Our Kerala journey commenced with a visit to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Although we’ve explored this temple multiple times before, every visit offers something new and remarkable.
On this occasion, we decided to experience the Nirmalya Darshan at 3 AM. We readied ourselves by 2:45 AM and headed to the west gate, waiting in the pouring rain. Initially, it seemed like no one else would brave the weather. However, precisely at 3:30 AM, we spotted the chief priest accompanied by a few others entering through the west gate. As soon as they arrived, they allowed everyone else to enter as well. The information about this special entry is conveyed to the other gates only after the priest enters through the west gate. So, if you plan to partake in this, head to the west gate, and please note that there’s no entry fee. Remember that you cannot carry anything inside, so dress in a veshti and angavastram for gents and a saree for ladies. Mobile phones and other items are not permitted, so plan accordingly. Upon reaching the main sanctum, we noticed numerous people joining from the other gates, totaling around 100 to 150 individuals. To secure a vantage point, you’ll need to follow the priest closely. We spent a delightful hour inside, particularly enjoying the abhishegam. If you wish to witness the abhishegam, position yourself on the right side for a fantastic experience.
In the evening, we arranged for a local guide to show us around, affording us an even closer look at the deity. During this visit, we were introduced to Onna Villu, thanks to Srikanth Krishnamurthy. Prior to this, we were unaware of these wooden artworks created by select families once a year before the Onam festival. The families adhere to strict rituals before commencing the painting. These artworks are subsequently offered in prayers inside the temple and later made available to the public. Usually, obtaining one can be challenging unless you place an order in advance. The larger Onna Villu pieces are approximately 5 feet long and are believed to bring prosperity when kept in one’s home. They are sold exclusively online through the temple’s website or at the temple itself, with limited quantities available. Thanks to Srikanth, we acquired one for ourselves, which we found to be exceptionally beautiful. If you plan to visit, consider checking the temple’s website and ordering one before your visit for easy pickup. I had intended to visit the family that crafts these artworks but was unable to obtain their contact information.
However, this news article provides more details.
Additionally, I have a fascination for temples and architectural marvels that align with celestial bodies, and this temple is a prime example. If you visit on the Equinox day (as I did in March 2018), go to the east gate, stand at the road’s end, and witness the mesmerizing sunset spectacle. The sun will align perfectly with the center of the temple’s top and descend, casting sunlight through each of the four doors of the gopuram—a truly captivating sight.
So, when you plan your next visit to this temple:
- Consider visiting on the Equinox day to witness the sunset spectacle from the East gate.
- The following day, experience the Nirmalya Darisanam at 3 AM from the West Gate.
- To acquire an Ona Villu, order it online and pick it up at the temple.
Equinox Day
On Equinox day the sun aligns perfectly with the center of the temple's top and descend, casting sunlight through each of the four doors of the gopuram.
