5 popular pilgrimage centres in Kerala

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Kerala is amongst the most romantic getaways in India. Its languid backwaters make for a devastatingly attractive sight. Its beaches can give Goa a run for its money, anytime. And the food, especially the crunchy Dosas, will make you lick your fingers over and over again. But Kerala is also a place of pilgrim centres with a number of Hindu temples, Islamic mosques and Catholic churches spread all over the state. Under Kerala tour packages from Delhi, tourists can check out some of the best pilgrim spots in the state.

Here is a quick rundown on what to expect:

Attukal Bhagavathi Temple: This Hindu temple is situated in the town of Thiruvananthapuram. It is most famous for the 9-day festival of Attukal Ponkala which is observed during the months of February-March.

Attukal-Bhagavathi-Temple

Guruvayoor: Guruvayoor Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna attracts pilgrims and devotees from all corners of the country and throughout the year. Guruvayoorappan is the reigning deity of the temple and is apparently a form of the younger Krishna.

guruvaayyoor

Mannarsala Temple: In the region of Harippad lies this devout temple called Mannarsala. This temple is dedicated to the Lord of the Snakes. It is both interesting and enlightening to observe thousands of images and pictures of serpent gods at almost every nook of this temple.

Mannarsala Temple

Cheraman Juma Masjid: It is a mosque which is remotely located in a little known place called Kodungalloor. But if the place is known for one thing, it is the Cheraman Juma Masjid which is believed to the first mosque made in India. Quite naturally, there are some amazing legendary and mythological tales which revolve around this place. For someone who likes these subjects, these stories can be extremely captivating.

Cheraman Juma Masjid

St. Francis Church: As far as the Christian pilgrim centers are concerned, one of the more famous churches is the St. Francis Church which is situated at Fort Kochi. Its history is profound and it is visited round the year by an impressive entourage of tourists and pilgrims.

St. Francis Church

Best time for Kerala places to visit is between December and February, though its weather-friendly nature makes it a round-the-year destination.

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