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Mahaganapathi Temple, Madur (7 km from
Kasaragod)
This imposing temple represents a fine blend of Kerala and
Karnataka architecture.
Madiyankulam Temple (3 km from
Kasaragod)
Situated near Kanhangad in Hosdurg, this temple is dedicated to
Bhadrakali, the fierce form of Goddess. The Bhutha Dance is
performed during the festival in May-June and December -
January.
Ananthapura Lake Temple (17 km from
Kasaragod)
This is the only lake temple in Kerala. Situated in Kumbala, this
is believed to be the original seat of Lord
Ananthapadmanabha.
The Mahalingeswara Temple, Adoor (45
km, East of Kasaragod)
This temple has Sanskrit inscriptions written in the Kannada
script which has been ascribed to the Chalukya King Kirthi Varma
II.
Malik Dinar Mosque, Thalankara (1 km
from Kasaragod)
It is one of the first ten mosques to be built in India after the
advent of Malik Mohammed Dinar who propagated Islam in India. His
mortal remains are buried near this mosque. The annual festival
of Uroose is popular.
Nityananda Asramam, Kanhangad (27 km
from Kasaragod)
The temple here, built in 1963 resembles the Somnath temple in
Gujarat. A life-size panchaloha statue of Swami Nityananda is the
star attraction.
Anandashram (15 km from Bekal)
This was founded in 1931 by Swamy Ramdas and Mother Krishna Bhai
known as Pappa and Mathaji to devotees. This spiritual centre is
said to offer all kind of facilities for the spiritual
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Kannur
(Cannanore)
Thrichambaram Sree Krishna Temple,
Taliparamba (20km from Kannur)
A sacred place of the Vaishnava cult, the deity here is Sree
Krishna. The fortnight festival begins on 22nd Kumbham (February
- March). Another temple dedicated to Sree Balarama, brother of
Lord Krishna is at Mazhoor, Thrichambaram. On the first day, the
idol of Balarama is taken out in procession from Mazhoor temple
and brought to the Thrichambaram temple. The procession marks the
beginning of the festival, on the last day of which the idols of
Sree Krishna and Balarama are taken out ceremoniously. The
festivities end with Lord Krishna retreating to His abode that is
Thrichambaram temple, while his brother Balarama returns to
Dharmakulangara temple. The procession in this festival is sans
elephants.
Parassinikadavu Madapura Sree Muthapan
Temple (16 km from Kannur town)
The significant feature of this temple is the daily performance
of Theyyam, the ritualistic art form of Kerala. The presiding
deity is Muthappan, a manifestation of Lord Shiva in the guise of
a kiratha (hunter).
Kizhakkan Kottam, Valakai, Taliparamba
(50 km from Kannur)
This is perhaps the only temple dedicated to Sugreeva, the
deposed monkey-king who helped Lord Rama in the encounter with
Ravana.
Madayi Mosque (28 km from Kannur)
This was built by Malik Ibn Dinar in the 12th century, with white
marble brought from Arabia.
Akkara Kottiyur, Ikkara Kottiyur (64 km
from Kannur)
Lying in the deep forests, these temples are famed for the annual
festival which starts with Neyyattom on Swati asterism in
May-June and ends with Thirukalasattu after 28 days.
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Thirunelly Vishnu Temple (32 km south
– east of Mananthavady)
Tucked away in the Brahmagiri hills and encircled by the River
Papanasini is Thirunelly temple. Several myths are woven around
the temple. One of the mythical strands says the idol of Vishnu
was installed by Brahma (creator) himself. The Papanasini River
is believed to have the divine power to wipe away all the sins
committed through generations. It is believed that the
pithru-tharpana (oblations to manes) done here will also lead to
the transformation of the spirits of the departed to salvation.
The Koothambalam here is one of the best in the State and rare
paintings adorn the temple walls.More
details
Glass Temple of Kottamunda (20 km from
Kalpettta) Located on the slope of Vellarimala, this is dedicated
to Parswanatha Swami, third Thirthankara of the Jain faith. The
mirrors inside the temple walls reflect the image of the icons in
the temple sanctum.
Sree Maha Ganapathy Temple,
Sulthanbathery (Heart of the town)
This temple is more than 800 years old and has a beautiful image
of Lord Ganapathi.
Erulam Sita Devi Temple, Pulpally (8 km
from Sultan Battery)
This temple is dedicated to Sita Devi and her sons, Luv and Kush.
The three-day festival known as Thira Ulsavam, features Theyyam
and Paniyarkali.
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Kozhikode (Calicut)
Lokanar
Kavu (6 km east ofVadakara)
Dedicated to Bhadrakali, this temple finds mention in the
Northern Ballads (Vadakkan Pattukal). Thacholi Othenan, the
legendary hero of Kalaripayattu, Kerala's martial art form used
to worship the deity here. The offering of Eratttipayasam
is said to please the Goddess here.
Vettakkorumakan
temple, Balusseri (25 km from Kozhikode)
This temple was once famous for its vazhipaadu (offering) of
breaking ten thousand coconuts overnight by a single person. The
idol of this war-god is in the form of a mirror.
Thali
temple (Kozhikode city)
Associated with the Zamorins of Calicut, this temple is the venue
for the famous Sanskrit discourse, Revathy
Pattathallam.
Mother of God Church (1/2 km from
Kozhikode city)
Built in the Roman architectural style, this church dates back to
1513 AD and is only one of its kind in Kerala. It houses a
portrait of St. Mary, believed to be 200 years old.
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The Jama-at mosque (2 km from
Malappuram)
This is an important pilgrim centre for the Muslims of Kerala.
The annual Nercha festival of the mosque is celebrated for four
days in April. Adjoining the mosque is a mausoleum of the
Malappuram Shaheeds whose brave exploits have been immortalized
in Mappilla Ballads.
Pazhayangadi Mosque, Kondotti (18 km
east of Manjeri on the way to Kozhikode)
Kondotti is a prominent pilgrim centre for Muslims. The Valia
Nercha festival at the 500- year old Pazhayangadi Mosque,
celebrated for five days in February-March, draws a large number
of devotees. While the focus of the Nercha here is the reverence
shown to Shaykh Muhammad Shah, *e founder of the Kondotti
Thangals, the ceremonial rituals are derived from the worship of
folk deities of Kerala. During the special ceremony of the
Kondotti cannon, the cannons that are kept in the Kondotti Police
Station are taken out to a road near the mosque, charged with
powder and ignited. These cannons are believed to have special
sanctity and an important offering during the festival is oil for
them. The oil that is left over after cleaning of these cannons
is believed to have curative powers.
Kadaampuzha Bhagavathy temple, Tirur
(3km north of Vettichira on the highway connecting Kozhikode and
Thrissur)
Dedicated to Kiraatha Parvathi, this is one of the most sacred
Shakthi centres in Kerala. The uniqueness of the temple here is
the absence of idols. Pooja is performed at a hole (about 6 cm in
diameter) in the earth where the Goddess is said to have
disappeared after showing her presence to Adi Sankaracharya.
Poomootal i.e. offering flowers of thecchi (Ixora indica) to the
hole is the important vazhipaadu . Matturakkal is another
vazhipaadu that involves breaking of coconuts, the purpose of
which is to remove the obstacles faced in day-to-day
life.
Thirumandhaamkunnu Bhagavathi temple,
Angadippuram (3 km from Perinthalmanna
town)
Dedicated to Bhadrakaali, this is one of the ancient and renowned
temples in Kerala. According to legends, King Mandhatha of Soorya
dynasty, after tough meditation received from Shiva, the l illga
worshipped by Parvathi. On his downward journey from Kailash he
kept down the l illga at Thirumandhankunnu where it got fixed to
the earth. The Shivalillgam in the Sreemoolasthanam here is split
into two. This is attributed to the fight that took place between
Mandhatha and Kali, who was ordered by Parvathi to get back her
precious linga . Parvathi, who could not bear a separation from
the linga is said to have entered it, instructing Mandhatha to
install Kali near her on whose name all the pooja and festivals
were to be conducted. An important custom of this festival is the
arrival of Vellathiri to give audience to the Malayanlkutty, the
headman of the Palla tribal community. Kalampattu is an important
vazhipaadu here and is perhaps one of the longest to be
performed, starting from first Vrishichikam to the end of Memam.
Mallgalya pooja, Rigveda LakJharchalla and Challdattam are some
of the other important poojas.
Navamukundha Temple, Thirunavaya (8km
South of Tirur)
Thirunavaya, on the banks of the River Bharathapuzha, said to be
the traditional headquarters of the mythical Brahmin hero,
Parasurama, is a place of historical and religious significance.
Thousands flock here on karkidaka vavu Day to perform the
pithrukriya rites for the departed souls. The Navamukunda temple
is said to be the sacred spot blessed with the presence of
Saraswathi , Gayathri, Lakshmi, Parvathy, Shami, Ganga, and
Yamuna.
Vettakkorumakan Temple, Nilambur (36 km
from Malappuram) The Nilambur Pattu festival that is held here
every year is a unique event, marked by the participation of
tribal. It starts with Kodiydtam, the hoisting of the festival
flag brought by the tribes from the forest, who are warmly
received by the royal family. The festival reaches a climax on
Dhanu 23 with the singing of hymns in praise of the temple's
presiding deity, Vettakkorumakan by the members of the Nilambur
royal family, as well as the tribes. This temple is maintained by
the Nilambur Kovilakam.
Thunchan Parambu, Tirur (52 km from
Malappuram)
This is the birth- place of Thunchath Ezhuthachan, the father of
Malayalam language and the hallowed ground where children are
initiated into the world of alphabets. On Vijayadasami day,
people from different places come here for Vidyaramoham, the
ceremony in which children are initiated into learning. The iron
stylus with which Ezhuthachan wrote on palm leaves and the
ancient kanjira tree (Nux vomica) under which he taught his
disciples and composed his poems, are treasured exhibits here.
Unlike the fruits of kanjira trees found elsewhere, the fruit of
this tree is not bitter. The memorial also boasts of granite
Sarawathi mandapam and a library with rare
manuscripts.
Poonthanam Illam, Kizhatoor,
Perinthalmanna
This is the house of Poonthanam Namboothiri, a great exponent of
the Krishna cult of the Bhakthi Movement, known for his work
Jnanapana(song of knowledge). In February every year, the ill am
hosts the Poonthanam literary festival coinciding with the poet's
birthday. The illam and the family temple are being turned into a
memorial.
Melpatthur Illam, Ponnani (52 km from
Malappuram)
The site of the home of Melpatthur Narayana Bhattathiri, renowned
poet and author of Narayaneeyam is situated on the northern side
of the Bharathapuzha about 2 miles away from the Thirunavaya
Temple.
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Sree Vilwadrinatha Temple,
Thiruvilwamala (15 km from Ottapalam)
Located atop a hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. The
Punarjani Noozhal (crawling through the Punarjani cave) is an
important ritual. Punarjani is a narrow cave believed to have
been built by Viswakarma, the legendary creator of Kerala and on
an auspicious day devotee’s crawl through the half
kilometer cave to get rid of their sins.
Sree Parthasarathy Temple, Chembai (14
km from Palakkad)
The six- day annual festival here honoring Chembai Vaidyanatha
Bhagavathar features Carnatic music concerts by veteran
musicians.
Sree Viswanatha Temple, Kalpathy (3 km
from Palakkad) Built in 1425 on the lines of the temple at
Benaras, this temple is famous for the Chariot festival held
every November.
Vayillamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple,
Katampazhipuram (27 kill from Palakkad)
The deity here is believed to be one of the members of the
legendary family, Paratcbi Petta Palltbeerukulam (the clan of
twelve given birth by Paratcbi, an aboriginal woman).
Kalamezhuthupattu is a special feature during the seven-day
annual festival.
Jain Temple, Jainamedu
One of the few existing Jain temples in Kerala is the Jain temple
at Jainamedu in the Vadakkanthara village on the Western border.
With granite walls devoid of any decorations, this temple
comprises four divisions and is 32 feet high and 20 feet wide.
Legend has it that the temple was built about 500 years ago by a
Jain head named Inchanna Satur for the Jain sage, Chandranatha
Swamy. At a Jain house here, renowned poet, Kumaranasan wrote the
monumental poem, Veenapoovu (the fallen flower).
Juma Masjid (1 km from Palakkad)
Mortal remains of Uthman Auliya, a revered man in Muslim
Communities are entombed here. Prayers are held in this mosque on
Fridays. Annual festival is held in January February. During the
festival a grand procession bringing ceremoniously various
articles such as rice, coconut, etc to the mosque as offerings is
held. A grand feast is held for the poor, the next
day.
Guru Madhom, Chittur (13 km from
Palakkad)
This was founded by Thunchath Ezhuthachan. The Samadhi (final
resting-place) of Ezhuthachan is also located in this village on
the banks of River Bharathapuzha.
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Vadakkunathan Temple (in the heart of
the city)
This is a classic example of the Kerala's traditional
architecture. Holy shrines of Paramashiva, Parvathy,
Sankaranarayana, Ganapathy, Sree Rama and Sree Krishna are housed
here. The central shrines and Koothambalam exhibit exquisite
vignettes carved in wood. This temple is the site for the famous
Thrissur Pooram. The main vazhipaad (offering) here is
ghee.
Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple (29 km
west of Thrissur)
Guruvayoor, known as Kasi of the South is famous for the Sree
Krishna temple which has Guruvayoorappan or the infant Krishna,
as the deity. Legend has it that the temple is the creation of
Guru, the preceptor of the Gods and Vayu, the God of winds. The
most famous offering of the temple is Thulabharam, where a
devotee presents to the deity his own body weight against
products like bananas, rice etc. The Vishnu's idol here, made of
rare stone is believed to possess healing qualities, especially
for rheumatism. The 16th century poet Melppathur Narayana
Bhattathiri, who suffered from rheumatic pain, is said to have
sought relief from Guruvayoorappan, after which he composed
Narayaneeyam, in praise of the Lord. An exquisite painting around
the Sreekovil has depicting stories of the pranks of little
Krishna stand testimony for the art of a period. The 111alldapam
facing the Sreekovill is resplendent with beautiful carvings. Non
Hindus are not allowed in Guruvayoor temple.
Mammiyoor Siva Temple (1 km from
Guruvayoor)
This temple houses two adjacent shrines of Sankaranarayana and
Shiva. Mammiyoor and Guruvayoor Sree Krishna temple are linked to
each other in several aspects and it is therefore considered
auspicious to worship them on the same day.
Koodalmanickam Temple, Irinjalakkuda
(21 km from Thrissur)
The only temple in India dedicated to Lord Bharatha, brother of
Sree Rama is the ancient and historic Koodalmanickam temple.
Meenoottal, feeding of the fishes in the Kuleepini theertham, the
temple pond is an important ritual here. The temple festival is
held for all days in Medom (April-May) from Utram to
Thiruvollam asterisms. Chakyarkoothu is performed in the temple
theatre during the festival.
Sree Rudhira Mahakali Temple
(Uthralikkavu), Wadakkancherry (2 km from Parithipra on the way
to Shoranur)
The annual festival of this temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, is
one of the famous festivals of Central Kerala. Known as
Uttralikkavu Pooram , the eight-day long festival has as its
highlight, about twenty-one caparisoned tuskers. Festivities end
with a colourful display of fireworks.
Sree Rama Temple, Kadavallur (10 km
from Kunnamkulam)
A unique feature of this temple is the annual twelve-day
Anyonnam, a scholarly debate on Vedas. Vedic scholars from all
over Kerala participate in this. Sree Rama is worshipped in three
forms here- in the morning as in vanavaasa (exile in forest), at
noon as in sethu bandhana [in a roudra(angry) mood] and at night
as the king of Ayodhya.
Bhagavathy Temple, KodungaIIoor (50 km
from Kochi)
This temple is famous for the Bharani festival .On bharani day,
special nivedya (nectar) known as Variyarippayasamam is offered
to Bhagavathy. This is performed by Adikals (priests). Early
morning, the deity is ceremoniously taken out of the Sreekovil
(sanctum sanctorum) and placed on a raised pedestal for public
worship. Simultaneously, the temple flag is hoisted signifying
the victory of Bhagavathy over Darika (evil). After the bharani
day, the temple doors remain closed for six days during which
period, pooja is offered only once in a day. On the seventh day
when the Sreekovil is opened, thousands have dharshan (vision) of
Devi which is considered most auspicious.
Cheraman Juma Masjid, Kodungalloor (50
km from Kochi)
This is the first mosque in India. Legend says King Cheraman Peru
mal of Kodungallor left for Mecca, embraced Islam, accepted the
name Thajuddeen and married the sister of the then King of
Jeddah. Before his death Thajuddeen handed over to the King of
Jeddah several letters addressed to Kerala kings seeking their
help to propagate Islam. The King came to Kerala and met the then
King of Kodungalloor who helped the former convert Arathali
temple into a Juma Masjid. This mosque was designed and
constructed based on Hindu art and architecture. It was built in
629 AD and resembles a temple in appearance.
Potta Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor
(35 km from Thrissur)
This centre is famous for live-in retreats and conventions,
through which evangelists and preachers share and proclaim the
'word of God'.
Ramakrishna Ashram, Vilangan (9 km from
Thrissur)
The Ramakrishna Mission has a number of ashrams in the State,
which serve as centers of meditation. These centers uphold the
ideals of Vedanta as taught by Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Swami
Vivekananda. The first branch of the mission was set up in
Haripad in 1912. The Thrissur ashram was set up in
1927.
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Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry (14 km
fro, Ernakulam) is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth and
is famous for its Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs, great
scrolls of the Old Testament and ancient inscriptions on copper
plates.
St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi (12 km
from Ernakulam) this is the first European church in India, which
later became the model for building churches elsewhere in the
country. Vasco da Gama, who died in Kochi during his second visit
to Kerala, was buried in the church in 1524. Later his mortal
remains were taken back to his native land. Portugal.
St. George Church, Edappally (15 km
from Ernakulam) This is one of the major pilgrim centres in
Kerala venerated by non-Christians as well. Every day devotees
throng the church to genuflect before the statue of St. George to
express their gratitude for favors received through the saint.
The annual festival begins on the 23rd of April with solemn High
Mass and Litany. On May Day, the statue of St. George is taken
out of its podium and placed on a specially decked chariot for
procession. The festival ends with the High Mass on 4'h
May.
Kaladi (55 km from Ernakulam)
Is the birth place of Adi Sankaracharya, the great Advaita
philosopher of the 8th century. Kaladi houses temples dedicated
to Sree Sankara, Sarada Devi, Sri Krishna and Sri Ramakrishna. On
the banks of River Periyar in Kaladi is the sacred bathing ghat
where Sankaracharya is said to have been caught by a crocodile
and which according to legends refused to release him until
Sankara's mother Aryamba permitted him to accept Sanyas"
(renunciation).
Ramakrishna Advaitha Ashram,
KaIadi (55 k from Ernakulam) This ashram was
founded by Ramakrishna Mission in 1936. In 1976, a new type of
shrine, Viswakshetra representing the styles of architecture
associated with temples, churches and mosques was opened here for
the followers of all religions.
St. Mary's Church, Vallarpadam (45
minutes by boat from Ernakulam).
The church was established in 1676 and the famous picture of the
Blessed Virgin Mary was put up by Portuguese who brought it from
their native land. The picture is believed to have miraculous
powers. Vallarapadath Amma, as the St Mary of Vallarpadam is
called, is believed to have miraculously saved many lives from
violent storms. The feast of Vallarapadath Amma is held on Sept.
24. A big fair accompanies the weeklong celebration.
Malayatoor (47 km from Ernakulam)
This place is famous for the Catholic Church on the 609m high
Malayatoor hill (dedicated to St. Thomas). Thousands of devotees
undertake the pilgrimage to the shrine to participate in the
annual festival-Malayatoor PtrllIl1/al (March/April). St. Thomas
is believed to have visited here.
Shiva Temple, Aluva (20 km from
Ernakulam)
Situated on the banks of River Periyar, the Shivalinga of this
temple rises out of the sandbanks of the river and is believed to
have worshipped by Lord Rama. During the monsoon season the whole
region gets flooded and the idol gets submerged in water. Worship
is then done in a small shrine on the upper banks of the river. A
dip in this river at the brahmamuhurtha after observing the
rituals of Shivarathri is considered very sacred.
Thrikkakara Temple (14 km from
Ernakulam)
Onam, the festival of Kerala takes its origin from this temple,
as thiruvonam is the avathara day of Lord Vamana, the presiding
deity of this temple.
Chottanikkara Temple (15 km from
Ernakulam)
The Goddess is revered in three forms - as Saraswathi in the
morning, as Bhagavathy at noon and Durga in the evening. During
the annual festival in kumbham , devotees especially women seek
blessings from the Goddess.
St. Dominic Church (1 km from
Aluva)
The feast of St. Dominic's Church falls on the third Sunday after
the Easter. The statue of the saint is taken out in procession on
that day. The feast of 'Our Lady of the Holy Rosary' also
features a spectacular procession on the Sunday after 8th of
December.
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Thangalpara (70 km from Kottayam
town)
The mausoleum of Sheikh Faridiin found here makes this place a
famous Muslim pilgrim centre. Nearby is the scenic hill station
of Kurathikallu and the beautiful Kottathavalam.
Saraswathi temple, Panachikkad (10 km
from Kottayam)
Known as the Mookamoika of the South, this temple holds the
Saraswathi Pooja every year in October/November. Children are
initiated into the world of letters at the Vidyaramobham ceremony
here.
Blessed AIphonsa, Bharananganam (20 km
from Ettumanoor)
The church is one of the important pilgrim centers of the
Christians in Kerala. The mortal remains of Sr. Alphonsa, who was
pronounced as blessed, is kept in this church. The death
anniversary of blessed Sr. Alphonsa that falls on the 20th of
July is an important day.
Jama Masjid, Thazhathangadi (2 km from
Kottayam town)
This ancient mosque on the banks of the Meenachil River is
believed to be thousand years old.
St. Mary's Church, Manarcaud (8 km from
Kottayam town)
It is one of the important churches of the Syrian Jacobite Church
of Kerala and is famous for the ettu noimbu festival, an
eight-day retreat and fast in honour of St. Mary, starting on
September 1. Holy Mass is offered on the feast days. The Perunal
falls on September 8 and 9.
Cheriapally & Valiapally (2 km from
Kottayam town)
The Valiapally (St. Mary's Church) of the Knanaya Orthodox
Syrians built in 1550 AD is located at Thazhathangadi. The
Persian Cross within the church has intricate inscriptions on it.
Close to it is Cheriapally, built in 1579 AD. This church is
famous for its mural paintings that depict biblical
themes.
Shiva temple, Ettumanoor (12 km north
of Kottayam)
The deity here is considered a celebrated exorcist of evil
spirits. Exquisite mural paintings and sculptures adorn the
temple. The central shrine is circular, with scenes from the
Ramayana. Santhana Gopala Krishna Leela and Bhagavatham carved
beautifully. The annual ten-day festival falls in February/March.
This temple is famed for the Ezharaponnana , (literally seven and
a half elephants, the half denoting a baby elephant) and a bunch
of areca nuts - all made of gold.
Erumely (60 km north-east of Kottayam
town of Kottayam town)
Erumely is an important pilgrim centre for Hindus and Muslims.
Sree Dharmasastha Temple here is an ancient temple dedicated to
Lord Ayyappa. The Petta Thllilal of Kanni Ayyappas (those who go
for the first time to Sabarimala) is an important festival which
is held in December/January. Erumely is also famous for the
Vavarambalam dedicated to Vavar, the friend of Lord Ayyappa.
Pilgrims customarily worship here before their trek to
Sabarimala.
Shiva Temple, Vaikom(40 km from Kottayam town) Believed to have
been built by Parasurama, the legendary creator of Kerala, this
temple is famous for the 12 day Ashtami festival in November -
December.
Mannanam
(8 km north of Kottayam)
Situated 8 km from Kottayam is Mannanam, an important Syrian
Christian centre. It is also the site of St. Joseph's Monastery
associated with Father Kuriakose (Chavara Achan), the first
priest in Kerala to be conferred with sainthood.
Kurusumala (5 km from
Vazhikadavu)
This is where hundreds of devotees from far and wide converge
during the Holy Week and after, to climb the mala or hill in
faith, carrying small wooden Kurlksu or crosses. On the eastern
side of the hill is Muruganmala housing a rock cut temple
dedicated to Murugan, son of Lord Shiva.
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Alappuzha (Alleppey)
Mannarasala Temple, Harippad (52 km
South of Alappuzha)
This is the most significant site of snake worship in Kerala and
houses 30.000 images of snake-gods. The shrine is under the
patronage of a Namboodiri family whose oldest female member
performs the role of the temple priestess. Legend has it that the
first priestess of Mannarasala gave birth to a five-headed snake,
which is believed to reside in the illam (ancestral house) to
safeguard the family. On the day of Ayilliam asterism in the
Malaya1.am months of Kanni and Thulam (September to November),
all the serpent idols in the grove and the temple are taken in a
procession to the illam where Nurum Palum (rice flour and milk)
and Kuruthi (a red liquid made of turmeric and lime) offerings
are made. At Mannarasala, barren women are believed to be blessed
with children.
Chettikulangara Devi Temple (5 km from
Kayamkulam)
One of the renowned Devi temples in Kerala, this temple is famous
for the Bharani festival celebrated in February March. The
highlights of this festival are Kuthiyottam and Kettukazhcha, of
these, the former is performed as an offering to the Goddess. The
man who makes the offering teaches an adolescent boy religious
rites for seven days from Sivarathri day (in February) to
Bharalli asterism, during which period the boy observes fast. On
Bharani morning, the boy with his body coiled with silver wires
is taken in a procession to the temple. Later in the afternoon,
devotees place huge decorated effigies of chariots, horses, epic
figures such as Bhima, Panchali and Hanuman, in the paddy field
lying east of the temple. During the night, the image of Devi is
carried in a procession to the effigies stationed in the paddy
field. This is Kettukazhcha . These effigies are later taken to
their respective kavus (place of worship of different
families).
Kunnathumalai Mahadeva Temple,
Chengannur(30 km, south of Kottayam)
This temple dedicated to Shiva and Parvathi, is known for the
Thiruputha festival, when the goddess is believed to menstruate
and the cloth with which the panchaloba idol is draped is found
discolored with red spots. The Sreekovil is closed during this
time and is re-opened only on the fourth day after pacificator
rites.
Subramania Swamy Temple, Harippad (1 km
from Harippad town)
The Subramania (son of Lord Shiva) idol here, the biggest of its
kind has been designed after the sculptural pattern of the
Buddhist period. It is believed that the idol, which was obtained
from a river, was worshipped by Lord Parasurama. Regatta at River
Payippad is conducted commemorating the idol recovery. As many as
three festivals are celebrated in this temple, of which the
Chithira festival in Medom (April/May) is the most
important. The procession with the golden peacock throne is
fascinating.
Sree Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha (14 km
of Alappuzha)
In its architectural features, the Sree Krishna Temple conforms
to the typical Kerala style. The temple is famous for Palpayasam
milk porridge of exceptional sweetness offered to the deity. The
deity here has been worshipped by great literary figures in
Kerala's history like Melpatthur Narayana Bhattathirippad,
Thunchath Ezhuthachan and Kalakath Kunchan Nambiar. It is also
here that the Pallipana is performed by Velans (sorcerers) every
twelve years.
St. Sebastian's Church, Aruthunkal (22
km north of Alappuzha)
One of the most important pilgrim centers of the Christians in
Kerala, this church was established by Portuguese half
missionaries. The feast of St. Sebastian is held here every year
during the second week of January. The Ettamperunal is celebrated
on the 8th day after the main festival. A peculiar votive of the
church is Urula nercha, an offering where devotees crawl on the
ground from the church premise to the local beach.
Thiruvananthapuram
(Trivandrum)
Padmanabhaswamy Temple (Heart of the
city)
This temple, a sprawling complex with a magnificent seven storied
tower houses the idol of Lord Vishnu in the form of
Ananthapadmanaoha (the Lord who upheld creation on a lotus which
sprang forth from His navel). The 6 m image, partly covered with
gold and embellished with precious stones is viewed in three
sections through three doors. Historical records show that in
1750, the Maharaja of Travancore on being victorious in a battle
laid down his sword and, offered himself to this temple's deity.
Since then, all his successors have ruled the land as
Padmanabhadadasas (servants of Padmanabha). Arattu is an
important festival here.
Attukal Bhagavathi Temple (2 km from
Thiruvananthapuram)
Known as the Saoarimala of women, this temple is famous for
Attukal Ponkala, the annual festival that commences on Bharani
day in Kumbhom (February - March). The highlight of the festival
is the Ponkala which is an all woman affair. Ponkala is an
offering made in Bhagavathy temples, prepared in the form of
payasam (sweet porridge) with ingredients like rice, jaggery,
coconut kernel and plantain. Ponkala starts in the morning and
ends with the melsanthi (chief priest) sprinkling holy water over
the offerings.
Sree Parasurama Temple, Thiruvallam (5
km from Thiruvananthapuram)
This is the only temple in Kerala dedicated to Sree Parasurama,
the mythological creator of Kerala. This 2000year-old
temple is a venue for the Bali ritual for departed
souls.
Bheemappalli (5 km Southwest of
Thiruvananthapuram)
This mosque is famous for the Chandanakkudam Festival which is
said to be the death anniversary of Bheema Beevi, a devout
pilgrim who came to Kerala from Mecca. Festivities include
devotees going round the mosque carrying earthen pots (kudam)
smeared with sandal wood paste. The Uroose festival here is also
famous.
Christ the King Church, Vettukadu (14
km from Thiruvananthapuram)
An important pilgrim centre, this church is famous for the annual
festival in November. High Mass, Vespers, a two hour long
Holy Eucharistic procession and benediction are the highlights of
the festival. Nativity feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary is also
celebrated with religious spirit.
Varkala (40 km from
Thiruvananthapuram)
Sivagiri Mutt in Varkala is the final resting- place of the great
social reformer. Sree Narayana Guru. The Papanasham (redemption
from sins) beach here is the place where Narada is believed to
have thrown his valkalam. The 2000 year old Sree Janardhana Swamy
temple here is famous for the Arattu, the annual festival
celebrated in March-April.
Sree Krishna
Swamy Temple, Neyyattinkara(20 km from
Thiruvananthapuram )This temple is
historically important as the site housing the old Jackfruit tree
that once gave refuge to King Marthandavarma, erstwhile ruler of
Travancore.
Kollam
(Quilon)
Kottumkulangara Temple, Chavara (12 km
from Kollam)
This temple is famous for the Thalappoli Mahoslavam which has a
time-honoured custom of men dressed in female attires offering
flowers to the deity.
Parabrahma Temple, Ochira (54 km north
of Kollam town) This pilgrim centre owes allegiance to the
Advaitha philosophy in Hinduism. The presiding deity here is the
Parabrahma or 'absolute reality'. Being an abstract concept that
cannot be symbolized in an iconographic manner, there is no
temple structure here. The Ochirakali in the month of, June is
famous.
Lord Ayyappa Temple, Aryankavu (51 km
from Thiruvananthapuram and 70 km from Kollam)
This pilgrim centre has exquisite sculptures and mural paintings.
Mandala pooja and Thrikalyanam celebrated in December are the
main festivals here.
Mata Amritanandamayi Mutt (52 km from
Kollam)
This is the place where Mata Amritanandamayi or Amma was born. It
is today the headquarters of her worldwide mission and the
spiritual home of thousands of devotees.
Panmana, Karunagapally (18 km from
Kollam)
This is where Sree Chattampi Swamikal, a great social reformer of
Modern Kerala attained Samadhi in 1924. The Bhattarakeswaram
temple and ashram are dedicated to him.
Pathanamthitta
Sree Vallabha Temple, Thiruvalla (2 km
from Thiruvalla)
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple houses a tank supposed to
be a natural one. Ladies are allowed entry to the sanctum
sanctorum only on two days. Vishu and Thiruvathira. The annual
festival. Uthraseeveli is celebrated on the Makayiram asterism in
Meenam (March - April).
Parthasarathy Temple, Aranmula (10 km
from Chengannur)
A major attraction of this temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is
the snake boat race held as part of the festival in
August/September.
Ayyappa Temple, Sabarimala (72 km from
Pathanamthitta town, 210 km from Kochi; 191 km from
Thiruvananthapuram)
A well-known pilgrim centre in the rugged terrain of the Western
Ghats, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. Sabarimala is
surrounded by hazardous hills like Karimala and Neelimala. The
devotees known as Ayyappas negotiate the hills to reach the
shrine after undergoing 41 days of vrutham (self-imposed
devotional penance). The pilgrimage season, viz.Mandala Pooja
and, Makaravilakku comes between the latter half of November and
the first half of January, every year. Ablution in River Pamba is
considered as holy as a dip in the Ganga. The presence of
Ayyappa's lieutenant Vavar makes this esteemed pilgrim centre a
model of communal harmony and casteless ness. Vehicular traffic
cannot go beyond Pamba and the last 5 km to the shrine can be
reached only by trekking. Women aged between 12 and 50 are not
allowed inside the shrine.
Pandalam (14 km from Chengannur railway
station)
As a holy town, Pandalam ranks second only to Sabarimala. Sree
Ayyappa, the presiding deity of Sabarimala had his human sojourn
here as the son of the Raja of Pandalam. The Valiyakozhikkal
Temple on the banks of the River Achenkovil has been modeled on
the Sabarimala shrine. Three days prior to the Makaravilakku
festival in Sabarimala, the sacred ornaments of Sree Ayyappa are
taken from here, in a procession to Sabarimala.
Manjinikkara Church
Manjinikkara church derives its importance from the holy tomb of
late Marlgnatius Elias III, the Holy Patriarch of Antioch.
Members of the Jacobite Syrian Church believe that the Holy
Father was a Saint. The Church has now become one of the foremost
places of pilgrimage. A large number of pilgrims visit the church
to receive spiritual and physical healing.
Maramon Convention, Kozhencherry (16 km
east of Thiruvalla and 40 km from Kottayam)
This place hosts Asia's largest gathering of Christians, when in
February every year, followers of the Mar Thoma wing and many
others gather on the banks of River Pamba.
St. Mary's Church, Niranam (7 km from
Thiruvalla)
This is one of the oldest churches in India, believed to have
been established by St. Thomas during his missionary days in the
State in AD 53. The Apostle of Jesus is believed to have erected
a crucifix and built a church here. The main religious festival
honoring Holy Mary is on August 15. The birthday of St. Mary is
celebrated on 8th September. St. Thomas Day (July 3) is also
celebrated with great zeal.
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