Kerala is a holy land and holds a special place in regard to its temples. They are very different from that of other states in respect of their architecture.
Famous temples to visit:
Guruvayoor: It is located about 80 km from Cochin and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. This is the most sacred place for people of Kerala. A ten-day festival named Utsavam is a major tourist attraction which is celebrated in the months of February-March. This is also one of the most famous worshipping places in India.
Sabarimala: It is the most famous hindu temple of Kerala. It is located in the Western Ghats on a hilltop and is dedicated to Lord Ayyappan. The best time to visit this place is between November-January. The priest in this place follows very strict rules but it is open to people of every religion.
Thiruvalla: Lord Vishnu is the main deity worshipped in this temple. It is also one of the largest temples in this state, situated 2 km from Thiruvalla town. Travelers can enjoy the traditional Kathakali dance performed every evening. People believe that Lord Vishnu watches the performance every day from his place.
Aaranmula: It is situated in Chengannor district on Thiruvananthapuram and Kottayam route. This temple is dedicated to Parthasarathi or Lord Krishna. People believe that this place was built in the times of Mahabharata. In the months of august-september an annual snake boat race is organized to celebrate AARANMULA TEMPLE FESTIVAL.
Ambalapuzha: It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and was built in 800 AD. It is also very famous for its architecture and for its milk porridge called Payasam which is offered to devotees as god's Prasad. A major tourist attraction of this temple is the Champakulan Boat Race celebrated on the day on which Lord's idol was established here.
Kalapathy: It is the oldest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated about 3 km from Palakkad. A major tourist attraction of this place is the annual Chariot Festival celebrated for seven days in the month of November.