Ananthapura Lake Temple Guide
Ananthapura Lake Temple: Guardian of the Divine Crocodile Guide
Step into a world of serenity and ancient legends at the Ananthapura Lake Temple, located in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, India. This unique temple, nestled amidst a tranquil lake, is renowned for its resident crocodile, believed to be the guardian of the temple. Imagine crossing the bridge to the temple, surrounded by the shimmering waters of the lake, and feeling the palpable sense of peace and spirituality that permeates the air. It's a truly unforgettable experience. The Ananthapura Lake Temple is believed to be the original seat (Moolasthanam) of Ananthapadmanabha Swamy, the deity of the famous Sri Anantha Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu appeared to a sage in this very spot. The temple's history stretches back centuries, and it has been a place of worship and pilgrimage for generations. The most fascinating aspect of the temple is its resident crocodile, named Babia, who is believed to be a vegetarian and lives solely on the temple's offerings. When one Babia dies, another mysteriously appears in the lake, perpetuating the legend. Visitors to the Ananthapura Lake Temple can offer prayers to Lord Ananthapadmanabha Swamy and witness the unique tradition of feeding Babia. The temple priests offer rice and other vegetarian food to the crocodile, which it readily accepts. You can also explore the temple complex, admire the traditional Kerala architecture, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the lake. While the temple doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, you can find delicious Kerala vegetarian cuisine in the nearby towns. Be sure to try the traditional temple prasadam (blessed food), which is often offered to visitors.
Transportation
The nearest railway station to Ananthapura Lake Temple is Kasaragod, which is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India. From Kasaragod, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ananthapura. Buses from Kasaragod to Ananthapura are available at regular intervals. The temple is located a short walk from the bus stop.