Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Timings & Darshan Guide: Plan Your Perfect Spiritual Visit

The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, nestled in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Kerala, is a magnificent blend of spirituality, history, and architectural brilliance. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who reclines majestically on the serpent Anantha, this temple is not only one of the most revered in India but also famously associated with immense hidden treasures and mystic legends.

If you're planning a spiritual visit, understanding the Padmanabhaswamy Temple timings, darshan procedures, and temple rituals will help you make the most of your divine journey. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple timings to its darshan slots and best times to visit.

A Glimpse into the Sacred Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Before we dive into timings, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple so unique.

This temple follows strict traditions of the Travancore royal family and is considered one of the 108 Divya Desams—the sacred abodes of Vishnu in the Vaishnavite tradition. The presiding deity, Lord Vishnu, is depicted in a grand reclining pose on Anantha (the five-headed serpent), with one hand placed over a Shiva lingam—a rare and powerful representation of the harmony of divine forces.

Now, let’s walk you through everything you need to know about Padmanabhaswamy Temple darshan timings and rituals.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple Timings – When Does the Temple Open?

The temple opens twice a day—once in the morning and again in the evening. Here are the current Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple timings:

Morning Timings:

• Opening Time: 3:30 AM

• Darshan: 3:30 AM to 4:45 AM

• Morning Darshan Continues: 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM, and 10:30 AM to 11:10 AM

Evening Timings:

• Temple Reopens: 5:00 PM

• Darshan: 5:00 PM to 6:15 PM and 6:45 PM to 7:20 PM

Note: The temple is closed between 11:10 AM and 5:00 PM, and again after 7:20 PM. The schedules are strictly followed, so it’s advisable to reach early.

So, if you’re planning a visit, it’s best to arrive well before the first darshan session to avoid queues, especially on weekends and festival days.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Darshan Timings – Best Slots for Peaceful Worship

The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple darshan timings are spread throughout the day in slots, and each session offers a chance to witness different rituals and ceremonies. For a peaceful experience, consider attending the early morning darshan or the late evening aarti, which are generally less crowded.

Here are the recommended darshan slots:

Dress Code & Entry Rules – Know Before You Go

The Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is known for its traditional rules and strict adherence to rituals. To ensure a smooth visit, here are a few guidelines to follow:

• Men: Only traditional mundu (dhoti) is allowed. Shirts/t-shirts must be removed before entering.

• Women: Saree, salwar kameez, or long skirt with a blouse. No western attire like jeans or leggings.

• Entry: Only Hindus are allowed inside the sanctum. Others can view the temple from outside.

Special Poojas & Sevas

Apart from daily darshans, the temple offers a range of rituals and poojas, each timed perfectly throughout the day. You can book special darshan slots or contribute to various sevas through temple counters or official booking channels.

Some popular offerings include:

• Udayasthamana Pooja – An all-day worship from sunrise to sunset

• Vishnu Sahasranama Archana

• Thulabharam – Devotees weigh themselves against offerings like bananas, rice, or coins

Best Time to Visit – Seasonal Guide

The temple is open year-round, but some periods offer a more spiritually vibrant or crowd-free experience.

Best Months to Visit:

• October to March: Pleasant weather and major festivals

• March: Painkuni Festival, featuring grand processions and rituals

• June to August: Monsoon lovers can enjoy the serene surroundings, though rains may cause delays

Avoid:

• National holidays and weekends if you dislike crowds

• Pongala festival season (unless you are attending it), as the area gets extremely crowded

How to Reach Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

The temple is located in the East Fort area of Trivandrum city.

 By Train:

• Trivandrum Central Railway Station is just 1 km away.

 By Air:

• Trivandrum International Airport is around 6 km from the temple.

 Local Transport:

• Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available.

• Plenty of local buses stop near East Fort.

Quick Travel Itinerary: Nearby Attractions

If you're visiting the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, make the most of your trip by adding these nearby destinations to your plan:

• Attukal Bhagavathy Temple (2 km)

• Puthenmalika (Kuthiramalika) Palace Museum (adjacent to temple)

• Napier Museum and Art Gallery (3.5 km)

• Kovalam Beach (12 km)

Final Words: Plan Your Visit with Devotion and Clarity

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning devotee, knowing the Padmanabhaswamy Temple timings, dress codes, and darshan details makes your experience peaceful and fulfilling.

The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is not just an architectural marvel but a living symbol of unwavering faith, tradition, and spiritual power. With proper planning, you can align your visit to witness the majestic rituals and immerse yourself in divine tranquility.