Kerala
- a perfect blend of cultural & natural bliss. Travel though the relaxed
and laid back atmosphere of the Kerala cities or indulge in some
eco
friendly tourism activities on a leisurely pace at the beaches and
tranquil
Kerala backwaters.
When it comes to temples,
probably Kerala's temples are not that well known as other South Indian
states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. But they are
still every bit worth a visit and carry their own way of expressing the
depth of religious faith.
Dedicated
to various Gods and Goddesses from the Hindu mythology,
the temples
of Kerala are architectural delights. Built in the traditional
architectural style the significant temples in Kerala include the
Guruvayoor
Temple, Kalpathy Temple, Sabrimala Temple, and Thriprayar Temple.
Some huge and richly decorated while other small with simple decor, all
speak volumes about the highly religious temperament of the people.
Traditional
Hindu temples in Kerala are simple structures made of wood, brick and
laterite stone. Often, from afar, the only sign that marks the presence of
old temples is a tall, ceremonial flag-mast. The main sanctum hosting the
deities - “Sreekovil” - is invariably a single storied building of
a circular or square plan.
Inside the temples, use of oil
lamps in contrast to electrical lights lends an air of serenity and
mysticism. Walls of the Sreekovil are rarely left bare and are
instead, covered with intricate, beautiful mural paintings or wood carvings.
The sloping roof buildings are able to cope very well with the almost
year-round torrential rains that are a hallmark of Kerala's climate.
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