The temples of Kerala are dedicated to various gods and goddesses from the Hindu mythology. An architectural delights, Kerala temples are carved in the traditional style. Some of the significant temples of Kerala include the Padmanabhaswamy temple, Vadukkumnathan Temple, Vaikom Temple, Chottanikkara Temple, Mannarshala Temple, Ananthapura Lake Temple and the Ambalapuzha Temple. These Kerala temples reflect the religious fervor of people of Kerala.

Architecture of Kerala Temples: Kerala temples find expression in a mixed medium of stone, brick, laterite and wood this unique approach to temple building resulted in a distinctive form of architecture, laying stress on sanctity, simplicity and a prevailing naturalism which marked the worship in temples. The earlier temples of Kerala were primarily for Shiva and Vishnu or their manifestations (Krishna, Parasurama, Rama, Vamana). Swayampradhana shrines to Ganesha, Kartikeya are of later origin.

Sabarimala Temple: Sabarimala is a renowned pilgrim center atop the rugged hills of the Western Ghats. This holy temple in Kerala is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The Village of Sabarimala is named after Shabari who did severe penance in order to meet Rama who granted her wish for her devotion and faith during her penance.

The Main Festival: There are two main pujas called the Mandal Puja and the Makara Sankranti Puja, which are celebrated from November to Middle of January in Kerala, during which time the devotees perform austerities and penance. Devotees wear black 'dhotis' and are bare-chested as they prepare for the pilgrimage to Sabarimala. The temple is at the top of the Neeli hills and the devotees have to climb the treacherous route carrying their meager provision in a bundle called "Iru Mudi" meaning in "two folds".

Guruvayoor Temple: Guruvayoor, where the famous Sree Krishna Temple is situated, is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centers of Kerala. The walls of the sanctum are inlaid with exquisite mural paintings and carvings. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.

Sri Padmanabh Swamy Temple (Trivandrum): Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an awe-inspiring structure that has a 100 feet high 'gopuram', built in Dravidian style. The temple, known for the Mural paintings and stone carvings is one among the 108 temples dedicated to Vishnu in India.

Vadukkumnathan Temple (Trichur): Vadukkumnathan is a prominent Shiva temple, in downtown Thrissur (Trichur), Kerala. This is one of Kerala's most ancient shrines, which also houses a museum of ancient wall paintings, wood carvings and art pieces of immense historical value. The 'Pooram' festival, falling in April/ May, attracts devotees and tourists from all over the world.