Kollam, a serene district in Kerala nestled by the Arabian Sea, is not just a coastal gem but also a deeply spiritual place steeped in history. Once a vital port of the ancient spice trade, it’s now famed for its backwaters, culture, and above all—its rich temple heritage. From ancient shrines echoing Vedic chants to colorful festivals that light up the streets, Kollam’s temples are a powerful expression of Kerala’s spiritual soul.
If you’re planning a trip to Kollam, here are the top 10 temples you must not miss, each offering a unique insight into the region’s cultural, spiritual, and architectural grandeur.
Famous Temples in Kollam You Shouldn’t Miss:
1. Maha Vishnu Temple, Sreevalli
Sreevalli Maha Vishnu Temple is one of the most sacred and ancient temples in Kollam, known for its tranquil atmosphere and traditional Kerala temple architecture. The presiding deity, Lord Vishnu, is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu). Set amidst lush surroundings, the temple draws numerous devotees during Vaikunta Ekadasi and other Vishnu festivals. Its peaceful location near Ashtamudi Lake makes it ideal for spiritual reflection and morning rituals.
Why Visit:
The idol here is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu), and the temple’s serene location near Ashtamudi Lake adds a spiritual calmness. Visit during Vishnu festivals like Vaikunta Ekadasi for an unforgettable spiritual experience.
Location: Sreevalli, near Kollam city
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM; 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: December–January (Vaikunta Ekadasi)
2. Sree Subrahmanya Swamy Temple, Kulathupuzha
This unique forest-temple is dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya (Murugan), worshipped here in the form of a child. Surrounded by dense greenery, flowing streams, and wildlife, the temple offers a soulful retreat for nature and spiritual lovers alike. It plays an important role in the Aranmula pilgrimage route and sees vibrant celebrations during Vishu and Skanda Sashti. The peaceful forest ambiance adds to its divine charm.
Why Visit:
The temple is part of the famous Aranmula pilgrimage route and is surrounded by thick forests and streams—making it a destination for both devotees and nature lovers.
Location: Kulathupuzha, 60 km from Kollam
Timings: 4:30 AM – 12:30 PM; 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Don’t Miss: Vishu Mahotsavam in April
3. Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Thirumullavaram
Located near the scenic Thirumullavaram beach, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is famous for its coastal serenity and rich traditions. The temple hosts grand festivals like Ashtami Rohini and Janmashtami with devotional fervor. The architecture features traditional Kerala-style wooden carvings and oil lamps. The combination of sea breeze and temple bells creates an ethereal ambiance during early morning darshan.
Why Visit:
Perfect for combining a spiritual visit with a tranquil beach walk. The Ashtami Rohini festival is celebrated here with grandeur.
Location: Thirumullavaram, 6 km from Kollam
Timings: 4:00 AM – 11:00 AM; 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Ideal For: Beachside temple rituals and peaceful evening darshan
4. Sasthamcotta Sree Dharma Sastha Temple
Situated beside Kerala’s largest freshwater lake, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa (Sastha). Known for its spiritual energy and association with holy monkeys, the temple becomes a major pilgrimage site during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season. The serene lake setting and age-old rituals make it a favorite for those seeking blessings and inner peace. It’s also a starting point for Sabarimala pilgrims.
Why Visit:
Sasthamcotta Lake itself is sacred, and the temple has a unique tradition of monkeys that are believed to be divine followers of the Lord.
Location: Sasthamcotta, 29 km from Kollam
Timings: 4:30 AM – 11:30 AM; 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Major Festival: Mandala-Makaravilakku (Nov–Jan)
5. Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple
Famous for being the birthplace of Kathakali, Kerala’s classical dance form, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The idol is revered for granting wishes, and the temple’s special offering of Unniappam is a must-try prasadam. It is steeped in history and cultural legends, making it not just a place of worship but a site of artistic inspiration. Visit during Ganesh Chaturthi for the grand celebrations.
Why Visit:
It’s famous for the “Unniappam” prasad and unique idol of Lord Ganesha. The temple is also associated with the great sage Vilwamangalam Swamiyar.
Location: Kottarakkara, 27 km from Kollam
Timings: 4:00 AM – 11:30 AM; 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Recommended: Visit during Ganesh Chaturthi for temple arts & cultural shows
6. Oachira Parabrahma Temple
This unconventional temple is unique in India—it doesn’t have a sanctum or idol. Instead, the worship here is centered around the concept of Parabrahma, or Universal Consciousness. The Oachira Kali festival held annually is a dramatic and vibrant reenactment of historical warfare and attracts thousands. The open-air setting and spiritual symbolism make this temple a thought-provoking destination for modern seekers and pilgrims alike.
Why Visit:
It’s more a spiritual field than a temple, and the Oachira Kali festival held in the paddy fields is a dramatic re-enactment of ancient battles.
Location: Oachira, on the Kollam-Alappuzha highway
Timings: Open all day
Unique Feature: No idol, no walls—pure spiritual energy
7. Thangassery St. Thomas Orthodox Church & Adjacent Temple Complex
Though primarily known for its colonial churches and lighthouse, Thangassery also hosts small but significant temple complexes that represent the Hindu spiritual presence in the area. These temples, tucked between coastal lanes and colonial-era structures, serve the local Hindu community and are simple yet spiritually charged. Visitors can enjoy both religious and historical exploration in a single visit, especially during temple festivals.
Why Visit:
It’s a fascinating blend of spiritual traditions—Portuguese colonial heritage meets Kerala temple rituals in harmony.
Location: Thangassery, 5 km from Kollam
Tip: Visit the temples in early morning and then explore the lighthouse & beach nearby
8. Udayamarthandapuram Sree Subrahmanya Temple
This lesser-known shrine dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya offers a quiet, traditional temple experience away from tourist crowds. The temple is well-maintained with stone structures and oil lamps that create a peaceful evening ambiance. It is ideal for meditation and prayer. Its location near Paravur makes it a perfect stopover for spiritual travelers exploring Kollam’s less commercialized villages and sacred spaces.
Why Visit:
This is a great spot for those seeking silence, reflection, and traditional Kerala temple ambiance without the crowd.
Location: Udayamarthandapuram, near Paravur
Best Time: November–February
Speciality: Stone idols, traditional oil-lamp lighting in evenings
9. Panmana Ashram Temple
This temple is part of Panmana Ashram, founded by the revered saint Swami Vidyadhiraja. It combines ritual worship with spiritual learning and community service. Devotees and spiritual aspirants visit this temple for peace, inspiration, and clarity of thought. The temple complex includes a library, halls for spiritual discourse, and meditation areas, making it a center for holistic spiritual growth in Kollam.
Why Visit:
It’s a calm, meditative place with beautiful temple shrines, a library, and ongoing spiritual discourses.
Location: Panmana, near Chavara
Timings: 5:00 AM – 10:30 AM; 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Ideal For: Spiritual seekers and peaceful meditation
10. Chittumala Sree Durga Devi Temple
One of the most revered Devi temples in Kollam, this shrine is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is beautifully situated atop Chittumala hill. The temple is known for its vibrant Pooram festival, which draws thousands of devotees. Surrounded by scenic views of backwaters and paddy fields, it’s not only a place of worship but also a vantage point offering spiritual elevation and natural beauty.
Why Visit:
Devotees believe the goddess grants prosperity and protects from misfortune. The views from the hill are equally divine.
Location: Chittumala, 25 km from Kollam
Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM; 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Festival Highlight: Chittumala Pooram (March–April)
Tips for Visiting Temples in Kollam
- Dress Modestly: Kerala temples require traditional attire—men in mundu/dhoti, women in sarees or salwar.
- Shoes Outside: Always remove footwear before entering.
- Photography Rules: Most temples prohibit photography inside the sanctum.
- Prasadam: Try prasadam like Unniappam, Payasam, and Aval.
- Festival Time: If visiting during festivals, expect huge crowds and lively rituals.
How to Reach Kollam
By Air:
Nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (70 km). Taxis and buses are easily available.
By Train:
Kollam Junction is a major railway station with daily trains from major cities in South India.
By Road:
Kollam is well-connected by NH66. Regular KSRTC and private buses run from Kochi, Trivandrum, and other parts of Kerala.
Best Time to Visit Kollam’s Temples
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Pleasant climate and many festivals. Ideal for temple-hopping.
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Green surroundings, but heavy rains may affect travel.
- Summer (Mar–May): Hot and humid, but temple rituals continue.
Conclusion
Kollam is more than backwaters and beaches—it’s a sacred land where myths, history, and devotion come alive in its temples. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history enthusiast, or simply an admirer of architecture and rituals, these top 10 temples in Kollam are bound to leave a lasting impression.
Make sure you include these temples in your travel itinerary to truly immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Kerala.
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FAQs about Temples in Kollam
1. Which is the most famous temple in Kollam?
The most famous temple in Kollam is the Sreevalli Maha Vishnu Temple, known for its ancient heritage and the belief in the self-manifested idol of Lord Vishnu. It’s a major spiritual hub in the region and attracts a large number of devotees during Vaikunta Ekadasi and other Vishnu-related festivals.
2. Are there any unique temples in Kollam that don’t have idols?
Yes, the Oachira Parabrahma Temple is one of the rare temples in India that does not have a sanctum or idol. Instead, it represents the formless concept of Universal Consciousness (Parabrahma), and the worship here is symbolic and philosophical in nature.
3. Can tourists visit all temples in Kollam regardless of religion?
While most temples in Kollam welcome visitors of all backgrounds, entry to the sanctum sanctorum is generally restricted to Hindus. However, tourists can observe the architecture, rituals, and festivals from outside or designated areas, especially during open celebrations.
4. What is the best time to visit temples in Kollam?
The best time to visit temples in Kollam is during the winter months from November to February, when the weather is pleasant. It also coincides with major festivals like Mandala season, Sabarimala pilgrimages, and temple poorams.
5. Are there any temple festivals in Kollam worth experiencing?
Yes, some must-see festivals include Chittumala Pooram, Vishnu Ekadasi at Sreevalli Temple, Oachira Kali, and Ganesh Chaturthi at Kottarakkara Temple. These events are filled with colorful processions, cultural programs, and traditional rituals.
6. How can I reach the temples in Kollam from the city center?
Most temples are well-connected by local buses, autos, or taxis from Kollam city. Major ones like Thirumullavaram and Sreevalli Maha Vishnu Temple are within 10 km. For temples like Kulathupuzha or Sasthamcotta, hiring a cab or using KSRTC buses is recommended.
7. What are the dress code requirements for temple visits in Kollam?
Visitors are expected to follow traditional dress codes. Men should wear a dhoti or mundu (shirtless or with a towel), and women are recommended to wear sarees or salwar-kameez. Western outfits like jeans and skirts are usually discouraged inside temple premises.
8. Is photography allowed inside the temples in Kollam?
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the sanctum sanctorum and most inner temple premises. However, you may be allowed to take photos of the exterior architecture and surroundings after seeking permission from temple authorities.
