Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
There are several reasons why the flock of people always flows to the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. The Alpashi Festival, which typically takes place in either October or November each year, is one such fantastic occasion, attracting devotees. Along with the incalculable wealth in its now-famous underground vaults, the building's façade and interior features stunning architectural genius and majesty.
The main draw is its spectacular ‘Aarattu’ ritual, which involves the deities taking a sacred bath in the sea. The head of the Travancore Royal Family leads a procession that leaves the temple and travels to Shanghumugham Beach while brandishing a sword. As hundreds of devoted followers crowd the streets to see this extraordinary and historic event, one may observe elephants in captivity, mounted police, and columns of armed police.
