Kerala is widely celebrated for its historic, deeply rooted religious diversity and harmony. Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity are the major religions, each with ancient histories in the region.
* **Hinduism:** The majority religion, featuring historic pilgrimage sites like the Sabarimala Sree Dharma Sastha Temple, Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, and the incredibly wealthy Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. * **Islam:** Brought by Arab traders, the faith has a long history here. The **Cheraman Juma Mosque** in Kodungallur is believed to be the oldest mosque in the Indian subcontinent. * **Christianity:** Tradition holds that St. Thomas the Apostle arrived in Kerala in 52 AD. The state has a large population of Syrian Christians, Latin Catholics, and various Protestant denominations, with historic churches like the Malayattoor Church. * **Judaism:** Kochi once housed a thriving Jewish community (Cochin Jews); the historic **Paradesi Synagogue** in Mattancherry stands as a beautiful testament to this heritage.