The Moolasthanam of Lord Ananthapadmanabha
NV Paulose , Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
Nestled amidst the serene landscape of northern Kerala, near Kumbla in Kasaragod district, stands the magnificent Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple, popularly known as the Ananthapura Lake Temple. Surrounded by a beautiful natural lake, this ancient temple is one of Kerala’s most unique and spiritually significant places of worship.
The temple is located at Ananthapuram, Kumbla, Kasaragod, Kerala – 671321. Unlike most temples, the main shrine stands in the middle of a rectangular lake and can be reached by a small stone bridge. The peaceful setting of the temple, surrounded by water and greenery, creates an atmosphere of exceptional tranquillity.
According to traditional belief, Ananthapura is the moolasthanam, or original seat, of Lord Ananthapadmanabha. The famous Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is traditionally associated with this sacred place.
The principal deity worshipped here is Lord Vishnu in the form of Ananthapadmanabha, reclining upon the serpent Anantha. The temple is believed to have great antiquity, and its history is closely connected with the spiritual traditions of Kerala.
The Legend of Vilwamangalam Swamiyar
One of the most cherished legends associated with Ananthapura is connected with the renowned sage Vilwamangalam Swamiyar.
According to tradition, the sage was once blessed with the divine presence of Lord Vishnu, who appeared before him in the form of a young boy. The mysterious child eventually disappeared, and the sage followed him into the surrounding forest. There, the divine presence was revealed in a magnificent form associated with Lord Ananthapadmanabha.
The legend has become an integral part of the temple’s spiritual heritage and continues to be narrated to devotees who visit the shrine.
The Famous Temple Lake and Babiya
Perhaps the most famous feature associated with Ananthapura Lake Temple is its sacred lake and the legendary crocodile known as Babiya.
For many years, devotees believed that Babiya was the guardian of the temple. What made the story particularly remarkable was the traditional belief that the crocodile was harmless and lived on food offered to it by the temple authorities.
Babiya became an inseparable part of the temple’s identity and attracted visitors from across Kerala and beyond. The beloved crocodile died in 2022, bringing an end to a remarkable chapter in the temple’s history. A crocodile was subsequently sighted in the temple lake, keeping alive the association between the sacred lake and its legendary guardian.
Architectural and Artistic Heritage
The temple is also notable for its traditional Kerala architecture and beautiful craftsmanship. Its wooden structures contain intricate carvings depicting scenes associated with Hindu mythology, including representations of the Dashavatara, the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
The wooden carvings, traditional construction techniques and peaceful surroundings make the temple an important cultural as well as religious landmark.
A Place of Peace and Devotion
Ananthapura Lake Temple is more than a place of worship. The combination of the ancient shrine, the tranquil lake, traditional architecture and surrounding greenery gives visitors a unique spiritual experience.
The reflection of the temple in the still waters of the lake, particularly during the quieter hours of the day, creates an atmosphere that is both beautiful and deeply contemplative.
For devotees of Lord Vishnu, the temple is a sacred destination. For visitors interested in Kerala’s history, architecture, mythology and culture, it offers an opportunity to experience a remarkable part of the state’s spiritual heritage.
Visiting Ananthapura Lake Temple
The temple is situated near Kumbla in Kasaragod district, making it accessible from different parts of northern Kerala and the neighbouring regions of Karnataka.
The reported temple timings are generally:
- Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Evening: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Visitors are advised to confirm the timings and any special arrangements directly with the temple before travelling, particularly during festivals and special ceremonies.
Contact
Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple
Ananthapuram, Kumbla, Kasaragod, Kerala – 671321
Phone: 04998-214360
The Ananthapura Lake Temple is a remarkable blend of faith, mythology, history, nature and traditional Kerala architecture. Standing peacefully in the middle of its sacred lake, the temple preserves a spiritual tradition that has endured for centuries.
For those seeking a place of devotion and tranquillity, Ananthapura offers a memorable experience. Its association with Lord Ananthapadmanabha, the legends of Vilwamangalam Swamiyar, the sacred lake and the unforgettable story of Babiya have together made this temple one of the most distinctive religious landmarks of Kerala.
