle to behold.

Visiting the Vadakkunnathan Temple during the Thrissur Pooram Festival is a truly immersive experience, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and the vibrant spirit of its people.

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple: A Majestic Abode of Lord Krishna in Kerala

The Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, nestled along the picturesque Pamba River in Kerala, is a divine destination that beckons devotees and tourists alike. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, known here as Parthasarathy, this temple holds a special place in the hearts of the faithful.

Legend has it that the idol of Lord Krishna enshrined in the temple was brought here on a raft made of six bamboo pieces, hence the name "Aranmula," where "Aru" means six and "Mula" means bamboo. This ancient temple, steeped in history and spirituality, offers a glimpse into Kerala's rich cultural heritage.

The temple's architecture, typical of Kerala's traditional style, features exquisite wooden carvings depicting scenes from the epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana. Visitors can immerse themselves in the temple's serene ambiance and marvel at its intricate craftsmanship.

One of the highlights of a visit to the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is the Valla Sadya, a grand feast served on plantain leaves during the Ashtami Rohini festival, celebrated as Krishna Janmashtami, in September. Another must-see event is the traditional snake boat race, held annually on the Pamba River during the festival of Onam, adding to the temple's festive charm.

The temple also plays a significant role in preserving Kerala's cultural heritage by offering classes in classical music, dance, and the traditional martial art of Kalaripayattu. A visit to the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple promises not just a spiritual experience but also a cultural journey through Kerala's rich traditions.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Richest Temple in the World:

The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, located in Kerala and dating back to the 8th century, is not just a place of worship but also a repository of legends and mysteries. This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is renowned for its opulent architecture and rich history, making it one of the most revered Hindu temples in the region.

Built in the Dravidian style, the temple's towering gopuram stands seven stories tall, adorned with seven golden domes symbolizing the seven worlds. But what truly captivates visitors are the stories surrounding the temple's six underground vaults, labeled A to F. While five vaults have been opened, revealing treasures of gold and gems, vault B remains closed, shrouded in mystery and superstition.

According to temple authorities, opening vault B could bring ruin, as it is believed to house untold dangers such as snakes, supernatural entities, or even a direct path to the Arabian Sea, bringing catastrophe if breached. The mystery of vault B continues to intrigue and fascinate visitors, adding to the temple's mystique.

Despite its mysterious aura, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple remains a symbol of devotion and spirituality, drawing devotees and tourists alike to witness its grandeur and unravel its secrets.

Sabarimala Temple: A Spiritual Awakening in South India

The Sabarimala Sastha Temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, is one of South India's most revered temples, drawing millions of devotees on an annual pilgrimage. Located atop a hill in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, this temple is surrounded by the serene beauty of the Periyar Tiger Reserve.

Devotees from all walks of life and religions visit the temple, but entry is restricted to men, girls who have not yet reached puberty, and post-menopausal women. Before visiting, devotees must sanctify themselves through a 41-day period of celibacy.

The pilgrimage season, from November to mid-January, sees millions of pilgrims flocking to Sabarimala, with the Mandala Pooja and Makaravilakku festivals being the main events. The temple is closed for the rest of the year, except for the first five days of every month in the Malayalam calendar and the festival of Vishu.

Sabarimala Temple's annual pilgrimage is one of the largest in the world, with devotees traveling from nearby southern Indian states to seek the blessings of Lord Ayyappa and experience the spiritual awakening that the temple offers.

Attukal Bhagavathy Temple: A Marvel of Tamil and Kerala Architecture in Trivandrum

The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, located in Trivandrum, is a captivating blend of Tamil and Kerala architectural styles, making it a unique and colorful place of worship. The temple's interior is a sight to behold, with the idol of the Goddess Bhadra Kali adorned with exquisite gold ornaments. The exterior of the temple is adorned with intricate sculptures, adding to its beauty and grandeur.

Goddess Bhadrakali, worshipped at the temple, is revered as both a creator and destroyer of life, and devotees hold her in high esteem. Often called the "Sabarimala of Women," the temple attracts a large number of female devotees. The temple sees its highest influx of visitors during the Pongala festival, a 10-day celebration where women from Kerala and Tamil Nadu come together to cook Pongala, a traditional offering, in the temple premises. This festival holds a Guinness World Record for being the largest annual gathering of women in the world.

Main Deity: Goddess Bhadrakali (Kannaki)Place: TrivandrumHighlight: The annual 10-day Attukal Pongala Festival is held between February and March and holds a Guinness World Record for having the largest gathering of women.

Sree Krishna Temple: Seeking Blessings at the Ancient Idol of Lord Vishnu in Guruvayoor

Known as the "Dwarka of the South," the Sree Krishna Temple in Guruvayoor is a revered Krishna temple in Kerala, drawing devotees from all over the country for its magnificent architecture and rich history. Situated in the Thrissur district, the temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Lord Vishnu. Lord Krishna is worshipped here as Lord Guruvayurappan, depicted with four arms holding a conch, the Sudarshana Chakra, Kaumodaki (mace), and a lotus.

Built in the Dravidian style, the Sree Krishna Temple is a stunning example of traditional Kerala architecture. Adorned with centuries-old murals dating back to the 17th century, visiting the temple is a truly enchanting experience. One of the temple's popular ceremonies is Thulabharam, where devotees offer bananas, jaggery, and coconut equal to their weight on a giant scale.

The most auspicious time to visit the Sree Krishna Temple is during Janmashtami, the celebration of Lord Krishna's birth. Additionally, the temple's surroundings include a sacred pond/tank where Lord Shiva and his family are believed to have worshipped Vishnu, adding to the temple's spiritual significance.

Main Deity: Lord Vishnu (Worshipped in the form of Guruvayurappan)Place: GuruvayoorHighlight: The temple's surroundings include a sacred pond/tank where Lord Shiva and his family are believed to have worshipped Vishnu, adding to the temple's spiritual significance.

Thirunelli Temple: Embrace the Serenity of Brahmagiri Hills in Wayanad

Nestled amidst the picturesque Brahmagiri hills and beside the tranquil Papanasini stream, Thirunelli Temple is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site in Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is renowned for its serene setting and traditional Kerala architecture. The temple's intricately carved pillars and peaceful surroundings make it a haven for spiritual seekers.

Legend has it that Thirunelli Temple was constructed by Lord Brahma himself. According to the myth, Lord Brahma was attracted to the beauty of the Brahmagiri Hills and discovered an idol of Lord Vishnu under an amla tree (nelli in Malayalam), leading to the temple's establishment. The temple is often referred to as the "Sahyamala Kshetram" and is lovingly called the "Kashi of the South."

Devotees flock to Thirunelli Temple to perform ancestral rites and rituals, which are conducted at the banks of the Papanasini stream. The temple and its surrounding village also offer opportunities for trekking, thanks to the scenic beauty and rugged terrain of the region.

Main Deity: Lord VishnuPlace: Wayanad ValleyHighlight: The holy temple pond, Panchatheertham, and the nearby holy stream, Papanasini, where pilgrims bathe to cleanse themselves of sins.

Sivagiri Mutt: A Symbol of Devotion and Learning in Varkala

Located near the town of Varkala, the Sivagiri Mutt is a renowned pilgrimage site and the headquarters of the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham, founded by the social reformer Sree Narayana Guru. The mutt, with its distinctive multi-tiered white structure, stands out as a symbol of devotion and learning in Kerala.

The Sivagiri Sarada Temple, situated within the mutt, is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, wisdom, and learning. The temple's unique octagonal shape and white walls, along with its serene ambiance, create a peaceful atmosphere for devotees and visitors alike.

The Sivagiri Mutt also serves as the final resting place of Sree Narayana Guru and houses his residence and personal belongings, attracting tourists and pilgrims alike. The annual pilgrimage to the mutt, held between December 30 and January 1, sees a large number of devotees gathering to pay homage to Sree Narayana Guru.

Main Deity: Goddess SaraswatiPlace: VarkalaHighlight: The Sivagiri Mutt hosts the annual celebration of Sri Narayana Jayanthi during August/September, attracting devotees from far and wide.

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple: A Spiritual Journey to the Oldest Temple in Kerala

Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, situated in Vaikom, is renowned as one of the oldest temples in Kerala. Along with Ettumanoor Shiva Temple and Kaduthuruthy Thaliyil Mahadeva Temple, it forms a powerful triad of Shiva temples in the Kottayam district. Devotees believe that visiting these temples before the Ucha pooja can fulfill their wishes.

This ancient temple is revered by both Shaivites and Vaishnavites but primarily worships Lord Shiva. The temple's Shiva Linga is said to date back to the Treta Yuga and is housed in the only oval-shaped Sreekovil or Garbhagriha in Kerala. Constructed predominantly from stone, the temple showcases remarkable craftsmanship and architectural grandeur. Lord Shiva is affectionately known as "Vaikathappan" or "The Lord of Vaikom" by devotees.

Main Deity: Lord ShivaPlace: VaikomHighlight: Vaikom Ashtami, a significant festival held in November/December, attracts a large number of devotees. The Shivling here is believed to be one of the oldest in Kerala.

Sree Vallabha Temple: An Architectural Marvel in Thiruvalla

The Sree Vallabha Temple in Thiruvalla is renowned for its architectural grandeur and exquisite collection of murals and carvings. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Sree Vallabhan, this temple, located along the banks of the River Manimala, is a visual delight for visitors.

Dating back 400 years, the temple features stunning stone-wooden carvings and beautiful murals that adorn its walls. Constructed in the traditional Kerala style, the temple boasts four gopurams, each facing a different direction. The Sreekovil or garbhagriha of the temple is circular and houses the idol of Sree Vallabha facing east, with the idol of Lord Sudarshana facing west.

In addition to the main deities, the temple also houses idols of Varadakshinamoorthy, Vadakkum Thevar, Ganapathy, Garuda, Sastha, Kurayappan Swami, Ayal Yakshi, and Maya Yakshi. Kathakali, a traditional dance form, is performed almost daily at the temple as an offering to please Lord Vallabha, who is believed to have a fondness for it.

Main Deity: Lord VishnuPlace: ThiruvallaHighlight: Thiru Utsavam (February/March) and Uthira Sreebali (March/April) are two major festivals celebrated at the temple, attracting devotees from far and wide.

Mahabaleshwar Temple: A Sacred Shrine of Lord Shiva in Gokarna

Situated on the Arabian Sea shores in Gokarna, the Mahabaleshwar Temple is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple's architecture follows the classical Dravidian style, adding to its grandeur and historical significance. Legend has it that the temple was built to honor Lord Shiva after Ravana, unable to lift the Atmalinga, placed it at this spot.

The Atmalinga, worshipped fervently by devotees, is 6 feet long and remains a focal point of devotion. The temple also houses a stone-carved idol of Lord Shiva, believed to be over 1,500 years old. The temple is known as "Dakshin Kashi" or the "Kashi of the South" due to its importance and holiness.

During the Ashta Bandana Kumbhabhishekam festival, which occurs every 40 years, the Atmalinga is revealed to devotees in its entirety. Otherwise, it remains mostly hidden from view. The Mahabaleshwar Temple stands as a testament to ancient architecture and spiritual significance, drawing devotees and tourists alike.

Main Deity: Lord ShivaPlace: GokarnaHighlight: The temple has a small hole through which devotees can view the top of the Atmalinga. The deity inside is believed to be more than 1,500 years old.

Durga Temple: A Marvel of Ancient Architecture in Aihole The Durga Temple in Aihole, constructed between the 7th and 8th centuries, is a testament to ancient architectural splendor. Built on the banks of the Malaprabha River, this temple showcases a unique blend of Dravidian, Nagara, and southern Mandapa styles. The temple is primarily built in the Gajaprastha style and is renowned for its semicircular apsis.

Despite its name, the Durga Temple is dedicated mainly to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, not Goddess Durga. The name "Durga" is derived from the Kannada term for fortress, as the temple was once part of a larger fort complex. The temple features detailed sculptures adorning its exteriors, depicting various arts and mythological stories.

One of the highlights of the temple is the sculpture of Goddess Durga slaying the demon Mahishasura, along with intricate carvings of Lord Shiva with his vehicle Nandi, and Lord Vishnu in his Narasimhavatara and Varahavatara forms. The Durga Temple stands as a testament to ancient craftsmanship and artistic excellence, attracting visitors from far and wide.

Main Deity: Lord Vishnu and Lord ShivaPlace: AiholeHighlight: The temple's intricate sculptures depict various mythological stories and artistic designs, showcasing the skill and artistry of ancient craftsmen.

Bhutanatha Temples: A Fusion of Architectural Styles in Badami The Bhutanatha Temples, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Agastya Lake and the Rocky Mountains of Badami, are a testament to the rich architectural heritage of Karnataka. Dedicated to Bhutanatha, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, these sandstone temples are a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

The temples showcase a unique blend of north and early south Indian architectural styles. The Bhutanatha Temple, built during the reign of the Chalukyas of Vatapi, features intricate carvings and massive pillars adorned with lotus designs. The temple's inner halls were constructed by the Chalukyas of Badami, while the outer hall was added later by the Kalyani Chalukyas. The Mallikarjuna Temple, located on the north-eastern side, is another architectural marvel added by the Kalyani Chalukyas.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Bhutanatha Temples is the presence of sculptures depicting Goddess Ganga and Goddess Yamuna on either side of the temple's doorways. These sculptures, along with the overall architectural grandeur, make the Bhutanatha Temples a captivating destination for visitors exploring the cultural heritage of Karnataka.

Main Deity: Bhutanatha (incarnation of Lord Shiva)Place: BadamiHighlight: The temples showcase a unique blend of architectural styles from different periods, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage.

Sri Krishna Temple: A Divine Abode of Lord Krishna in Udupi

The Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi, Karnataka, is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is often called the "Mathura of the South" due to its significance in the region. Legend has it that the temple was built in the 13th century by Sri Madhwacharya after discovering the idol of Lord Krishna covered in gopichandana near the site. Unlike traditional temple layouts, the idol of Lord Krishna here faces west and is depicted as balakrishna.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Sri Krishna Temple is the Kanakana Kindi, a small window through which devotees can view the deity. According to legend, when the saint Kanakadasa, a devotee from a lower caste, was denied entry into the temple, he fervently prayed from outside. In response to his devotion, the idol of Lord Krishna miraculously turned to face him, revealing its back to the entrance. To this day, devotees can only view the front of the idol through the Navagraha Kitiki, the nine-holed window.

The temple also features the Kanakadasa Mantapa, where the statue of Kanakadasa is displayed, commemorating his devotion and the divine miracle that occurred at the temple entrance. The Sri Krishna Temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of equality and divine grace, attracting devotees from far and wide.

Main Deity: Lord KrishnaPlace: UdupiHighlight: The Navagraha Kitiki, a nine-holed window through which the deity can be viewed, symbolizing the divine acceptance of all devotees regardless of caste or creed.

Annapoorneshwari Temple: A Divine Abode of the Food Goddess in Horanadu

Situated on the serene banks of the Bhadra River, the Annapoorneshwari Temple is revered as one of Karnataka's oldest temples. Also known as Sri Kshetra Horanadu, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapoorneshwari, the deity of food. Nestled in the picturesque village of Horanadu in the Chikmagalur district, the temple holds a significant place in the hearts of devotees.

Legend has it that the original deity was installed by the revered sage Agastya Maharishi around the 8th century. The current idol was consecrated by Adi Shankaracharya in 1973, adding to the temple's historical and spiritual importance. Devotees believe that praying to Goddess Annapoorneshwari ensures a life free from food scarcity, reflecting the goddess's divine aspect.

One of the temple's unique features is the distribution of food (prasadam) to devotees, symbolizing the goddess's blessings of abundance. The temple attracts a large number of devotees, especially during Navratri and Akshaya Tritiya, seeking the goddess's divine grace. Inside the temple, a magnificent statue of Goddess Annapoorneshwari in a standing posture, believed to be sculpted by Sage Agastya, captivates visitors with its divine presence.

Main Deity: Goddess AnnapoorneshwariPlace: HoranaduHighlight: Devotees believe that sincere prayers to the goddess ensure a life free from hunger, making the temple a symbol of divine nourishment and abundance.