Introduction

Sree Bhagavathy Temple is located at Chettikulangara, about 8 kilometers (5 miles) east of NH 47 on the Mavelikara-Kayamkulam route. Believed to be over 1200 years old, the temple is dedicated to Bhadrakali or goddess Jagadambika. There isn’t any historical evidence to support the origin of the temple, though legend has it that the temple is among the five established by Lord Parashurama. Some also believe that it was consecrated by Padmapadacharyar, a leading disciple of Adi Shankara. The deity at Chettikulangara is believed to possess miraculous powers, bringing devotees in droves to pay tribute.

There are several other shrines in the temple in addition to that of the main deity, such as Yakshi (bewitchingly beautiful supernatural being who feeds on human blood), Muhurthi, Rakshas (a fierce super natural creature who feeds on humans), Thevara Moorthy, Kannamballi bhagavathi, Ganapathi, Nagaraja (King of serpents), Naga Yakshi, Balakan, and Vallyachan (Central Travancore parlance for family chieftains, and they are worshipped by his descendants after death) among others. Within the temple premises, you will come across a patch of small forest which houses the shrines of serpent gods, a black palm tree, a small shrine of Moolasthanam, and the nearby Chembakam tree. Special poojas are performed at the temple on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Though, the major draw to the temple is the colorful Kumbha Bharani festival celebrated with pomp during February-March. If you can make it in time for the festivities, you will witness processions of tall statues decorated on chariots, brightly colored effigies on horses and bullocks, and some truly wonderful cultural performances.

Under the control of the Travancore Devaswom Board, the temple is the second highest revenue grosser after Sabarimala within the board. Accommodation for devotees coming from afar is available within the temple premises, which includes 12 rest houses at nominal cost managed by the Travancore Devaswom Board and Sree Devi Vilasam Hindu Matha Convention.

Special Attributes

An ancient temple, legend has it that the temple is among the five built by Lord Parashurama

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress appropriately, wear fully covered clothes as it is a religious site.

Connectivity

You can take a private taxi or an auto-rickshaw from Alleppey.

Enjoyed by

Families, Senior Citizens, Backpackers

Exposure

You will mostly be indoors within the temple.

Avoidable Season

Open Through the year

Facilities

Accommodation for devotees coming from afar is available within the temple premises which includes 12 rest houses at nominal cost.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

If you can make it in time for the festivities in February-March, you will witness processions of tall statues decorated on chariots, brightly colored effigies on horses and bullocks, and some truly wonderful cultural performances.

Type of site

Hindu temple