In Pics | Padmanabhaswamy: Kerala’s Richest Temple Guarded by Serpents

By Neha Mewari | July 31, 2025

Sree Padmanabhaswamy

Lord Padmanabha was proclaimed the legitimate ruler by the Travancore king in 1750. Since then, the royal family has taken on the role of guardians rather than monarchs.

Image: Canva

The World’s Richest Temple

It became the richest temple in the world in 2011 when gold coins, enormous necklaces, and idols encrusted with diamonds were discovered in hidden vaults.

Image: Canva

The Mystery of Vault B

Because of concerns about a serpent curse, Vault B is still sealed. Locals think that opening it could result in catastrophe, and it is protected by Naga carvings.

Image: Canva

Stunning Temple Architecture

The temple attracts worshippers and history buffs from all over the world with its design, which combines Dravidian gopurams with Kerala-style wooden art.

Image: Canva

Lord Vishnu’s Unique Idol

Lord Vishnu rests in a reclining pose on Adishesha. His huge idol can be seen only through three doors—head, torso, and feet separately.

Image: Canva

Thiruvananthapuram

In honor of the serpent that Lord Vishnu rests upon in the temple, the city is known as Thiruvananthapuram, which translates to “City of Lord Anantha.”

Image: Canva

A Temple Over 5000 Years Old

This temple is thought to have been constructed at the beginning of the Kali Yuga and represents a 5000-year-old tradition of devotion, faith, and mythology.

Image: Canva

Strict Dress Code for Devotees

To maintain the temple’s historic sanctity, women must enter in sarees or other traditional attire, and men must wear dhotis without shirts.

Image: Canva

Next: 9 Quotes by Tulsidas That Will Change the Way You Think
Thanks For Reading !
Find out More