As per Tamil literature, Padmanabhaswamy temple was founded as early as the 8th century. The temple’s historical significance has been essentially captured in the palm leaf records that have been handed down through generations. Scholars believe that the temple has been a place of worship since the beginning of Kaliyuga.

As per the legend, sage Vilwamangalam, who had performed a penance to obtain the darshan of Lord Visnu was blessed by the latter’s presence in Ananthankadu. Lord Vishnu emerged in a massive Anantha Shayanam form from the Illupa tree. The place where the Sage was given the darshan by Lord Vishnu belonged to Koopakkara and Karuva Potti. The local brahmins helped to build a small shrine there in remembrance.

The history of the temple appears to begin first in the 15th century when the roof of the Sanctorum was repaired and the Ottakkal Mandapam on the premises was built during the same time.  Around the mid 17th century the then king, King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma ordered major renovations to the temple. What began as a renovation in the 17th century culminated in the replacement of the old idol with a statue made of 12,008 shaligram stones and various herbs, collectively called katu-sharkara.

The architecture of the temple is a blend of Kerala and the Dravidian style and closely resembles the Adikesava Perumal Temple located in Kanyakumari. The temple embodies intricate carvings in stone and bronze and features high walls and a 16th-century Gopura. The magnificent seven-tier Gopura with elaborate designs is the first thing that comes to the notice of the devotees as they enter the premises.

The temple has a large corridor that is flanked by beautifully carved stone pillars that depict Hindu deities. Devotees can witness mesmerizing murals adorning the walls and ceilings typical throughout the premise.

Apart from the holy shrines, devotees can spend their time exploring a few other things within the temple’s complex - 

Ottakkal Mandapam: 
A single stone platform that is as high as 20 ft is built with granite and is two and a half feet thick. Devotees can ascend this platform to get the darshan of Lord Padmanabha.

Abhisravana Mandapam: 
Yet another stone structure present in the temple premise, Abhisravana Mandapam, is right opposite Ottakkal Mandapam. This structure is used during special poojas during various festivals in the temple.

Kulasekhara Mandapam:
This architectural marvel built in stone is supported by 28 pillars that produce distinct musical notes when you tap them.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple pond:
The sacred pond is on the eastern side of the temple and is one of the many sacred water bodies in the state.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple clock: 
Metha Mani, the temple’s beautiful antique clock tower near the entrance, is a spot one shouldn't miss during their visit. 

Gopuram: 
The temple has nine entrances that depict the nine orifices of a human body. One of the eastern side entrances is flanked by a seven-storey high gopura in Pandyan style, which is popular among the temples in South India. The 10 re-incarnations of Lord Vishnu are depicted on this Gopuram and at the top of it, you can witness seven golden domes.

• Only those who believe in the Hindu faith are allowed to enter the temple premises.
• The temple authorities are strict with the entry timings, so ensure you reach on time for the darshan or other rituals.
• You must have to follow the strict dress code for both men and women implemented by the temple authorities. The devotees must follow the dress code while visiting the temple.
• There are several shops outside the temple that provides dress for both men and women for rent.
• Inside the temple, complex photography is strictly prohibited.
• Handbags are allowed to be carried inside, but it is advisable to keep your valuable belongings in the temple’s locker room.

The best period to visit the temple is October-February as the temperature is pleasant. More so, during this period the devotees can witness many important festivals that are celebrated lavishly. Devotees can take note that the best time to do the darshan of Lord Padmanabha is the early hours of Nirmalya Darshanam. The visitors are likely to find lesser crowds at this hour and can soak in all the spiritual vibes that there are.

• Napier Museum
• Attukal Temple
• Kowdiar Palace
• Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple
• Palkulangara Devi Temple
• Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Palace
   

• This temple was founded during the 8th century.
• The temple has 6 vaults that store the temple’s treasure.
• Many devotees believe that anybody who tries to open this secret vault will face a curse or vengeance.
• The secret vault is said to have been protected by the Snake-God and thus can be opened only by sadhus who can chant the ‘Garuda Mantra’.
• No electronic gadgets are allowed inside the temple premises.