Introduction

Sri Krishna Temple at Ambalapuzha is about 14 kilometers (9 miles) south of Alleppey, and is among Kerala’s famous temples for its typical temple architectural style. Devotees at the temple also look forward to the palpayasam, a sweet pudding made of rice and milk offered to the deity. The Aaraattu celebrations at the temple take place in March-April. The Velakali dance performed by local artists is an important feature of this festival. ‘Pallipana’ another dance form is performed by Velans (sorcerers) once in twelve years at this temple.

The temple is dedicated to Parthasarthy (Lord Krishna) and has an idol carved out of black granite stone. According to popular legend, when Vilvamangalam Swamy, an ardent devotee of Sri Krishna and a scholar, and the Maharaja of Travancore, Pooradam Thirunal Thampuram, were cruising the Kuttanandan backwaters, they heard a melodious music to the accomplishment of flute from the top of a banyan tree. Peering anxiously, the king couldn’t locate the source, while Vilvamangalam was spellbound by a bright halo and the form of Bala Murali Krishna. Ecstatic with joy, the saint sat through the entire music till the bright glow doused down. Later on, as per the swami’s wishes, a beautiful temple in classic Kerala style of architecture was constructed on this spot by the king. And a beautiful idol of Bala Gopala Krishna carved out of black granite stone was installed.

There is another interesting legend about the special ‘palpayasam’ offered to the deity, and later distributed to all the devotees. Here it goes: long ago a local chieftain who had borrowed paddy from a landlord could not return the loan on time. But when the required quantity of paddy was provided with great difficulty, the creditor could not clear the same in time and as such he donated the entire stock of paddy to the temple with a request that milk porridge be made of the rice and distributed to the devotees and the poor living in the area. In fact, the temple has several other folklores, and makes your visit all the more interesting.

If nothing else, visit the temple for its architectural beauty and the delicious ‘palpayasam’.

Special Attributes

The temple is noted for its classic Kerala style of architecture and some really interesting legends associated with it.

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 a bus to Ambalappuzha. The temple is easily accessible as it lies close to NH 47.

Enjoyed by

Families, Senior Citizens, Backpackers, Kids

Exposure

You will mostly be indoors within the temple.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

During festive season keep at least half a day at hand, preferably towards the evening, to visit the temple when you can enjoy the architecture in the soft light of the sun and witness a flamboyant Velakali dance performance based on martial arts.

Type of site

Hindu temple