Introduction

Some 5 kilometers (3.12 miles) south of Trivandrum city, on the coast is this holy site ‘Beema Palli’ famous for its mosque by the same name. This Muslim pilgrimage site is dedicated to Beema Beevi, a pious Muslim lady believed to have possessed divine powers. True to Kerala’s secular nature, the mosque receives more non-Muslim devotees than Muslims. The 10-day-long Chandanakundam festival beginning on the first of Jama dul Akbar (March-April) of the Hijra year brings tens of thousands of pilgrims to the shrine. The festival commemorates the death anniversary of Beema Beevi, and is considered most auspicious to Islamic faith.

At this time of the year Beema Palli explodes with colors and the hustle-bustle in the area reaches a new crescendo. You will see devotees queuing up with kundams or earthen pots tinking with coins as offerings. The name ‘Chandanakundam’ as these earthen pots are coated with sandalwood paste (chandanam). Other than that they cover the opening of the pot with white cloth, with garlands tied around the neck with three incense sticks thrust into the cloth covering.

The road leading to the mosque is narrow and dusty, and invaded by hawkers, and an endless procession of auto-rickshaws and motorbikes at all times. An amble through it is a great opportunity to soak up the sights, sounds and the local culture of one of the oldest parts of the city.

If you are visiting the place in the festival season, expect a huge, unruly gathering. And do take extra care of your wallet and camera!

Special Attributes

Very important pilgrimage site of the Muslims in South India

Nuisance

Hawkers, touts, beggars

Dressing restrictions

Dress modestly since it is a religious site. Avoid wearing short or revealing clothes.

Connectivity

You can take an auto-rickshaw or private taxi from Trivandrum city centre.

Enjoyed by

People who are religiously inclined

Exposure

You will also be under the open sky. The approach road to the temple is generally crowded and involves a few minutes walk.

Avoidable Season

Any time of the year

Facilities

There are ample auto-rickshaws outside Beema Palli to get you back to the main Trivandrum city.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

If you are visiting the place in the festive season, expect a huge, unruly gathering. And do take extra care of your wallet and camera! Wear a lot of sunblock cream and carry a bottle of drinking water.

Type of site

Religious shrine/Mosque