Ananthapura Lake Temple
Ananthapura Lake Temple (अनंतपुर झील मंदिर) is a Divya Desam in Kasaragod, Kerala.
Overview
The Ananthapura Lake Temple is a unique Vaishnava temple situated in the middle of a small lake in the Kasaragod district of Kerala. It is considered the original seat (moolasthanam) of Ananthapadmanabha, the presiding deity of the famous Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram.
History and Legend
According to tradition, this is the original seat of Lord Ananthapadmanabha before the deity was moved to Thiruvananthapuram. The temple is associated with the legend of Vasudeva, father of Krishna, who installed the deity here. A vegetarian crocodile named Babia has lived in the lake for decades and is considered the temple’s guardian.
Architecture and Features
The temple is a small structure built on a rocky island in the middle of the lake. The sanctum houses the deity Ananthapadmanabha. The temple is reached by a narrow bridge. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and the setting is serene and picturesque.
Modern Status
The temple is managed by the Kerala government’s Devaswom Board and is a popular tourist and pilgrimage destination in Kasaragod district. The temple crocodile Babia is a major attraction.
Verification Notes
- Associated with the Padmanabhaswamy Temple tradition; listed among Divya Desams in some traditions.
- Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).