Trivandrum

Thiruvananthapuram, also known as Trivandrum, is a city of immense significance to Madhwas.

Thiruvananthapuram has a rich history dating back over several thousand years. Its name, 'City of Lord Anantha,' is derived from its connection to the revered Sree Anantha Padmanabhaswamy Temple. This iconic temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the wealthiest temples in the world and a major pilgrimage site, attracting devotees and tourists alike. Srimad Bhagavatha says that Balarama visited this temple, bathed in Padmatheertham and made several offerings. Sumadhwa Vijaya mentions Sriman Madhwacharya coming here and having darshan of Sri AnanthaPadmanabha Swamy. The presiding deity, Lord Vishnu, is enshrined in a rare and magnificent Anantha Shayanam posture. The 18-foot long idol is viewed through three separate doors. The first door reveals the Lord's face and a Shiva Lingam beneath his right hand. The second door shows Lord Brahma seated on a lotus emerging from Vishnu's navel. The third door displays the Lord's feet. This tri-door darshan offers a complete yet segmented view of the magnificent deity.

Every year many Utsavams take place in Thiruvananthapuram. The Ananta Padmanabha Swamy Utsavam, specifically the Arattu procession, goes through the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport runway. Twice a year, during the Alpashi festival (October-November) and the Painkuni festival (March-April), the airport suspends flight operations for several hours for this centuries-old tradition. This tradition predates the establishment of the airport in 1932.

Lakshadeepam Festival, literally means one hundred thousand lamps (or one lakh lamps), is a major festival celebrated here. The entire temple is adorned with lamps, held on the concluding day of Murajapam, commences once in 6 years, celeberated on 1st of malayalam month Makaram. Lakshadeepam typically coincides with Makar Sankranti. Next Lakshadeepam is from late Nov 2025 to mid Jan 2026.

Sri Uttaradi Matha has a branch in the divine abode of Sree Anantha Padmanabha Swamy. Sri Matha is just 100 metres away from the Padmanabha Swamy temple and is thus very convenient for devotees.

Accommodation and Teerthaprasada facility are available for devotees at UM, Thiruvananthapuram. Please call in advance to avail rooms or teerthaprasada.

Flights are available. The Airport in Trivandrum is 6 Km from Sri Matha. Train Services are also there. The railway station is 1.2 Km away from Sri Matha. Buses are available and the bus stand is just 1 Km from Sri Matha.