Introduction

Sree Nagaraja Temple is one of the most important and ancient centers of snake worship in Kerala, located at Mannarasala about 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Alleppey near Haripad on NH 47 on the Alleppey-Kollam route. Interestingly – and probably one of the rarest in the world - the temple has women priests to worship the serpent deities and conduct the rituals. Its thatched hut structure is typical of Kerala, and is also a fine example of an eco-friendly existence. The temple is about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) to the south-east of the bus station in NH 47 at Haripad.

Haripad is an ancient town with a rich cultural lineage, and has played a prominent role in the history of Central Travancore. It’s a beautifully green area with verdant paddy fields, swaying coconut groves and sleepy hamlets on its outskirts. Today Haripad is a well-developed town,without having compromised on its green spaces.

The main deity at this temple, set in the midst of lush green forests, is the serpent god ‘Nagaraja’ (King of Serpents). According to legend, the Nagaraja deity was installed here is an artistic form of Lord Vishnu and the spirit of Lord Shiva. The temple also has shrines of Nagaraja’s beloved consorts ‘Sarpa Yakshi’ and ‘Naga Yakshi’, and one of ‘Nagachamundi’, his sister. A Brahmin family headed by a priestess, better known as ‘Valia amma’, looks after the serpent shrine, and presides over all the rituals here.

On arrival at the temple entrance, an immense 16 acres of greenery opens up before you. As you tread through, you will see rows of stone sculptures of serpents – an astounding 30,000 of them! On its eastern side, ‘Pulluvans’ (a community) sing serpent songs with great devotion. And to the southwest of the shrine is the ‘Thevaram chamber’ where the priestess offers prayers to Nagaraja. You will be flabbergasted by some of the legends associated with this mysterious temple. The most popular of them is of the first priestess of Mannarasala who had given birth to a five-headed snake. The snake is still believed to reside in the cellar of the ancestral house to safeguard the family. The months of September and October, and the festival - Mahashivaratri are celebrated here with great religious fervor.

Popularly visited for its curative powers, the prasadam made of turmeric paste distributed at the temple is believed to heal maladies including leprosy and infertility. Treatment for snake and rat poison is also rendered here. Another popular offering at Nagaraja temple is ‘Uruli Kamazhthal’, the placing of a bell metal vessel upside down in front of the main deity – this is believed to restore fertility to childless couples. Shrouded in mystery, this ancient temple has a unique, austere atmosphere – and you will sense it the moment you step in its premise.

Special Attributes

This mysterious temple is one of the popular centers of snake worship, and is believed to have incredible healing powers.

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

Proper signboards are available from the N.H.47 to the temple. Besides, various cabs and auto-rickshaws are available near the Haripad bus station and railway station to reach Mannarasala at nominal fare. Since located near the highway almost equidistant between the cities of Trivandrum and Kochi (approx.113 kilometers/71 miles and 103 kilometers/64 miles respectively), it is easy to reach Haripad via bus and train.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers, Senior Citizens

Exposure

The temple is shrouded by a lush jungle, so not much exposure to sun here.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Great chance to find out about the ancient customs of Kerala.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Keep your tone low inside the temple, and turn your phone to silent mode. Prefer an early morning visit.

Type of site

Serpent shrine