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Kerala is a state where people belonging to diverse religions co-exist happily, and naturally there are a number of religious centres to cater to these religious groups. Religious centres act as a place for personal prayer, reflection and solitude. Hindu, Muslims, Christians, and even minorities such as Buddhists, Jains and Taoists have their own places of worship. These spiritual centres are meeting points on various occasions such as christenings, funerals and also commemorative services.
The best known Hindu religious centres in Kerala are Sabarimala temple, Attukal Bhagavathy temple, Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha - Sree Krishna Temple and others. Sabarimala temple is an important Hindu pilgrim centre, which is situated in the Sahyadri Mountains. Ambalapuzha - Sree Krishna Temple is famous all over Kerala for its unique Palpayasam. Attukal Bhagavathy temple, built in the typical Kerala architectural style, is also known as Sabarimala of women, and is situated at Thiruvananthapuram.
The religious centres of Muslims in Kerala include Cheraman Juma Masjid (Kodungallor), Ottapalam Juma Masjid, Jama-at mosque (Malappuram), and Pazhayangadi Mosque (Kondotti). Cheraman Juma Masjid is the first mosque in India, situated in Methala, Kodungalloor. Pazhayangadi Mosque is one of the renowned mosques, which is built in the old Kerala style.
The most important religious centres of the Christians in Kerala are Blessed Alphonsa (Bharananganam), Manjinikkara Church, St. Francis Church (Fort Kochi), St. George Church (Edappally, Kochi), St. Thomas Cathedral (Pala), and St. Dominic Church (Aluva).
The religious centers are venues for:
- Weddings and bridal showers
- Adoration services
- Deliberations and fellowship gatherings
- Religious education events
- Day retreats
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