The Ananthapura Lake Temple is a special Hindu temple that is located in the peaceful village of Ananthapura, Kasaragod district, Kerala and is devoted to Lord Vishnu in the form of Ananthapadmanabha Swamy. This is a 9 th century temple which is the only lake temple in Kerala and is located in the center of a 2-acre lake which gives a serene and spiritual atmosphere. It is believed to be the original seat (Moolasthanam) of Ananthapadmanabha Swamy of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. The architecture of the temple is in traditional Kerala style having wooden carvings which operate the images of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu and of bright mural paintings.
An interesting feature was the existence of a vegetarian crocodile called Babiya which was perceived to cleanse the lake and was considered a god and lived in the lake until its death in October 2022. The temple’s idols, originally made from a rare combination of over 70 medicinal materials called kadu-sharkara-yogam, were replaced with panchaloha (five-metal alloy) idols in 1972. The temple is open to everyone irrespective of religion and caste and bookings are made on the basis of spirituality by the people and tourists who visit due to its devotional value and nature, scenic surroundings and mythological stories such as a cave where lord Vishnu traveled to Thiruvananthapuram.
Akkalkota Swami Samarth Darshan Booking 2025: Timings
Overview of Ananthapura Lake Temple
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ananthapura, Kasaragod District, Kerala, India (6 km from Kumbla) |
| Deity | Lord Ananthapadmanabha (Vishnu) |
| Unique Feature | Only lake temple in Kerala, built in a 2-acre lake |
| Historical Significance | Built in the 9th century, believed to be the original seat of Padmanabhaswamy |
| Architecture | Kerala-style with wooden carvings and mural paintings |
| Guardian Crocodile | Babiya (deceased in 2022), a vegetarian crocodile fed temple prasad |
| Idols | Originally kadu-sharkara-yogam, now panchaloha (since 1972) |
| Accessibility | Open to all religions and castes |
| Contact | Phone: +91 4998 214360, Email: info@ananthapuratemple.com |
| Website | www.ananthapuratemple.com |
Temple Timings
| Session | Timings |
|---|---|
| Morning Session | 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Evening Session | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM |
| Special Note | Timings may change during festivals; check www.ananthapuratemple.com for updates |
Sevas and Darshan Options
| Seva/Darshan | Timings | Price (INR) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Darshan | 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Free | Free access to view the deity |
| Naivedya Pooja | 11:00 AM | 50 – 200 | Offering of food (prasad) to Lord Vishnu |
| Abhishekam | 6:00 AM | 300 – 500 | Ritual bathing of the deity with sacred liquids |
| Special Pooja | Varies (check website) | 500 – 1000 | Customized rituals for devotees |
| Pongal Prasad Offering | After Naivedya Pooja | 100 – 300 | Sweet jaggery rice offered to the deity |
Note: Prices and timings are subject to change. Devotees should confirm details on the official website or by contacting the temple office.
How to Reach Ananthapura Lake Temple
The temple is easy to access by all means as it can be reached by road, train and even by air which are 6km, 14km and 100km respectively to the nearby town of Kumbla and the famous Kumbla and the New Kasaragod town.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kannur International Airport (62 km away). The airport is connected to Taxis and the cost of taxi is INR 1,500 to INR 2,500. Alternatively, Mangalore Airport (Bajpe Airport) is about 70 km away, offering more flight options.
- By Train: The closest railway stations are Kumbla (5 km) and Kasaragod (12 km). These stations offer auto-rickshaw or taxis to the temple that would cost INR 100-300. To the major cities such as Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Mangalore, regular trains relate Kasaragod.To reach the temple by road, it can be seen via Kumbla-Badiyadka road with a diversion at Naayakkaapp. Buses from Kasaragod or Kannur drop off at Naikap, from where auto-rickshaws (INR 50-100) can take you to the temple. Private taxis from Kasaragod cost INR 500-800.
Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws are widely available in nearby towns. Parking is easy in the temple, and it is convenient to drive your own car.
How to Book Darshan Tickets
Booking darshan tickets for Ananthapura Lake Temple is straightforward, as general darshan is free, and special sevas can be booked online or at the temple. Here’s how to proceed:
- Online Booking:
- Visit the official temple website (www.ananthapuratemple.com).
- Navigate to the “Darshan Booking” or “Seva Booking” section.
- Select the desired seva or pooja (e.g., Naivedya Pooja, Abhishekam).
- Choose the date and time for your visit.
- Provide personal details (name, contact, ID proof like Aadhaar or PAN).
- Complete payment via credit/debit card or UPI.
- Receive confirmation via email or SMS, which you must present at the temple.
- Offline Booking:
- Visit the temple office near the temple premises.
- Inquire about available sevas and their timings.
- Pay at the counter (cash or card, depending on availability).
- Collect your ticket and receipt.
- Important Notes:
Nearby Attractions
Nearby Attractions
A number of attractions in Kasaragod surround the Ananthapura Lake Temple and present a combination of the natural beauty, history, and culture. These sites are among the best ones that a visitor can visit to know the area:
- Bekal Fort (17.8 km): The largest fort in Kerala, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Its keyhole-shaped structure and observation towers are highlights.
- Madhur Sri Madanantheshwara Siddhivinayaka Temple (4.57 km): A beautiful temple with a three-tiered dome and copper-plated roofing, dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
- Kappil Beach (20 km): A clean, serene beach perfect for relaxation, adorned with seashells.
- Malik Deenar Mosque (15 km): A historic mosque known for its cultural significance in Kasaragod.
- Chandragiri Fort (10 km): A 17th-century fort with scenic views of the Chandragiri River and Arabian Sea.
- Valiyaparamba Backwaters (25 km): A serene backwater destination ideal for boating and nature lovers.
- Ranipuram Hill Station (30 km): Known as the “Ooty of Kerala,” it offers trekking and panoramic views.
Accommodation Options
| Accommodation | Type | Distance from Temple | Price Range (INR per night) | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taj Bekal Resort & Spa | Luxury Resort | 17 km | 10,000 – 20,000 | +91 467 230 1000 |
| The LaLit Resort | Luxury Resort | 18 km | 8,000 – 15,000 | +91 467 223 7777 |
| Bekal Homestays | Homestay | 15-20 km | 1,500 – 3,000 | Varies (check online) |
| Gitanjali Heritage | Heritage Stay | 15 km | 2,000 – 4,000 | +91 944 728 0000 |
| Local Guesthouses | Budget Guesthouse | 5-10 km | 800 – 2,000 | Contact temple for referrals |
Dos and Don’ts for Visitors
Dos:
- Modest Dressing: Men are advised to wear dhotis or mundu and women should wear sarees or salwar kameez along with a dupatta. Cover shoulders and knees.
- Arrive Early: Visit during the morning session (5:30 AM) for a peaceful darshan experience.
- Respect Rituals: Silence should be observed during poojas and priest should be obeyed.
- Remove Footwear: Leave shoes outside the temple premises.
- Carry ID: Have a valid ID (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.) for seva bookings.
- Taste: Prasad: Taste the Pongal prasad of the temple or the mid-day meal cooked and served there.
- Waste Bins: Persons who make use of litter should put them in the waste bins.
Don’ts:
- Do not wear Western clothes: Do not wear shorts, skirts or tops without sleeves.
- No Photography: Photography and mobile phones is not allowed in the temple.
- Leave Wildlife alone: Do not disturb the fish or any other living thing in the lake.
- No smoking/Alcohol: Absolutely not allowed in the temple.
- Dont Jump Queus: The darshan is followed with queue system so that there is no unfairness.
- Avoid Loud Behavior: Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor.
FAQs About Ananthapura Lake Temple
Q1: What are the temple’s operating hours?
A: The temple is open from 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Timings may vary during festivals, so check www.ananthapuratemple.com.
Q2: Is there an entry fee for darshan?
A: General darshan is free. Special sevas like Abhishekam or Naivedya Pooja range from INR 50 to 1,000, depending on the ritual.
Q3: Can I book sevas online?
A: Yes, sevas can be booked through the temple’s official website. Provide personal details, select the seva, and pay online. Offline booking is also available at the temple office.
Q4: Is accommodation available near the temple?
A: Yes, options include luxury resorts like Taj Bekal (17 km), budget guesthouses, and homestays in Kasaragod, ranging from INR 800 to 20,000 per night.
Q5: What is the significance of the lake?
A: The lake is believed to have mythological importance, once guarded by a vegetarian crocodile named Babiya, considered a divine protector until its death in 2022.
Q6: Are there any restrictions for non-Hindus?
A: The temple is open to all, regardless of religion or caste, but all visitors must follow the dress code and temple customs.
Q7: What are the nearby attractions?
A: Popular spots include Bekal Fort (17.8 km), Madhur Temple (4.57 km), Kappil Beach (20 km), and Chandragiri Fort (10 km).
Q8: Is parking available at the temple?
A: Yes, ample parking is available for two-wheelers and four-wheelers near the temple.
Q9: Can I participate in rituals?
A: Yes, devotees can participate in sevas like Abhishekam or Naivedya Pooja by booking in advance or at the temple.
Q10: What is the best time to visit?
A: October to February offers pleasant weather, ideal for visiting the temple and nearby attractions. Avoid peak festival times for a less crowded experience
