The Thriprayar Shree Ramaswami Temple, also known as Dakshin Ayodhya, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Vishnu. It is located in Triprayar, Thrissur district of Kerala, India, on the banks of the Karuvannur River, which is considered to be the southern version of the Sarayu River, which flows near Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama.
The temple is believed to be one of the prominent Rama temples in Kerala. Here, the idol of Lord Rama is depicted with four arms, holding a conch, a discus, a bow, and a garland. According to legends, this idol was worshipped by Lord Krishna himself and was later retrieved from the sea by fishermen.
The Thriprayar Temple is known for its rich wood carvings and murals. The Namaskara Mandapam faces the circular sanctum, known as the srikovil, which has 24 panels of exquisite wood carvings depicting various scenes from the Ramayana.
The temple is part of the famed Nalambala Darshana, a religious pilgrimage that involves visiting four temples – Thriprayar, Ramachandra Temple in Tripangode, Mahodaya Temple in Kodungallur, and Vadakkumnatha Temple in Thrissur.
Here are some of the festivals celebrated at the Thriprayar Temple:
Arattupuzha Pooram: This is a vibrant temple festival that is considered one of the biggest poorams (festivals) in Kerala. It features a spectacular procession of richly caparisoned elephants and energetic performances by percussion ensembles.
Ekadashi: This is a day observed by devotees of Lord Vishnu, which falls on the eleventh day of every lunar month. Special pujas (prayers) are offered to Lord Rama on this day.
Sethubandhanam: This festival is celebrated to commemorate the construction of the bridge Ramayana, known as the Rama Setu or Sethubandhanam, by Lord Rama's army of monkeys. It is observed on the Thiruvonam day in the Malayalam month of Kanni (October – November).
If you are planning a visit to the Thriprayar Temple, here are some things to keep in mind:
- The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Dress modestly (preferably covering knees and shoulders) when visiting the temple.
- Photography is not allowed inside the temple sanctum.
- There is a dress code to be followed by the devotees. Men are expected to wear a dhoti (mundu) and preferably a shirt with an angavastram (upper cloth). Women should wear a saree or a long skirt and blouse.