Sree Udiyanoor Devi Temple

This old temple in Thiruvananthapuram is dedicated to Goddess Durga, and tradition holds that it was founded by Parasurama, regarded as an avatar of Vishnu. It follows the Kerala style of temple building and has carved detailing. The Sreekovil, or main sanctum, holds an image of the goddess in her fierce aspect, and the gopuram carries sculptures and paintings of scenes from Hindu mythology.

A wide courtyard is used for rituals and quiet prayer, and smaller shrines to Ganesha and Ayyappa stand around it. The grounds are surrounded by green hills and forest and contain small ponds and streams that devotees regard as sacred and believe to have healing power. The Agastyarkoodam peak, the tallest in the area, can be reached by a demanding trek from the vicinity.