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Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho

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Matangeshwar Temple at Khajuraho

India is a land of diverse cultures and traditions. It is considered to be among the most beautiful and varied countries of the world. Being also referred to as the traveler’s delight, this place has been instrumental in churning out extraordinary authors, artists, and philosophers who speak volumes about the heritage and rich legacy of this nation. It is a sub-continent which has been ruled by the greatest Kings and Emperors and the palaces and forts still remind oneself of the grandeur of that era. India is a place where you will find all forms of natural surroundings that are found in the world. It’s a miniature of the earth in itself. In fact, it is rightly said as ‘Incredible India’ by world famous persons like Mark Twain, Max Mueller, and Sir William Jones etc. It is the home to one of the world’s ancient civilizations and people of all origin and ethnicities reside here. And during a trip to India, one is bound to visit some of the famous temples that are considered to be pious and sacred places of devotion by the devotees. Lord Shiva is the most revered Gods and is also said to be ‘Mahadev’ or the God of the Gods by the pilgrims. There are many temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva in India. However, some of the popular among them top the list of must-visit destinations. The Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho located at Khajuraho in the state of Madhya Pradesh is one such example. It is so famous that Khajuraho is also called as the city of Matangeshwar.

Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho

Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho History

  • The Matang, who is known as 10th Incarnation or Avatar of Lord Shiva, was the forefather of the great philosopher Mamaidev. Being from the Maheshary community, he is the devotee of Matang and preached to poor Maisarias and Sinbhariya Meghvar community of India. Additionally, he was the pioneer of Barmati panth dharma and he has given word Dharmachar to poor maisarias Meghvar.
  • The Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho is a ninth century sanctuary. Chandra dev of the Chandela dynasty had built the sanctuary. The ruler was an ardent follower of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is considered as the revered sage Matang and that is the means by which the name of the Shiva Lingam was called as Matangeswarar.
  • This Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho is also famous for being counted among one of the oldest temples in India. Moreover, it is considered to be one of the most pious pilgrimage destinations for people visiting Khajuraho.
  • It is the only temple where active worship takes place even today. Although it is has been built for more than 1100 years ago, this shrine stands tall among the Western Group of Temples which are dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Significance of the Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho

  • This sanctuary is the home to some of the largest Shiva lingams of India. The shrine is eight feet in height and is made up of sparkling yellow limestone. There is a little Ganesh structure at upper right, and an extensive picture of a Goddess with two smaller attendant deities was set up on the way toward the temple.
  • On the contrary, like different sanctuaries of Khajuraho the outside and inside of this sanctuary alongside its pillars are not designed with idols but rather the roof is covered with figures.
  • The south direction of this sanctuary consists of an open-air archeological exhibition hall that has an excellent display of statues and friezes gathered from that location.
  • Standing next to the Lakshmana Temple, this auspicious shrine is not located within the fenced enclosure because it is still in everyday use.
  • One may consider it to be the plainest temple here but inside it displays a polished lingam of 8 feet.
  • The enormous lingam evokes awe mixed devotion and is second only to the lingam at Bhojpur near Bhopal.
  • This ancient temple is located in world famous UNESCO world heritage site at Khajuraho town in Madhya Pradesh.
  • While Khajuraho is acclaimed for its dazzling sanctuaries and their carving and world renowned design, the Matangeshwar sanctuary has a reputation worldwide for being the popular vacation destination because of its presence of the antique and sexual carvings that embellish the wall of Matangeshwar and other holy shrines.
  • A visitor might notice the yellow flag that is visible at the top of the temple. This flattering flag in the real sense signifies that there is a ceremony which is underway in the temple.
  • The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development has set up kiosks at the Khajuraho railway station, with tourist officers to provide information for Khajuraho visitors.
  • Photography is not allowed within the temple premises.

The Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho Timings

  • Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho opens its doors for the pilgrims from 6 A.M. to 10 P.M.
  • As it is counted among one of the popular destinations, the temple remains open on all days in a week.
  • The entrance fee is INR 10 per person for Indians and foreigners.

The Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho Food Timings

  • Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho provides food to the pilgrims from 12 Noon to 2 P.M.
  • Devotees can offer sweets and dry fruits to the God in the form of a Prasad.

Festivals celebrated at the Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho

  • There are countless people who flock to the Matangeshwar Temple and worship the deity for the entire night on the event of Shivaratri.
  • The Holy celebration is held in Month of Vaishakh, Amavasya. There are millions of people who opt to take a bath on this auspicious day of Amavasya at Khajuraho which is the last day of the lunar month lunar month, in Gujarat, Sindh etc. Pakistan Nirvan day of Matang dev is celebrated on akhatrij month of Vaishakh which day is dedicated to the Matang Dev, he is known as Karam dev in Maisariya Dharam of Mamaidev.
  • This is the most important festival which calls in for 10-day-long affairs that witness the participation of merchants and gypsies from different parts of the state. This is also coupled with assortments of handicrafts, rural circus shows; magic shows and folk theater that are organized as well.
  • Apart from that, Holi and Diwali are some other festivals which are observed with great pomp in this temple.

Poojas and Rituals at Matangeshwar Temple Khajuraho

  • Pilgrims wake up at early hours in the morning on the occasion of Mahasivaratri and follow it up with taking a bath and wearing new garments. Then, they visit the pious Shiva sanctuary, to give a ritual bath to the Shiva Lingam with milk, honey etc. The worship continues throughout the entire day and night. The following morning, devotees break their fast by tasting the Prasad which has been offered to Lord Shiva. Then the pilgrims chant “Om Namah Shivaya” with utmost devotion. Bilva leaves are constantly offered to the Lingam. Songs of Lord Shiva are sung with extraordinary perseverance.
  • Apart from that, the Lord is daily bathed in the morning and offered Prasad as well. Flowers, incense sticks, and sandal paste are also applied on the forehead of the Lingam.

How to Reach: Road, Rail, and Air

  • By Air– Khajuraho has direct connectivity from Delhi and Varanasi with at least a flight every day. During the peak tourist season which is normally from the month of October to March, there are more flights that travel between Khajuraho. Theairport is not very far from the town and one can find local auto and cab services to reach one’s destination.
  • By Train– Khajurahohas been recently connected with railway transport and this has been a relieving sigh for all its admirers. There are not many trains to Khajuraho but still it has overnight trains to Delhi and Varanasi. However, getting a ticket during the peak season is quite a challenge. Hence, travelers are advised to book their reservations in advance in order to avoid any last minute hassles.
  • By Road– For people who love to travel by roads, Khajuraho is well linked with all the major national highways in India. For example, places like Jhansi, Satna etc are quite popular among the tourists to reach this wonderful city. One can also hire a local taxi or look for private bus services from the station as well.

Hotels in Madhya Pradesh: Where to stay

Accommodation is one of the fundamental requirements for any tourism activity. Voyagers and vacationers need a decent place for rest while they are on a visit. Accommodation in the form of low budget hotels to world-class lavish inns; there are many options accessible to all major tourist destinations to give the visitor a home far from home. These are foundations that give a spot to the vacationer to stay i.e. lodging facilities which are paid for the duration of the stay by the traveler. In addition, individuals who are traveling alone or people who are looking to stay at less expensive hotels can put up at hotels that provide rooms on a sharing basis. So, choose your lodging option as per your needs.

Where to eat

Hotels play an integral role in the travel and tourism industry. Today, hotels not only provide accommodation and meals but also offer a variety of other services as per the needs of the tourist/guest. For example, many hotels offer a health club, private restaurants etc. There are a plethora of choices available for customers when it comes to choosing one’s cuisine. From Indian to Mexican to Italian and Chinese, the modern eating joints provide quality food at a competitive price range. Some restaurants also arrange for live music performances to create that perfect ambiance with the food. In addition, there is also an option to customize one’s menu as per to their liking. Hence, satisfy your appetite with that perfect taste and aroma.

Nearby Temples

  • Brahma Temple- This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and it stands tall at a height of 11 feet platform. The Brahma Temple is situated on the east bank of the Ninora Tal which is the largest tank in Khajuraho. The shrine is indeed small which is built in a square shape structure that rests on twelve pilasters of granite.
  • Lakshmana Temple- Being one of the oldest and strikingly structured shrines of the Western Group of Temples, the lintel over the entrance displays the trinity of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It has a three-headed idol of Lord Vishnu’s incarnations, Narasimha, and Varaha. This marvelous architecture has been constructed by the emperor Lakshavarma. The deity is said to be originally from Tibet and was gifted to the emperor by the Pratihara ruler Devapala.
  • Duladeo Temple- This is another temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also known as the Bridegroom Temple and has more wooden sculpture. Although it is a gorgeous erotic image of Khajuraho, it is still a new temple that is assumed to have been constructed after the inventiveness of Khajuraho was on its way to a new era and well down its peak. The temple becomes quite crowded during special occasions like Maha Shivaratri etc.
  • Chausath Yogini Temple- The temple is located in the south-western part of the group of temples in Madhya Pradesh. It belongs to the Western Group of Temples and is dedicated to 64 Yoginis who are the demonstrations of the Mother Goddess. There is a large number of tourists that visits the temple all around the year. This popular temple has been erected on a large raised podium which itself is set in an open courtyard with small temples surrounding it. It is these shrines that are devoted to the Yoginis. It is well accessible from all parts of the state by both private and public bus services. Moreover, the Satna Rail Station is connected with the important cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Varanasi.

Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Jalaram Bapa Mandir is a renowned temple which is located at Virpur in Gujarat. This place has become famous owing to the birth of Sri Jalaram Bapa, a much-revered saint. There have been many events that had happened in this saint’s life at Virpur and people from all over come to visit this holy shrine.

a tour of Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur

Jalaram Bapa Mandir Temple Facts-

Deity Shree Jalaram Bapa
Location Virpur, Rajkot in Gujarat
Significance The temple has original danda and Jholi which Jalaram Bapa was using
Built-In19th century
Best time to VisitOctober to March
Darshan timings 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM || 4.00 PM to 8:30 PM
ArchitectureHindu Temple Style
Entry FeesNo Entry fee
Aarti Timing 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM
Photography Not allowed inside the temple, allowed outside the temple
Visit Duration 1 hour
FestivalsJalaram Jayanti
Main Attraction The portrait of Jalaram Bapa and original photo of Jalaram Bapa
Official WebsiteJalaram Bapa Mandir

Jalaram Bapa Mandir Temple Darshan Timings

Here are Jalaram Bapa Mandir Temple Darshan timings –

Timings FromTo
Morning Darshan07:00 AM12:00 PM
Temple Closing Noon12:00 PM04:00 PM
Evening Darshan04:00 PM08:30 PM
Temple Closing Night08:30 PM07:00 AM

Poojas and Rituals at Jalaram Bapa Mandir

RitualsTimings
Mangla Aarti07:30 AM
Shangar Aarti09:00 AM
Sandhya Aarti7:30 PM
Sundar Kand from Ramayana04:00 PM to 05:30 PM Every Sunday
Sri Satyanarayan Bhagwan’s Katha 08:00 PM only on Purnima
  • Aarti and Bhajan are regularly held in this temple airing both morning and evening.
  • A pilgrim can contribute Rs 251 and host the arrangement of Sri Satyanarayan Bhagwan’s Katha on every Purnima or full moon day.
  • One can hear bhajans that are held after Aarti every month.
  • There are many eminent saints and Kathakars who talk about spiritual lectures and preaching’s during festivals that are commemorated by people in this temple.

Jalaram Bapa Mandir Prasadam Timings

  • This famous pilgrimage destination is popular for charity and feeding the poor and needy people. Food is offered to people after 12 P.M. and around 8 P.M.
  • This temple has seen no visitor returning home without food. Devotees are provided with Prasad twice a day without any cost.
  • Every person in this ‘Darbar of God’ irrespective of him being rich or poor is treated as equal. They are also offered the same Prasad when they sit in the same row.
  • The Prasad comprises ‘Ganthiya’, ‘Bundi’ and ‘Sabji’ in the morning and ‘Khichadi-Kadi’ and ‘Deshi Ghee’ in the evening.
  • The food is served in a traditional dish of leaves.

The symbolism of the deity in Jalaram Bapa Mandir

The Idol of Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur
The divine Idol of Baba Jalaram in the temple comparing adorned in all white.
  • The idol of Jalaram Bapa is shown as a smiling man holding a stick.
  • His idol adorns a white Paghadi and white dhoti-kurta.
  • The idols of his patron deities Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman are also mostly found along with his idol.

Significance of Jalaram Bapa Mandir

  • In 1978, the Jalaram Bapa Temple on the Dharmaj-Tarapur highway was built.
  • The auspicious Sri Jalaram Bapa shrine comprises of the actual house complex where this great saint lived during his lifetime.
  • There are many belongings of Jalaram Bapa, most important being the deities of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman that were worshiped by him.
  • The main attraction of this place of worship is the portrait of Jalaram Bapa. Pilgrims can see a black and white picture of Bapa that has been taken one year before his death.
  • The idol of Jalaram Bapa is displayed as a smiling man holding a dandaand wearing often a white turban and a white dhoti-kurta.
  • One of the most distinguishing factors of this temple refers to the fact that it does not accept any offerings from February 9, 2000. This is the world’s first temple to not accept any money.
  • Jalaram Bapa had adopted his daughter i.e. Jamnaben’s grandson, Harirambahi to be his direct descendant. Giridhar Bapa and now his son Jaisukhram Bapa is now in charge of this popular shrine of Gujarat.
  • The ‘Samadhi’ of Sri Jalaram Bapa lies at the feet of Lord Sri Ram Chandra. This had entranced just on the left side of the Big Gate of the ‘Dela’.
  • The “Jholi-Danda” is duly preserved in a transparent cupboard and Sri Hanumanji’s idol is also kept near the ‘Samadhi’ as well.
  • The Temple has two trusts that function on a daily basis. The ‘Jalaram Satsang Seva Mandal’ is responsible for looking out for all aspects relating to the temple like maintenance of the Mandir, Atithi Griha, and Gaushala. The ‘Shree Jalaram Janseva Trust’ on the other hand handles services relating to education, healthcare, rehabilitation, and water plant.
  • Shree Dr. Rasikbhai V. Patel is the President for both the trusts.
  • This temple has three giant copper pots that were given by the Goddess Ganga duly filled with the holy waters of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers. The water from these pots never dries up and there has been no instance of a person getting sick from drinking this water.
  • Additionally, the King of the Dhrangdhra provided a pair of large wheels to Sri Jalaram Bapa for grinding the wheat in the temple.
The dieties of Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur
The patron deities of Gods and Goddesses with Baba Jalaram situated in the temple complex.

History of Jalaram Bapa Mandir

  • ‘Jalaram Pradhan Thakar’ or Jalaram Bapa was born in Virpur, near Rajkot in Gujarat on 14th November 1799 to his father Pradhan Thakkar and mother Rajbai Thakkar. His mother was very fond of saints and sadhus and no saint could go from Virpur without receiving the hospitality of Rajbai.
  • Saint Raghuvirdasji had told Bapa’s mother, Rajbai Thakkar that her son would become a famous person preaching the importance of duty, devotion and good actions. Being a very religious lady herself, Bapa learned to respect, patience, self-sacrifice, duty, and grace from his mother.
  • When Bapa was young, a visit from a saint was recognized as from his previous life and little Jalaram was spiritually inspired and started to chant ‘Sita Ram’ rhymes and devoted his life to God.
  • Jalaram married Virbhai, daughter of Thakkar Pragji Somaija at the age of sixteen. Although he was reluctant, his wife extended her support in his work for the poor. At the age of eighteen, he set out for a holy pilgrimage with his wife and had accepted Bhojalaram. Bapa’s guru had started ‘Sadavrat’ which is a place where every poor will be provided with free food. Both of them worked hard on the field to grow grains and one day when they were run out of stock for grains, Virbhai was happy to sell her wedding jewelry in order to provide food for the pilgrims.
  • Haraji was a tailor who was suffering from acute stomach pain and eventually came to Bapa for a cure. The great saint prayed and cured his disease. The tailor was surprised and fell at Bapa’s feet addressing him as ‘Bapa’. It is then that people started calling him as Jalaram Bapa. Devotees irrespective of their religion became his disciples.
  • Lord Rama disguised himself as an old man and appeared before Jalaram Bapa. He complained of his age and wanted someone to look after him. Bapa sent for his wife who gladly accompanied the old man on his journey. The two travelers came to a river and the old man gave a stick and a bag to Virbhai to hold. Soon, Lord Rama disappeared and Jalaram could hear a voice back home saying to him that he can fetch his wife as it was Lord Rama who wanted to test his goodness. This stick and the bag are still on display in the Jalarambapa Ashram in Virpur.
  • Devotee’s belief that the food given by Bapa to the pilgrims reaches the doors of heaven. In fact, until today, there are thousands of visitors who are provided free food in this temple and it never runs out of stock.

Festivals celebrated at the Jalaram Bapa Mandir

Celebration in Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur
The festivals celebrated in Jalaram Bapa Mandir at Virpur.
  1. Jalaram Jayanti: is the most important festival that is observed in this temple. On the 7th day Shukla Paksha of the Hindu month of Kartika, this celebration is enjoyed by the pilgrims. This festival is celebrated here on the 7th day after Diwali. A huge fair is organized to mark this occasion.
  2. Makar Sankranti: is another huge festival that is celebrated in this temple on 14th January every year.
  3. Pilgrims also gather to pray in this temple on a yearly basis to mark the death anniversary of Sri Jalaram Bapa who died on 23rd February 1881.
  4. Some other festivals that are observed here with much pomp and enthusiasm consist of Ram Navami, Hanuman Jayanti, Janmashtami, Diwali, and Maha Shivaratri.

How to Reach Jalaram Bapa Mandir: Road, Rail, and Air

  • By Air– Rajkot is the nearest airport that connects Virpur with all the leading cities in India. There are many direct flights available and pilgrims can take an auto-rickshaw from the airport to reach the famous shrine.
  • By Train– The Rajkot Junction is well connected with different towns of Gujarat and cities in India. It is almost 6 km away from the Teen Batti triple gateway and is a junction on the Western Railway Ahmedabad-Hapa broad gauge line. There are many express trains that are available from this station.
  • By Road– It has good transportation system with all the neighboring states. There are many State buses from Rajkot to different parts of Gujarat. The ST bus stand is 2 km, west of Bedi Gate on the other side of Ranmal Lake.

Where to stay near Jalaram Bapa Mandir in Virpur

  • Temple trust provides a nice arrangement for devotees to get free food and free accommodation called ‘Dharamshala’ without any cost.
  • Hotel Madhav is basically located in Virpur close to the temple and is the best choice for rooms that are cheap and at affordable prices.

Where to eat near Jalaram Bapa Mandir in Virpur

  • Virpur offers a lot of options to explore when it comes to fulfilling your appetite. The traditional food is vegetarian in nature and is rich in nutrition. Mostly, the Gujarati Thali comprises rice, roti, dal, sabzi, and sweets.
  • There are many famous restaurants in the city that offer fine dining options at a competitive price range. The local eating joints also offer fantastic delicacies at lesser costs.
  • Some of the must-have dishes that a traveler needs to taste refer to Khaman, Dhokla, Puran Poli, Shrikhand, Farsi Falafel, Khakra, Muthia, and Meethi Kadhi. However, alcohol is banned here and is not served at restaurants.
  • Also, the Morning Tea, Lunch & Dinner are provided free for the Yatris in the Dharmshala run by the temple trust where free food is provided for the devotees staying there.

Nearby Temples in Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur

Apart from the famous Jalaram Bapa Mandir, there are some religious places in Virpur that tourists can pay a visit to. These consist of:

  • Virpara Nath Mandir– Every tourist who visits Jalaram Bapa definitely pays a visit to this shrine too. Sadhus sing Hymes during the evening in this temple premises.
  • Samadhi of Jalaram Bapa– It is a sacred place of worship as devotees come to pay their respect to Jalaram Bapa here. After Bapa passed away, he was laid to rest here.
  • Samadhi of Jetha Bapa– This is another famous shrine that stands close to the Jalaram Bapa Mandir. There are many pilgrims who visit the samadhi and seek blessings from Jetha Bapa.
  • Virbhai Maa Mandir at Triveni Sangam– It is a temple that is dedicated to Virbhai and celebrates the commitment and sacrifice provided by Virbhai.
  • Khodiyar Mandir at Mavatar Vridhdharshram-  Being located in Mavatar Vridhdharshram, this mandir is highly popular and considered sacred among the natives.
  • Gala vada Hanuman– It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and worships his strength and commitment to Lord Ram.

If you have any questions related to Jalaram Bapa Mandir Virpur, please leave a comment below and we will reply within an hour.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jalaram Bapa Mandir –

Till when does the Jalaram Bapa Mandir remain open?

The temple remains open for all days of the year for devotees, sometimes close due to renovation work.

What is the visit duration for Jalaram Bapa Mandir?

It will take 1 hour to fully explore the Jalaram Bapa Mandir.

What is Jalaram Bapa Mandir famously known in the locality?

It is famously known in the locality as Jay Jaliyaan Mandir.

What is the location of Jalaram Bapa Mandir?

Jalaram Bapa Mandir is located 60 km from Rajkot and 280 km from Ahmedabad in Virpur near Rajkot, Gujarat, India.

What are the temple activities done by the temple trust?

The temple trust does regular activities like Bharatnatyam, Tabla classes and Yoga classes for devotees and interested individuals.

What is the climate temperature at Virpur in Gujarat?

The climate temperature st Virpur in Gujarat stays between 25-31°C.

Is donation allowed at the Jalaram Bapa Mandir?

Yes, devotees can donate as per their facilities to the temple trust through an online portal in Jalaram Bapa Mandir.

Thirunelli Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Thirunelli Temple, Wayanad Valley brings out prayers from the deep core of the hearts. The temple is encircled with Udayagiri, Brahmagiri, Karimala and Narinirangimala range in Kerala while the Papanasini mountain spring flows by it. The temple is at an altitude of 900 meters, facing east. Therefore, the first rays of the sun fall on the temple, creating a celestial atmosphere. The Thirunelli Temple worships Lord Vishnu.

thirunelli-temple

History and Legend of Thirunelli Temple

The Thirunelli Temple opens up another golden page of South Indian religious life and beliefs.

  • It is one of the oldest temples of Kerala. As per folklore, Lord Brahma built the temple. The temple also has other names, like, Sahyamala Kshetram and Kashi of the South.
  • There is an old artificial water channel that brings water to the temple. It helps people to understand the age of the temple. The wife of Chirackal Raja once visited the temple. When she asked for some water to dissolve the sandal, the priest was not able to provide water. The lady understood the scarcity of water at the temple and ordered her attendants to discover a water source. They found a water source, varaham, within the forest. Water was brought from the place using bamboo halves. She built the stone water channel to ensure uninterrupted water service to the shrine. This water channel has mural decoration and comes with pillars.
  • Thirunelli comes from the Malayalam/ Tamil word, nelli. It means gooseberry in English and amla in Hindi. As per myth, Lord Brahma was moving around the world one day. He saw an idol of Lord Vishnu resting on an amla tree. The tree was at the Wayanad Valley. Lord Brahma installed this deity. The place was Vishnuloka, the heaven of peace. Therefore, the Thirunelli Temple was built. For this reason, people also know the temple as Amalaka Temple and Sidha Temple.
  • It is also a belief that the Lord Vishnu blessed the place with sacred waters which can wash away the sins both of mortal life and life after death.
  • As per myth, Lord Brahma visits the place every day. The temple performs five worships in a day. But they arrange items for sixth worship before leaving the temple at night. Every morning it is found that the puja items have been used at night. People believe that Lord Brahma has used the items for worshipping Lord Vishnu. The priests swear thrice before entering the shrine in the morning that they will not disclose what they saw inside.
  • Veda Vyasa has also mentioned the temple in his book, Padma Purana.
  • Another myth states that Chera king Kulasekharan made the temple. The king was in power from 767 AD to 834 AD. Then he became a saint and practised Vaishnava order. He is also the writer of Mukundamaala. The book is written in Sanskrit.
  • The temple has an incomplete walkway. It is said that the Coorg king once started the renovation work at the temple. The Vellattiri king owned the temple at that time. He objected to the work and hence the walkway is incomplete.
  • Locals also believe that Lord Shiva lives at the temple premises. He started his journey to Kottiyur from here to kill Dhakshan. Dhakshan was the father of Devi Sati. She was the wife of Lord Shiva.
  • There is a holy rock at the temple where devotees perform the funeral rites of their ancestors. People believe the rock is actually the bone of a demon. His name was Pazhana-bhedi and he was killed by Lord Vishnu. He prayed during his death to Lord Vishnu to divide his body into three parts so that devotees could use it for offerings to the departed souls. The head is at Gaya, middle part at Godavari and feet at Thirunelli. Lord Rama and his brother Laxmana performed funeral rites of their father, King Dasaratha at this rock.

Significance of the Thirunelli Temple

The Thirunelli Temple is unique with its different rituals and as a treasure of historic relics.

  • Only at this temple, a devotee can perform rituals from life to death and for life after death.
  • The temple has three deities, Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma. People call them trinity. There is a separate cave temple at the western side of the main temple. Lord Shiva is the presiding deity here. This is Gunnika temple. It represents Kongu-Chera style of handiworks.
  • The temple showcases Kerala architectural style. The inner sanctum has a tilted roof and an open courtyard. Another feature of the temple is the granite lamp post. You can also see the hole of a flag post but the flag post is missing.
  • The outer wall also has granite pillars. The pillars are cubical in shape. This part is different from the standard Kerala architecture.
  • As per recent excavations, Thirunelli was an important business hub. The copper plates describe the history of the Thirunelli temple. From land allotment for the temple to details of expenses, everything is there in these plates.
  • As per the inscriptions, the Kunhikutta Varman VeeraKurumpurai was the first donor for the temple construction, while the Sankaran Godavarman is the second donor.
  • An elaborate description of the Thirunelli temple is also mentioned in the Unniyachi Charitham. This is a popular poetical work. The writer is Thevan Chirikumaran.
  • The lord Vishnu is Chaturbhuja at the Thirunelli Temple. The Panchatheertham water tank has the marks of Lord Vishnu feet. This is known as Vishnupad.

Thirunelli Temple Timings

Pilgrims can visit the temple both in morning and evening.

  • It is open from 5.30 am to 12.00 pm in the morning.
  • The aarti is magical. It takes places at 11.30 am.
  • At evening the temple is open from 5.30 pm to 8.00 pm.

Thirunelli Temple Food Timings

Prasadam is served after the evening prayers. You can also have meals at the temple. Visitors can also have free coffee and upma, both in morning and evening.

Dress Code at Thirunelli Temple

Devotees generally come in traditional wear. Men need to enter the temple without shirts. Leather apparels and items cannot be brought into the temple complex. Worshippers need to wear dhoti which is available at the priest office.

Festivals celebrated at Thirunelli Temple

Puthari, Chuttuvilakku, Navarathri, Shivarathri and Sreekrishnajayanthi are the major festivals of the temple.

Poojas and Rituals at Thirunelli Temple

  • Ritual at the Papanasini River: Pilgrims from all over the world gather at the Thirunelli Temple to perform the ancestral rites. The rituals rake place at the banks of the river. Locals believe that the holy waters can wash away all the sins of the mortals.
  • Pithrukarma: Also, there is a holy rock at the temple complex where worshippers pray for their forefathers.
  • The temple also practices various customs related to the complete life cycle. Bali Tharpana, Oraalpindam are the other funeral rites that people do here.
  • Another unique custom of the Thirunelli Temple is Brahmanas play musical instruments during food offerings to Lord Vishnu.

How to Reach: Road, Rail and Air

A trip to Thirunelli Temple is just not a pilgrimage but an immemorial journey through the Wayanad Valley. The place is easily accessible as it is a tourist hotspot. If you are coming from outside Wayanad, you can come from Calicut. The route from Calicut passes three cities, which are, Thamarasserry, Kalpetta and Mananthavady.

By Air: The Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport to the Thirunelli Temple. Another name for the airport is Karipur airport. This airport is at 161 kms from the Thirunelli Temple. Tourists can book cars directly to the temple. You can also use the Bangalore route to reach Thirunelli Temple. After reaching the Bangalore International Airport, tourists need to come to Mysore. From here proceed to Thirunelli via Hunsur and Nagarhole. The temple lies at 280 kms from Bangalore airport and 121 kms from Mysore.

By Rail: The nearest railhead to the temple is also at Calicut. From the railway station, tourists first need to reach Mananthavady and then to Thirunelli. There are many taxi and bus available from the station. The distance from Calicut to Mananthavady is 137 km if you are coming through the Koyileri – Mananthavady road. You can also take the 4th mile – Mananthavady road to reach the temple, but the distance is more; 141 kms.
The next nearest railway station to the temple is Mysore railway station. This is at 121 kms from the shrine.

By Road: You can enjoy the most if you are travelling to Thirunelli Temple via road. There are various ways in which you can reach the Thirunelli Temple via roadways.
From Calicut: After an hour journey from Calicut through the National Highway 212, you start climbing the hairpin slopes. There are 9 hairpin bends and the last bend gives a breathtaking view of all the Calicut valleys. You pass through the Vythiri and Chundale towns and then comes Kalpetta. This is the headquarters of the Wayanad district. From here you turn 2 kms left to the Mananthavady town.
From Kannur: The temple is 121 kms from Kannur. You can get a glimpse of the simple lifestyle of the locals as you pass the small towns of Koothuparamba, Nedumpoyil, Periya, Thalappuzha and Mananthavady to reach the temple. Moreover, there is a shorter through from Kannur. This route takes you through Kelakam, Kottiyur, Boy’s Town and Manathavady.
From Mananthavady: From this medium town, tourists head towards the Mysore Road, which is just at 10 kms. Then from Kattikulam tourists ride through a dense forest area till Thettu Road junction. This is an 8 kms ride to the junction and again a 13 kms ride to the temple. This path is idle for wildlife lovers, as bison, jumbo monkeys, peacocks and dear more around freely in the jungle.
From Kerala- Karnataka Border: From this place you need to ride till the Mananthavady road. After driving for almost 7.4 kms you will reach the Thetturoad Junction. Take a U-turn to reach the temple, which is 13 kms from the junction.

Hotels in Wayanad Valley: Where to stay

The temple has its own tourist accommodation. Panchatheertham Vishrama Mandiram is the name of the accommodation. Besides this, pilgrims can also stay at Himagiri Homes and Agraharam Resorts.

Where to eat

Besides having a meal, you can try out the food at Century Restaurant. The eat out is at 13.9 kms from the temple.

Nearby Temples

The Thirunelli Temple is closely related to the other nearby temples.

  • Trisillery temple: As per mythology, Pinnappara continues from Thirunelli to Trisillery. Hence devotees who perform ancestral rites at Thirunelli first visit Thrissilery. They also make a Vilakkumaala offering at Thrissilery.
  • Kottiyur Temple: This temple is at the dense forests of the Brahmagiri Valley. Earlier rice was brought from Thirunelli Temple to the Kottiyur Temple to meet the puja expenses. After the festival rice was returned to the Thirunelli Temple.
  • Kalpetta: This region in Wayanad is a Jain pilgrimage. The place has various Jain temples and institutes.

Thirunelli Temple is also renowned for its Ayurveda treatments. You can also get organic honey and bamboo toys here. There is a shop just adjacent to the temple which sells these stuff. Besides visiting the Thirunelli Temple, tourists can also go for trekking at the Pakshipathalam. This trekking site is just 10 kms from the shrine.

Shree Siddhivinayak Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

, 12 Comments Filed Under: Maharashtra Temples Tagged With:

Shree Siddhivinayak Temple is one of the oldest sacred temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Situated in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra, is one of the most popular and sacred temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The name Siddhivinayak means “Vinayak who grants one’s wishes.” The Lord is known locally as “Navasacha Ganapati” and “Navasala Pavanara Ganapati.” In Marathi, it means “Ganapati grants a wish whenever prayed with genuine devotion.”

Siddhivinayak Temple – Facts

DeityLord Siddhivinayak (Lord Ganesh)
LocationMumbai, Maharashtra
Entry FeeGeneral Darshan: Free; VIP Darshan: Rs. 100 /-
Best Time to VisitJune to December
Darshan TimingsTuesdays: 3:15 AM to 12:00 AM; Other days: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM
PoojasRudrabhisek, Laghurudrabhisek
FestivalsSankashti Chaturthi, Vinayaki Chaturthi, Ganesh Chaturthi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTbSvPgV2Ps
Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai, Video

What are the timings of Siddhivinayak Temple?

The temple timings vary depending on the day. However, the temple performs various rituals every day. The devotees can be a part of these rituals, such as the morning, afternoon, and evening poojas.

  • For all days except Tuesdays: The temple opens at 5:30 AM and closes after the last aarti (Shejaarti).
RitualFromTo
Kakad Aarti5:30 AM6:00 AM
Morning Shree Darshan6:00 AM12:15 PM
Naivedhya12:15 PM12:30 PM
Afternoon Shree Darshan12:30 PM7:20 PM
Evening Aarti7:30 PM8:00 PM
Evening Shree Darshan8:00 PM9:50 PM
Shejaarti9:50 PM10:00 PM
  • On Tuesdays: The temple opens at 3:15 AM and closes at midnight after the last aarti (Shejaarti).
RitualFromTo
Early Morning Shree Darshan3:15 AM4:45 AM
Kakad Aarti5:00 AM5:30 AM
Morning Shree Darshan5:30 AM12:15 PM
Naivedhya12:15 PM12:30 PM
Afternoon Shree Darshan12:30 PM8:45 PM
Aarti9:30 PM10:00 PM
Shejaarti10:00 PM12:00 PM
  • On Sankashti Chaturthi: The temple opens at 4:30 AM and closes after the last aarti (Shejaarti) which takes place 90 minutes after Moonrise.
RitualFromTo
Early Morning Shree Darshan4:40 AM4:45 AM
Kakad Aarti5:00 AM5:30 AM

The Shree Darshan starts soon after the Kakad Aarti until 90 minutes before Moonrise.

  • On Vinayaki Chaturthi: The temple opens at 5:30 AM and closes after the last aarti (Shejaarti).
RitualFromTo
Kakad Aarti5:30 AM6:00 AM
Morning Shree Darshan6:00 AM12:15 PM
Abhishekam, Naivedhya, & Pooja Aarti7:30 AM1:00 PM
Afternoon Shree Darshan1:00 PM7:20 PM
Evening Aarti7:30 PM8:00 PM
Evening Shree Darshan8:00 PM9:50 PM
Shejaarti9:50 PM10:00 PM

Devotees are not permitted in the main temple from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM when the Mahabhishek is performed.

It is worth noting that Tuesdays tend to be more crowded than usual.

What are the poojas and sevas at Siddhivinayak Temple?

Siddhivinayak Temple Pooja
Several poojas and sevas take place daily at The Siddhivinayak Temple.
  1. Atharva Sheesha Havan: The Havan is performed by a team of priests on behalf of the devotee. The Havan is performed to receive the Lord’s blessings and removing any obstacles in his or her life. The Pooja begins with the Ganesh Pooja, followed by the Punyahavacham, Nandishraddha, Grahmukh and finally the invocation of the God of Fire (Agni). The Navagraha Pooja is performed followed by the offering of the Modakas to the Agni. Following the Pooja, the devotee honours the Brahmin priest for performing the Havan.
  2. Panchamrut Pooja: The idol of the deity is bathed with five holy items – Milk, Honey, Sugar, Ghee, and Curd. The ritual takes place among the chants of several hymns and shlokas.
  3. Ashtottar Nama Pooja: The Pooja involves the recital of 108 names of Lord Vinayaka among chants praising him and invoking his blessings.
  4. Shodashopachara Pooja: This is the first step of the ritual of any Pooja that is performed for any God. This Pooja involves 16 steps or parts. These are Upachara, Avahana, Asana, Padaprakshalana, Hastaprakshalana, Achamanam, Snanam, Vastram, Yagyopaveetam, Gandham, Pushpam, Dhupam, Deepam, Naivedyam, Tambulam, Neerajanam, and Mantrapushpam.
  5. Sahastravartan Pooja: In this special Pooja, a silver image of Lord Ganesha is worshipped. The Shodashopachara Pooja is first performed for the Lord followed by Abhishek with Milk. This Pooja is performed for family harmony, healthy and long life, financial happiness and forbearing an heir to a family.
  6. Sri Satya Vinayaka Pooja: This pooja is generally performed by people whose family deity is Lord Ganesha. The auspicious days to perform this Pooja are Tuesdays, Fridays, full moon days, Vaisakha Poornima and Ganesh Chaturthi. In the temple, the Shodashopachar Pooja is performed followed by Sahasra Namam Pooja. Naivedyam is offered to God after which Aarti is conducted. This Pooja is performed for the birth of a child, financial growth, wedding, and prosperous family life.

What is the significance of Siddhivinayak Temple?

The Siddhivinayak Shrine
The shrine of Shree Siddhivinayak.

The significance of the temple is that idol of the deity is carved out of a single black stone with the Lord’s trunk tilted towards the right. It is quite unusual for a Ganesha idol’s trunk to not be left-sided, making the temple very sacred.

The idol consists of four hands, Chaturbhuj, each adorned with the elephant god’s sacred items. While the upper right-hand holds a lotus flower, he wields an axe in his upper left arm, holy beads in the lower right and a bowl full of Modaks in the lower left. On his either sides are goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi, who bestow the devotees with prosperity and riches.

The Goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi who represent sanctity, attainment, prosperity, and riches flank Lord Ganesh on both sides. On the Lord’s forehead, the third eye of Lord Shiva can be seen.

Shree Siddhivinayak is known as Navascha Ganapati in Marathi as it is said that he grants all the wishes of those who pray to him sincerely. It is also one of the wealthiest temples in the county and is visited by all kinds of people, ranging from celebrities to common man.

What is the history of Siddhivinayak Temple?

The history of the temple raises back in time about 200 years ago is prevalent to this date. Shree Akkalkot Swami Samarth’s adherent, Late Shree Ramakrishna Jambhekar Maharaj attained Siddhi. He was an ardent devotee of Lord Ganesha and the Gayatri Mantra. One day, he buried idols of the gods outside a disciple’s courtyard. He prophesied that a Mandar tree would grow in its place and the elephant god would reside in there. 21 years later, as the tree grew, so did people’s faith. 

A more popular story is that of an Agri woman, Shreemati Deubai Patil. Rendered childless due to infertility, she funded the construction of the temple with a prayer that the Lord bless women like her with children.

Established in 1801, the temple is more than 200 years old. What was originally a small place of worship, Shree Siddhivinayak was rebuilt into a majestic temple complex of 2550 square feet in 1993.

In 1952, a small Hanuman Temple was consecrated within the temple complex. The idol of Lord Hanuman was excavated during a road extension project.

The official website of The Siddhivinayak Temple is: http://www.siddhivinayak.org/

What is the structure of Siddhivinayak Temple?

The initial shrine was small and had a lake next to it. However, the lake was filled up and currently is not part of the temple complex. Currently, the temple is an imposing six-storied multi-angular structure.

The sanctum sanatorium (Gabhara) is right under a 12 feet high dome with the gold plated Kalash weighing 1500 kgs at its pinnacle.

The central dome is gold plated while the other domes are plated with Panchadhaatu (five metals- gold, silver, copper, brass, and bronze). The second floor houses the temple kitchen and the fourth houses a collection of more than 8000 books related to religion, philosophy, and science.

Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai also conducts social and cultural activities for the welfare of society. It operates a Dialysis Center, conducts blood and health camps and provides free eye checkups.

What is the dress code at Siddhivinayak Temple?

The Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai does not have a strict dress code but recommends decent clothes for men and women. Shorts and miniskirts are to be avoided. Beachwear and other revealing dresses are not allowed inside the premises.

Siddhivinayak Temple Festival
The Siddhivinayak Temple is decorated beautifully during Chaturthi and is visited by a large number of devotees.

What are the festivals celebrated at Siddhivinayak Temple?

Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the most popular festivals of Maharashtra.
  • Ganesha Chaturthi: The biggest celebration dedicated to Lord Ganesha is held in a grand manner at the Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai during August – September. The celebrations last for 10 days and the last day are named as “Ananta Chaturdashi”. In preparation for the festivities, a giant clay idol of the Lord is made 2-3 months in advance. The idol is then placed on a giant pedestal and decorated with garlands. The idol is installed at the temple in a ritual known as the Pranaprathishtha Pooja. Vedic hymns and Shlokas are chanted to appease the Lord. Offerings like coconut, jaggery and modaks are made to the Lord to receive his blessings. The temple receives lakhs of pilgrims during these ten days to catch a glimpse of the majestic deity. On the eleventh day, the idol is taken out in a grand procession amidst singing and dancing on devotional songs. The idol is then immersed in the sea, bidding adieu to the Lord who proceeds to his home in Kailash.
  • Sankashti Chaturthi: The auspicious dates fall on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha or the waning phase of the moon every month of the Hindu calendar. The day is extremely sacred to Ganesha devotees worldwide, who observe fast on these days. The importance of the day is mentioned in the Puranas like the Narasimha Purana and the Bhavishaya Purana. It is believed that Lord Krishna himself explained the importance of the Pooja to Yudhishthar of the Pandavas. On this day, the temple performs important Poojas to the Lord to remove obstacles in the devotee’s life and grant prosperity. Mahapuja is performed for the deity by reciting the Purush Sukt, Brahmanaspati Sukt, Atharva Sheersha, Ganapati Sukt and the Saraswati Sukt.
  • Hanuman Jayanti: The day marks the birth of Lord Hanuman. The festival is celebrated in the month of Chaithra in Maharashtra. On this day, special religious discourses and Poojas are held for the Lord which begin at dawn and end after sunrise. It is believed that the Lord was born at sunrise on this auspicious day.
  • Akshaya Tritiya: The auspicious day is celebrated in the month of May in the Temple. Special Poojas dedicated to the Lord are performed on the day. It is believed that the benefits of doing Jaap, Yagya, and Punya will never diminish but remain forever with the devotee. Along with Ugadi and Vijayadasami, Akshaya Tritiya is believed to be one of the days that are free from all ill-effects.

Besides these festivals, Gudi Parva, Ram Navami, Ganga Dussehra, Nag Panchami, Gokulashtami, Navaratri and Mahashivaratri are some of the other joyous occasions celebrated at the temple premises.

How to reach Siddhivinayak Temple?

  • By Air: The distance from the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport to the Siddhivinayak Temple Mumbai is 15 km and takes about an hour depending on the traffic conditions. One can hire a taxi from the airport to Prabhadevi. Mumbai is the financial capital of India and is well connected to all major cities of the country via major airlines.
  • By Train: Dadar is the nearest railway station and is a ten-minute ride to the Temple complex from here. Local trains ply between Dadar and major railway stations like the CST Terminal, Churchgate and Santacruz. Mumbai CST Terminal is well connected to all major cities of the country.
  • By Road: The city of Mumbai is connected to all major nearby cities like Panaji, Pune, Thane, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Surat via wide national highways. The state transport operated government buses from all important towns and cities of Maharashtra. The private bus service also operates regular buses in and out of the city. The city also boasts of good local transport connectivity by buses and taxis.

Where to stay?

A large number of hotels, lodges and guesthouses are available for tourists. Since Mumbai is a coastal city, there are several options for staying in beachfront villas and hotels. The pricing of rooms is on a higher side in the city. The city boasts of several five-star hotels such as the Taj, Trident, and the Four Seasons. One can also book guesthouses like the one run by ISKCON.

Where to eat?

Mumbai is one of the best cosmopolitan cities to experience a wide range of delicacies. One can find an incomparable range of cuisines like Maharashtrian, Coastal, North-Indian, Mughlai and Muslim food, South-Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Thai and European.

The options to taste these delicacies range from excellent seven-star hotels to local cafes and dhabas that are dispersed through this huge city. The chaats are a must-have at the Juhu and the Chowpatty beach. Vada Pav and Pavbhaji are a must-try. The Khao Gully in Colaba is particularly famous for its Maharashtrian food.

What are some places to visit near Siddhivinayak Temple?

Explore Mumbai
The city of Mumbai has something to offer to everyone.
  • Mahalakshmi Temple: The famous Mahalakshmi Temple is located 6 km from Siddhivinayak Temple. The presiding deity is Goddess Mahalakshmi is a form of Goddess Shakti or Adi Parashakti. The Temple was built in 1785. The deity is represented by her three forms – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati. The Temple is famous for its yearly grand celebrations of the festival Navaratri.
  • Mumba Devi Mandir: The deity of the famous temple is Maha Amba, known as Mumba in Marathi. The Goddess is the patron deity of the Fishermen of Mumbai, the original inhabitants of the city. The city of Mumbai is named after the Goddess. The original temple dated back to the 15th century. However, it was destroyed and the new structure was built in the 18th century.
  • Sri Radha Rasabihari Ji Temple, ISKCON: The temple complex is located near the Juhu beach. The presiding deities of the temple are Sri Gaura-Nitai, Sri Radha Rasabihari and Sri Sita – Ram, Lakshman and Hanuman. The temple is an architectural landmark and is visited by thousands of devotees and tourists every day.
  • Swaminarayan Temple: The temple dedicated to Sri Swaminarayan is situated in the Bhuleshwar area of Mumbai. The Temple is nearly 100 years old. The Temple follows the Swaminarayan Sampradaya. The tri-spire structure houses the deities Hari Krishna, Gaulokvihari and Radha, Laxminarayan Dev and Ghanshyam Maharaj.
  • Jogeshwari caves: The cave temples of Jogeshwari in Mumbai are some of the earliest cave shrines dedicated to both Hinduism and Buddhism. They date back to 550 AD. The cave complex is used as a temple by the locals who worship the ancient idols of Lord Shiva, Hanuman, Ganesha and Lord Dattatreya. It is believed that the cave also enshrines the footprints of Goddess Jogeshwari who is worshipped by many as Kuladevi.

Frequently Asked Questions about Siddhivinayak Temple

Is the Siddhivinayak Temple open throughout the year?

Yes, the Siddhivinayak Temple is open all 365 days of the year.

What is the entry fee?

The entry to the Siddhivinayak Temple is free of cost. However, if you want to avoid the long queues, you can access VIP Darshan by paying Rs. 100/- per person.

Is there any Online Darshan facility available?

Yes, please visit the website http://www.siddhivinayak.org/ for Online Darshan.

Can one carry mobiles and gadgets into the temple?

Yes. All electronic gadgets are strictly allowed (viz. mobile, camera, laptop). However, photography inside the temple is prohibited.

Is there any facility for specially-abled and senior citizen?

Wheelchair facilities for disabled and senior citizens are available at the gate of the temple. Lift facilities are also present inside the temple.

What is the weather like during the summers?

The summers at Mumbai start from February and continues until May. The summers here can be hot and humid. Temperatures during the daytime often go up to 32 º C.

What are winters like in Mumbai?

In Mumbai, winters start in November and continue until January. The temperatures during this time range from around 18 º C to 28 º C. The weather during this time is warm and pleasant.

If you have any questions about The Siddhivinayak Temple, please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple Guide – Timings, Dress Code, and History

, 2 Comments Filed Under: Kerala Temples Tagged With:

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple located is one of the major Shiva temples in Kerala. This temple is in fact more than 2,000 years old. Thiruvanchikulam Mahadeva temple is famous for the various manifestations of Lord Shiva, who is also the main deity of the temple. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple also has many minor shrines dedicated to various Gods and Goddesses.

There is a Namaskara Mandapam, with 16 pillars in front of the Sreekovil, which is one of the major attractions of this temple. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is well stored with ancient murals, wood carvings and Salabhanjikaas (sculptures) which are worth seeing.

Devotees attend Palliyara poojas held just before the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple closes on the full moon nights. Devotees pray for a happy married life and are blessed with children. The idol is considered to be of Uma Maheswara as revealed to Sage Parasurama. The Siva idol is just about 4 inches above the ground level and is in the form of a half-circle. Among the Siva temples, the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is called Arathali temple with its abridged form of Sivalingam in ‘Vadakkekottaram’ ( palace in the northern side).

History of Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

This place was the capital of Chera dynasty ruled here till the 13th century. The ancient seaport town Musiris and the Sree Kurumba Bhagavathy temple are the first things one notice in Kodungallur. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is believed to be built by Cheraman Perumal, a legendary Chera king.

It is also believed that Cheraman Perumal and his minister and friend Sundaramoorthy Nayanar left their life in the temple. There are two idols in Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple, considering as two ‘upadevas’ (sub gods), of them. This is the temple having the largest number of Upadevas in Kerala.

Lord Ganapathy, Cheraman Perumal, Sundaramoorthy Nayanar, Brangiradi, Sandhyavelakkal Sivan, Palliyara Sivan, Sakthi Panchakshari, Bhagavathy, Goddess Parvathy, Lord Parameshwara, Prodhosha Nrithya, Sapthamathrukkal, Rishabham, Nandikeshan, Unni Thevar, Lord Ayyappan, Lord Hanuman, Nagaraja, Lord Pashupati, Nadakkal Sivan, Lord Subramanya, Goddess Durga Bhagavathy, Goddess Ganga, Konnakkal Siva, Kottarathil Thevar, Nagayakshi, Dakshinamoorthy, Althara Gopudan Swamy etc are worshipped here along with Lord Shiva.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple had undergone several invasions in the flow of time. The Dutch and The Tipu Sulthan of Mysore are the prominent ones, who demolished this temple during their invasions. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple was renovated in 1801 AD. It is believed that the main idol of worship, Siva linga is brought from Chidambaram Rameshwara temple. It was one of the most popular Shiva temples in South India.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple suffered war damages in 1670 and in the late 18th century. In the late mediaeval Thiruvanchikulam was under the ruler of Cochin but occasionally, the Zamorin of Calicut had usurped the control. 

The saint Sundaramoorthy Nayanar and Cheraman Perumal (both were close-friends) worshipped Lord Shiva leading to eternal bliss. They reached Kailas by riding on a 1000-tusked white elephant by Nayanar and on a blue horse by Perumal. Both of them have shrines in the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple. This event was taken place on Swati day in the month of Karkidakam (July/August) and special Poojas are performed in these shrines.

Umamaheshwara once appeared in this place where Vasuki (serpents) stood guard. The Lingam here is said to have been self-incarnated. It is of 4-inch length, 12-inch diameter and in semi-circle form. There is water around as synonymous to Ganga.

Significance of Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple has the oldest reference in history in old Tamil Sangam literature. Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in South India where Lord Shiva is said to live along with his whole family. This temple has got a healthy relation with Chidambaram temple in Tamil Nadu.

A Brahmin had taken away Vasuki who stood guard to Umamaheshwara in a palm-leaf umbrella to his home for worship with the blessings of Umamaheshwara. This Brahmin family later became rich and their Mana famed as Pampummekkatt (serving of snake) Mana. This Mana is about 6-km east of Mahadeva temple. It is very famous for serpent Gods. People from all over Kerala and beyond visit here for the solution of problems connected with serpents.

The majestic gateway is decorated with carvings of elephants, gods and goddesses. Only the left side of the entrance there is a stone carving of Shiva and Parvathi as right and left respectively. Inside the enclosure, there is a porch with carvings dedicated to the characters of the great Hindu epic of Ramayana.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple Timings

  • Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple opens at 5 AM and closes at 8 PM. The afternoon break timings are from 11 AM to 5 PM.
  • The day starts with Palliyunarthal (waking up of the lord) at 3.00 AM.  Then there is escorting the lord and his consort from Palliyara to Mukhamandapa. Other rituals involve Changing of Nirmalyam, Abhishekam (ablutions), and leading them to the Moolasthana, Usha pooja, Dhaara. It is the accompaniment of Rudram. There is Pantheeradi pooja, Navakam, Panchagavyam, Uchapooja and closing of the temple for noon at 11.30 AM.
  • The sanctum opens again at 5.00 PM. Changing of Nirmalyam followed by Abhisheka, Deeparaadhana, Athazha pooja, escorting the lord and consort to Palliyara. Finally conducting Palliyara pooja (Dampathi pooja).

Festivals celebrated at Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

The annual festival is celebrated for 8 days in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February–March). It ends with the Arattuin the sea on the new moon day. Aanayottam is also conducted as part of the festival. The hoisting of the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple flag atop the flagstaff (Dwajastambham) about 70 feet high marks the beginning of the festival.

Maha Shivaratri: It is the most famous festival celebrated at Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple that attracts a huge number of devotees. Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple houses images of other gods and goddesses in small shrines in the temple premises. The fourteenth day of every lunar month or the day before the new moon is known as Shivratri. Among all the twelve Shivratris that occur in a hindu calendar year, Mahashivratri, the one that occurs in February-March is of the most spiritual significance.

On this night, the northern hemisphere of the planet is positioned in such a way that there is a natural upsurge of energy in a human being. This is a day when nature is pushing one towards one’s spiritual peak. It is to make use of this, that in this tradition, we establish a certain festival which is night-long.

Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple Sevas and Poojas

  • The main offering in the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is ‘Shankabhishekam’ (pouring ‘Shanku’ flowers on the idol. The main event in the Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is ‘Dhambathi Pooja’ (couple offering), in which worships the Siva-Parvathy dual and lead them to the ‘Palliyara’ (their personal bedroom).
  • It is believed that the ‘Palliyara Darshanam’ give the bliss to overcome hurdles in a good marriage and child fertility.
  • The shrikovil walls bear murals portraying Lord Ram and other mythological characters in five panels. The exterior of Palliyara walls also has mural paintings. Out of 274 Shaivite Thiruppathies in India, this is the only one in Kerala.

How to reach Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple

By Air: The nearest airport to Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple is at Nedumbassery International Airport at Kochi. It is at a distance 35 km away. Taxi services are available from Kochi to Kodungallur costing about Rs 500. Kochi airport is well connected to all major airports in India and also connected to many foreign cities. Direct flights are available to Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.

By Rail: The nearest railhead to Kodungallur is located at Iringalakuda, at a distance of 16 km away. Iringalakuda is well connected with other major railway stations. It is in the main route connecting Kochi and Palghat. Taxi services are available from railway station to Kodungallur at a fare of about Rs 300.

By Road: Kodungallur is well connected by KSRTC buses and private transport buses. The city is connected to Kochi (35 km), Thrissur (38 km) and Guruvayur (45 km). Tourist deluxe luxury buses are available from many cities including Chennai, Bangalore, Trivandrum and Kozhikode to Kodungallur.

Where to stay

Vedic Village Resort: This resort provides with necessary amenities such as the internet, 24-hour front desk, air conditioning, parking, travel desk, 24-hour security, and doctor on call. Ayurvedic spa of the resort help transforms and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul. Food Court serves authentic Kerala cuisines by re-creating the unique recipes.  All the rooms are unique and exude a charismatic appeal.

Aswathy Hotel: All the rooms in this hotel provides with first-class amenities in a warm, relaxing atmosphere. The elegantly furnished multi-cuisine restaurant serves both buffets and menu of Indian dishes. The lobby provides guests sitting facilities for the visitors.

Where to eat

In Kerala food is served on a banana leaf. Almost every dish prepared in Kerala has coconut and spices to flavour the local cuisine. That gives it a sharp pungency that is heightened with the use of tamarind, while coconut gives it its richness.

There are different restaurants such as City Majlis Restaurant, Relax Muziriz Kitchen, Thaninaadan Samudra Family Restaurant, Classic Durbar Greens and many more.

Nearby Temples

Ayyappan temple: The Ayyappan Temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is a sacred shrine of the town. Lord Ayyappa is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is considered very sacred in South India. Devotees believe that Lord Ayyappa was the foster son of King Pandalam.

Kurumba Bhagavathy Temple: The temple is more known for its fame and mythological importance. The shrine is dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali (an incarnation of Goddess Durga). The idol of the goddess Bhadrakali in the temple is unique as it has eight hands with various attributes. One is holding the head of an Asura, another a sword, next an anklet, another a bell, and so on. The temple also houses the images of Lord Ganapathi and Lord Veerabhadra. Bhagawati Temple is also referred to as the abode of Kannaki. The later was believed to be an incarnation of Kali and as a result, a temple was erected in her memory in Kodungallur.

Mata Amritanandamayi: The Mata Amritanandamayi Math (MAM) is an international charitable organization that aims at the spiritual and material development of mankind. It is also home to an international community of more than 3,000 people. Permanent residents include monastic disciples and families from all over India and abroad. Inspired by Amma, they have dedicated their lives to attaining the goal of Self-realisation and serving the world. It is here that they live with Amma, imbibing her teachings, practising meditation and participating in selfless service.

Sivakrishnapuram Temple: Sivakrishnapuram Temple is one of the oldest temples near Kodungallur in Edavilangu. In front of the Sanctum Sanctorum is the Namaskara Mandapam with six pillars. The sanctum Sanctorum has Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati posing together. Lord Shiva is locally called “Uma Maheshwara”. It comes under the Cochin Devaswom Board and is managed by the devotees of Edavilangu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Siva and Lord Krishna.

Kottappuram Cathedral: The Kottappuram Cathedral is a Roman Catholic Church. The church is beautifully built in the typical Roman style of architecture and is extremely well-maintained. There is a missionary school in the church premises for the underprivileged. This particular church has a deep relationship with the ancient port city Cranganore(Muziris). Cathedral was in the name of Arch Angel Saint Michael.

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