About Ananthapura Lake Temple
The Ananthapura Lake Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Anantha Padmanabhaswamy located in the village of Ananthapura near Kumbla in Kasaragod district. It is the only lake temple in Kerala, built on an island in the center of a rectangular water tank. The temple holds significant cultural importance as it is believed to be the original seat (Moolasthanam) of Lord Padmanabhaswamy of Thiruvananthapuram and is considered one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethram of Vaishnavate tradition.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a serene spiritual experience at this unique temple situated in the middle of a lake. The main sanctum is accessible via a foot-bridge from the eastern rock. The temple features traditional Kerala architecture with mural paintings depicting various avatars of Lord Vishnu. Visitors can observe the peaceful lake surroundings and explore the cave entrance near the temple complex. The atmosphere is tranquil and suitable for prayer and contemplation.
Key highlights
- 01
Only lake temple in Kerala
- 02
Believed to be the original seat (Moolasthanam) of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Thiruvananthapuram
- 03
Traditional Kerala temple architecture with mural paintings
- 04
Serene lake setting with foot-bridge access to sanctum
- 05
One of the 108 Abhimana Kshethram of Vaishnavate tradition
History of Ananthapura Lake Temple
The temple is believed to have been built in the 9th century. According to legend, the great Brahmin sage Divakara Muni Vilwamangalam performed penance at this site where Lord Narayana appeared before him as a child. The temple has been renovated multiple times since its construction.
Culture & Context
The temple is revered as the Moolasthanam (original seat) of Lord Ananthapadmanabha Swami of the famous Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. It is considered one among the 108 Abhimana Kshethram of Vaishnavate tradition and holds deep spiritual significance for devotees of Lord Vishnu.
Route
| By air |
|---|