The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Ettumanoor, a town in Kottayam district of Kerala, India. The temple is one of the oldest and most important Shiva temples in Kerala, and is believed to have been built in the 16th century. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate murals, and stunning wood carvings.
History and Legend
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile. According to legend, the Pandavas were searching for a place to worship Lord Shiva, and they came across a beautiful spot in Ettumanoor. They decided to build a temple there, and they installed a lingam of Lord Shiva in the sanctum sanctorum.
The temple was later renovated and expanded by the Travancore royal family. In the 16th century, the temple was rebuilt in its present form by King Umayamvarman. The temple was further expanded in the 18th century by King Marthanda Varma.
Architecture
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a beautiful example of Kerala temple architecture. The temple is built in the traditional Dravidian style, with a gopuram (tower) that rises to a height of 140 feet. The temple complex is surrounded by a high wall, and there are several smaller shrines within the complex.
The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses a lingam of Lord Shiva. The lingam is made of black stone, and it is said to be swayambhu, or self-manifested. The lingam is surrounded by a number of smaller shrines, including shrines to Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Parvati.
The walls of the temple are decorated with beautiful murals. The murals depict scenes from Hindu mythology, and they are considered to be some of the finest examples of mural art in Kerala.
The temple complex also has a number of stunning wood carvings. The carvings depict a variety of subjects, including scenes from Hindu mythology, animals, and flowers.
Festivals
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is a major pilgrimage center, and it is home to a number of festivals throughout the year. The most important festival is the Arattu festival, which is held in February or March. The Arattu festival is a 10-day festival that culminates in a grand procession.
Other important festivals at the temple include the Shivaratri festival, the Navratri festival, and the Onam festival.
How to Reach
The Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple is located in Ettumanoor, a town in Kottayam district of Kerala, India. The temple is about 11 kilometers from Kottayam town.
The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, which is about 90 kilometers from the temple. The nearest railway station is the Kottayam railway station, which is about 10 kilometers from the temple.
The temple can be reached by bus or taxi from Kottayam town.
Tips for Visitors
- The temple is open from 5:30 AM to 11:30 AM and again from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Dress modestly when visiting the temple.
- Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
- There is a dress code for entering the temple. Men must remove their shirts and footwear before entering the temple. Women must wear a sari or a long skirt and blouse.
- There are a number of shops near the temple where you can buy offerings for the deity.
- There are a number of restaurants near the temple where you can eat.
- There are a number of hotels near the temple where you can stay.