The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is one of India’s most sacred and spiritually powerful destinations, devoted to Lord Vishnu in the Anantha Shayana (reclining) form. Known for its ancient rituals, rich heritage, and divine atmosphere, this centuries-old temple attracts lakhs of devotees and visitors from across the world every year.
As the number of pilgrims continues to grow, the temple has introduced a VIP / Special Darshan facility to ensure a smoother, quicker, and more peaceful darshan experience. If you are planning your visit in 2026, this comprehensive guide will help you understand everything important—how to book Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan tickets, dress code rules, daily darshan timings, special pooja details, entry procedures, and the best time to visit.
Whether you’re visiting for devotion, history, or spiritual peace, this guide will help you make your trip well-planned and effortless.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple Special & VIP Darshan Highlights 2026
If you are getting ready to visit the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in 2026, it’s good to know the main details in advance. The temple follows strict traditions and welcomes thousands of devotees every day. With Special Darshan and VIP Darshan options available, planning ahead will help you enjoy a smooth and peaceful experience.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple |
| Location | East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala |
| Main Deity | Lord Vishnu (Anantha Shayana form) |
| Special Darshan | Available daily |
| VIP Darshan Slot | Evening or night timings |
| Booking Method | Online and offline booking |
| Dress Code | Traditional attire only |
| Special Darshan Fee | ₹150 (without prasadam), ₹180 (with prasadam) |
| VIP Darshan Charges | Starts from ₹250 (may change on festival days) |
| Managed By | Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Trust |
| Online Booking Site | booking.sreepadmanabhaswamytemple.org |
This quick guide helps you understand the main points clearly, so you can plan your visit without any last-minute stress.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple Darshan Timings 2026
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple follows a strict daily schedule, with rituals starting even before sunrise. If you are planning your visit in 2026, knowing the exact darshan timings will help you choose the right slot, especially when booking Special or VIP Darshan. The timings below give you a clear idea of when each type of darshan is available.
| Darshan Type | Timings |
|---|---|
| Nirmalya Darshan | 3:30 AM – 4:45 AM |
| Special Darshan | 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM |
| General Darshan | 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM |
| Midday Darshan | 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 5:00 PM – 6:15 PM |
| Extended Darshan | 6:45 PM – 7:20 PM |
| VIP Darshan Slot | 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM |
The night VIP Darshan is often said to be the most peaceful time of the day. The crowd is lighter, the surroundings are calmer, and many devotees feel a deeper sense of connection during this slot. If you want a quiet and meaningful darshan, the evening VIP timing is the best choice.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan Ticket Price 2026
For devotees planning a visit in 2026, the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan and special pooja options are kept at reasonable rates so that everyone can participate. These tickets help you get quicker darshan or take part in early-morning rituals that hold deep spiritual value.
| Darshan / Pooja Type | Price (INR) | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| General Entry | Free | Entry through the standard queue |
| Special Darshan | ₹150 | Quicker access to the sanctum |
| Special Darshan + Prasadam | ₹180 | Fast entry with prasadam |
| VIP Darshan for Two + Pooja Thali | ₹250 | VIP darshan for 2 people with pooja items |
| Nirmalyam to Deeparadhana | ₹3000 | Early-morning rituals from opening to deeparadhana |
| Nirmalyam to Usha Pooja | ₹4000 | Complete set of morning rituals including usha pooja |
| Nirmalyam to Pantheeradi | ₹5000 | Rituals performed till the pantheeradi time (around sunrise) |
| Half-Day Pooja | ₹12,000 | Morning rituals continued till afternoon |
These options allow devotees to choose the type of darshan or pooja that suits their time and devotion. Whether you want a simple VIP entry or wish to be part of the temple’s early-morning rituals, these offerings make the experience more meaningful and well-organized.
How to Book Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan Online (2026 Guide)
Booking Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan online in 2026 is quick and easy. The temple’s official website allows devotees to reserve their preferred slot in just a few minutes. You only need a valid mobile number and any government ID.
Simple Steps to Book VIP Darshan Online
- Visit the official website: booking.sreepadmanabhaswamytemple.org
- Choose the deity and the type of darshan or pooja you want.
- Pick your date and check the available VIP or Special Darshan slots.
- Enter your name, phone number, and basic details.
- Add optional donations like Annadanam if you wish.
- Make the payment using UPI, debit card, credit card, or net banking.
- Download the QR-code ticket sent to your mobile or email.
- Carry the QR pass and a valid ID when you visit the temple.
The QR-based entry system makes the entire process smooth, helping devotees enter the temple quickly without long delays.
Offline VIP Ticket Booking at the Padmanabhaswamy Temple
If online slots are not available or you prefer booking directly, the temple also provides offline VIP ticket counters near the entrance. This option is useful for last-minute plans.
Here’s how you can book offline:
- Visit the counter during temple working hours
- Provide your ID if asked
- Check the available darshan slots
- Pay the fee by cash or card
- Collect your printed darshan pass
Since weekends, holidays, and festival days see more visitors, it is better to reach early for a higher chance of getting a VIP slot.
Why Choose VIP Darshan at Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
The temple sees extremely heavy footfall, especially on weekends, festivals, and during Kerala’s tourist season. VIP Darshan helps devotees:
- Avoid long queues
- Enter the sanctum faster
- Enjoy a peaceful experience without rush
- Get a confirmed time slot
- Spend more time in front of the deity
For elderly visitors, families with small children, or anyone visiting during peak seasons, VIP Darshan makes the entire visit smoother and stress-free.
Major Festivals to Note Before Booking VIP Darshan in 2026
If you are planning VIP Darshan at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in 2026, it’s important to keep the major festival dates in mind. These events attract huge crowds, and VIP passes often get booked much faster than usual. Planning ahead will help you avoid last-minute issues and ensure a smooth darshan experience.
Important Festivals and Busy Periods in 2026
| Festival / Event | Usual Time |
|---|---|
| Laksha Deepam Cycle | Expected around 2026–26 |
| Alpashy Utsavam | October – November |
| Painkuni Festival | March – April |
| Vishu | April |
| Annual Temple Rituals | Throughout the year |
These celebrations bring a surge of devotees, long queues, and higher demand for Special Darshan and VIP Darshan tickets. If you wish to attend during these spiritual events, booking your pass early is the best way to enjoy a peaceful and well-organized visit.
Proper planning helps you make the most of your temple trip without facing unnecessary rush or delays.
Dress Code for Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple follows a very strict dress code, and anyone not wearing traditional clothing may be stopped at the gate. Knowing what to wear beforehand will save time and help ensure smooth entry.
Dress Code for Men
- Dhoti or mundu
- No shirts allowed inside the temple
- Angavastram on the shoulder is permitted
Dress Code for Women
- Saree
- Set-mundu
- Salwar kameez with dupatta
- Long skirts with blouse
Western clothes, jeans, leggings, shorts, and modern dresses are not allowed inside the temple.
Important Rules to Remember Before Your Visit
To maintain the purity and peaceful atmosphere of the temple, certain items are not allowed inside. It’s best to leave these at your accommodation or use the temple’s storage facility.
Items not permitted:
- Mobile phones
- Cameras
- Leather belts or bags
- Electronic gadgets
Visitors are allowed entry only during their booked time slot. Reaching the temple 20–30 minutes earlier helps avoid rush and ensures a smooth darshan experience.
How to Reach Padmanabhaswamy Temple
The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, in the busy East Fort area. It is one of the easiest places to reach in the city, with all major transport options nearby.
Nearest Airport: Trivandrum International Airport (around 6 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Thiruvananthapuram Central (about 1 km from the temple)
Nearest Bus Stand: East Fort Bus Stand (walking distance)
Autos, taxis, app-based cabs, and local buses are available at all hours, making the journey convenient for devotees arriving from any part of the city.
Best Time to Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple in 2026
Choosing the right time to visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple can make your darshan more peaceful and comfortable. If you want a calm experience and shorter queues, it’s better to plan your Padmanabhaswamy Temple darshan during:
- Early morning hours
- Weekdays, mainly Tuesday to Thursday
- Non-festival months such as February, June, and September
These timings are usually less crowded, giving you more time inside the temple and a smoother darshan.
If you are planning your Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan during any major festival or special pooja, make sure you reserve your VIP pass in advance. Festival days attract a huge number of devotees, and VIP slots are often booked quickly.
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple Contact Number & Address
If you are planning to visit the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, here are the updated and verified Padmanabhaswamy Temple contact details including the temple address, contact number, and official VIP darshan booking website.
| Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Address | Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram – 695023 |
| Temple Contact Number | +91-471-2464606 |
| VIP Darshan Booking Website | booking.sreepadmanabhaswamytemple.org |
The temple office can help you with VIP darshan booking, pooja timings, rituals, and general visitor information.
Tips for a Smooth Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan
To enjoy a peaceful and quick Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan, follow these simple tips:
- Carry minimal belongings
- Keep a printed or digital VIP darshan ticket
- Follow the traditional dress code strictly
- Reach early for crowd-free entry
- Senior citizens can request volunteer assistance
- Check the official website for last-minute updates
FAQs on Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan, Timings & Booking (2026)
Q: How can I book Padmanabhaswamy Temple VIP Darshan in 2026?
A: VIP Darshan can be booked online through the official temple booking portal by selecting the preferred slot and completing the payment.
Q: What is the VIP Darshan ticket price at Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
A: VIP Darshan tickets generally start around ₹150–₹250 per person, depending on the darshan type and availability.
Q: Is same-day VIP Darshan available at Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
A: Limited same-day VIP tickets may be available, but online advance booking is recommended due to heavy crowds.
Q: What are the temple darshan timings for 2026?
A: Daily darshan usually begins early morning and continues in multiple sessions until evening, with breaks for rituals.
Q: Are mobile phones or electronic items allowed inside the temple?
A: No. Visitors must deposit phones, cameras, and gadgets outside before entry.
Q: Is Aadhaar or ID proof required for VIP Darshan entry?
A: Yes, a valid ID is required to verify your booking at the entrance.
Q: Can non-Hindus visit the Padmanabhaswamy Temple?
A: Entry is strictly permitted only to Hindus, as per temple traditions.
Q: What is the dress code for VIP Darshan in 2026?
A: Men must wear a dhoti without a shirt, and women must wear saree, set mundu, or long Indian ethnic wear.
Q: How early should I arrive for my VIP Darshan slot?
A: Reaching at least 30–45 minutes before the selected time ensures smooth entry.
Q: Is special darshan available during festivals?
A: Yes, special VIP Darshan slots open during major festivals, but they fill up quickly, so early booking is advised.
