Shree Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple, pulsating with the spiritual essence of Lord Mahavishnu, is a jewel nestled near the northern end of Kerala, specifically in Ananthapura near Kumbla within the Kasaragod District. This sacred haven is not just any temple; it is revered as the "moolasthanam," the primordial source, of the illustrious Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, a cherished symbol of Thiruvananthapuram, the southernmost capital of Kerala. The journey to this temple is an experience in itself. As you approach, the landscape unfurls, revealing a breathtaking panorama of sprawling hillocks adorning the background. An air of serenity and solitude envelopes the entire region. Amidst a vast expanse more of lush green grassland lies the resplendent Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, majestically situated at the heart of a rectangular lake. Within this divine sanctuary, one is transported into the realm of Puranic symbolism. Here, Lord Vishnu, the all-encompassing and timeless supreme reality, is depicted resting upon the serpent Anantha, representing the unending flow of time, while seemingly afloat on the Ksheera Sagara, the ocean of Milk, symbolizing the boundless energy of creation. It's important to note that in this temple, Sri Anantha Padbhanabha is portrayed as seated on the divine serpent Anantha, whereas in the Sri Padmanabha Swamy Temple of Thiruvananthapuram, the Lord is depicted reclining on Anantha. Flanking the Lord on either side are Bhoodevi, the Goddess of Earth, and Sreedevi, the Goddess of Prosperity. Garuda and Hanuman stand in devoted prayer with folded hands in front of them, while heavenly maidens fan the Lord and His consorts from behind. At the entrance, Jaya and Vijaya, Lord Vishnu's faithful attendants, stand as vigilant guardians. The Sreekovil, the inner sanctum of the temple, is encircled by the calming waters of a rectangular lake, with a small bridge connecting it to the Gopuram, the grand temple edifice. The outer walls of the Sreekovil are adorned with magnificent and ancient mural paintings, illustrating stories from the Puranas. To preserve these precious artworks, a protective outer wall was recently constructed around the Sreekovil. The temple's legend is intricately intertwined with the revered mystic and ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu, Sree Vilvamangalathu Swami. His spiritual influence extended far beyond the borders of Kerala, even reaching Bengal, where he is known as Bilvamgala. The legend recounts how Lord Krishna, in the guise of a mischievous child, used to visit Swami Vilvamangalthu during his penance. One day, the Lord played pranks during Swamigal's worship, and Swamigal, in exasperation, pushed the boy away. The divine child transformed into a radiant sphere and swiftly traversed a cave, with a heavenly voice proclaiming, "If you wish to see me again, come to Ananthankadu." It was then that Vilvamangalathu Swami realized that the mischievous boy was none other than his beloved Lord. Driven by this revelation, the sage ventured into the cave, emerging on the seashore. From there, he embarked on a southward journey in search of Ananthankadu, ultimately arriving at the present location of Thiruvanathapuram, the capital of Kerala. There, he had the splendid vision of Lord Vishnu. This sacred place eventually became the site for the construction of the Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple of Thiruvanathapuram. To this day, a significant cave with a perennial water source exists on the north-east corner of the lake, believed to be the very cave where young Krishna disappeared. Near the south-west corner of the lake, a shrine houses a graceful idol of Sreekrishna, believed to be the same idol worshipped by Sri Vilvamangalathu Swamy. This fascinating tale is beautifully documented in the book "Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple" authored by Smt. Ashwathi Thirunal Gowri Lekshmi Bai of the Travancore Royal Family. In summary, the Shree Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple is not just a place of worship; it's a repository of rich history, divine symbolism, and an enduring connection between the devotee and the divine, all set amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Kerala.