Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Timings, Poojas, Entry Fees

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, India, is not just a religious monument; it is a testament to rich traditions, architectural brilliance, and spiritual devotion. Dedicated to Lord Padmanabha, a form of Lord Vishnu, this temple is a prominent pilgrimage site that attracts devotees from around the world. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricate details of the temple’s various poojas (rituals), entrance fees, and the dress code that visitors are expected to follow.

General Darshan Timings

Morning Timing – 3:00 AM To 12:00 PM
Evening Timing – 5:00 PM To 7:20 PM

Entry Fee: Not entry fee

150 per person for Special Darshan
180 per person for Special Darshan with Prashad

Table of Contents

Poojas (Rituals) & Timings

1- Nirmalya Darshan

Timing: The temple opens its doors at 3:00 AM for the Nirmalya Darshan.
Significance: Nirmalya Darshan is the first and most sacred darshan of the day. It is believed that during this time, devotees can witness the deity in its purest form. The temple is bathed in a divine aura as the curtains are drawn, revealing Lord Padmanabha adorned with fresh flowers and decorations.
Experience: The experience of Nirmalya Darshan is deeply spiritual, and it allows devotees to start their day with the blessings of Lord Padmanabha.

2- Usha Pooja

Timing: Usha Pooja is performed from 5:00 AM to 6:15 AM.
Significance: Usha Pooja marks the beginning of the morning rituals at the temple. Devotees gather to participate in this early morning worship, offering their prayers to Lord Padmanabha. The temple resonates with the sounds of Vedic hymns and mantras.
Experience: The serene atmosphere during Usha Pooja creates a sense of tranquillity and devotion, making it a special time for devotees.

3- Sreebali

Timing: The Sreebali, or the morning procession, takes place from 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM.
Significance: During Sreebali, the deity is taken on a ceremonial procession within the temple premises. This procession is accompanied by the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments, making it a visually and musically enriching experience.
Experience: Devotees gather to catch a glimpse of the adorned deity as it gracefully moves through the temple. The energy and devotion during this procession are palpable.

4- Ucha Pooja

Timing: Ucha Pooja is conducted in the afternoon, and the exact timing can vary.
Significance: Ucha Pooja is the final ritual of the morning session before the temple takes a break during the midday hours. It involves the offering of prayers and pujas to Lord Padmanabha.
Experience: Devotees who visit the temple during this time can participate in the Ucha Pooja and receive the blessings of the deity.

5- Deeparadhana

Timing: Deeparadhana, the evening worship, is conducted from 5:00 PM to 6:15 PM.
Significance: Deeparadhana marks the evening darshan at the temple. During this time, the temple is illuminated with countless lamps, creating a mesmerizing and divine ambiance. Devotees offer their prayers and witness the deeparadhana, which is a visual spectacle.
Experience: The sight of the illuminated temple and the soothing hymns create a sense of peace and devotion. It is an ideal time for contemplation and reflection.

Athazha Pooja

Timing: Athazha Pooja is the last pooja of the day and is performed before the temple doors are closed.
Significance: Athazha Pooja marks the conclusion of the daily rituals at the temple. It is a time for devotees to seek the blessings of Lord Padmanabha before the temple closes for the night.
Experience: Devotees who visit the temple in the evening can participate in the Athazha Pooja and offer their prayers.

Dress Code

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple has a strict dress code that visitors are expected to adhere to. This dress code is in place to maintain the sanctity and reverence of the temple. Both men and women are required to follow specific guidelines:

For Men

Men are expected to wear traditional attire, preferably a white dhoti (mundu) along with an angavastram.
Wearing shirts, t-shirts, shorts, and lungis is not permitted inside the temple premises.
Devotees have the option to bring their own traditional attire or rent it from facilities available nearby.

For Women

Women are required to wear traditional clothing, such as sarees or salwar kameez.
Western attire, short skirts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing should be avoided.
Like men, women can either wear their traditional attire or utilize rental services if needed.

General Tips

Footwear: Devotees must remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. There are designated areas provided for storing shoes or sandals.
Photography and Mobile Phones: The temple may have restrictions on photography and the use of mobile phones within the temple premises. It is advisable to check with the temple authorities regarding these policies and adhere to their guidelines.
Respect for Customs: While inside the temple, it is essential to maintain decorum, respect the customs and rituals being performed, and avoid touching the idols or disturbing the priests during pujas.
Donations and Offerings: For those wishing to make donations or offerings to the temple, there are specific counters and procedures within the temple premises for this purpose.
Plan Ahead: Given the temple’s popularity, it is advisable to arrive well in advance of the darshan timings, especially during festivals and special occasions, to avoid long queues.
Check for Updates: Before planning your visit, check the temple’s official website or consult local sources for any changes in timings, fees, or special events.

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