Introduction

In the heart of Kottayam town is this beautiful 500-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva built in ethnic Kerala style by the Thekkumkoor Maharaja. While browsing the temple, you will be impressed by the architectural detailing and colorful murals adorning the walls praising the Hindu epics. Built in the 16th century, the Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple has withstood the ravages of time, especially its Koothambalam, a special building within the temple premises used for cultural purposes - considered one of the best in Kerala. Confirming to the traditional Kerala style of architecture, the temple is a specimen, and is greatly revered by Hindu devotees.

Devotees especially flock the temple during the annual 10-day festival called ‘Aaraattu’ usually held in mid-March. A major draw to the festival are the Kathakali performances on the third and fourth days, suffusing the place with color and music. Besides, folk dances such as Mayilattom (peacock dance) and Velakali performed by local artists, attract many Indian and foreign tourists visiting Kottayam, to the temple. A music and folkdance extravaganza, Aaraattu gives you a glimpse into Kerala's culture, heritage and its world famous art forms. It is as though the exhibition of lights in these 10 days brings alive the architecture of the temple, and its every corner explodes with color, enthusiasm and festive fervor. Watch-out for the grand elephant processions carried out during the ceremony. The elephants are beautifully decked with ornate saddle, head gear, anklets, and their faces, especially eyes accentuated with colorful paints. During this annual celebration, a fair is held in the temple ground exhibiting unique artifacts, traditional handicraft and fresh agricultural products. A great opportunity to take back some memorable souvenirs and traditional farm produce!

During the 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 Kathakali performance. If you choose to stay the night in Kottayam, there are ample hotel and lodging options in the city centre.

Steeped in history and culture, the temple brings back to life Kerala in the 16th century.

Special Attributes

About 500 years old, the temple is noted for its typical Kerala style architecture complete with colorful murals on the interior eulogizing Hindu epics.

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 rickshaw to the temple from the Kottayam Railway Station.

Enjoyed by

Families, Senior Citizens, Backpackers, Kids

Exposure

The temple is a brief walk away from the Kottayam rail station, if you are taking this walk in the noon carry along your sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

During the annual celebrations, a fair is held in the temple ground exhibiting unique artifacts, traditional handicraft and fresh agricultural products.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

During the 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 Kathakali performance.

Type of site

Hindu temple